Identification of Potential Species <i>Croton bonplandianum</i>, Sedges and <i>Balanitis aegyptiaca</i>for the Application of Phytoremediation

Heavy metal contamination to the environment is a serious problem in the developing countries due to anthropogenic activities, a threat needs to remediate to sustain the life on earth, technology includes use of microorganisms and different plant species. In consideration of biomass, phytoremediation is a very useful techniques above all, can be exploit by identification of hyperaccumulator, which accumulates the heavy metal under metal stress condition. In view of constraints of efficient plant species in present study thirty seven different plant species were screened for the identification of heavy metal accumulators. Croton bonplandianum, sedges and Balanites aegyptiaca amongst the all exhibit superior potential of heavy metal accumulation. This is the first report to unravel the heavy metal accumulation property of three different plant species which can be exploited for the bioremediation of heavy metals.

Unusual Case of Radiation Induced Balanitis after Chemoradiation for Upper Rectal Adenocarcinoma

Background: Penile toxicity after preoperative concurrent chemoradiation (CCRT) for rectal cancers is extremely rare and only two cases of phimosis and one case of recto-cavernosalfistula have been reported so far in literature. Preoperative CCRT for rectal cancer is given in prone position and with the support of belly board (BBD) to avoid small bowel toxicity. However, positional errors during rectal radiotherapy can lead to unexpected penile toxicity. Case Presentation: A 50-year-old Saudi male with diagnosed case of rectal adenocarcinoma stage cT3N1M0 was given preoperative CCRT 50.4 Gy in 28 fractions with three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT) in prone position using belly board with concurrent oral capecitabine 825 mg/2 twice a day. After the completion of CCRT, he complained of severe soreness, itching over glans penis and dysuria. Examination revealed grade 3 erythema, skin desquamation over glans penis (balanitis). Portal imaging of treatment revealed glans penis to lie within posterior radiation beam. A patient was assured and he recovered fully after local steroids and short course of antibiotics. Conclusion: Penile toxicity after CCRT for rectal cancer is extremely rare manifestation. Radiation oncologists and therapists must be aware of this rare side effect and must assure proper patient education and positioning during CCRT for rectal cancer.

Growing importance of urogenital candidiasis in individuals with diabetes:A narrative review

Both diabetes and fungal infections contribute significantly to the global disease burden,with increasing trends seen in most developed and developing countries during recent decades.This is reflected in urogenital infections caused by Candida species that are becoming ever more pervasive in diabetic patients,particularly those that present with unsatisfactory glycemic control.In addition,a relatively new group of anti-hyperglycemic drugs,known as sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors,has been linked with an increased risk for colonization of the urogenital region with Candida spp.,which can subsequently lead to an infectious process.In this review paper,we have highlighted notable virulence factors of Candida species(with an emphasis on Candida albicans)and shown how the interplay of many pathophysiological factors can give rise to vulvovaginal candidiasis,potentially complicated with recurrences and dire pregnancy outcomes.We have also addressed an increased risk of candiduria and urinary tract infections caused by species of Candida in females and males with diabetes,further highlighting possible complications such as emphysematous cystitis as well as the risk for the development of balanitis and balanoposthitis in(primarily uncircumcised)males.With a steadily increasing global burden of diabetes,urogenital mycotic infections will undoubtedly become more prevalent in the future;hence,there is a need for an evidence-based approach from both clinical and public health perspectives.

Carbon Stock and Carbon Cycle of Wetland Ecosystem

Wetland ecosystem is an essential ecosystem in the world. Its organic carbon stock and carbon cycle are important basis of global carbon cycle researches and also major contents of global climate change researches. Researches have shown that wetland protection and restoration can promote carbon accumulation and reduce emission of greenhouse gases. This paper discussed influence of carbon stock and carbon balance of wetland ecosystem and emission of greenhouse gases,as well as the relationship between wetland and global climate changes. Finally,it made prospect on researches about carbon cycle of Dongting Lake.

Geo-textile in Riverbank-Embankment Protection from Flood Flow Erosion

Bank erosion of rivers, e.g. Bagmati, Burhi Gandak, Kosi and Kamla-Balan, all originating in the Himalayan hills of Nepal and flowing throughthe alluvial plains of North Bihar, is a chronic and common phenomenon.Cutting and deposition result in shifting or meandering of the riverendangering the embankment, road, bridge, barrage, and countryside.Anti-erosion and maintenance require huge investment. The river Kamla-Balan faces bank erosion throughout its embanked length, but stretchesat km 37 and 62 are highly unstable and vulnerable. This paper dealswith the problem, presents the hydrological details responsible for thehazard, and demonstrates the effectiveness of supplementary geo-textilewith conventional sand filter pitching to protect the soil and slope of theriverbank. Estimated flood discharge and velocity at 100 years of returnperiod is nearly 2100 cumecs and 0.9 m/sec, respectively. Riverbed andbank material is represented by silt with d50 of 0.018 to 0.05 mm while0.02 mm of silt may get eroded and transported by flow above 0.15 m/s. Launching apron is also required due to local scour. Model study testshows its suitability under various hydraulic conditions. Study reveals theeffectiveness of woven type geo-textile reinforced revetment irrespective ofcost and environmental consideration.

Benign penile skin anomalies in children:a primer for pediatricians

Background:Abnormalities involving the skin coverage of the penis are diffi cult to defi ne,but they can significantly alter penile appearance,and be a cause of parental concern.Data sources:The present review was based on a non-systematic search of the English language medical literature using a combination of key words including"penile skin anomalies"and the specific names of the different conditions.Results:Conditions were addressed in the following order,those mainly affecting the prepuce(phimosis,balanitis xerotica obliterans,balanitis,paraphimosis),those which alter penile configuration(inconspicuous penis and penile torsion),and lastly focal lesions(cysts,nevi and vascular lesions).Most of these anomalies are congenital,have no or minimal influence on urinary function,and can be detected on clinical examination.Spontaneous improvement is possible.In the majority of cases undergoing surgery,the potential psychological implications of genital malformation on patient development are the main reason for treatment,and the age generally recommended for surgery is after 12 months of age.Conclusion:This review provides the pediatrician with a handy tool to identify the most common penile skin anomalies,counsel parents adequately,make sensible and evidence based choices for management,and recognize complications or untoward outcomes in patients undergoing surgery.

Reconstruction of the male external genitalia in diverse disease processes:Our reconstructive algorithm,techniques,and experience

Background:Male genital form and function may be rendered abnormal by a number of disease processes,with profound associated psychological and functional consequences.The aim of the study is to review our reconstructive experience with cases of genital loss or distortion due to nonmalignant diseases processes and atypical neoplasia.Materials and methods:A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed to identify reconstructive cases performed from 2018 to 2020 under the care of a single surgeon.Male patients 18 years or older with a disease diagnosis other than squamous cell carcinoma affecting genital form were included.Disease processes,patient factors,surgical techniques,and both functional and cosmetic outcomes were reviewed.Results:Fourteen cases were identified.The patients had a mean age of 52.2 years(range,21-72 years).Acquired buried penis was present in 8 patients.Etiology of genital abnormality included balanitis xerotica obliterans(n=6),excess skin loss at circumcision(n=2),self-injection of petroleum jelly to penile shaft(n=1),Fournier gangrene(n=1),hidradenitis suppurativa(n=1),extramammary Paget disease(n=1),idiopathic lymphoedema(n=1),and penoscrotal webbing(n=1).Reconstructive techniques performed included penile debridement/shaft skin release,scrotectomy,suprapubic apronectomy,and division of penoscrotal webbing,in combination with split-thickness skin grafting where required.A penile implant was inserted in one patient.Reconstructive planning,techniques,and outcomes are described.Conclusions:A variety of reconstructive techniques in andrology can be used to improve the aesthetic and functional outcomes of multiple disease processes affecting the male external genitalia.