Environmental Science and Technology

Correction to: Mitigation of the liquefaction potential of soil by Ca-carbonate precipitation induced by indigenous urease-producing Staphylococcus sp. IR-103 The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake.

Thermal and catalytic methods used for destruction of chemical warfare agents Abstract The decontamination of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) from structures, environmental media and even personnel has become an area of particular interest in recent years due to increased homeland security concerns. This article reviews applications of catalytic methods used for decontamination of CWAs. Most attention was given to the following methods: thermocatalysis, photocatalysis and enzyme catalysis among the many methods of catalytic CWA decomposition. Unfortunately, there are not enough data obtained with real CWAs due to the difficulty in handling, so we have described also data available for CWAs simulants. These methods can be useful for decontamination systems that can reduce the damage caused by possible terrorism.

Kinetics and equilibrium study of lead bio-sorption from contaminated water by compost and biogas residues Abstract Lead (Pb) poses serious threats to plants, animals and humans once entered into the food chain via the contaminated effluents; thus, it has become imperative to remove Pb from the water stream. This study examined the potential and feasibility of compost and biogas residues for the bio-sorption (q) and removal (R) of Pb from contaminated water. To explore the objectives, a series of batch experiments was conducted at various adsorbent masses (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g/100 mL), Pb concentrations (30, 60 and 90 mg L−1) and contact time (15, 30, 60 and 120 min). Lead bio-sorption was decreased with increasing Pb concentration from 30 to 90 mg L−1 and sorbent biomass from 0.5 to 1.5 g/100 mL. At equilibrium state, relatively greater sorption and removal were observed from compost (q = 2.29–11.61 mg/g, R = 65–80%) as compared to biogas residues (q = 1.59–7.45 mg/g, R = 41–69%) depending upon Pb concentration and sorbent biomass in aqueous solution. Our results were better fitted with Freundlich equilibrium adsorption isotherm model (qmax = 2.882 mg/g, R2 = 0.99) and pseudo-second-order kinetics (qmax = 8.43 mg/g, R2 = 0.99). FTIR spectra indicated the presence of –OH, C–O, C=O, C=C and sp3 C–H functional groups on both adsorbents which might be involved during Pb adsorption. Compost was more porous material with well-developed cavities and had greater surface area than biogas residues (135 vs. 43 m2/g); therefore, compost has great sorption potential for heavy metal remediation from aqueous solution as compared to the biogas residues.

Simultaneous removal of oil, total Co and 60 Co from radioactive liquid waste by dissolved air flotation Abstract This report presents a kinetic study of the simultaneous removal of oil, total cobalt and 60Co from radioactive liquid waste by dissolved air flotation. We studied the effects of the incorporation of an inclined lamella module in the flotation cell on the overall removal efficiency. The results showed that the removal of oil is greater than the levels observed in the total cobalt and 60Co. It was established that the removal of Co depends on the oil's separation. This finding is explained by the chemical behaviour of Co, as well as the physico-chemical characteristics of the liquid residue. However, the evidence showed that the efficiency of the dissolved air flotation system with the inclined lamella module is greater than the conventional dissolved air flotation system. In addition, the comparison between the efficiency and the value of the kinetics constant θ showed that they share a directly proportional relationship. Finally, it was established that the kinetic constant θ estimation through the kinetic equation represents a simple way of assessing and controlling the dissolved air flotation process.

Possibility of utilizing natural coagulants ( Trigonella foenum-graecum and Astragalus gossypinus ) along with alum for the removal of turbidity Abstract Water, especially drinking water, might need to be treated before being utilized. Coagulants play a significant role in water treatment. In spite of having adverse effects on human health, aluminum sulfate, alum and other chemical coagulants are commonly used in coagulation processes. Utilization of natural and herbal materials such as quince seeds, fleawort, tragacanth, starch and yeast as coagulant aids has been experimentally investigated in this study. The aims of the present paper are: (1) to determine the optimal dose of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) and Astragalus gossypinus (tragacanth) seeds as coagulant aids along with alum for the coagulation of raw water from Minab water treatment plant) located 7 km away from Bandar Abbas–Minab road at the east of Bandar Abbas in Iran, with a total area of 11.5 ha) and (2) to study their influence on reducing the water turbidity at a pilot scale. According to the obtained results, the optimum amount of alum (without additives) was calculated as 35 mg/L for water with the initial turbidity of 70–75 NTU, as the average turbidity interval. Using A. gossypinus and T. foenum-graecum seeds as coagulant aids, the optimum amount of alum reached 22 mg/L. The performance of A. gossypinus, as a coagulant aid, was much better in low concentrations. It was used in doses of 0.25, 1 and 2 mg/L along with 20, 22 and 28 mg/L of alum for low, intermediate and high turbidity levels (28, 70 and 120 NTU) and led to turbidity removal percentages of 85, 94.5 and 96.4, respectively. The optimum amounts of T. foenum-graecum seeds for the three mentioned turbidity levels were calculated as 1, 2 and 4 mg/L. The turbidity removal percentages of 91.5, 95.7 and 97.8 were obtained using the mentioned amounts of T. foenum-graecum seeds along with 20, 22 and 25 mg/L of alum, respectively. Similar results were obtained by using both additives along with alum.

Bioreduction of toxic hexavalent chromium by novel indigenous microbe Brevibacillus agri isolated from tannery wastewater Abstract The present study is focused on the microbial bioreduction of hexavalent chromium generated from tannery waste. For the study, the treated and untreated tannery effluents were collected from an unexplored site of Manpura, Macheri, Jaipur (India). A few bacterial strains capable of tolerating and reducing hexavalent chromium were isolated, and the most capable one that reduced 85% of hexavalent chromium was identified to be Brevibacillus agri by 16S rDNA gene sequencing. This isolate could tolerate high concentrations of chromium up to 850 mg/l of potassium dichromate and showed maximum reduction of about 85% for 100 mg/l of hexavalent chromium at temperature 37 °C and pH 7.0 in 48 h. The potential of the partially purified enzyme to reduce hexavalent chromium was measured by diphenyl carbazide assay. Purified enzyme showed 0.26 units bioactivity to reduce Cr, in the presence of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and Km and Vmax were observed to be 1.9 mM and 0.045 mM/min (mg protein), respectively. The current study, therefore, showed Brevibacillus agri capable of reducing hexavalent chromium without usage of toxic chemicals and, henceforth, prevented generation of harmful by-products.

Kinetic and equilibrium studies for cadmium biosorption from contaminated water using Cassia fistula biomass Abstract Cadmium (Cd) contamination of the water resources is one of the serious environmental issues. The present study aims to (1) evaluate the biosorption potential of Cassia fistula biomass for the removal of Cd from contaminated water and validate the experimental results with kinetic and equilibrium sorption models, (2) assess the removal of Cd from groundwater samples in the presence of other competing ions in the solution. The C. fistula biomass was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller technique and scanning electron microscopy to understand the role of its physical properties in Cd biosorption and removal. The effects of biosorbent dose, initial Cd concentrations, contact time and presence of competing cations in groundwater samples at constant pH and temperature (27 ± 1.5 °C) were studied. At equilibrium (90 min), Cd removal (98–16%) and biosorption (6.26–0.34 mg/g) were recorded depending on the experimental conditions. The Langmuir model yielded a better approximation of the experimental data at equilibrium \(\left( {Q_{\hbox{max} } = 7.24{\text{ mg/g, }}R^{2} = 0.99} \right)\) rather than Freundlich model. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model explained well the kinetic behavior of Cd biosorption. Results revealed a decline in the Cd removal (12.7 and 6% at 0.25 and 1.0 g/100 mL, respectively) in the presence of cations in the water samples. The results proved that C. fistula is a very effective and environment friendly alternative adsorbent for the removal (98%) of Cd from the aqueous system.

Evaluation of waste management options using rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold matrix in Birjand, Iran Abstract Population growth and the corresponding production of more waste as well as considering the lack of appropriate municipal solid waste management strategies in recent years have confronted the city of Birjand with huge waste disposal problem. This study evaluated different waste management options in Birjand, including open dumping, sanitary landfill, composting and recycling. Environmental impact assessment of these options was performed using two methods: rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold matrix (modified Leopold matrix). The rapid impact assessment matrix method provides fast and accurate ways of analysis and reanalysis of specified components. Iranian Leopold matrix chiefly is used for the reorganization of the project impacts in both the building and operation stages. Composting option, with final scores of − 0.5 and − 2.34, respectively, in rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold Matrix, had the least negative environmental impact. Also, as a result of both methods, open dumping had the most negative environmental impact. The result of sustainability determination for four alternatives showed that the composting, with S-Value equal 0.01 and − 0.162, respectively, in rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold matrix, is more sustainable than the other options. Therefore, composting option was introduced as first priority and the most logical strategy for municipal solid waste management in Birjand. Unfortunately, open dumping is currently the most common method of waste management in this city.

Physicochemical parameters of water from selected boreholes utilized as potable water Abstract The physicochemical characteristics of water samples from selected boreholes in six peri-urban communities were analysed to assess the quality of waters for suitability for human consumption. Samples were collected from sixteen different boreholes at interval of 1 month from July to September 2015 and from December 2015 to February 2016 to cover rainy and dry seasons, respectively. Samples were analysed for temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, alkalinity, acidity, etc. using standard methods. The results were compared with World Health Organization standards. Data obtained for both rainy and dry seasons indicate pH ranges of 6.65–7.50 (mean value 7.09), temperature 27.00–29.00 °C (mean value 28.06 °C), dissolved oxygen 41.60–69.60 mg/l (mean value 49.53 mg/l), acidity 1.46–5.28 mg/l (mean value 3.16 mg/l), alkalinity 8.00–14.00 mg/l (mean value 10.82 mg/l), electrical conductivity 3.50–24.10 µS/cm (mean value 10.69 µS/cm), dissolved oxygen 41.60–69.60 mg/l (mean value 49.53 mg/l) and biochemical oxygen demand 8.00–33.60 mg/l (mean value 21.21 mg/l). Out of the 16 samples analysed, 12 were soft water while 4 were slightly hard water. Most of the physicochemical parameters, except dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand were within World Health Organization standard. The pollution index for physicochemical composition was mostly greater than 1, indicating heavy contamination of the waters. The results obtained in this study, especially biochemical oxygen demand and dissolved oxygen values, suggest that water from the boreholes sampled is not suitable for human consumption and may constitute a serious health risk to the consumers.

Application of TiO 2 -supported Au for ozone molecule removal from environment: a van der Waals-corrected DFT study Abstract In this paper, we examined the interaction of ozone molecule with TiO2-supported Au nanoparticles by performing first-principles calculations within density functional theory. The structural properties including bond lengths, bond angles and adsorption energies were calculated. The electronic properties were analyzed in view of the Mulliken charges and projected density of states. The results show that the adsorption of O3 molecule on the N-doped TiO2-supported Au nanoparticle is more energetically favorable than the adsorption on the pristine one, suggesting that the N-doped TiO2-supported Au nanoparticle can react with O3 molecule more strongly. It was found that the O3 molecule tends to be strongly adsorbed on the surface of Au nanoparticles through its side oxygen atoms, providing a bridge geometry. On the TiO2 side of TiO2-supported Au overlayer, there is also a strong binding between the fivefold coordinated titanium atoms and the side oxygen atoms of O3 molecule, where the titanium atoms represent a double contacting point with oxygen atoms. Therefore, the obtained results also propose a theoretical basis for the potential applications of TiO2-supported Au nanoparticles in gas sensor devices.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Review of Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention in Female Soccer Athletes Abstract Purpose of Review This paper aims to review the recent literature regarding the prevention of musculoskeletal injuries in female soccer athletes. Recent Findings Female soccer players are at risk for many musculoskeletal injuries, mostly involving the lower extremities, due to anatomic, hormonal, and biomechanical factors. Various programs are available that target overall injury prevention, as well as specifically the prevention of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), ankle, and overuse injuries. The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) 11+ is the most well-studied program for overall injury prevention and has been shown to have modest but significant effects in injury incidence. Prevention of ACL injuries is also well studied, and multiple programs have been shown to significantly reduce incidence, especially in youth athletes. Fewer current studies are available regarding ankle and overuse injuries. Summary Musculoskeletal injury prevention programs are available for female soccer players and may be effective in decreasing the incidence of certain injuries. There are clear differences in injury patterns in females compared to males, and further research is needed to specifically look at injury prevention in this population.

Patellar Tendinopathy in Athletes Abstract Purpose of Review This review discusses the current practice of evaluation and treatment of patellar tendinopathy with emphasis on rehabilitation. Recent Findings The latest studies revolve primarily around implementation of isometric and heavy slow resistance (HSR) exercises in the rehabilitation of patellar tendinopathy rather than the traditional rehabilitation method of eccentric exercise. Summary Patellar tendinopathy is a common injury of the inferior anterior knee seen in athletes but predominantly in jumping athletes. Onset is insidious and frequently noted in a loaded position with knee flexion. Physical exam finds tenderness along the patellar tendon with pain recreated while squatting. Treatment initially includes conservative measures such as guided physical therapy, medical therapy, and modalities. If recalcitrant, injections may be warranted, or rarely surgery may be considered.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Lower Limb Sports Injuries Abstract Purpose of Review To outline current evidence on the use of ESWT for the treatment of lower limb sports injuries. Recent Findings There is growing evidence to support the use of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions in the general population. However, research focused on the use of ESWT specifically for lower extremity injuries in the athletic population is more limited. Athletes represent a subgroup of patients that may benefit from ESWT. Compared with injections or surgical interventions, athletes undergoing ESWT often are able to continue sports participation with fewer limitations in activity during treatment. Summary The review identifies considerable variability in study design and treatment protocols that affect the overall quality of evidence. Sports participation was allowed in most studies. One case of plantar fascia tear was identified during ESWT treatment; this injury was self-limited. Most studies report pain-relieving and/or functional benefit with the use of ESWT for common lower extremity tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, and medial tibial stress syndrome. This review highlights the need for further investigations on optimal methods of ESWT use in athletes given the high prevalence of lower extremity injuries and favorable safety profile for treatment.

A Review of Hip-Spine Syndrome Abstract Purpose of Review This review is aimed at summarizing our current understanding of hip-spine syndrome. In particular, the review discusses the clinical assessment and diagnosis of commonly implicated conditions to help a practitioner realize an efficient and organized approach to the evaluation and management of pain in the setting of hip-spine syndrome. Recent Findings While initially described as the concurrent presence of hip osteoarthritis and lumbar spinal stenosis, the catalog of diagnoses associated with hip-spine syndrome has expanded and includes femoroacetabular impingement, acetabular dysplasia, hip osteoarthritis, sacroiliac joint-mediated pain, facet arthropathy, and lumbar spinal stenosis. There is a limited body of evidence describing clinical findings and treatment recommendations when these diagnoses present concurrently. From the available literature, it seems that patients may be successfully managed with a multimodal approach, although absolute resolution of symptoms is not always plausible. Summary In the context of hip-spine syndrome, identification of a primary pain generator or etiology, when present, is important to guide successful management. Lingering symptoms may persist and can suggest the presence of a more co-dependent relationship between the hip and the spine (so-called complex hip-spine syndrome). Further research is needed to clarify the influences that underlie hip-spine syndrome, particularly in these more complex cases, and in turn better define diagnostic and treatment algorithms.

Rehabilitation Considerations in Pediatric Brain Tumors Abstract Purpose of Review The goal of this paper is to provide an evidence-based update for rehabilitation providers to guide rehabilitation treatment plans during the care of children with brain tumors across the lifespan. Recent Findings Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children, and overall the second most common cancer type in children. In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) revised classification of these tumors to incorporate molecular parameters. Rehabilitation providers have a role throughout the continuum of care in this population, providing preventative, restorative, supportive, and palliative rehabilitation. Summary There remains a paucity of pediatric specific literature related to rehabilitation in pediatric brain tumors. Much of what we know related to the rehabilitative care of children with pediatric brain tumors is extrapolated from research focusing on adults with cancer or those with other acquired brain injuries. However, pediatric cancer patients do benefit from care from a rehabilitative team, which includes a pediatric physiatrist.

Clinical Considerations and Resources for Youth Athletes with Intellectual Disability: a Review with a Focus on Special Olympics International Abstract Purpose of Review This review provides an overview of sports participation by youth athletes with intellectual disability (ID), focusing on activities offered by Special Olympics International (SOI). The review also describes SOI's health initiatives, as awareness of the sports and health activities of SOI is critical for clinicians who serve youth with ID. SOI is the largest global public health organization for people with ID. Recent Findings 2018 is the 50th Anniversary of SOI. For 50 years, SOI has been using the power of sport to break down barriers both on and off the field. From 2016 to 2020, SOI is focusing on Inclusive Health: the inclusion of people with ID in mainstream health policies and laws, programming, services, training programs, research, and funding streams (Special Olympics International 2018). This article summarizes recent SOI efforts in both sports competition and health initiatives. Data collected from SOI's Healthy Athletes Initiative revealed obesity in 31.5% of youth with ID. Data also demonstrated concerns with flexibility in 71.3% of athletes and concerns with muscle strength in 56.5% of athletes. Results from medical coverage of the 2009 Special Olympics Great Britain Summer Games revealed musculoskeletal and skin concerns as the primary reasons for on-site sports coverage medical consultation. Summary Clinicians caring for youth with ID should be aware of the sport opportunities for this population and the health initiatives of SOI. Future research is needed on applying sports' medicine principles to youth athletes with ID. By including this article alongside an article on youth adaptive sports, the field of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine is demonstrating its commitment to all youth athletes.

Polypharmacy and Rational Prescribing: Changing the Culture of Medicine One Patient at a Time Abstract Purpose of Review Polypharmacy and the associated concept of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) have well-documented deleterious effects on older adults and other vulnerable groups commonly treated by physiatrists. Addressing the issues of polypharmacy and PIP presents an opportunity to improve health and rehabilitation outcomes. In this article, we review medications commonly initiated and managed by physiatrists such as anticoagulants, antidepressants, neuro-stimulants, and pain medications based on current evidence. We also offer strategies to minimize polypharmacy and PIP by exploring alternative and behavioral approaches to common clinical issues in rehabilitation according to the most recent guidelines. Recent Findings Polypharmacy is associated with a host of undesirable and potentially preventable outcomes including falls, hip fractures, delirium, incontinence, and cognitive impairments. As the number of medications increase, so does the risk of untoward effects. Summary Physiatrists are well positioned to have a positive impact on rational prescribing and polypharmacy given our emphasis on function, familiarity with non-medication treatment modalities, and an embrace of a biopsychosocial orientation.

Delirium: Evaluation and Management Abstract Purpose of Review Delirium is associated with high morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs, and longer inpatient hospital length of stays. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most recent evidence pertaining to the recognition, prevention, and management of delirium to help guide clinicians to make evidence-based decisions in patient care. Recent Findings Delirium is best managed with a multicomponent strategy using standardized tools for early recognition, such as the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM), non-pharmacologic interventions including restoration of the natural sleep-wake cycle with environmental management of light and noise, facilitating early mobility, and providing assistive devices such as eyeglasses and hearing aids. Medical optimization includes recognizing and treating medical problems, ensuring adequate nutrition, avoiding excessive testing and lines/catheters, and avoiding polypharmacy. Despite widespread use, there are insufficient data to support the use of antipsychotics to prevent or treat delirium. Summary A multicomponent strategy using a team-based approach to delirium recognition, prevention, and management employed consistently can improve patient care while reducing healthcare costs.

Pediatric Cardiac Rehabilitation: a Review Abstract Purpose of Review In addition to concerns with physical health and activity levels, children with cardiac conditions can be at risk of neurodevelopmental and socioemotional maladjustment. Children with congenital heart defects requiring surgery early in life are at risk of developmental delays and cognitive impairments, and both children with congenital heart defects and those with cardiomyopathies are at risk of socioemotional concerns. As a result, there is an increasing focus on rehabilitation efforts for these patients, in order to improve both their physical well-being and their adjustment outcomes. However, there are no established standards for rehabilitation programs applicable across children with cardiac conditions, in stark contrast to guidelines for adult patients. The purpose of the present review is to summarize recent studies on pediatric cardiac rehabilitation and describe the structure of our own program, in order to aid with the delineation of future guidelines. Recent Findings Twenty programs for pediatric cardiac rehabilitation were identified and reviewed. We review inpatient, outpatient, and home-based programs, most of which include two to three sessions of exercise training per week for 12 weeks with a focus on improving exercise capacity. We also review emerging cognitive rehabilitation for children with cardiac disorders and discuss a newly developed program at our own institution. Summary A review of past findings, along with recent efforts at our institution, suggests that a structured cardiac rehabilitation program can benefit children by increasing exercise response and physical activity as well as improving developmental, cognitive, and psychosocial outcomes.

Rehabilitation in Children with Disorder of Consciousness Abstract Purpose of Review Consciousness is a state of wakefulness with awareness of self and the environment. Disorder of consciousness (DOC) can result from any type of acquired brain injury (ABI). While children with ABI and DOC are commonly encountered in pediatric rehabilitation settings, research in this population is lacking, necessitating extrapolation from adult literature. Recent Findings Adults and children with DOC who participate in specialized inpatient rehabilitation programs show functional gains during and following the inpatient admission. Here, we present a model for an interdisciplinary rehabilitation program for children with DOC along with data supporting the evaluation and management approaches, where available. Summary Careful, interdisciplinary assessment using appropriate tools as well as a range of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions supports the rehabilitation and recovery of children with DOC. Additional research focused on children with DOC will be crucial for enhancing the evidence related to this population.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Pediatric Endoscopic Surgery

Paediatric robotic surgery and urology: where are we?

Laparoscopic approach to an echinococcal liver cyst in a boy with giant 3 organ cystic manifestation

Posterior One-Trocar-Assisted Pyeloplasty Abstract Introduction Ureteropelvic junction obstruction is the most common pediatric obstructive uropathy. Retroperitoneal laparoscopic-assisted dismembered pyeloplasty (OTAP) combines the advantages of a retroperitoneal approach with the high success rate of the open technique. A modification of the OTAP, using a posterior muscle-sparing incision to approach the kidney, is described. Surgical technique With the patient placed in prone position, a transverse 15-mm-long skin incision is made. A 12-mm balloon Hasson trocar with operative telescope is inserted after the Gerota's fascia has been opened. The ureteropelvic junction is exteriorized and a traditional dismembered pyeloplasty is performed. Discussion The posterior approach allows a quick and easy access to the renal lodge and does not require the incision of abdominal wall muscles and the parietal peritoneum does not interfere with the procedure. Furthermore, the exteriorization of the ureteropelvic junction is easy, because the space between its natural position and the skin is short, consisting only in subcutaneous tissue. Conclusion The posterior modified approach to the kidney for OTAP procedure is a good option, as an alternative to lumbotomic lateral access, allowing a good visualization of the kidney lodge, together with easy and rapid exteriorization of the ureteropelvic junction.

Short-interval staged thoracoscopic surgery for long-gap esophageal atresia Abstract Purpose Long-gap esophageal atresia is defined by the impossibility to perform a primary anastomosis after birth. We propose a progressive traction surgery by thoracoscopy performed at intervals of 5–7 days. Methods We describe the traction technique of the esophageal pouches through the thoracoscopic approach and without performing a gastrostomy. We use sliding sutures and clips to prevent esophageal tearing and preservation of the azygos vein. Results In a series of three patients, we have being able to reconstruct the esophagus in a period of 1–3 weeks after birth without complications. Conclusions Repetitive thoracoscopy at shorts intervals in the neonatal period allows a tension-free anastomosis of the esophagus in long-gap type esophageal atresia.

Perspectives on pediatric endoscopic surgery

30 Years of pediatric endoscopic surgery and the challenge goes on

Assessment of public access YouTube™ content for pediatric minimal access surgery education Abstract YouTube™ is a video-sharing open-access online platform with more than 1 billion users. The number of users and uploaded videos with medical content is increasing every day. Though e-learning has advantages and use of social media has found place in modern education, this short communication is about YouTube™, that is one of leading social media, having an impact on pediatric surgery trainees in minimal access surgery.

Laparoscopic options in superior mesenteric artery syndrome in children: systematic review Abstract Purpose Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) refers to the compression of the third portion of the duodenum between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery, and usually results from weight loss or alteration in spine anatomy. This study reviewed laparoscopic options regarding SMA S in children. Methods MEDLINE/PubMed was reviewed. Studies in patients under 16 years of age and published in English/Spanish were included, and selected by two independent reviewers. Data were collected for age, gender, weight/body mass index, comorbidities, symptoms, surgical technique, complications, conversions, recurrence and mortality. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the quantitative portion of the study, with results presented as percentages, means and medians. Results Twelve papers with n = 16 patients were included. Mean/median age were 10.7 and 13 years, respectively, with female predominance (n = 11, 68.75%). Emesis (n = 15, 93.75%) and abdominal pain (n = 11, 68.75%) were the most common symptoms. Anorexia nervosa was present in n = 1, and n = 1 patient had recent history of spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. Regarding surgical technique, eleven cases consisted of duodenojejunostomy with side-to-side anastomosis (one associated with feeding jejunostomy); two Strong's procedures; and three Ladd's procedures. There were no conversions, and n = 2 (12.5%) minor complications (self-limited upper gastrointestinal bleed and persistence of vomiting for 48 h post-operatory). There was no mortality. Mean and median follow-up were 44.5 and 48 weeks, respectively, with no recurrences. Conclusions SMAS is uncommon in children. The preferred laparoscopic approach is duodenojejunostomy, which can provide definitive relief of the obstruction with minor complications and low recurrence.

Laparoscopy in infants: close intraoperative hemodynamic monitoring for patient safety Abstract Background Hemodynamic changes during laparoscopy have not been well defined in very young children. In this study, intraoperative monitoring of hemodynamic parameters and oxygenation was evaluated during laparoscopy in infants weighing < 10 kg. Patients and methods Thirty infants (5.07 ± 2.51 kg), undergoing laparoscopy (LAP Group, n = 15) or open surgery (Open Group, n = 15), were enrolled. Cerebral regional (crScO2), renal regional oxygenation (rrScO2), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate (HR), blood pressure, transcutaneous CO2 (TcCO2), end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2), and core temperature (TC) were analyzed at five intervals: T0 = basal; T1 = anesthesia induction; T2 = CO2 PP insufflation in the LAP group; T3 = intraoperative; T4 = cessation of CO2 PP in the LAP group; and T5 = before extubation. Results The LAP group showed differences in crScO2 at T1, T3, and T4 compared with T0 (p < 0.05) and in rrScO2 from T1 to T4 versus T0 (p < 0.05), without hypoxemia. In addition, in the LAP group, an increase in TcCO2 from T2 to T5 versus T0 (p < 0.01) was related to anesthesia time (p = 0.01) and sex (p = 0.03). The SpO2 values were not different during laparoscopy; on the contrary, the OPEN group exhibited a decrease in SpO2 at T4 (p < 0.001) and an increase at T5 versus T0 (p = 0.001) compared with T0. HR and TC changes were detected in both groups (p < 0.01). No significant variations were recorded in blood pressure or end-tidal CO2. Conclusion Limited effects on oxygenation, cardiac output, and thermoregulation were detected in infants during laparoscopy. Many factors, including the child's age, may play different roles in the regulation of these parameters. Close monitoring is essential to guarantee the infant's safety.

How to differentiate congenital pancreatic cysts and cystic pancreatic teratomas? Abstract Purpose The differential diagnosis of congenital pancreatic cysts and mature cystic pancreatic teratomas is challenging due to the lack of reliable diagnostic tests or pathognomonic imaging findings. This study highlights the differences between these extremely rare entities with few published case reports. Methods Based on our recent experience with two cases, we conducted an extensive review of literature including all reported cases of congenital pancreatic cysts and cystic pancreatic teratomas in children. Results We report two cases of large cystic abdominal mass detected by prenatal ultrasonography. Both neonates were asymptomatic after birth and were operated on by laparoscopy at the age of 1 year and 3 months, respectively. Histopathology demonstrated a congenital pancreatic cyst in the first case and a mature cystic teratoma in the second case. The post-operative course was uneventful for both children. We describe the clinical and imaging data of the 33 congenital pancreatic cysts and 10 mature cystic teratomas of the pancreas previously reported in the literature, and discuss diagnosis criteria and treatment strategies. Conclusion Congenital pancreatic cysts and pancreatic teratomas are rare lesions in children. Clinical presentation is not specific and these lesions are often asymptomatic. Although associated malformations are evocative of congenital pancreatic cyst, the final diagnosis can only be confirmed by histopathological examination. Available treatments include ultrasound-guided puncture, enucleation, distal pancreatectomy, cystogastrostomy, and cysto-jejunostomy by the Roux-en-Y technique. Laparoscopic excision can be performed shortly after birth and is our preferred option.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging

The Correlation Between Tenosynovitis Pattern on Two-Phase Bone Scintigraphy and Clinical Manifestation in Patients with Suspected Rheumatoid Arthritis Abstract Purpose To investigate the correlation between the tenosynovitis pattern on two-phase bone scintigraphy (2P-BS) and clinical manifestation in patients with suspected rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Method 2P-BS including technetium–99m-methylene diphosphonate blood pool and bone phase imaging in 402 consecutive patients with clinically suspected RA were retrospectively reviewed. According to 2010 RA Classification Criteria, patients were grouped as RA and non-RA. Visual assessment of all fingers, toes, wrists, and ankles on 2P-BS was performed. Clinical suspected tenosynovitis was evaluated on physical examination. Rheumatoid factor, anti-cyclic citrullinated protein antibody, C-reactive protein, and estimated sedimentation rate were obtained. Radiographic findings were also used to define early and established arthritis. Results Tenosynovitis pattern was detected in 12.7% (51/402 patients) on 2P-BS. A total of 94.1% (48/51) were diagnosed as RA vs. 5.9% (3/51) as non-RA. Of the 48 RA patients with positive 2P-BS finding, 85.4% (41/48) had early arthritis and 14.6% (7/48) had established arthritis. On physical examination, tenosynovitis was suspected in 21.9% (88/402). A total of 56.8% (50/88) belonged to the RA group and 43.2% (38/88) to the non-RA group. The tenosynovitis pattern of 2P-BS and physical examination showed statistical difference and moderate agreement. The positive tenosynovitis pattern on 2P-BS represented up to 26.408 of odds ratio which was highest among the RA-associated factors. Conclusion Tenosynovitis pattern on 2P-BS was more commonly detected in the RA group and was more frequently associated with early arthritis pattern. Therefore, 2P-BS could give additional information for the detection of subclinical tenosynovitis in early or preclinical RA patients.

Ipsilateral Hyperhidrosis: Atypical Symptom of Small Lung Adenocarcinoma Evaluated by 18 F-FDG PET-CT Abstract A 45-year-old male visited our clinic due to right palmar anhidrosis and contralateral hyperhidrosis. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed a solitary pulmonary nodule with mediastinal lymph node enlargement, but a cause for atypical palmar anhidrosis was not identified. Subsequent fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed (PET/CT) revealed a localized pleural metastasis at the right apex with direct invasion of the paravertebral sympathetic chain. The pleural metastasis, which was not seen on chest CT, evoked ipsilateral anhidrosis independent of a mass effect or direct invasion by the primary lung tumor. 18F-FDG PET/CT can be helpful in identifying the cause of atypical symptoms in patient with small sized lung cancer.

Perspectives in Radiomics for Personalized Medicine and Theranostics Abstract Radiomics handles imaging biomarker from high-throughput feature extraction through complex pattern recognition that is difficult for human to process. Recent medical paradigms are rapidly changing to personalized medicine, including molecular targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and theranostics, and the importance of biomarkers for these is growing day by day. Even though biopsy continues to gold standard for tumor assessment in personalized medicine, imaging is expected to complement biopsy because it allows whole tumor evaluation, whole body evaluation, and non-invasive and repetitive evaluation. Radiomics is known as a useful method to get imaging biomarkers related to intratumor heterogeneity in molecular targeted therapy as well as one-size-fits-all therapy. It is also expected to be useful in new paradigms such as immunotherapy and somatostatin receptor (SSTR) or prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted theranostics. Radiomics research should move to multimodality (CT, MR, PET, etc.), multicenter, and prospective studies from current single modality, single institution, and retrospective studies. Image-quality harmonization, intertumor heterogeneity, and integrative analysis of information from different scales are thought to be important keywords in future radiomics research. It is clear that radiomics will play an important role in personalized medicine.

Lesion-Wise Comparison of Pre-Therapy and Post-Therapy Effective Half-Life of Iodine-131 in Pediatric and Young Adult Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Undergoing Radioiodine Therapy Abstract Purpose The effective half-life of radioiodine is an important parameter for dosimetry in differentiated thyroid cancer patients, particularly in children. We determined the pre-therapy and post-therapy effective half-life in different types of lesions, i.e., remnant, node, or lung metastases. Methods Of 84 patients recruited, 27 were < 18 years (group 1) and the remaining 57 were between 18 and 21 years (group 2). A total of 114 studies were conducted and 253 lesions were analyzed. Serial whole-body scans were acquired at 24, 48, and ≥ 72 h after administration of iodine-131. Region of interests was drawn over lesions to determine counts in the lesion. Time versus counts graphs were plotted and mono-exponentially fitted to determine effective half-life. Results The post-therapy effective half-life was found to be lesser than pre-therapy effective half-life in all types of lesions and in all groups. Median effective half-life was found maximum in intact lobe, minimum in the lung, and intermediate in remnant and nodes. In the assessment of all lesions together, pre- and post-therapy median and interquartile range (IQR) effective half-life were 59.8 (37–112) h and 48.6 (35.2–70.8) h (p < 0.0001) in group 1, 73.9 (46.2–112.7) h and 60 (57.4–85.9) h (p < 0.0001) in group 2, and 68.6 (41.53–112.36) h and 54.7 (36–80.6) h (p < 0.0001) in combined group, respectively. Importantly, the pre- and post-therapy median effective half-life serially dropped after each successive cycles of iodine-131. Conclusions There was a significant difference in pre-therapy and post-therapy effective half-life in all types of lesions. These results may have implications in calculating the correct therapeutic dose in children and in young adults.

Clinical Applications of Technetium-99m Quantitative Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography Abstract Single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) is an already established nuclear imaging modality. Co-registration of functional information (SPECT) with anatomical images (CT) paved the way to the wider application of SPECT. Recent advancements in quantitative SPECT/CT have made it possible to incorporate quantitative parameters, such as standardized uptake value (SUV) or %injected dose (%ID), in gamma camera imaging. This is indeed a paradigm shift in gamma camera imaging from qualitative to quantitative evaluation. In fact, such quantitative approaches of nuclear imaging have only been accomplished for positron emission tomography (PET) technology. Attenuation correction, scatter correction, and resolution recovery are the three main features that enabled quantitative SPECT/CT. Further technical improvements are being achieved for partial-volume correction, motion correction, and dead-time correction. The reported clinical applications for quantitative SPECT/CT are mainly related to Tc-99m-labeled radiopharmaceuticals: Tc-99m diphosphonate for bone/joint diseases, Tc-99m pertechnetate for thyroid function, and Tc-99m diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid for measurement of glomerular filtration rate. Dosimetry before trans-arterial radio-embolization is also a promising application for Tc-99m macro-aggregated albumin. In this review, clinical applications of Tc-99m quantitative SPECT/CT will be discussed.

Eruption of Metastatic Paraganglioma After Successful Therapy with 177 Lu/ 90 Y-DOTATOC and 177 Lu-DOTATATE Abstract Metastatic paraganglioma treatment options are limited. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) has been introduced as a novel management option for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors demonstrating safety, efficacy, and increased quality of life. We present two cases of marked progression of metastatic paraganglioma following initial partial response to PRRT. Given their positivity on 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT and 111In-octreotide SPECT, they underwent PRRT. Imaging following treatment revealed significant improvement in size and intensity, with some foci nearly completely resolved in one patient, and disease regression with a decrease in the number and size of bone and liver lesions in the second patient. Within months, repeat imaging in both patients revealed extensive metastatic disease with new lesions, which eventually lead to their deaths. The mechanism for rapid disease progression after partial response is not well understood, although it could be related to initially high Ki-67 levels or 18F-FDG PET/CT SUVmax values. However, naturally rapid disease progression despite PRRT response cannot be excluded. This finding warrants the importance of proper patient counseling along with early and accurate pre-PRRT assessment, taking into consideration the above potential risk factors for therapy response in order to personalize treatment regimens and achieve maximum patient benefit. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00004847

Perspectives for Concepts of Individualized Radionuclide Therapy, Molecular Radiotherapy, and Theranostic Approaches Abstract Radionuclide therapy (RNT) stands on the delivery of radiation to tumors or non-tumor target organs using radiopharmaceuticals that are designed to have specific affinity to targets. RNT is recently called molecular radiotherapy (MRT) by some advocators in order to emphasize its characteristics as radiotherapy and the relevance of dosimetry-guided optimization of treatment. Moreover, RNT requires relevant radiation protection standards because it employs unsealed radionuclides and gives therapeutic radiation doses in humans. On the basis of these radiation protection standards, the development and use of radiopharmaceuticals for combined application through diagnostics and therapeutics lead to theranostic approaches that will enhance the efficacy and safety of treatment by implementing dosimetry-based individualization.

Use of Molecular Imaging in Clinical Drug Development: a Systematic Review Abstract Background Molecular imaging such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can provide the crucial pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic information of a drug non-invasively at an early stage of clinical drug development. Nevertheless, not much has been known how molecular imaging has been actually used in drug development studies. Methods We searched PubMed using such keywords as molecular imaging, PET, SPECT, drug development, and new drug, or any combination of those to select papers in English, published from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2015. The information about the publication year, therapeutic area of a drug candidate, drug development phase, and imaging modality and utility of imaging were extracted. Results Of 10,264 papers initially screened, 208 papers met the eligibility criteria. The more recent the publication year, the bigger the number of papers, particularly since 2010. The two major therapeutic areas using molecular imaging to develop drugs were oncology (47.6%) and the central nervous system (CNS, 36.5%), in which efficacy (63.5%) and proof-of-concept through either receptor occupancy (RO) or other than RO (29.7%), respectively, were the primary utility of molecular imaging. PET was used 4.7 times more frequently than SPECT. Molecular imaging was most frequently used in phase I clinical trials (40.8%), whereas it was employed rarely in phase 0 or exploratory IND studies (1.4%). Conclusions The present study confirmed the trend that molecular imaging has been more actively employed in recent clinical drug development studies although its adoption was rather slow and rare in phase 0 studies.

Clinical Personal Connectomics Using Hybrid PET/MRI Abstract Brain connectivity can now be studied with topological analysis using persistent homology. It overcame the arbitrariness of thresholding to make binary graphs for comparison between disease and normal control groups. Resting-state fMRI can yield personal interregional brain connectivity based on perfusion signal on MRI on individual subject bases and FDG PET produces the topography of glucose metabolism. Assuming metabolism perfusion coupling and disregarding the slight difference of representing time of metabolism (before image acquisition) and representing time of perfusion (during image acquisition), topography of brain metabolism on FDG PET and topologically analyzed brain connectivity on resting-state fMRI might be related to yield personal connectomics of individual subjects and even individual patients. The work of association of FDG PET/resting-state fMRI is yet to be warranted; however, the statistics behind the group comparison of connectivity on FDG PET or resting-state MRI was already developed. Before going further into the connectomics construction using directed weighted brain graphs of FDG PET or resting-state fMRI, I detailed in this review the plausibility of using hybrid PET/MRI to enable the interpretation of personal connectomics which can lead to the clinical use of brain connectivity in the near future.

Quantitative Imaging of Alpha-Emitting Therapeutic Radiopharmaceuticals Abstract Targeted alpha therapy (TAT) is an active area of drug development as a highly specific and highly potent therapeutic modality that can be applied to many types of late-stage cancers. In order to properly evaluate its safety and efficacy, understanding biokinetics of alpha-emitting radiopharmaceuticals is essential. Quantitative imaging of alpha-emitting radiopharmaceuticals is often possible via imaging of gammas and positrons produced during complex decay chains of these radionuclides. Analysis of the complex decay chains for alpha-emitting radionuclides (Tb-149, At-211, Bi-212 (decayed from Pb-212), Bi-213, Ra-223, Ac-225, and Th-227) with relevance to imageable signals is attempted in this mini-review article. Gamma camera imaging, single-photon emission computed tomography, positron emission tomography, bremsstrahlung radiation imaging, Cerenkov luminescence imaging, and Compton cameras are briefly discussed as modalities for imaging alpha-emitting radiopharmaceuticals.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Horticulture, Environment, Biotechnology

Correction to: Phylogeny and genetic variation in the genus Eranthis using nrITS and cpIS single nucleotide polymorphisms The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The name of Chin-Sung Chang was presented incorrectly. The corrected author list is given above.

Identification and development of a core set of informative genic SNP markers for assaying genetic diversity in Chinese cabbage Abstract Rapid, economical, and reliable genotyping is an important requirement for germplasm analysis and cultivar identification in crop species. Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. subsp. pekinensis (Lour.) Hanelt) originated in China and is now an economically important vegetable crop worldwide, especially in East Asia. In this study, we evaluated 1167 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among 166 representative Chinese cabbage inbred lines using a KASP genotyping assay. On the basis of polymorphisms and principal component analysis, we selected 60 core SNPs distributed on all Brassica rapa chromosomes with allele frequencies sufficiently balanced so as to provide adequate information for genetic identification. The core set of SNPs was used for construction of a neighbor-joining dendrogram, in which the 166 inbred lines were clustered into spring, summer, and autumn ecotype groups. Clustering of the ecotype groups was better resolved than that achieved with 1167 and 360 polymorphic SNP datasets. Stability and resolution of the core SNP markers were tested using 178 commercial hybrid Chinese cabbage cultivars to confirm their utility in genetic identification. The set of 60 informative and stable SNP markers showed high discriminatory power and relatively uniform genomic distribution (4–9 markers per chromosome). The SNPs represent a cost-efficient and accurate marker set for germplasm analysis and cultivar identification and are suitable for molecular marker-assisted breeding in Chinese cabbage.

Differential responses of walnut cultivars to cold storage and their correlation with postharvest physiological parameters Abstract In this study, we screened eight walnut (Juglans regia L.) cultivars ('Xifu2', 'Shaanhe', 'Weina', 'Xiangling', 'Xiluo3', 'Xifu1', 'Liaoning4', and 'Qingxiang') in order to establish reliable selection criteria for storage-tolerance. Fresh walnut fruit were stored at 0 ± 0.5 °C and 70–80% relative humidity. Browning index, postharvest physio-biochemical characteristics, acid value, and sensory quality were measured. The results showed that 'Xifu2', 'Shaanhe', and 'Weina' developed browning early and quickly and storage was terminated for these cultivars at 60 days. 'Xiluo3', 'Xifu1', 'Liaoning4', and 'Qingxiang' had a slow browning rate and storage was terminated at 72 days. 'Xiangling' developed browning at a medium rate and storage was terminated at 72 days. Correlation analysis suggested that the terminal browning index of each cultivar positively correlated with lipoxygenase activity at 18 days of storage, polyphenol oxidase activity at 18–30 days, malondialdehyde content at 18 days, and the respiration rate at 42 days, while it negatively correlated with the total phenolic content at 18 days and phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity at 12 days. The storage tolerance of each cultivar was evaluated according to the terminal browning index, acid value, and sensory quality. Comprehensive evaluation and cluster analysis were performed to rank the cold storage tolerance of the eight cultivars as follows: 'Qingxiang' and 'Xifu1' > 'Liaoning4' and 'Xiluo3' > 'Xifu2' and 'Xiangling' > 'Shaanhe' and 'Weina'. In conclusion, cultivars used for fresh in-husk walnut fruit with lower levels of membrane peroxidation and phenol oxidation, and higher level of phenol synthesis around 18 days of storage would be suitable candidates for cold storage. 'Qingxiang' and 'Xifu1' were selected as storage-tolerant cultivars.

Effect of pine wood biochar mixed with two types of compost on growth of bell pepper ( Capsicum annuum L.) Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biochar from fast pyrolysis of pine wood mixed with manure compost or vermicompost as a potential container substrate to replace peat moss. Seven biochar substrates were compared to the control (a commercial substrate; 0B) in container cultivation of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.): 100% biochar (100B), 90% biochar + 10% manure compost (90B10C; by volume), 80% biochar + 20% manure compost (80B20C), 70% biochar + 30% manure compost (70B30C), 90% biochar + 10% vermicompost (90B10V), 80% biochar + 20% vermicompost (80B20V), and 70% biochar + 30% vermicompost (70B30V). The physical characteristics of the container substrate (total porosity, container capacity, air space, and bulk density) were tested using NCSU porometers. The electrical conductivity (EC) and pH of container substrate leachates were measured according to the pour-through method on 34, 41, 62, and 83 days after planting (DAP). Growth index was measured on 34, 41, 48, 55, 62, 69, 76, and 83 DAP. Leaf SPAD value, net photosynthesis rate, total leaf area, and stem diameter were measured at week 11. Dry weight and yield were measured at the flowering (72 DAP) and harvesting (113 DAP) stages. The control showed the highest container capacity (59.2%) and the lowest air space (14.1%), with the opposite results observed on 100B. Control had pH values within 6.0–7.0 for optimum pepper growth, while container substrates with biochar resulted in a pH less than 6.0 from 41 to 83 DAP. EC in control at 34 DAP was approximately four times greater than values observed on the other substrates. EC of 70B30V slightly increased between 34 and 41 DAP, and the lowest EC was observed on 100B. SPAD value and net photosynthesis rate were the greatest on plants grown in control. The total leaf area, stem diameter, growth index, vegetative (stem + leaf) and flower dry weights, and yield were the highest in control, followed by 70B30V, 80B20V, and 90B10V, with the lowest in 100B.

Storage and growth temperatures affect growth, flower quality, and bulb quality of Hippeastrum Abstract The effects of storage and growth temperatures on growth, flower quality, and bulb quality of Hippeastrum sp. were studied. Bulbs of Hippeastrum sp. 'Apple Blossom' with circumferences in the range of 22–24 cm were selected and stored for 12 weeks at one of three different temperatures (i.e., room temperature [RT: 30 ± 2 °C], 13 ± 2 °C, and 15 ± 2 °C). After storage, the bulbs were grown in a growth chamber at one of three growth temperatures—that is, RT (30 ± 2 °C), 15 ± 2 °C, and 25 ± 2 °C. The results showed that storing bulbs at RT for 12 weeks reduced their quality in terms of fresh weight, diameter, and firmness, whereas storing bulbs at 13 °C or 15 °C retained their quality in terms of fresh weight and firmness. Electron scanning imaging of the starch granules in the bulb scales showed that prior to storage, the leaf base cells were filled with large starch granules of either lenticular shape or spherical shape. After storing for 12 weeks at RT, the starch granules in the bulb scales were sharply reduced in number and were predominantly of the small, spherical form. A growing temperature of 25 °C could stimulate better growth with respect to plant height, flower diameter, bulb diameter, bulb fresh weight, and bulb dry weight, compared with RT (30 °C). A significant interaction between storage and growing temperatures was found for all parameters except for stalk length. A bulb storage temperature of 15 ± 2 °C for 12 weeks combined with a growing temperature of 25 ± 2 °C produced the best results for both flower and bulb production.

Rootstock effects on seed yield and quality in watermelon Abstract This research was conducted to investigate rootstock effects on seed yield and quality in watermelon. The work was conducted in the experimental fields and laboratories of the Department of Horticulture of the University of Cukurova in the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons. Watermelon cv. Crimson sweet (CS) scion was grafted onto three different rootstocks (Cucurbita 'NUN-9075', Lagenaria 'Argentario', and citron watermelon 'PI296341'). Plants were assessed according to their main stem length, main stem diameter, number of nodes, biomass, pollen production and development, fruit yield and quality, and seed yield and quality. NUN-9075/CS and Argentario/CS graft combinations resulted in higher average stem length, plant biomass, fruit yield and quality, seed yield, seed emergence, and germination percentage. There was no significant difference observed between graft combinations in pollen viability, pollen germination, and normal pollen production. No significant difference was observed between graft combinations in accelerated ageing (AA), and the seed germination decreased after AA of 192 h. In the second year (2017), there was higher main stem length, main stem diameter, total fruit yield, seed yield, and number of seeds per fruit compared to the first year (2016). Based on the results of this study, NUN-9075 rootstock performed better than other rootstocks; hence, it is recommended as the best rootstock.

A new interspecific hybrid of Torenia obtained through ovule culture Abstract Torenia is one of the most popular summer bedding plants in Japan. Commercially available hybrids are assumed to be interspecific hybrids derived from T. fournieri, T. concolor, and T. baillonii. Use of new Torenia species is required to produce novel flower types of interspecific hybrids. Three species from Thailand, T. bicolor, T. hirsutissima, and T. siamensis, were selected and crossed with T. fournieri, T. concolor, and T. baillonii. The chromosome number of six Torenia species varied from 2n = 16 to 2n = 34. Mature seeds were obtained from only 3 of 30 reciprocal cross combinations: T. fournieri × T. bicolor, T. fournieri × T. baillonii, and T. bicolor × T. baillonii. Ovule culture was applied to overcome the interspecific crossing barrier of Torenia, ovule culture was applied. Swollen ovules (250) were taken from pods at 10 days after crossing and cultured on MS medium. Progenies were obtained in 14 cross combinations, through ovule culture. This is the first interspecific Torenia hybrid obtained using T. bicolor, T. hirsutissima, and T. siamensis. The hybridity of all the obtained plants was confirmed using PCR–RFLP analysis of rDNA. The obtained hybrids showed intermediate morphological characteristics and pigmentation of floral organs between parents. This study shows that ovule culture is a powerful tool for overcoming the crossing barrier in interspecific crosses in Torenia.

Analysis of flesh color-related carotenoids and development of a CRTISO gene-based DNA marker for prolycopene accumulation in watermelon Abstract Fourteen watermelon cultivars with different fruit flesh colors (red, salmon yellow, orange, and canary yellow) were analyzed for carotenoid contents (prolycopene, lycopene, β-carotene, ζ-carotene, and neoxanthin). Genes encoding the carotenoid biosynthesis enzymes carotenoid isomerase (encoded by CRTISO), which catalyzes the isomerization of prolycopene to lycopene, and β-carotene hydroxylase (CHYB), which catalyzes the conversion of β-carotene to xanthophyll, were also analyzed. High-performance liquid chromatography showed that the salmon yellow and orange flesh accumulated either prolycopene (orange-P flesh) or β-carotene (orange-β flesh), whereas lycopene and neoxanthin were the main carotenoids in the red and canary yellow flesh, respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction indicated that CRTISO and CHYB were mainly expressed during fruit maturation, regardless of the flesh color, and there was no significant association between differential gene expression and flesh color. Importantly, transcript sequencing revealed a non-synonymous single-nucleotide mismatch (T > C1976) in exon 13 of CRTISO between orange-P-fleshed and other cultivars, suggesting CRTISO as a candidate gene for high prolycopene accumulation. However, in β-carotene-accumulating cultivars, there were no mutations in CHYB transcripts. A cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence marker was developed for T > C1976, and its applicability for marker-assisted selection of orange-P flesh was validated in 105 watermelon accessions.

Characterization and utilization of a cytoplasmic male sterility line of Wucai ( Brassica campestris L.) Abstract The novel male sterility line 12-14A of Wucai (Brassica campestris) was generated by backcrossing. In this study, morphological, molecular, and cytological analyses were performed to characterize this line. The phenotypes of flower organs of 12-14A were different from those of its maintainer line 12-14B, as the flowers of 12-14A were completely infertile. Molecular analysis confirmed that the male sterility line 12-14A was classified as the oguCMS type. An analysis of anther development in the CMS line demonstrated that two types of abortion occur simultaneously: pollen mother cell abortion and tetrad-to-mononuclear microspore abortion. In addition, the mature anthers of 12-14A showed typical abortive features, such as appearing dry, shrunken, and scaly. A heterosis test of hybrids from CMS 12-14A and four inbred lines was carried out, and the F1 hybrids exhibited clear heterosis in plant weight, as well as in the protein, soluble sugar, and vitamin C content, suggesting high yields and high quality potential. These results indicate that this novel CMS line may have powerful potential in Wucai hybrid breeding.

Analysis of the changes in medium moisture content according to a crop irrigation strategy and the medium properties for precise moisture content control in rock wool Abstract The substrate moisture content affects crop absorption, microorganisms, oxygen concentration, water stress, and the ultimate evaporation amount. The moisture content in the rhizosphere can be controlled by the amount of water, the frequency of water supply, the time of water supply, and the rate of water supply provided to the crops. The purpose of this study was to investigate the physical properties of a rock wool medium and to investigate the water movement characteristics of the medium according to different watering conditions. To measure the moisture content of the substrate and the drainage amount, load cells were used as weight sensors, and the total irrigation capacity was 99 and 198 mL/min, respectively. The moisture content at each irrigation starting point was set from 30 to 80% of the substrate moisture content at each 5%. The relationship of the starting point of drainage, the 30% drainage rate, the point of the first saturation according to the two different irrigation rates, and the point of moisture content at the start of irrigation showed a sigmoidal relationship. When reviewing the irrigation to the first saturation point, the substrate moisture content got higher as the moisture content at the irrigation start increased. Also, it was shown that the higher the irrigation rate, the higher the saturated moisture content seen in the substrate. The high irrigation rate is useful for the saturation of the substrate, but a large amount of water was needed to adjust the drainage rate. For this reason, we analyzed the irrigation rate under various cultivation conditions.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com