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Synovitis is a widely accepted sign of osteoarthritis (OA), characterised by tissue hyperplasia, where increased infiltration of immune cells and proliferation of resident fibroblasts adopt a pro-inflammatory phenotype, and increased the production of pro-inflammatory mediators that are capable of sensitising and activating sensory nociceptors, which innervate the joint tissues. As such, it is important to understand the cellular composition of synovium and their involvement in pain sensitisation to better inform the development of effective analgesics. Studies investigating pain sensitisation in OA with a focus on immune cells and fibroblasts were identified using PubMed, Web of Science and SCOPUS. In this review, we comprehensively assess the evidence that cellular crosstalk between resident immune cells or synovial fibroblasts with joint nociceptors in inflamed OA synovium contributes to peripheral pain sensitisation. Moreover, we explore whether the elucidation of common mechanisms identified in similar joint conditions may inform the development of more effective analgesics specifically targeting OA joint pain. The concept of local environment and cellular crosstalk within the inflammatory synovium as a driver of nociceptive joint pain presents a compelling opportunity for future research and therapeutic advancements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the stochastic cost frontier, we estimated the determinants of cost inefficiency of total caloric and cereal and pulses-based caloric consumption in Sri Lanka at the household level. We specifically tested whether high reliance on imported food helps poor, food- poor, and urban households to be cost-efficient. We estimated the cost frontiers employing half normal and truncated normal distribution assumptions. We found that truncated normal specifications are more appropriate. Our results show that food-poor households with higher reliance on imported calories are more cost-efficient in total and cereal and pulses-based caloric consumption. Urban households with a high import dependency on cereal and pulses-based consumption are found to be more cost-efficient. Our results call for prudent trade policies that do not deprive food-poor and urban households of imported food as the policy biases favouring domestic food production will disproportionately affect the food-poor and urban households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical management of grade III gynecomastia with excess redundant skin is challenging. The choice of the surgical technique is mainly decided upon the size of the gynecomastia, the skin redundancy and correction of nipple position. We report our experience in the use of the circular incision bi-pedicled vertical flap based mastectomy for grade III gynecomastia according to Simon classification. This is a retrospective study conducted between January 2022 and April 2023 at two selected units in Sri Lanka. A total of 7 patients with bilateral grade III gynecomastia were included in this study with a median age of 24 years (range: 18–42 years). The mean BMI was 23.2 kg/m 2 . All patients exhibited near symmetrical breasts and large areolar diameters. All patients complained of physical and psychological dissatisfaction with their condition and sought an aesthetic correction. Two patients were diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome and others were apparently healthy. The main complication was seroma formation (7/7). No patients developed haematoma. Nipple hypothesia was noted in two patients which improved on follow up. The mean follow- up duration was 4–9 months. The survey of patient satisfaction showed 9 for contour, 8.6 for wound scars, 9.2 for overall satisfaction and 9.6 for improvement in self-confidence. The above surgical technique achieved satisfactory aesthetic results while avoiding unsightly scars or serious complications and can be considered in the surgical decision making for grade III gynecomastia. • Surgical management of grade 3 gynecomastia is challenging. • This article describes the experience in the use of the circular incision bi-pedicled vertical flap based mastectomy for grade 111 gynecomastia. • This surgical technique achieves satisfactory aesthetic results while avoiding unsightly scars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical forests have declined in extent considerably owing to large scale deforestation for providing land for multiple uses, and this has reduced their collective capacity to provide many important ecological functions. In the present study, conducted in the tropical island of Sri Lanka, we focus on remnant patches of two common and co-occurring vegetation types in the dry zone, Dry Mixed Evergreen Forest and Scrub Forest, to test (a) whether small remnant forest patches facilitate microclimate buffering and, if so, (b) whether the two forest types differ in terms of their potential to buffer the microclimate, and (c) whether the extent of canopy cover influences the microclimate buffering capacity. Co-occurring Grasslands were used as reference habitats. We used multiple temperature, relative humidity and vapour pressure deficit related metrics, and showed that Dry mixed Evergreen Forest and Scrub Forest had significant microclimate buffering potential, the latter to a lesser extent than the former (Dry mixed Evergreen Forest > Scrub Forest). These results are noteworthy, given that the patches of both forest types were relatively small (mean ± standard deviation: Dry Mixed Evergreen Forest = 0.63 ± 0.13 km2 and Scrub Forest = 0.10 ± 0.07 km2), intermixed and scattered across the same landscape. The study also showed that, after controlling for effects of patch size, the extent of canopy cover had a significant impact on most of the microclimate metrics. The impact of patch size on microclimate metrics was less pronounced. These findings highlight the need for conserving remnant forest patches, especially of the Dry Mixed Evergreen Forest, as refuges of biodiversity, particularly in the context of tropical forests in developing countries facing severe threats of deforestation. • Microclimate metrics were studied in small remnant patches of tropical dry forests. • Magnitude of microclimate buffering differed between two intermixed forest types. • Small forest patches (0.03–0.76 km2) demonstrated buffering potential. • Extent of canopy cover markedly influenced microclimate buffering capacity. • Impact of patch size on microclimate buffering was not pronounced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binder jet printing (BJP) is a state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technique for producing porous magnesium structures. Porous Mg-Zn-Zr based BJP samples were assessed for corrosion performance in simulated body fluids by electrochemical and hydrogen evolution measurements. The corrosion rates of the BJP specimens were significantly higher than solid controls, even after accounting for their larger surface areas, suggesting that the BJP microstructure is detrimental to corrosion performance. X-ray computed tomography revealed nonuniform corrosion within the porous structure, with corrosion products forming on the pore walls. Impregnating the pores with hydroxyapatite or polymers greatly improved the corrosion resistance of the BJP samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postoperative prolonged air leakage is a frequent complication after lung resection. We have developed a new sealant based on a hydrophobically modified Alaska pollock-derived gelatin (ApGltn) sealant. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adhesive strength of the ApGltn sealant in comparison with a fibrin sealant using a new spray system in ex vivo and in vivo models. Pleural defects in ex vivo and in vivo porcine models were created, to which the ApGltn sealant or the fibrin sealant was applied. The pressure resistance was assessed with a stepwise increase in airway pressure to confirm air leakage from the sealing site. Tissue samples covered with each sealant were obtained for histologic assessment. In the ex vivo experiment, the leak pressures of the ApGltn sealant were significantly greater than those of the fibrin sealant (102.94 ± 15.6 cm H 2 O and 28.37 ± 5.1 cm H 2 O, respectively) (P <.01). In the in vivo experiment, the leak pressures of the ApGltn sealant were also significantly greater than those of the fibrin sealant (68.82 ± 18.04 cm H 2 O and 43.33 ± 7.13 cm H 2 O, respectively) (P =.043). The histologic examination confirmed that the ApGltn sealant adhered tightly to both the pleura and the surface of the pleural defect. The ApGltn sealant has sufficiently high adhesive quality in ex vivo and in vivo porcine lungs, which could be considered suitable and effective for use in the prevention of air leakage from the lungs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites may impose detrimental consequences on wildlife populations due to their capacity to cause mortality and reduce fitness. Additionally, wild animals play an important role in the transmission of zoonoses. Despite this importance, information on GI parasites of tropical wild mammals is critically lacking. The present study aimed to document GI parasites of six wild-dwelling large mammal taxa in Sri Lanka: Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), civet (Paradoxurus sp.), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Grey langur (Semnopithecus priam) and buffalo (Bubalus sp). Fresh faecal samples (n = 56) collected from the Wasgomuwa National Park, Sri Lanka were subjected to coprological examination using faecal smears, and the brine floatation technique followed by microscopic identification; quantitative data were accrued using the formol-ether method. The survey revealed a high prevalence of GI parasites, where 86% (48/56) of faecal samples screened positive for parasitic infections. Faecal samples of the civet, buffalo and Leopard recorded 100% prevalence, while the lowest (40%) was recorded for the Grey langur. Eight types of GI parasites were documented: protozoan cysts, platyhelminth ova (three types of digenean and a single cyclophillidean type), nematode ova (strongyle, strongyloid, ascarid, and trichuroid types) and rhabditiform larvae. The buffaloes and civets had a comparatively high number and diversity of GI parasites (buffalo: 7 types, H' = 1.02; civet: 6 types, H' = 1.52), whilst only a single type (digenean) was detected in the Grey langur. Likewise, parasite loads were also highly variable; highest in the bear (486 per g faeces) and lowest in the monkey (10 per g faeces). The outcome of this survey is important on two accounts; i) to fill the knowledge gap on GI parasites of tropical wild mammals, and ii) the revelation of many first-time parasite-host records for some of the threatened wild-dwelling large mammals in Sri Lanka. [Display omitted] • GI parasites of six native large mammals from the wild recorded from Sri Lanka. • Novel GI parasite records of locally and globally endangered large mammals reported. • High prevalence (86%) of infected fecal samples; eight GI parasite types identified. • Buffaloes and civets had high parasite diversity; highest parasite load in the Sloth bear. • GI parasite diversity and prevalence differed between wild and captive mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether ballistic resistance training is feasible, safe, and effective in improving muscle strength, power generation, and mobility in adults with neurologic conditions. Nine electronic databases were searched from inception to March 2019 in addition to the reference lists of included articles. Articles were independently screened by 2 authors and were included if they were full-text; English-language articles published in a peer-reviewed journal; investigated ballistic resistance training for adults with a neurologic condition; and reported on feasibility, safety, strength, power, or mobility. Two authors independently extracted data. Study quality was assessed using the McMaster critical review form and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. The search identified 1540 articles, with 13 articles describing 9 studies meeting the criteria for inclusion. Five studies were randomized controlled trials and 4 were cohort studies. Ballistic resistance training was feasible and safe with only 1 intervention-related adverse event reported. Findings indicated improvements in strength for hip abduction, leg press, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion, but not for hip flexion, hip extension, knee extension, or ankle plantarflexion. Muscle power generation improved for hip flexion, hip abduction, leg press, knee extension, and knee flexion, but not for ankle plantarflexion. Treatment effect was positive for self-selected walking speed, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-1.38) from 3 studies. However, fastest comfortable walking speed results were inconclusive with a SMD from 4 studies of 0.45 (95% CI, –0.01 to 0.91). Ballistic training is safe and feasible for people with a neurologic condition. The effects on muscle strength, power generation, and mobility were found to be positive but not conclusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Ceramide is a sphingolipid with anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic properties that has shown to be increased in plasma of women with pre-eclampsia. We aimed to compare plasma and placental sphingolipid content among normotensive pregnant women and pre-eclamptic women with and without HELLP syndrome and we aimed to assess whether ceramide is related to hypertension and proteinuria in pre-eclampsia.Study Design: Case-control study. Participants were recruited from the Department of Obstetrics at the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. In total 48 pregnant women were included: 24 with pre-eclampsia and 24 normotensive controls. Of the 24 pre-eclamptic women, 11 had HELLP syndrome.Main Outcome Measures: Plasma and placental ceramide content and correlation with blood pressure and protein excretion in pre-eclampsia.Results: Total plasma, but not placental, ceramide was higher in pre-eclamptic women with HELLP syndrome (11200 95% CI 9531-12870 nmol/ml, n = 11) compared to pre-eclamptic women without HELLP (7413 95% CI 5928-8898 nmol/ml, n = 13, p < 0.001) and normotensive pregnant women (7404 95% CI 6695-8112 nmol/ml, n = 24, p < 0.001). Maternal circulating ceramide levels were strongly associated with proteinuria (r = 0.621, n = 24, p = 0.001) in pre-eclamptic women and inversely correlated with gestational age at delivery (r = 0.771, p < 0.01) in pre-eclamptic women with HELLP syndrome. Plasma ceramide was not correlated with blood pressure.Conclusion: Plasma but not placental ceramide content is increased in women with pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome. The strong positive correlation with proteinuria and the inverse correlation with gestational age at delivery indicate that excess plasma ceramide may contribute to the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia and HELLP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Oral biofilm-dependent diseases can be treated with PACT. • PACT with β-cyclodextrin + methylene blue reduces S. mutans in single species biofilm. • Hydrogen peroxide behaved similarly as photosensitizers. • PACT with laser showed no statistical difference compared to chlorhexidine 0.2%. • The addition of hydrogen peroxide did not enhance the PACT effect. This study evaluated the effect of hydrogen peroxide addition on β-cyclodextrin-conjugated methylene blue in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy(a-PDT) in S. mutans biofilm model using laser or light emitting diode (LED) (λ = 660 nm). A preliminary assay was performed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of hydrogen peroxide in oral fibroblasts by the colorimetric method (MTT). Afterwards, groups were divided into (n = 3, in triplicate): C (negative control), CX – chlorhexidine 0.2% (positive control), P (methylene blue/β-cyclodextrin), H (Hydrogen Peroxide at 40 μM), PH, L (Laser), LP, LH (Laser+Hydrogen Peroxide), LPH, LED, LEDP, LEDH, and LEDPH. The biofilm was formed in 24 h with BHI + 1% sucrose (w/v). Light irradiations were conducted with laser, 9 J, 323 J/cm2, 113 s or with LED, 8.1 J, 8.1 J/cm2 for 90 s. Microbial reduction was evaluated by counting the viable microorganisms of the biofilm after the respective treatments, in a selective culture medium, and laser confocal microscopy evaluation. LP, LH, LPH, LEDP, LEDH, and LEDPH groups statistically reduced the counts of S.mutans compared with the C group and the log reductions were of 1.87, 1.94, 2.19, 0.91, 0.92, and 1.33, respectively; the addition of hydrogen peroxide did not potentiate the microbial reductions (LPH and LEDPH) compared with the LP and LEDP groups. The association of hydrogen peroxide with the conjugated β-cyclodextrin nanoparticle as photosensitizer did not result in an enhanced effect of a-PDT; hydrogen peroxide behaved as a photosensitizer, since it reduced the number of S. mutans when associated with laser light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Morphological changes of onychomycosis-affected toenail were monitored for 15 weeks. • High-resolution, cost-effective, and safe OCT imaging was used for the toenail monitoring. • Nailplate transparency, roughness, thickness, and shape were measured to detect abnormalities. • Customized algorithms were used to detect the healing of diseased toenail as a result of treatment. • Proposed method can be a powerful monitoring tool, which can aid dermatologists in nail treatment. Onychomycosis is one of the most common toenail fungal infections that affect the quality of life of many patients. Long-term and noninvasive monitoring of morphological changes of onychomycosis-affected nail plate aids the medication process and provides comfort for patients. However, existing medical and dermatological imaging methods have various types of limitations in nail investigation due to low resolution, lack of volumetric data, the necessity of highly trained personnel for image analysis, and the variety of protocols. In this study, qualitative monitoring-based quantitative assessments were performed to assess the morphological changes of onychomycosis-affected toenail for 15 consecutive weeks using high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT). Layer intensity and surface roughness measuring algorithms were applied to two-dimensional OCT cross-sectional images to detect gradual changes in the morphological structure of the diseased toenail. A depth intensity profile and the angle formed between the nail plate and nail fold were also used to analyze the thickness and shape of the toenail plates, respectively. The quantitative and morphological monitoring results revealed significant changes in the toenail structure before and during the treatment process, confirming the healing of the diseased toenail. Therefore, the proposed noninvasive optical analysis approach can be applied to monitor nail abnormalities and evaluate the process of diseased toenail medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The drying method can have an impact on the stability and composition of bioactive compounds in plant materials, as well as their therapeutic activities. This study aimed at evaluating the anti-glycation and antioxidant properties of freeze-dried and fresh leaves of selected ayurvedic medicinal plants. Fresh and freeze-dried leaves of Hellenia speciosa, Gymnema sylvestre and Coccinia grandis were extracted separately with 95% ethanol. The extracts were studied for their anti-glucosidase, antiglycation, glycation-reversing activities and uptake of glucose by yeast cells. Antioxidant activities of extracts were evaluated using ABTS and DPPH free radical scavenging activities. All extracts of the freeze-dried leaves showed significant (P < 0.05) anti-glucosidase, antiglycation, and glycation-reversing activities than the fresh leaves of the same species. The freeze-dried leaf extract of H. speciosa demonstrated the highest antiglycation, anti-glucosidase, and glycation reversing activities among the plant species, with IC50 values of 100.76 ± 5.99 µg/ml, 28.11 ± 1.30 µg/ml and EC50 values of 147.24 ± 3.86 µg/ml, respectively. In addition to that, freeze-dried H. speciosa showed the maximum ABTS and DPPH free radical scavenging activity. This study confirmed that freeze-dried leaves have promising anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties that can be used to develop herbal nutritional supplements or functional foods for diabetes mellitus treatment. [Display omitted] • Fresh and freeze-dried plants showed antidiabetic and antioxidant activities. • Freeze-dried leaf extracts showed antiglycation, antioxidant activities. • The highest antidiabetic and antioxidant activities showed by Hellenia speciosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthy lifestyles are known to reduce noncommunicable disease-related mortalities and morbidities. Public health initiatives should encourage healthier lifestyles to prevent the risk of noncommunicable diseases. This study aimed to determine healthy lifestyle practices and their associated factors among clinic-attending mothers (mothers attending antenatal clinics, postnatal clinics, well-baby clinics, family planning clinics, well-women clinics, and polyclinics) in the Chavakachcheri Medical Officer of Health (MOH) area. We conducted a clinic-based cross-sectional study in 19 centers covering 28 Public Health Midwives (PHM) areas. Healthy lifestyle practices, such as regular exercise, consumption of recommended servings of fruits and vegetables, measuring their own BMI, and average salt consumption, were poor. In the multivariate analysis, we found only three factors that had higher odds of affecting healthy lifestyle practices that were statistically significant: attributes of higher level of perceptions about healthy lifestyle practices (AOR = 4.36, 1.32–14.39), participating in Mothers' Support Groups (AOR = 7.97, 2.17–29.27) and BMI value of < 23 kg/m2 (AOR = 4.47, 1.35–14.73). Effective targeted healthy lifestyle-related educational programs instead of regular training during clinic visits and promoting participation in peer groups at the community level may benefit clinic-attending mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the power structures behind the research beliefs and practices of tourism scholars based in three Asian countries, namely Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. More specifically, through qualitative interviews, this study gives voice to a group of Asian tourism scholars to cast light on the historical (colonial/postcolonial) and contemporary (neocolonial) forces influencing their research beliefs and practices. Conceptually, this work mobilises the notions of "intellectual imperialism" and "captive mind", developed by the Malaysian sociologist Syed Hussein Alatas. Overall, the empirical material supports Alatas on the idea that Asian tourism scholars are influenced by power structures that tend to reiterate Western-centric ideologies. However, an important aspect emerging from the interviews was that regional/national research agendas and the influence of other Asian countries, such as Japan, South Korea and China, also play a role in shaping the research beliefs and practices of scholars based in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. • Asian tourism scholars are influenced by Western-centric ideologies. • Regional/national research agendas shape Asian tourism scholars' research beliefs. • Other Asian countries influence research beliefs in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air leakage still remains a major problem in lung resection despite the introduction of surgical sealants. We have developed a novel sealant based on hydrophobically modified Alaska pollock–derived gelatin (ApGltn), which showed high adhesive quality in vitro. In this study, we evaluated the adhesive quality and conformability of our ApGltn sealant compared with a fibrin sealant. The adhesive quality of the sealants was evaluated using excised porcine lungs with ventilation. Pleural defects were created, to which the ApGltn sealant or fibrin sealant was applied. Pressure resistance was assessed using a stepwise increase of airway pressure. Conformability was evaluated by measuring the area of the sealant for its maximum conformity on the gradually inflated lung surface. Leak and burst pressures of the ApGltn sealant were significantly higher than those of the fibrin sealant (47.1 ± 10.5 cm H 2 O and 52.3 ± 9.4 cm H 2 O versus 33.9 ± 6.0 cm H 2 O and 37.5 ± 5.9 cm H 2 O, respectively). Maximum expansion areas of the ApGltn sealant and fibrin sealant were 2652.4 ± 324.6 mm2 and 1276.6 ± 323.5 mm2, respectively. The ApGltn sealant also showed higher adhesive quality and conformability compared with the fibrin sealant. Histological examination confirmed that the ApGltn sealant showed tight adhesion to the pleural surface, while a gap was observed with the fibrin sealant. The ApGltn sealant showed higher adhesive quality and conformability than the fibrin sealant in an excised porcine lung model. We expect that, in the future, the ApGltn sealant will be used for lung resections in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Global hegemonic structures of power have been a subject of debate among social scientists for decades. However, issues addressing the 'subjugation of the intellect' and forces shaping knowledge production – globalisation, capitalism and neo-colonialism – remain understudied in tourism. Drawing upon critical theories of Eurocentrism and capitalism, in this paper we explore and address the ideological impacts of existing global power structures on the next generation of tourism 'knowledge producers' in Asia. More specifically, this work critically discusses the ontological and epistemological beliefs – and subsequent methodological choices – of a group of Asian PhD scholars. The empirical material presented in this paper highlights that persisting forms of Eurocentric ideology embedded in capitalist structures of power permeate non-Western academic circles. Highlights • Power and tourism knowledge-a critical note. • Global power structures and tourism PhD scholars. • Asian tourism epistemology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Despite recognition of an ever-growing number of Web users, there have been few attempts made to design new empirical material collection methods using various online platforms. Netnography is among the online qualitative methods to have received the least attention from tourism scholars. This systematic review gives an overview of the current gap in netnography studies in tourism that have been published in different disciplines. The findings of this study reveal that the majority of authors conduct their research on Web 2.0. Discussion of the current Web platforms in tourism and possible opportunities for conducting netnography studies are further considered. The contribution of this study is twofold. Firstly, it expands our knowledge of using information technology in tourism to conduct online studies in a general sense. Secondly, it increases our understanding of specific new methods for conducting netnographic studies. Highlights • This systematic review explores netnography in tourism studies • Web 2.0 is the most popular platform for tourism netnographic studies • Web 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 are rarely utilized by tourism scholars employing netnography • The evolution of the Web provides future avenues for netnographic approaches in tourism [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though policing is associated with very high levels of occupational stress and burnout, no studies have been conducted to explore burnout subtypes among police officers globally. Hence, this cross-sectional study was conducted among 750 police officers working in a police division in Sri Lanka to determine the distribution and associations of burnout subtypes using the Burnout Clinical Subtype Questionnaire. The police officers had high scores for frenetic and worn-out subtypes in comparison to the underchallenged subtype. Multivariable analysis elicited a multitude of statistically significant associations with burnout subtypes (p < 0.05). Staff adequacy and fewer working hours were negatively associated with frenetic subtype. Younger police officers had a positive association, while, being married, satisfactory infrastructure facilities, frequent superior guidance, satisfactory higher official support, satisfactory allowances and the opportunity to serve public showed negative associations with underchallenged subtype. Being married, staff adequacy, frequent superior guidance, higher official support, satisfactory allowances, satisfactory social status and overall job satisfaction elicited significant negative associations with worn-out subtype. The findings are suggestive of high burnout subtype profile among the police officers in the study population and the associated factors of the three burnout subtypes are congruent with the characteristics of the burnout subtype profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion is one of the most effective methods for treating swine manure by converting it into green energy, and efficiently reducing methane (CH 4 ) emission to the atmosphere. Low C/N ratio of swine manure and the production of high levels of total ammoniacal nitrogen (TAN) during acidogenesis due to the high N contents of swine manure considerably reduce CH 4 yield. The reduction of N during anaerobic digestion by the addition of zeolite improves CH 4 production and reduces potential environmental threats associated with ammonia (NH 3 ) emissions from anaerobic digestion of swine manure. The main objective of this study was to determine the optimum Australian zeolite dose that produces maximum NH 4 + recovery at optimum CH 4 production. In laboratory experiments, swine manure was treated with natural and sodium zeolites at 0, 10, 40, 70, 100 mg/L and digested anaerobically for 60 days. Natural zeolite at a dose of 40 g/L resulted in the largest increase (29%) in total CH 4 yield from swine manure compared to the nil zeolite treatments. The lag phase of digestion was decreased with increasing zeolite doses up to 100 g/L. Natural and sodium zeolites at a dose of 100 g/L reduced NH 4 + by 50% and 52% in the media, respectively, compared to the nil zeolite treatments. However, the increases in CH 4 yield of natural and sodium zeolites at a dose of 100 g/L were only 10% and 12%, respectively. Variations of cation concentrations in the digesters caused by adding zeolite at different rates might be a reason for variation of biogas and CH 4 productions from various rates of zeolites digesters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinic keratosis, leukoplakia, carcinoma in situ, and superficially invasive carcinomas of the lower lip are caused mainly by the cumulative effects of exposure of the vermilion of the lower lip to ultraviolet radiation. Current treatments all have limitations: cryosurgery or electrosurgery is suitable to treat only focal lesions; topical chemotherapy, which is an option for diffuse actinic damage, yields unreliable results; and laser treatment fails to rejuvenate the vermilion. However, “lip shave”, which involves full-thickness excision of the damaged vermilion and reconstruction with an advancement labial mucosal flap, will produce a fresh mucosal lining to the vermilion border. We describe our experience of the technique and evaluate the functional and aesthetic outcomes in 20 patients treated between January 2011 and January 2016. The follow-up period ranged from 24 to 60 months. Three-quarters of the patients had dysplasia or superficially invasive malignancy. Resected lesions were about 63 mm long, 13.7 mm wide, and 3.9 mm deep. No patients had recurrence or secondary lesions during follow up, functional disturbance was minimal, and the cosmetic outcome pleasing. Lip shave can efficiently reconstruct the vermilion of the lower lip with minimum deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sri Lanka is located in an ideal position in the world map to harness more solar power compared to the countries situated away from the equator. However, Sri Lankan community has not yet gained the maximum advantage out of solar energy systems mainly due to two bottlenecks, which are higher payback period of the imported solar panels and the lower power output. The purpose of this study is to present a fast payback, low capital investment solution to increase the power output of the solar panel throughout the day by fixing flat reflectors, which can be locally made. In this research a mathematical model is proposed which helps one to find out the best reflector arrangement for a specific location. This method will enhance the solar insolation on a silicon based solar module throughout the day, thereby optimizing the power output of the solar panel. Furthermore, the cost benefit analysis with payback period is done to show the financial superiority of the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to pregnancy related changes in the breast, a breast feeding mother as well as the health care professionals may attribute a change in the breast for lactation resulting in a delay in evaluation and diagnosis. We report a cases series of delayed diagnosis of breast cancer during lactation in three young patients from a developing country who had sought medical attention on time but was unfortunately diagnosed late. We report three breast feeding mothers aged 38–39 years presenting with breast lump and edema. All patients had an ultrasonography of breast performed at least once and the radiological findings were attributed to physiological changes initially despite non-resolving symptoms for 3–4 months. Triple assessment revealed invasive breast cancers of T4N1M0, T2N1M0, T3N2M1 staging. Two patients were treated with a curative intent and the patient with metastatic cancer was referred for palliative chemotherapy. Lactational mastitis, breast abscesses, galactoceles, breast edema are benign conditions that are unique in lactation period, but it is important not to overlook that the lactating women may develop any of the other breast problems seen in the non-lactating female population. Our case series represent very similar scenarios of delayed or missed diagnosis of breast cancer in young lactating women. A lactating patient should be referred to a specialist center and/or a complete assessment of the breast should be performed in case of any red flags findings to avoid missing a sinister diagnosis. • Breast cancer in young lactating women may be overlooked resulting in a diagnostic delay. • Clinical and radiological assessment of a breast lump becomes quite challenging in the lactating breast. • Atypical findings during lactation should prompt a complete assessment including histology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a female neonate born with prune belly syndrome (PBS) in whom a large intraabdominal cyst was diagnosed at 12 weeks of gestation. Rapid and exponential growth of the cyst caused pressure effects on the intraabdominal organs and stretching of the anterior abdominal wall by 19 weeks of gestation. This led to drainage of the massive cyst at 20 weeks of gestation to prevent fetal demise. This case provides further clues to the likely etiology of PBS: transient stretching and attenuation of the fetal abdominal wall secondary to gross fetal abdominal distension – from any cause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The protective effect of polyphenol extract from Ecklonia cava was investigated. [•] Polyphenol extract from Ecklonia cava can be developed as a natural nutraceutical to prevent oxidative stress. [•] Protective effect of polyphenol extract from Ecklonia cava was investigated in vitro and zebrafish model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Disclosure of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is one of the ethical responsibilities of a corporate. It is the mean of aware stakeholders regarding company''s engagement on social responsibility. The study focused to find out the current context of disclosure of CSR in Sri Lanka. GRI guidelines used to measure the level of disclosure. Findings of the study revealed that the overall level of CSR disclosure is at a low level and there is a need of much improvement in governance, economical, social and environmental disclosures which are the major components of sustainability. It is observed that there are deviations in the level of disclosure among different industry sectors. However, that the trend of the level of disclosure is slight increasing and it signaling high level of CSR disclosures in future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: This study assesses if there exists a high-risk period for cerebrovascular events (CeV) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Background: Even though acute strokes after TAVI have been described, it is uncertain if stroke rates continue to remain high in the early months after TAVI. Furthermore, the optimal dose and duration of thromboprophylaxis is unclear. Methods: Patients who underwent TAVI were evaluated at baseline, at discharge, at 1 and 6 months, and yearly. Risk factors for CeV events, procedural details, and antithrombotic therapy were recorded. Outcomes assessed were CeV events and death. The timing of such events, predictors, and impact on survival were analyzed. Results: A total of 253 patients were assessed. Median age was 85 years. The median Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 8.1% (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.5% to 12.0%). Risk factors included smoking (47%), hypertension (70%), dyslipidemia (66%), and diabetes mellitus (25%). Twenty-three percent had known cerebrovascular disease and 39% had atrial fibrillation. Median follow-up was 455 days (IQR: 160 to 912 days) at which time 23 patients experienced a CeV event. The incidence was highest in the first 24 h but remained high for 2 months. In-hospital mortality rate after a CeV event was 21%. A prior history of CeV disease was an independent predictor of an event (hazard ratio: 4.23, 95% CI: 1.60 to 11.11, p = 0.004). Conclusions: The incidence of CeV events is highest within 24 h of TAVI, but this risk may remain elevated for up to 2 months. A prior history of cerebrovascular disease is an independent predictor. This may have implications for patient selection and antithrombotic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aortic stenosis is a common disorder. Aortic valve replacement is indicated in symptomatic patients with severe aortic stenosis, as the prognosis of untreated patients is poor. Nevertheless, many patients pose a prohibitively high surgical risk and are not candidates for surgical valve replacement. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a novel method to treat selected high-risk patients with aortic stenosis. Patient screening and anatomic measurements of the aortic root are of great importance to ensure procedural success and appropriate patient selection. Multidetector computed tomography (CT) is playing an increasingly important role in patient screening protocols before TAVI, provides detailed anatomic assessment of the aortic root and valve annulus, assesses the suitability of iliofemoral access, and determines appropriate coaxial angles to optimize the valve implantation procedure. Additionally, CT is providing a greater understanding of medium-term valve durability and integrity. This review outlines an evolving role for CT angiography in support of a TAVI program and describe step by step how CT can be used to enhance the procedure and provide a practical guide for the utilization of CT angiography in support of a transcatheter aortic valve program. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A local isolate of Trichoderma asperellum was tested for its antagonistic activity against Thielaviopsis paradoxa (telemorph = Ceratocyctis paradoxa). The highest antagonistic activity was achieved when the concentration of T. asperellum conidia was 1 × 107 conidia/mL. The highest biomass and number of colony forming unit/mL of the T. asperellum peaked at 144 h after incubation in yeast waste residue medium. The minimum inhibition concentration value of the formulation was observed as 1% on growth of Th. paradoxa incubated at 28 ± 2 °C for 10 d. In the soil fungicide-screening test, the effect of concentrations 100–1600 μg/mL on mycelia growth was not significant (P < 0.05). Complete mycelial growth inhibition occurred at concentration above 52,600 μg/mL. Results of the fruit application tests clearly showed that all treated fruits were free of disease at the end of the incubation period. No significant differences (P > 0.05) in pH, total soluble solids and titratable acidity were observed between fruits treated with formulation of T. asperellum and the control formulation treated pineapples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: This study assessed whether multislice computed tomography (MSCT) could predict optimal angiographic projections for visualizing the plane of the native valve and facilitate accurate positioning during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Background: Accurate device positioning during TAVI depends on valve deployment in angiographic projections perpendicular to the native valve plane, but these may be difficult to determine. Methods: Twenty patients underwent MSCT before TAVI. Using a novel technique, multiple angiographic projections accurately representing the native valve plane in multiple axes were determined. The accuracy of all predicted projections was determined post-procedure using angiography according to new criteria, based on valve perpendicularity and the degree of strut overlap (defined as excellent, satisfactory, or poor). The accuracy of valve deployment using MSCT was compared with the results of 20 consecutive patients undergoing TAVI without such MSCT angle prediction. Results: Correct final deployment projections were more frequent in the MSCT-guided compared with non–MSCT-guided group: excellent or satisfactory projections (90% vs. 65%, p = 0.06). The MSCT angle prediction was accurate but dependent on optimal images (optimal images: 93% of predicted angles were excellent or satisfactory, suboptimal images: 73% of predicted angles were poor). A “line of perpendicularity” could be generated with optimal projections across the right-to-left anterior oblique plane by adding the correct cranial or caudal angulation. Conclusions: Pre-procedural MSCT can predict optimal angiographic deployment projections for implantation of transcatheter valves. An ideal deployment angle curve or “line of perpendicularity” can be generated. Understanding and applying these principles improves the accuracy of valve deployment and may improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We describe initial human experience with a novel cerebral embolic protection device. Background: Cerebral emboli are the major cause of procedural stroke during percutaneous aortic valve interventions. Methods: With right radial artery access, the embolic protection device is advanced into the aortic arch. Once deployed a porous membrane shields the brachiocephalic trunk and the left carotid artery deflecting emboli away from the cerebral circulation. Embolic material is not contained or removed by the device. The device was used in 4 patients (mean age 90 years) with severe aortic stenosis undergoing aortic balloon valvuloplasty (n = 1) or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (n = 3). Results: Correct placement of the embolic protection device was achieved without difficulty in all patients. Continuous brachiocephalic and aortic pressure monitoring documented equal pressures without evidence of obstruction to cerebral perfusion. Additional procedural time due to the use of the device was 13 min (interquartile range: 12 to 16 min). There were no procedural complications. Pre-discharge cerebral magnetic resonance imaging found no new defects in any of 3 patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation and a new 5-mm acute cortical infarct in 1 asymptomatic patient after balloon valvuloplasty alone. No patient developed new neurological symptoms or clinical findings of stroke. Conclusions: Embolic protection during transcatheter aortic valve intervention seems feasible and might have the potential to reduce the risk of cerebral embolism and stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We evaluated transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in high-risk patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) stenosis. Background: TAVI shows promise in the treatment of severe stenosis of triscupid aortic valves, especially in high-risk patients. However, BAV stenosis has been considered a contraindication to TAVI. Methods: Eleven patients (age 52 to 90 years) with symptomatic severe BAV stenosis underwent TAVI at 3 Canadian tertiary hospitals between May 2006 and April 2010. All patients were considered high risk for surgical aortic valve replacement. Edwards-SAPIEN transcatheter heart valves (Edwards Lifesciences, Inc., Irvine, California) were used. Transfemoral or transapical access was selected, depending on the adequacy of femoral access. Results: Access was transfemoral in 7 patients and transapical in 4 patients. There were no intraprocedural complications. Significant symptomatic and hemodynamic improvement was observed in 10 of 11 patients. Baseline aortic valve area of 0.65 ± 0.17 cm2 and mean transaortic pressure gradient of 41 ± 22.4 mm Hg were improved to 1.45 ± 0.3 cm2 and 13.4 ± 5.7 mm Hg, respectively. Two patients had moderate perivalvular leaks. At the 30-day follow-up there were 2 deaths due to multisystem failure in 2 transapical patients. In 1 patient an undersized, suboptimally positioned, unstable valve required late conversion to open surgery. Conclusions: TAVI in selected high-risk patients with severe BAV stenosis can be successfully performed with acceptable clinical outcomes but will require further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)/long-acting β-agonist (LABA) combination inhaler has the potential to improve adherence with ICS therapy in asthma. Objective: To determine whether ICS/LABA combination inhaler therapy improves adherence compared with separate inhaler use. Methods: In a 24-week randomized controlled parallel group study, 111 subjects were prescribed 125 μg fluticasone dipropionate (FP) and 25 μg salmeterol, 2 actuations twice daily through either a combination inhaler or separate inhalers concurrently. Medication use was recorded by covert electronic monitors. The primary outcome variable was adherence during the final 6-week period, defined as the number of doses taken as a percentage of those prescribed. Results: Complete adherence data from the final 6-week period were available for 49 and 54 subjects in the separate and combination groups, respectively. The mean (SD) adherence was 73.7% (36.0) for FP, 76.7% (30.5) for salmeterol, and 82.4% (24.5) for FP/salmeterol. There were no significant differences in adherence between FP/salmeterol and FP (–8.7%; 95% CI, –10.6 to 3.3) and salmeterol (–5.6%; 95% CI, –16.4 to 5.1). There was no significant difference in overuse among the FP, salmeterol, or FP/salmeterol groups. In 2 (4%) of 49 subjects, salmeterol was effectively taken as monotherapy during a 6-week period. Conclusion: In the setting of a randomized controlled trial, use of a combination ICS/LABA inhaler does not markedly increase adherence above that observed with separate inhaler use. LABA monotherapy was observed in a small proportion of patients prescribed ICS and LABA therapy via separate inhalers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: This study sought to describe a method of paravalvular leak closure using a purpose-specific occlusion device. Background: Transcatheter closure of paravalvular leaks has been hampered by technical challenges, the limitations of available imaging modalities, and the lack of closure devices specifically designed for this purpose. Methods: Patients with severe symptomatic paravalvular regurgitation at high risk for repeat surgery underwent transcatheter leak closure. Both left ventricular puncture and retrograde transfemoral approaches were used with fluoroscopic and 3-dimensional transesophageal guidance. A purpose-specific occluder (Vascular Plug III, AGA Medical Corp., Plymouth, Minnesota) was used. Results: Five patients with severe prosthetic mitral and aortic paravalvular leaks underwent attempted closure. Implantation of the device was successfully accomplished in all. In 1 patient, the plug interfered with closure of a mechanical valve leaflet and was removed and replaced with an alternate device. Complications included pericardial bleeding in 2 patients with a transapical approach. There was no procedural mortality. At a median follow-up of 191 days (interquartile range [IQR] 169 to 203 days) all patients were alive. New York Heart Association functional class fell from 4 (IQR 3 to 4) to 2 (IQR 2 to 3), hemoglobin rose from 89 g/l (IQR 87 to 108 g/l) to 115 g/l (IQR 104 to 118 g/l), creatinine fell from 109 μmol/l (IQR 106 to 132 μmol/l) to 89 μmol/l (IQR 89 to 126 μmol/l). Median echocardiographic follow-up at 58 days (IQR 56 to 70 days) reported residual regurgitation to be reduced from grade 4 to grade 2 (IQR 1.5 to 2.25). Conclusions: Closure of mitral and aortic prosthetic paravalvular leaks with the Vascular Plug III using either a transapical (mitral) or a retrograde (aortic) approach appears promising. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bone scintigraphy is one of the mainstays of molecular imaging. It has retained its relevance in the imaging of acute and chronic trauma and sporting injuries in particular. The basic reasons for its longevity are the high lesional conspicuity and technological changes in gamma camera design. The implementation of hybrid imaging devices with computed tomography scanners colocated with the gamma camera has revolutionized the technique by allowing a host of improvements in spatial resolution and anatomical registration. Both bone and soft-tissue lesions can be visualized and identified with greater and more convincing accuracy. The additional benefit of detecting injury before anatomical changes in high-level athletes has cost and performance advantages over other imaging modalities. The applications of the new imaging techniques will be illustrated in the setting of bone and soft-tissue trauma arising from sporting injuries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: International guidelines recommend the routine use of oxygen in the initial treatment of myocardial infarction, yet it is uncertain what effect this might have on physiologic and clinical outcomes. Methods: We undertook a systematic search of Medline, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, and CINHAL using the key words “oxygen,” “coronary blood flow,” “hyperoxia,” and “coronary circulation” to identify human studies involving a measure of coronary blood flow while breathing oxygen and room air. The primary outcome measure was coronary blood flow; secondary outcomes included coronary vascular resistance and myocardial oxygen consumption. Results: From 2,072 potential publications, there were 6 studies from 4 publications that met the inclusion criteria, with 6 healthy subjects and 61 subjects with cardiac disease. It was not possible to undertake a meta-analysis due to methodological limitations. In the 6 studies, high-concentration oxygen therapy resulted in hyperoxia, with a range in mean Pao 2 of 273 to 425 mm Hg. Hyperoxia caused a significant reduction in coronary blood flow (mean change −7.9% to −28.9%, n = 6 studies). Hyperoxia caused a significant increase in coronary vascular resistance (mean change 21.5% to 40.9%, n = 4 studies) and a significant reduction in myocardial oxygen consumption (mean change −15.3% to −26.9%, n = 3 studies). Conclusions: Hyperoxia from high-concentration oxygen therapy causes a marked reduction in coronary blood flow and myocardial oxygen consumption. These physiologic effects may have the potential to cause harm and are relevant to the use of high-concentration oxygen therapy in the treatment of cardiac and other disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Developed eight-part framework of barriers distinct to peri-urban UGI implementation. • 832 households surveyed and 118 key informants interviewed. • 18 forms of green infrastructure and 47 derived ecosystem services determined. • Scale up co-designed restoration, monitoring, coordination, and cost-benefit analyses. • Limit ecosystem disservices by managing waste, faecal contamination, and crime. Despite a growing recognition of the importance of designing, rehabilitating, and maintaining green infrastructure to provide essential ecosystem services and adapt to climate change, many decision makers in sub-Saharan Africa continue to favour engineered solutions and short term economic growth at the expense of natural landscapes and longer term sustainability agendas. Existing green infrastructure is typically maintained in more affluent suburbs, inadvertently perpetuating historic inequalities. This is in part because there remains a lack of fine-grained, comparative evidence on the barriers and enablers to mainstreaming green infrastructure in peri-urban areas. Here, we developed an analytical framework based on a review of 155 studies, screened to include 29 studies in 24 countries. Results suggest eight overarching categories of interconnected barriers to green infrastructure in peri-urban areas. Using a combinatorial mixed method approach, we then surveyed households in nine settlements in drought-prone Windhoek (n=330) and seven settlements in flood-prone Dar es Salaam (n=502) and conducted key informant interviews (n=118). Peri-urban residents in Windhoek and Dar es Salaam indicated 18 forms of green infrastructure and 47 derived ecosystem services. The most frequently reported barriers were financial (40.8%), legal and institutional barriers (35.8%) followed by land use change and spatial trade-offs (33%) and finally ecosystem disservices (30.6%). The most significant barriers in Dar es Salaam were legal and institutional (22.7%) and in Windhoek were land use change and spatial trade-offs (24.4%). At the household level, the principal barrier was financial; at community and municipal levels the main barriers were related to design, performance, and maintenance; while at the national level, the main barriers were legal and institutional. Embracing institutional cultures of adaptive policymaking, equitable partnerships, co-designing futures, integrated landscape management and experimental innovation have potential to scale long term maintenance for urban green infrastructure and foster agency, creativity and more transformative relationships and outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By combining three different genres – academic writing, theatrical playwriting and performing – this article presents different ways of knowing and representing realities for tourism scholars. More specifically, drawing upon social scientists' influential work on performance texts and an ethnodramatic script written by the authors based on dramatized ethnographic and autoethnographic fieldwork, it portrays a tourism PhD journey in an Asian institution. As an attempt of representing the power structures underpinning academia (and tourism academia), namely postcolonial, gendered, global, regional, institutional, and socio-cultural forces, among others, the 8 scenes constituting the script (one of which is enacted and presented in a video) discuss how Asian PhD journeys are shaped by specific approaches to supervision, issues of authorship, gendered dynamics and postcolonial legacies. The main rationale behind this work lies in the recognition of the powerful/performative role of embodied texts and performances in producing, shaping and re-presenting realities. More specifically, the ethnodrama presented in this paper and its embodied representation act as vehicles that are both political and entertaining in producing meanings. • It presents three genres: academic writing, theatrical playwriting and performing. • It portrays a tourism PhD journey in an Asian institution. • It discusses the power structures underpinning tourism academia. • It discusses PhD supervision, authorship, gender and postcolonialism in academia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elbow dislocations are rare among the pediatric population as their ligaments are stronger than bones. Anterior dislocations of the elbow are even rarer entity usually caused by anteriorly directed force on the hyper-flexed elbow. We present a case of a rotational force on an extended elbow causing anterior dislocation of the shoulder in an 11-year-old boy. An 11-year-old boy presented to the Accident & Trauma unit with pain & swelling of the right elbow following a twisting injury by a spinning washing machine. The child was in pain. His elbow was semi flexed and deformed. Distal neurovascular status was found normal. Radiographs of the right elbow revealed anteromedial dislocation of the elbow with the medial epicondyle avulsion. Emergent relocation of the elbow joint has been performed. A concentric reduction, absence of incarcerated bony fragments and stability has been confirmed by the fluoroscopic examination. Post reduction neurovascular examinations unremarkable. The child was discharged with the above-elbow splint. The range of motion exercises has been commenced after three weeks. The child achieved full range of motion at six weeks of post-injury. Anterior dislocations are a rare entity in pediatric orthopaedic practice. Evaluation of the causative mechanism of injury is the clue. A rare type of mechanism of injury also should be kept in mind to prevent the delay in diagnosis and treatment. • Elbow sislocation in children is a rare entity as their ligaments stronger than bones. Anterior elbow dislocation is an even rarer subtype that is follow an anteriorly directed force on a hyperflexed elbow. • It is an orthopaedic emergency, which needs emergent relocation. • Medial epicondylar avulsion is commonly associated with anterior elbow dislocations. • Twisting mechanism on an extended elbow may also rarely give rise to anterioe elbow dislocations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lignite addition at 7 % to ammonia rich swine manure significantly improved methane yield. • Lignite addition at ≥7 % reduced the ammonia inhibition of methanogenesis during the anaerobic digestion process. • Lignite addition reduced the ammonia/ammonium ratio, mainly through lowering the pH of the medium. Excess ammonia inhibits methanogenesis during anaerobic digestion. The addition of lignite removes ammonia/ammonium from wastewater. Different lignite addition rates (0, 10, 20, 40, 70, 100 g/L) to ammonium rich lab-scale anaerobic digestions of swine manure were investigated. The optimum lignite rate was selected by assessing methane production potential, maximum methane production rate, and the lag phase time using the modified Gompertz and logistic models. Results showed that methane production at lignite addition rates of 70 g/L and 100 g/L, is significantly increased compared to all other rates. A digester with a lignite addition rate of 70 g/L of swine manure had the highest methane production (i.e. 31 % higher than the control), and a digester with a lignite rate of 100 g/ L showed the highest biogas production. The results indicate that addition of lignite at ≥70 g/L reduced ammonia inhibition of methanogenesis during anaerobic digestion of swine manure by lowering the free ammonia nitrogen (FAN) concentration below the threshold level (45 mg/L) and lowering the ammonia/ammonium ratio, mainly through the lowering of pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although postcolonial analyses examining the sexualized imagery of women in tourism have been conducted, previous studies have predominantly focused on gender and (post)colonialism from a patriarchal perspective. By doing so, other (neo)colonial power asymmetries, such as race, class and ethnicity, have often been neglected. This paper mobilises postcolonial feminist theory to expand the existing analyses and discourses concerning gendered representations in tourism. Through a narrative analysis of the images published in the official Instagram page of Sri Lanka's Ministry of Tourism, we contend that the images produced and circulated to promote Sri Lanka in many instances echo essentialist gendered binaries (e.g. men/women; coloniser/colonised; hegemonic/subordinated). However, as the images tend to produce and reiterate Sri Lankan national identity through a hegemonic Sinhalese Buddhist discourse, they also show the intersections between gender and other asymmetries of power (e.g. race, ethnicity, religion, and social class) – in reproducing (post)colonial gendered identities. • A discussion beyond gender and patriarchy. • A postcolonial feminist critique of gendered representations in tourism. • Colonialism, neocolonialism and nationalism in tourism representation. • Tourism gender representation in postcolonial societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Circle of Willis (CW) abnormalities were predominant in the ageing brains. • >90 % of the ageing brains showed atherosclerosis of the CW at death. • >90 % of the ageing brains had at least a single hypoplastic CW component. • CW abnormalities did not associate with Alzheimer- related pathologies. • Hypoplasia might contribute to white matter disease in the ageing brains. The circle of Willis (CW) located at the base of the brain forms an important collateral network to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion, especially in clinical situations requiring compensatory changes in blood flow. Morphopathological changes in the CW may relate to the severity of the symptoms of certain neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular disorders. The purpose of this study was to investigate the CW abnormalities and their clinical importance in ageing brains. The CW was examined macroscopically in 73 formalin-fixed samples to determine the degree of stenosis of each CW component, atherosclerosis of the CW, hypoplasia (threshold diameter < 1 mm), anatomical variations and aneurysms. Age-related neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular pathologies were screened using immunohistopathological techniques on specific neuroanatomical regions based on standard guidelines. The majority of the elderly brains −93 % (68/73) presented at least a single hypoplastic CW component at death. Anatomical variations were mostly identified in communicating arteries, followed by proximal posterior and anterior cerebral arteries. Arterial bifurcations were found to be the predominant sites for cerebral aneurysms. More than 90 % of the elderly brains presented CW atherosclerosis at death. CW abnormalities did not show any strong associations with neurodegenerative pathologies except for an "at risk" significant association observed between Braak's neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) stages 1-VI and CW atherosclerosis grades ≥ mild (p = 0.05). However, a significant association was observed between microscopic infarcts in deep white matter and hypoplasia in communicating arteries with Fisher's exact test (p < 0.05). Overall, CW abnormalities were predominant in the ageing brains, however their relationships to the occurrence and severity of the symptoms of neurodegenerative pathologies were found to be low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We studied insect visits to flower gardens with different plantings. • Planting design type affects insect visitation, richness and community composition. • Introducing ruderals to anthropogenic landscapes enhances insect conservation. • Design with only Zinnia elegans supports less insects than designs with ruderals. • Zinnia-ruderal mix attracts insects and humans and could be promoted in settlements. Insects are declining in many parts of the world. Under this context, flower gardens are useful for insect conservation in human settlements. However, this tool is rarely used in the tropics due to low awareness and lack of information on suitable plants. Therefore, our objective was to identify a planting design for native insect conservation in anthropogenic landscapes in Sri Lanka. We selected seven wild, ruderal plant species and a cultivated ornamental plant, Zinnia elegans. We established three planting designs with four replicates each: (1) only ruderal plants, (2) ruderal plants mixed with Z. elegans, and (3) only Z. elegans. Insect monitoring was done in each replicate for five sunny days. Over the entire study, we observed > 16,000 visits from 96 insect species and seven orders. Hymenopterans and lepidopterans comprised the most species and the most visits to the plots. The three planting designs differed significantly in terms of insect visitation and richness. For most insect orders, the ruderal design was more or equally attractive to insects compared to the mixed design, and more attractive than the Z. elegans design. Insect community composition was also significantly different among three designs, with 38 species identified as significant indicators of one of the planting designs. The highest number of indicator species was recorded in the ruderal design. Our recommendation depends on the landscape context. The ruderal planting design was best for insects and easy to establish and maintain, but the mixed design (a close second) might be more suitable in areas with high human activity due to its pleasing aesthetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coloniality of power in tourism has been a topic of discussion among researchers in the field since the late 1970s. However, a general lack of narratives that underpin the experiences of critical scholars, and the challenges and limitations of researching power itself, still prevails. This paper narrativises my reflections as an early-career, female, Asian tourism scholar who explored the colonial and neo-colonial structures of power in Southeast Asian tourism knowledge production and dissemination. The discussions in this paper pave the way for critical tourism researchers to ponder on the deeper aspects of identity that has been socialised in historical and political processes. The discussion also presents the limitations and challenges researchers encounter in the agenda of academic decolonisation. • Politics of identity and entanglements in researching coloniality • Challenges of researching and representing coloniality of power • Limitations of reflexivity • Rethinking representations of power and marginalisation • A critical note towards tourism academic decolonisation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fullerenes are molecules being investigated for a wide range of therapeutic applications. We have shown previously that certain fullerene derivatives (FDs) inhibit mast cell (MC) function in vitro, and here we examine their in vivo therapeutic effect on asthma, a disease in which MCs play a predominant role. Objective: We sought to determine whether an efficient MC-stabilizing FD (C70-tetraglycolate [TGA]) can inhibit asthma pathogenesis in vivo and to examine its in vivo mechanism of action. Methods: Asthma was induced in mice, and animals were treated intranasally with TGA either simultaneously with treatment or after induction of pathogenesis. The efficacy of TGA was determined through the measurement of airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, serum IgE levels, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytokine and eicosanoid levels. Results: We found that TGA-treated mice have significantly reduced airway inflammation, eosinophilia, and bronchoconstriction. The TGA treatments are effective, even when given after disease is established. Moreover, we report a novel inhibitory mechanism because TGA stimulates the production of an anti-inflammatory P-450 eicosanoid metabolites (cis-epoxyeicosatrienoic acids [EETs]) in the lung. Inhibitors of these anti-inflammatory EETs reversed TGA inhibition. In human lung MCs incubated with TGA, there was a significant upregulation of CYP1B gene expression, and TGA also reduced IgE production from B cells. Lastly, MCs incubated with EET and challenged through FcεRI had a significant blunting of mediator release compared with nontreated cells. Conclusion: The inhibitory capabilities of TGA reported here suggest that FDs might be used a platform for developing treatments for asthma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]