bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing the Environmental Performance of In Situ Thermal Remediation Technologies Using Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Lemming Gitte , Nielsen Steffen G. , Weber Klaus , Heron Gorm , Baker Ralph S. , Falkenberg Jacqueline A. , Terkelsen Mads , Jensen Carsten B. , Bjerg Poul L.
Published: March 2018

In situ thermal remediation technologies provide efficient and reliable cleanup of contaminated soil and groundwater, but at a high cost of environmental impacts and resource depletion due to the large amounts of energy and materials consumed. This study provides a detailed investigation of four in situ thermal remediation technologies (steam enhanced extraction, thermal conduction heating, electrical resistance heating, and radio frequency heating) in order to (1) compare the life‐cycle environmental impacts and resource consumption associated with each thermal technology, and (2) identify options to reduce these adverse effects. The study identifies a number of options for environmental optimization of in situ thermal remediation. In general, environmental optimization can be achieved by increasing the percentage of heating supplied in off peak electricity demand periods as this reduces the pressure on coal‐based electricity and thereby reduces the environmental impacts due to electricity production by up to 10%. Furthermore, reducing the amount of concrete in the vapor cap by using a concrete sandwich construction can potentially reduce the environmental impacts due to the vapor cap by up to 75%. Moreover, a number of technology‐specific improvements were identified, for instance by the substitution of stainless steel types in wells, heaters, and liners used in thermal conduction heating, thus reducing the nickel consumption by 45%. The combined effect of introducing all the suggested improvements is a 10 to 21% decrease in environmental impacts and an 8 to 20% decrease in resource depletion depending on the thermal remediation technology considered. The energy consumption was found to be the main contributor to most types of environmental impacts; this will, however, depend on the electricity production mix in the studied region. The combined improvement potential is therefore to a large extent controlled by the reduction/improvement of energy consumption.
Reliable Monitoring of the Transition Zone Between Fresh and Saline Waters in Coastal Aquifers
Authors: Levanon Elad , Yechieli Yoseph , Shalev Eyal , Friedman Vladimir , Gvirtzman Haim
Published: March 2018

This study deals with the reliability of monitoring the transition zone between fresh and saline waters in coastal aquifers, considering the effect of tides in long‐perforated boreholes. Electric conductivity (EC) fluctuations in the coastal aquifer of Israel, as measured in long‐perforated borehole, were found to have the same periodicities as the sea tide, though some orders of magnitude larger than sea‐level or groundwater level fluctuations. Direct measurements in the aquifer through buried EC sensors demonstrate that EC measurements within the long‐perforated boreholes might be distorted due to vertical flow in the boreholes, whereas actual fluctuations of the transition zone within the aquifer are some orders of magnitude smaller. Considering these field data, we suggest that monitoring of the transition zone between fresh and saline water adjacent to the sea through long‐perforated boreholes is unreliable. EC fluctuations in short‐perforated boreholes (1 m perforation at the upper part of the transition zone) were somewhat larger than in the aquifer, but much smaller than those in the long‐perforated borehole. The short‐perforation diminishes the vertical flow and the distortion and therefore is more reliable for monitoring the transition zone in the shoreline vicinity.
Sewer Gas: An Indoor Air Source of PCE to Consider During Vapor Intrusion Investigations
Authors: Pennell Kelly G. , Scammell Madeleine Kangsen , McClean Michael D. , Ames Jennifer , Weldon Brittany , Friguglietti Leigh , Suuberg Eric M. , Shen Rui , Indeglia Paul A. , Heiger‐Bernays Wendy J.
Published: March 2018

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is finalizing its vapor intrusion guidelines. One of the important issues related to vapor intrusion is background concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air, typically attributed to consumer products and building materials. Background concentrations can exist even in the absence of vapor intrusion and are an important consideration when conducting site assessments. In addition, the development of accurate conceptual models that depict pathways for vapor entry into buildings is important during vapor intrusion site assessments. Sewer gas, either as a contributor to background concentrations or as part of the site conceptual model, is not routinely evaluated during vapor intrusion site assessments. The research described herein identifies an instance where vapors emanating directly from a sanitary sewer pipe within a residence were determined to be a source of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) detected in indoor air. Concentrations of PCE in the bathroom range from 2.1 to 190 µg/m3 and exceed typical indoor air concentrations by orders of magnitude resulting in human health risk classified as an “Imminent Hazard” condition. The results suggest that infiltration of sewer gas resulted in PCE concentrations in indoor air that were nearly two orders of magnitude higher as compared to when infiltration of sewer gas was not known to be occurring. This previously understudied pathway whereby sewers serve as sources of PCE (and potentially other VOC) vapors is highlighted. Implications for vapor intrusion investigations are also discussed.
Field Application of the Combined Membrane‐Interface Probe and Hydraulic Profiling Tool (MiHpt)
Authors: McCall Wesley , Christy Thomas M. , Pipp Daniel , Terkelsen Mads , Christensen Anders , Weber Klaus , Engelsen Peter
Published: March 2018

The Membrane‐Interface Probe and Hydraulic Profiling Tool (MiHpt) is a direct push probe that includes both the membrane interface probe (MIP) and hydraulic profiling tool (HPT) sensors. These direct push logging tools were previously operated as separate logging systems for subsurface investigation in unconsolidated formations. By combining these two probes into one logging system the field operator obtains useful data about the distribution of both volatile organic contaminants (VOCs) and relative formation permeability in a single boring. MiHpt logging was conducted at a chlorinated VOC contaminated site in Skuldelev, Denmark, to evaluate performance of the system. Formation cores and discrete interval slug tests are used to assess use of the HPT and electrical conductivity (EC) logs for lithologic and hydrostratigraphic interpretation. Results of soil and groundwater sample analyses are compared to the adjacent MiHpt halogen specific detector (XSD) logs to evaluate performance of the system to define contaminant distribution and relative concentrations for the observed VOCs. Groundwater profile results at moderate to highly contaminated locations were found to correlate well with the MiHpt‐XSD detector responses. In general, soil sample results corresponded with detector responses. However, the analyses of saturated coarse‐grained soils at the site proved to be unreliable as demonstrated by high RPDs for duplicate samples. The authors believe that this is due to pore water drainage observed from these cores during sampling. Additionally, a cross section of HPT pressure and MiHpt‐XSD detector logs provides insight into local hydrostratigraphy and formation control on contaminant migration.
Groundwater Quality Impacts from a Full‐Scale Integrated Constructed Wetland
Authors: Dzakpasu Mawuli , Scholz Miklas , Harrington Rory , McCarthy Valerie , Jordan Siobhán
Published: March 2018

The concept of integrated constructed wetlands (ICW) promotes in‐situ soils to construct and line wetland cells. The integrity of soil material, however, may provide a potential pathway for contaminants to flow into the underlying groundwater. This study assessed the extent of groundwater quality deterioration due to the establishment of a full‐scale ICW system treating domestic wastewater in Ireland. The ICW is located at Glaslough in Co. Monaghan, Ireland. It consists of two sedimentation ponds and a sequence of five shallow vegetated wetland cells. The ICW cells were lined with 500‐mm thick local subsoil material, which comprised a mixture of alluvium, organic soils, tills, and gravel. Groundwater samples and head data were collected from eight piezometers, which were installed around the ICW cells. The groundwater and wetland water samples were analysed for water quality parameters such as bulk organic matter, nutrients, and pathogens. Overall, the quality of groundwater underlying the ICW system recorded some contamination with bulk organic matter and some inorganic nutrients. Significantly higher contaminant concentrations were recorded in monitoring wells upgradient and near to the distal wetland cells than downgradient ones, which were near to the proximal cells. For the downgradient piezometers, concentrations seldomly exceeded the natural background levels. Detailed analyses through the application of chemometrics models indicated that the source of contamination was largely of geogenic origin. Findings suggest that ICW systems pose a minimal risk to the groundwater quality; the greatest risk was associated with the distal wetland cells.
Microstructural Characterization of Granular Cast Iron for Permeable Reactive Barriers
Authors: Ruhl Aki S. , Jekel Martin
Published: March 2018

Although intensive research on Fe(0) permeable reactive barriers (PRB) for in situ groundwater remediation has been conducted and multiple applications have been installed in the past two decades, some properties of reactive materials in use have not been fully considered and discussed yet. In the present investigation, a typical granular cast iron has been characterized with different techniques. The grain size distribution not only has an influence on the resulting pore geometry and the surface area but material properties significantly differ between fine and coarse grains. Metallographic analyses revealed large differences in both graphite inclusions and microstructures that likely influence the reactivity. Both graphite and cementite proved to be more resistant toward acidic dissolution compared to Fe0. The intrinsic material characteristics described here have not been covered in the existing PRB literature.
Factors Controlling In Situ Biogeochemical Transformation of Trichloroethene: Field Survey
Authors: Whiting Kent , Evans Patrick J. , Lebrón Carmen , Henry Bruce , Wilson John T. , Becvar Erica
Published: March 2018

We have previously defined in situ biogeochemical transformation as the biogenic formation of reactive minerals that are capable of abiotically degrading chlorinated solvents such as trichloroethene without accumulation of degradation products such as vinyl chloride (AFCEE et al. ). This process has been implemented in biowalls used to intercept contaminated groundwater. Abiotic patterns of contaminant degradation were observed at Altus Air Force Base (AFB) and in an associated column study, but not at other sites including Dover AFB. These abiotic patterns were associated with biogenic formation of reactive iron sulfide minerals. Iron sulfides in the form of small individual grains, coatings on magnetite, and sulfur‐deficient pyrite framboids were observed in samples collected from the Altus AFB biowalls and one of the EPA columns. Larger iron sulfide grains coated with oxide layers were observed in samples collected from Dover AFB. Altus AFB and the EPA column differed from Dover AFB in that groundwater flow at Dover AFB was relatively slow and potentially reversing. High volumetric sulfate consumption rates, an abiotic pattern of trichloroethene (TCE) degradation, and the formation of small, high surface area iron sulfide particles were associated with relatively high rates of TCE removal via an abiotic pattern. Geochemical modeling demonstrated that iron monosulfides such as mackinawite were near saturation, and iron disulfides such as pyrite were supersaturated at all sites. This environmental condition can be supportive of nucleation of small particles rather than crystal growth leading to larger particles. When nucleation is dominant, small, high surface area, and reactive particles result. When crystal growth dominates the crystals are larger and have lower specific surface area and reactivity. These results taken together suggest that creation of a dynamic environment can promote biogeochemical transformation based on generation of reactive iron sulfides.
Estimation of Generic Subslab Attenuation Factors for Vapor Intrusion Investigations
Authors: Brewer Roger , Nagashima Josh , Rigby Mark , Schmidt Martin , O'Neill Harry
Published: March 2018

Generic indoor air:subslab soil gas attenuation factors (SSAFs) are important for rapid screening of potential vapor intrusion risks in buildings that overlie soil and groundwater contaminated with volatile chemicals. Insufficiently conservative SSAFs can allow high‐risk sites to be prematurely excluded from further investigation. Excessively conservative SSAFs can lead to costly, time‐consuming, and often inconclusive actions at an inordinate number of low‐risk sites. This paper reviews two of the most commonly used approaches to develop SSAFs: (1) comparison of paired, indoor air and subslab soil gas data in empirical databases and (2) comparison of estimated subslab vapor entry rates and indoor air exchange rates (IAERs). Potential error associated with databases includes interference from indoor and outdoor sources, reliance on data from basements, and seasonal variability. Heterogeneity in subsurface vapor plumes combined with uncertainty regarding vapor entry points calls into question the representativeness of limited subslab data and diminishes the technical defensibility of SSAFs extracted from databases. The use of reasonably conservative vapor entry rates and IAERs offers a more technically defensible approach for the development of generic SSAF values for screening. Consideration of seasonal variability in building leakage rates, air exchange rates, and interpolated vapor entry rates allows for the development of generic SSAFs at both local and regional scales. Limitations include applicability of the default IAERs and vapor entry rates to site‐specific vapor intrusion investigations and uncertainty regarding applicability of generic SSAFs to assess potential short‐term (e.g., intraday) variability of impacts to indoor air.
Potassium Permanganate Doped Geopolymers for Remedial Applications
Authors: Solpuker Utku , Cotter Zachary , Kim Yongje , Schwartz Franklin W.
Published: March 2018

This study investigates the use of KMnO4 doped geopolymers as controlled‐release materials for remedial applications. The geopolymers were prepared by mixing alkali activated Na‐silicate solutions, metakaolin, and various amounts of granular KMnO4. Samples were heat treated at 75 °C for 48 h. Concentrations of KMnO4 in samples 1, 2, and 3 were 1.40 × 10−1, 4.63 × 10−1, and 6.07 × 10−1 g/cm3, respectively. 1D column experiments showed that a high MnO4− release rate lasted for the first few hours, followed by a gradual decrease of MnO4− release. Neither cracks nor surface erosion of the geopolymers were observed throughout the experiments. Sample 1 approached exhaustion at the end of the Day 7. It took about 18 d for exhaustion of KMnO4 releases in samples 2 and 3. Modeling of the observed KMnO4 releases suggested diffusion and dissolution‐related fast transport as the most important mechanisms. This latter mechanism involves the creation of a connected secondary porosity in the geopolymers by dissolution of KMnO4 granules. The contribution of Fickian diffusion to the total release decreased as the KMnO4 content of the samples increased, and the dissolution mechanism became increasingly important.
A review and meta‐analysis of the effects of climate change on Holarctic mountain and upland bird populations
Authors: Scridel Davide , Brambilla Mattia , Martin Kathy , Lehikoinen Aleksi , Iemma Aaron , Matteo Anderle , Jähnig Susanne , Caprio Enrico , Bogliani Giuseppe , Pedrini Paolo , Rolando Antonio , Arlettaz Raphaël , Chamberlain Dan
Published: March 2018

Mountain regions are globally important areas for biodiversity but are subject to multiple human‐induced threats, including climate change, which has been more severe at higher elevations. We reviewed evidence for impacts of climate change on Holarctic mountain bird populations in terms of physiology, phenology, trophic interactions, demography and observed and projected distribution shifts, including effects of other factors that interact with climate change. We developed an objective classification of high‐elevation, mountain specialist and generalist species, based on the proportion of their breeding range occurring in mountain regions. Our review found evidence of responses of mountain bird populations to climate (extreme weather events, temperature, rainfall and snow) and environmental (i.e. land use) change, but we know little about either the underlying mechanisms or the synergistic effects of climate and land use. Long‐term studies assessing reproductive success or survival of mountain birds in relation to climate change were rare. Few studies have considered shifts in elevational distribution over time and a meta‐analysis did not find a consistent direction in elevation change. A meta‐analysis carried out on future projections of distribution shifts suggested that birds whose breeding distributions are largely restricted to mountains are likely to be more negatively impacted than other species. Adaptation responses to climate change rely mostly on managing and extending current protected areas for both species already present, and for expected colonizing species that are losing habitat and climate space at lower elevation. However, developing effective management actions requires an improvement in the current knowledge of mountain species ecology, in the quality of climate data and in understanding the role of interacting factors. Furthermore, the evidence was mostly based on widespread species rather than mountain specialists. Scientists should provide valuable tools to assess the status of mountain birds, for example through the development of a mountain bird population index, and policy‐makers should influence legislation to develop efficient agri‐environment schemes and forestry practices for mountain birds, as well as to regulate leisure activities at higher elevations.
Lipid nanoparticles (SLN & NLC) for delivery of vitamin E: a comprehensive review
Authors: Saez V. , Souza I. D. L. , Mansur C. R. E.
Published: March 2018

The antioxidative and photoprotective properties of vitamin E have caused it to be included as an active agent in various pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. However, its lipophilicity, chemical instability and poor skin penetration have limited the effectiveness of these formulations. For that reason, many attempts to include it in different drug delivery systems have been made. In recent decades, lipid nanoparticles have received special attention due to their advantages of compatibility with the skin, ability to enhance penetration of drugs in the stratum corneum, protection of the encapsulated substance against degradation induced by the external medium and control of drug release. This work reviews the current status of the encapsulation of vitamin E in lipid nanoparticles. We describe the most important methods for obtaining and characterizing lipid nanoparticles containing vitamin E (LNP‐VE), various techniques for the evaluation of vitamin E's properties after encapsulation, the mainin vitroandin vivostudies of the potential effectiveness or toxicity ofLNP‐VE, the formulations and stability studies of this delivery system, the commercial products based onLNP‐VEand the regulatory aspects related to lipid nanoparticles. Finally, we discuss the most relevant advantages of encapsulating vitamin E in such particles and critical aspects that still demand attention to enhance the potential of solid lipid nanoparticles to deliver vitamin E.
TAK1 mediates excessive autophagy via p38 and ERK in cisplatin‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Zhou Jun , Fan Youling , Zhong Jiying , Huang Zhenxing , Huang Teng , Lin Sen , Chen Hongtao
Published: March 2018

The ability of cisplatin (cis‐diamminedichloroplatinum II) toxicity to induce acute kidney injury (AKI) has attracted people's attention and concern for a long time, but its molecular mechanisms are still widely unknown. We found that the expression of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β)‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1) could be increased in kidneys of mice administrated with cisplatin. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic pathway and is involved in various acute and chronic injuries. Moreover, p38 MAPK (mitogen‐activated protein kinase) and ERK regulate autophagy in response to various stimuli. Therefore, our hypothesis is that cisplatin activates TAK1, which phosphorylates p38 and ERK, leading to excessive autophagy of tubular epithelial cells and thus exacerbating kidney damage. Here, BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally injected with a TAK1 inhibitor and were then administrated with sham or cisplatin at 20 mg/kg by intraperitoneal injection. Compared with mice in the vehicle cisplatin group, mice intraperitoneally injected with a TAK1 inhibitor were found to have lower serum creatinine and less tubular damage following cisplatin‐induced AKI. Furthermore, inhibition of TAK1 reduced p38 and Erk phosphorylation, decreased expression of LC3II and reversed the down‐regulation of P62 expression induced by cisplatin. The hypothesis was verified with tubular epithelial cells administrated with cisplatin in vitro. Finally, p38 inhibitor or ERK inhibitor abated autophagy activation and cell viability reduction in tubular epithelial cells treated with cisplatin plus TAK1 overexpression vector. Taken together, our results show that cisplatin activates TAK1, which phosphorylates p38 and ERK, leading to excessive autophagy of tubular epithelial cells that exacerbates kidney damage.
Th/U ratios in metamorphic zircon
Authors: Yakymchuk Chris , Kirkland Christopher L. , Clark Chris
Published: March 2018

The Th/U ratios of zircon crystals are routinely used to help understand their growth mechanism. Despite the wide application of Th/U ratios in understanding the geological significance of zircon U–Pb ages, the main controls on the Th/U ratio in metamorphic zircon are poorly understood. Here, phase equilibria modelling coupled with solubility expressions for accessory minerals are used to investigate the controls on the Th/U ratios of suprasolidus metamorphic zircon in an average amphibolite facies metapelite composition. We also present a new database of metamorphic Th/U ratios in zircon from Western Australia. Several factors affecting the Th/U ratio are investigated, including the bulk rock concentrations of Th and U, the amount of monazite in the system, and open v. closed system behaviour. Our modelling predicts that the main controls on the Th/U ratio of suprasolidus metamorphic zircon are the concentrations of Th and U in the system, and the breakdown and growth of monazite in equilibrium with zircon. Furthermore, the relative timing of zircon and monazite growth during cooling and melt crystallization has an important role in the Th/U ratio of zircon. Early grown zircon near the peak of metamorphism is expected to have elevated Th/U ratios whereas zircon that grew near the solidus is predicted to have relatively low Th/U ratios, which reflects the coeval growth of monazite during cooling and melt crystallization. Our modelling approach aims to provide an improved understanding of the main controls of Th/U in metamorphic zircon in migmatites and hence better apply this geochemical ratio as a tool to assist in interpretation of the genesis of metamorphic zircon.
Development and evolution of tooth renewal in neoselachian sharks as a model for transformation in chondrichthyan dentitions
Authors: Meredith Smith Moya , Underwood Charlie , Clark Brett , Kriwet Jürgen , Johanson Zerina
Published: March 2018

A defining feature of dentitions in modern sharks and rays is the regulated pattern order that generates multiple replacement teeth. These are arranged in labio‐lingual files of replacement teeth that form in sequential time order both along the jaw and within successively initiated teeth in a deep dental lamina. Two distinct adult dentitions have been described: alternate, in which timing of new teeth alternates between two adjacent files, each erupting separately, and the other arranged as single files, where teeth of each file are timed to erupt together, in some taxa facilitating similarly timed teeth to join to form a cutting blade. Both are dependent on spatiotemporally regulated formation of new teeth. The adult Angel sharkSquatina(Squalomorphii) exemplifies a single file dentition, but we obtained new data on the developmental order of teeth in the files ofSquatinaembryos, showing alternate timing of tooth initiation. This was based on micro‐CTscans revealing that the earliest mineralised teeth at the jaw margin and their replacements in file pairs (odd and even jaw positions) alternate in their initiation timing. Along withSquatina, new observations from other squalomorphs such asHexanchusandChlamydoselachus, together with representatives of the sister group Galeomorphii, have established that the alternate tooth pattern (initiation time and replacement order) characterises the embryonic dentition of extant sharks; however, this can change in adults. These character states were plotted onto a recent phylogeny, demonstrating that the Squalomorphii show considerable plasticity of dental development. We propose a developmental‐evolutionary model to allow change from the alternate to a single file alignment of replacement teeth. This establishes new dental morphologies in adult sharks from inherited alternate order.
HIF1α protein and mRNA expression as a new marker for post mortem interval estimation in human gingival tissue
Authors: Fais Paolo , Mazzotti Maria Carla , Teti Gabriella , Boscolo‐Berto Rafael , Pelotti Susi , Falconi Mirella
Published: March 2018

Estimating the post mortem interval (PMI) is still a crucial step in Forensic Pathology. Although several methods are available for assessing the PMI, a precise estimation is still quite unreliable and can be inaccurate. The present study aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical distribution and mRNA expression of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF‐1α) in post mortem gingival tissues to establish a correlation between the presence of HIF‐1α and the time since death, with the final goal of achieving a more accurate PMI estimation. Samples of gingival tissues were obtained from 10 cadavers at different PMIs (1–3 days, 4–5 days and 8–9 days), and were processed for immunohistochemistry and quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. The results showed a time‐dependent correlation of HIF‐1α protein and its mRNA with different times since death, which suggests that HIF‐1α is a potential marker for PMI estimation. The results showed a high HIF‐1α protein signal that was mainly localized in the stratum basale of the oral mucosa in samples collected at a short PMI (1–3 days). It gradually decreased in samples collected at a medium PMI (4–5 days), but it was not detected in samples collected at a long PMI (8–9 days). These results are in agreement with the mRNA data. These data indicate an interesting potential utility of Forensic Anatomy‐based techniques, such as immunohistochemistry, as important complementary tools to be used in forensic investigations.
Effect of hyperbaric oxygen on the process of hypertrophic scar formation in rabbit ears
Authors: Ren Jizhen , Liu Sumei , Wan Jin'e , Kang Enhao , Chen Zhenyu
Published: March 2018

Objective

To explore the influence of hyperbaric oxygen on scar formation in rabbit ears.

Methods

A total of 20 New Zealand rabbits were selected to establish the hypertrophic scar model on the ears. The rabbits were randomly divided into control group and experimental group (7d, 14d, 21d, and 28d group according to different HBO treatment days),each experimental group received hyperbaric oxygen treatment after the operation at the same time everyday for 1 hour. After the day 29, the scars were collected. Histomorphological change in scars was observed by hematoxylin‐eosin staining, Masson staining, and transmission electrical microscope. The expression of bax, bcl‐2, and the cell apoptosis rate was detected by immunohistochemical method.

Results

(i) Both number of fibroblast and amount of collagen fibrils in experimental group were significantly reduced compared with those in control group. In Masson staining, arrangement of collagen fibrils in experimental group was much more irregular and coarse than control groups. (ii) HI value can be found much smaller in the experimental groups than the control (P < .05). Among the four experimental groups, there is significant difference among 7d, 14d, and 21d groups (P < .05), while there is no difference between 21d and 28d groups (P > .05). (iii) Expression of Bax could be detected up‐regulated in experimental group (P < .05). While the expression of Bcl‐2 is detected significantly down‐regulated in experimental group than that in control group (P < .05). Compared with the 7d group, the expression of Bax and Bcl‐2 has significant difference in 14d group (P < .05), and the expression of this two factors in 21d group has significant difference comparing with 14d group(P < .05),but there is no significant difference between 28d group and 21d group(P > .05). (iv) Significant difference of cell apoptosis rate can be detected between the experimental groups and the control group (P < .05). Among the four experimental groups, there is significant difference among 7d, 14d, and 21d groups (P < .05), while there is no difference between 21d and 28d groups (P > .05).

Conclusion

The hyperbaric oxygen can up‐regulate bax/bcl‐2 value, increase the cell apoptosis rate, and inhibit the early hypertrophic scar in rabbit ears.
Cytokine profile (IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐17, IL‐22, and TNF‐α) in vitiligo—New insight into pathogenesis of disease
Authors: Sushama Sushama , Dixit Niharika , Gautam Ram Krishna , Arora Pooja , Khurana Ananta , Anubhuti Anubhuti
Published: March 2018

Background

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease associated with alteration in levels of various cytokines. However, there are very few studies in this regard.

Objectives

To assess the serum levels of cytokines secreted by Th1 (IL‐2, TNF‐α), Th2 (IL‐6), and Th17 cells (IL‐17, IL‐22) in patients with localized vitiligo and generalized vitiligo and to correlate their levels with the extent, duration, and activity of disease.

Material and Methods

Sixty patients of vitiligo (30 each of localized and generalized) and 30 controls were recruited in the study. Serum IL‐2, ‐6, ‐17, ‐22, and TNF‐α levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in all patients and healthy controls, and their levels were correlated with the extent, duration, and activity of vitiligo.

Results

We observed significantly raised levels of IL‐2, ‐6, ‐17, ‐22, and TNF‐α in both localized vitiligo and generalized vitiligo (P < .05). IL‐2 was significantly raised (P = .028) in localized vitiligo, whereas IL‐17 and IL‐22 were significantly raised in generalized vitiligo (P = .00 and P = .019, respectively). Activity of disease showed positive correlation with serum TNF‐α levels (P = .015) in localized vitiligo. Positive correlation of IL‐17 (R = .238) with body surface area (BSA) was observed in patients with generalized vitiligo.

Conclusions

Our study shows that cytokines secreted by Th17 cells play an important role in maintenance and spread of vitiligo as they increase in line with extent of disease. Also TNF‐α increases in proportion with activity of disease, hence may act as biomarker for identifying patient with aggressive disease.
Transcriptome changes induced in vitro by alcohol‐containing mouthwashes in normal and dysplastic oral keratinocytes
Authors: Fox Simon A. , Currie Sean S. , Dalley Andrew J. , Farah Camile S.
Published: March 2018

Background

The role of alcohol‐containing mouthwash as a risk factor for the development of oral cancer is a subject of conflicting epidemiological evidence in the literature despite alcohol being a recognised carcinogen. The aim of this study was to use in vitro models to investigate mechanistic and global gene expression effects of exposure to alcohol‐containing mouthwash.

Methods

Two brands of alcohol‐containing mouthwash and their alcohol‐free counterparts were used to treat two oral cell lines derived from normal (OKF6‐TERT) and dysplastic (DOK) tissues. Genotoxicity was determined by Comet assay. RNA‐seq was performed using the Ion Torrent platform. Bioinformatics analysis used R/Bioconductor packages with differential expression using DEseq2. Pathway enrichment analysis used EnrichR with the WikiPathways and Kegg databases.

Results

Both cell lines displayed dose‐dependent DNA damage in response to acute exposure to ethanol and alcohol‐containing mouthwashes as well as alcohol‐free mouthwashes reconstituted with ethanol as shown by Comet assay. The transcriptomic effects of alcohol‐containing mouthwash exposure were more complex with significant differential gene expression ranging from >2000 genes in dysplastic (DOK) cells to <100 genes in normal (OKF6‐TERT) cells. Pathway enrichment analysis in DOK cells revealed alcohol‐containing mouthwashes showed common features between the two brands used including DNA damage response as well as cancer‐associated pathways. In OKF6‐TERT cells, the most significantly enriched pathways involved inflammatory signalling.

Conclusions

Alcohol‐containing mouthwashes are genotoxic in vitro to normal and dysplastic oral keratinocytes and induce widespread changes in gene expression. Dysplastic cells are more susceptible to the transcriptomic effects of mouthwash.
Exogenous melatonin protects small‐for‐size liver grafts by promoting monocyte infiltration and releases interleukin‐6
Authors: Song Zhuolun , Humar Bostjan , Gupta Anurag , Maurizio Eleonora , Borgeaud Nathalie , Graf Rolf , Clavien Pierre‐Alain , Tian Yinghua
Published: March 2018

Defective regeneration of small‐for‐size (SFS) liver remnants and partial grafts remains a key limiting factor in the application of liver surgery and transplantation. Exogenous melatonin (MLT) has protective effects on hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI), but its influence on graft regeneration is unknown. The aim of the study is to investigate the role of MLT in IRI and graft regeneration in settings of partial liver transplantation. We established three mouse models to study hepatic IRI and regeneration associated with partial liver transplantation: (I) IR+PH group: 60 minutes liver ischemia (IR) plus 2/3 hepatectomy (PH); (II) IR+exPH group: 60 minutes liver IR plus extended hepatectomy (exPH) associated with the SFS syndrome; (III) SFS‐LT group: Arterialized 30% SFS liver transplant. Each group was divided into MLT or vehicle‐treated subgroups. Hepatic injury, inflammatory signatures, liver regeneration, and animal survival rates were assessed. MLT reduced liver injury, enhanced liver regeneration, and promoted interleukin (IL) 6, IL10, and tumor necrosis factor‐α release by infiltrating, inflammatory Ly6C+ F4/80+ monocytes in the IR+PH group. MLT‐induced IL6 significantly improved hepatic microcirculation and survival in the IR+exPH model. In the SFS‐LT group, MLT promoted graft regeneration and increased recipient survival along with increased IL6/GP130‐STAT3 signaling. In IL6−/− mice, MLT failed to promote liver recovery, which could be restored through recombinant IL6. In the IR+exPH and SFS‐LT groups, inhibition of the IL6 co‐receptor GP130 through SC144 abolished the beneficial effects of MLT. MLT ameliorates SFS liver graft IRI and restores regeneration through monocyte‐released IL6 and downstream IL6/GP130‐STAT3 signaling.
Innovation and R&D in the Upper Echelons: The Association between the CTO's Power Depth and Breadth and the TMT's Commitment to Innovation
Authors: Garms Florian Peter , Engelen Andreas
Published: March 2018

Both practice and academic research observe the increasing occurrence and relevance of functional top management team (TMT) positions created to manage critical firm outcomes. Following this trend, firms have established Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) in their TMTs to give research‐and‐development‐ and innovation‐related topics a voice in the firms' upper echelons and to ensure that these topics receive sufficient resources. However, there is large variety in CTOs' positioning and profiles across firms, ranging from CTOs who are deeply rooted in the scientific community with a legacy of subject‐matter expertise to CTOs who are responsible for various other functions and operate at the center of the TMT. Despite this heterogeneity in CTOs' positioning, research has been silent on the CTO's optimal positioning in the top management to ensure that adequate resources are committed to innovation efforts.

This paper closes this gap by examining the influence of the depth (conceptualized as structural and expert power) and breadth (conceptualized as multifunctional power) of the CTO's power, as characteristic features of the CTO's positioning, on the TMT's commitment to innovation. The research model is validated empirically by means of a multisource secondary panel data set comprising 266 firm‐year observations from 55 S&P 500 firms between 1995 and 2012. This paper finds that innovation commitment increases with the CTO's level of structural power and decreases with increasing levels of the CTO's expert and multifunctional power. It has several theoretical and research‐related implications for investigations of CTO positions, for innovation management theory building, and for the broader management literature.
A Toxoplasma gondii locus required for the direct manipulation of host mitochondria has maintained multiple ancestral functions
Authors: Blank Matthew L. , Parker Michelle L. , Ramaswamy Raghavendran , Powell Cameron J. , English Elizabeth D. , Adomako‐Ankomah Yaw , Pernas Lena F. , Workman Sean D. , Boothroyd John C. , Boulanger Martin J. , Boyle Jon P.
Published: March 2018

The Toxoplasma gondii locus mitochondrial association factor 1 (MAF1) encodes multiple paralogs, some of which mediate host mitochondrial association (HMA). Previous work showed that HMA was a trait that arose in T. gondii through neofunctionalization of an ancestral MAF1 ortholog. Structural analysis of HMA‐competent and incompetent MAF1 paralogs (MAF1b and MAF1a, respectively) revealed that both paralogs harbor an ADP ribose binding macro‐domain, with comparatively low (micromolar) affinity for ADP ribose. Replacing the 16 C‐terminal residues of MAF1b with those of MAF1a abrogated HMA, and we also show that only three residues in the C‐terminal helix are required for MAF1‐mediated HMA. Importantly these same three residues are also required for the in vivo growth advantage conferred by MAF1b, providing a definitive link between in vivo proliferation and manipulation of host mitochondria. Co‐immunoprecipitation assays reveal that the ability to interact with the mitochondrial MICOS complex is shared by HMA‐competent and incompetent MAF1 paralogs and mutants. The weak ADPr coordination and ability to interact with the MICOS complex shared between divergent paralogs may represent modular ancestral functions for this tandemly expanded and diversified T. gondii locus.
Gliosarcoma with primitive neuronal, chondroid, osteoid and ependymal elements
Authors: Yoshida Yuka , Ide Munenori , Fujimaki Hiroya , Matsumura Nozomi , Nobusawa Sumihito , Ikota Hayato , Yokoo Hideaki
Published: March 2018

A 51‐year‐old man presented with a 2‐week history of malaise. MRI revealed a large solid and cystic lesion with ring enhancement measuring 6.5 cm in diameter in the right frontal lobe. Histologically, the tumor consisted of various components: diffuse growth of atypical astrocytic cells consistent with glioblastoma, fascicular proliferation of atypical spindle cells such as fibrosarcoma, clusters of primitive neuronal cells, and foci of ependymal cells. The sarcomatous component also focally exhibited chondroid and osteoid differentiation. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells in the primitive neuronal component were immunoreactive for synaptophysin and CD56. The spindle cells were immunopositive for Slug and Twist, regulators of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. Direct DNA sequencing demonstrated C228T mutation in the TERT promoter in astrocytic, sarcomatous and primitive neuronal components, suggesting their identical origin. Although a few cases of gliosarcoma with primitive neuronal differentiation have previously been described, the finding that neuronal, glial and sarcomatous components share an identical mutation of the TERT promoter has not been reported. The tumor recurred at the original site 11 months after the first surgery. Interestingly, the recurrent tumor was composed exclusively of a glioblastomatous component, unlike past cases of recurrent gliosarcoma.
Facilitating a dedicated focus on the human dimensions of care in practice settings: Development of a new humanised care assessment tool (HCAT) to sensitise care
Authors: Galvin Kathleen T. , Sloan Claire , Cowdell Fiona , Ellis‐Hill Caroline , Pound Carole , Watson Roger , Ersser Steven , Brooks Sheila
Published: March 2018

There is limited consensus about what constitutes humanly sensitive care, or how it can be sustained in care settings. A new humanised care assessment tool may point to caring practices that are up to the task of meeting persons as humans within busy healthcare environments. This paper describes qualitative development of a tool that is conceptually sensitive to human dimensions of care informed by a life‐world philosophical orientation. Items were generated to reflect eight theoretical dimensions that constitute what makes care feel humanly focused. An action research group process in 2014–2015 with researchers, service users, healthcare professionals in two diverse clinical settings (stroke rehabilitation and dermatology) was used. Feedback on conceptual content, transparency of meaning and readability was then gained from a panel in Sweden and third‐year student nurses in the UK. The tool can be applied to attune staff to human dimensions of care, offering items which point to concrete examples of humanising and dehumanising features of practice in ways that have not yet been fully captured in the caring literature. Based on theoretically led experiential items, with dedicated focus on what makes people feel more, or less than human, it may offer improvement on available assessments of care.
Involvement of transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 in intra‐oral incisional pain
Authors: Urata K , Shinoda M , Ikutame D , Iinuma T , Iwata K
Published: March 2018

Objective

To examine whether transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (TRPV2) contributes to the changes in intra‐oral thermal and mechanical sensitivity following the incision of buccal mucosa.

Materials and Methods

Buccal mucosal pain threshold was measured after the incision. Changes in the number of TRPV2‐immunoreactive (IR) trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons which innervate the whisker pad skin and buccal mucosa, changes in the number of isolectin B4‐negative/isolectin B4‐positive TRPV2‐IR TG neurons which innervate the whisker pad skin and the buccal mucosa, and the effect of peripheral TRPV2 antagonism on the pain threshold of incisional whisker pad skin and buccal mucosa were examined after these injuries.

Results

Buccal mucosal pain hypersensitivities were induced on day 3 following the incision. The total number of TRPV2‐IR TG neurons and the number of isolectin B4‐negative TRPV2‐IR TG neurons which innervate the whisker pad skin and buccal mucosa were increased. Buccal mucosal TRPV2 antagonism completely suppressed the heat and mechanical hypersensitivities, but not cold hypersensitivity. TRPV2 antagonist administration to the incisional whisker pad skin only partially suppressed pain hypersensitivities.

Conclusion

The increased expression of TRPV2 in peptidergic TG neurons innervating the incisional buccal mucosa is predominantly involved in buccal mucosal heat hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia following buccal mucosal incision.
Trans‐species synthetic gene design allows resistance pyramiding and broad‐spectrum engineering of virus resistance in plants
Authors: Bastet Anna , Lederer Baptiste , Giovinazzo Nathalie , Arnoux Xavier , German‐Retana Sylvie , Reinbold Catherine , Brault Véronique , Garcia Damien , Djennane Samia , Gersch Sophie , Lemaire Olivier , Robaglia Christophe , Gallois Jean‐Luc
Published: March 2018

To infect plants, viruses rely heavily on their host's machinery. Plant genetic resistances based on host factor modifications can be found among existing natural variability and are widely used for some but not all crops. While biotechnology can supply for the lack of natural resistance alleles, new strategies need to be developed to increase resistance spectra and durability without impairing plant development. Here, we assess how the targeted allele modification of the Arabidopsis thaliana translation initiation factor eIF4E1 can lead to broad and efficient resistance to the major group of potyviruses. A synthetic Arabidopsis thaliana eIF4E1 allele was designed by introducing multiple amino acid changes associated with resistance to potyvirus in naturally occurring Pisum sativum alleles. This new allele encodes a functional protein while maintaining plant resistance to a potyvirus isolate that usually hijacks eIF4E1. Due to its biological functionality, this synthetic allele allows, at no developmental cost, the pyramiding of resistances to potyviruses that selectively use the two major translation initiation factors, eIF4E1 or its isoform eIFiso4E. Moreover, this combination extends the resistance spectrum to potyvirus isolates for which no efficient resistance has so far been found, including resistance‐breaking isolates and an unrelated virus belonging to the Luteoviridae family. This study is a proof‐of‐concept for the efficiency of gene engineering combined with knowledge of natural variation to generate trans‐species virus resistance at no developmental cost to the plant. This has implications for breeding of crops with broad‐spectrum and high durability resistance using recent genome editing techniques.
Orchid seed removal by ants in Neotropical ant‐gardens
Authors: Morales‐Linares J. , García‐Franco J. G. , Flores‐Palacios A. , Valenzuela‐González J. E. , Mata‐Rosas M. , Díaz‐Castelazo C.
Published: March 2018

Most plants that inhabit ant‐gardens (AGs) are cultivated by the ants. Some orchids occur in AGs; however, it is not known whether their seeds are dispersed by AG ants because most orchid seeds are tiny and dispersed by wind.

We performed in situ seed removal experiments, in which we simultaneously provided Azteca gnava ants with seeds of three AG orchid species and three other AG epiphyte species (Bromeliaceae, Cactaceae and Gesneriaceae), as well as the non‐AG orchid Catasetum integerrimum.

The seeds most removed were those of the bromeliad Aechmea tillandsioides and the gesneriad Codonanthe uleana, while seeds of AG orchids Coryanthes picturata, Epidendrum flexuosum and Epidendrum pachyrachis were less removed. The non‐AG orchid was not removed. Removal values were positively correlated with the frequency of the AG epiphytes in the AGs, and seeds of AG orchids were larger than those of non‐AG orchids, which should favour myrmecochory.

Our data show that Azt. gnava ants discriminate and preferentially remove seeds of the AG epiphytes. We report for the first time the removal of AG orchid seeds by AG ants in Neotropical AGs.