bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compressive cervical pannus formation in a patient after 2-level disc arthroplasty: a rare complication treated with posterior instrumented fusion
Authors: Brophy Carl M. , Hoh Daniel J.
Published: June 2018

Cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) has received widespread attention as an alternative to anterior fusion due to its similar neurological and functional improvement, with the advantage of preservation of segmental motion. As CDA becomes more widely implemented, the potential for unexpected device-related adverse events may be identified.

The authors report on a 48-year-old man who presented with progressive neurological deficits 3 years after 2-level CDA was performed. Imaging demonstrated periprosthetic osteolysis of the vertebral endplates at the CDA levels, with a heterogeneously enhancing ventral epidural mass compressing the spinal cord. Diagnostic workup for infectious and neoplastic processes was negative. The presumptive diagnosis was an inflammatory pannus formation secondary to abnormal motion at the CDA levels. Posterior cervical decompression and instrumented fusion was performed without removal of the arthroplasty devices or the ventral epidural mass. Postoperative imaging at 2 months demonstrated complete resolution of the compressive pannus, with associated improvement in clinical symptoms. Follow-up MRI at > 6 months showed no recurrence of the pannus. At 1 year postoperatively, CT scanning revealed improvement in periprosthetic osteolysis.

Inflammatory pannus formation may be an unexpected complication of abnormal segmental motion after CDA. This rare etiology of an epidural mass associated with an arthroplasty device should be considered, in addition to workup for other potential infectious or neoplastic mass lesions. In symptomatic individuals, compressive pannus lesions can be effectively treated with fusion across the involved segment without removal of the device.
Acute fatal hemorrhage from previously undiagnosed cerebral arteriovenous malformations in children: a single-center experience
Authors: Riordan Coleman P. , Orbach Darren B. , Smith Edward R. , Scott R. Michael
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE

The most significant adverse outcome of intracranial hemorrhage from an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is death. This study reviews a single-center experience with pediatric AVMs to quantify the incidence and characterize clinical and radiographic factors associated with sudden death from the hemorrhage of previously undiagnosed AVMs in children.

METHODS

A single-center database review of the period from 2006 to 2017 identified all patients with a first-time intracranial hemorrhage from a previously undiagnosed AVM. Clinical and radiographic data were collected and compared between patients who survived to hospital discharge and those who died at presentation.

RESULTS

A total of 57 patients (average age 10.8 years, range 0.1–19 years) presented with first-time intracranial hemorrhage from a previously undiagnosed AVM during the study period. Of this group, 7/57 (12%) patients (average age 11.5 years, range 6–16 years) suffered hemorrhages that led directly to their deaths. Compared to the cohort of patients who survived their hemorrhage, patients who died were 4 times more likely to have an AVM in the posterior fossa. No clear pattern of antecedent triggering activity (sports, trauma, etc.) was identified, and 3/7 (43%) experienced cardiac arrest in the prehospital setting. Surviving patients were ultimately treated with resection of the AVM in 42/50 (84%) of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Children who present with hemorrhage from a previously undiagnosed intracranial AVM had a 12% chance of sudden death in our single-institution series of pediatric cerebrovascular cases. Clinical triggers of hemorrhage are unpredictable, but subsequent radiographic evidence of a posterior fossa AVM was present in 57% of fatal cases, and all fatal cases were in locations with high risk of potential herniation. These data support a proactive, aggressive approach toward definitive treatment of AVMs in children.
Uncertainty Management at the Airport Transit View
Authors: Rodríguez-Sanz Álvaro , Gómez Comendador Fernando , Arnaldo Valdés Rosa , Cordero García Jose Manuel , Bagamanova Margarita
Published: June 2018

Air traffic networks, where airports are the nodes that interconnect the entire system, have a time-varying and stochastic nature. An incident in the airport environment may easily propagate through the network and generate system-level effects. This paper analyses the aircraft flow through the Airport Transit View framework, focusing on the airspace/airside integrated operations. In this analysis, we use a dynamic spatial boundary associated with the Extended Terminal Manoeuvring Area concept. Aircraft operations are characterised by different temporal milestones, which arise from the combination of a Business Process Model for the aircraft flow and the Airport Collaborative Decision-Making methodology. Relationships between factors influencing aircraft processes are evaluated to create a probabilistic graphical model, using a Bayesian network approach. This model manages uncertainty and increases predictability, hence improving the system’s robustness. The methodology is validated through a case study at the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, through the collection of nearly 34,000 turnaround operations. We present several lessons learned regarding delay propagation, time saturation, uncertainty precursors and system recovery. The contribution of the paper is two-fold: it presents a novel methodological approach for tackling uncertainty when linking inbound and outbound flights and it also provides insight on the interdependencies among factors driving performance.
Optimal Level of Woody Biomass Co-Firing with Coal Power Plant Considering Advanced Feedstock Logistics System
Authors: Ko Sangpil , Lautala Pasi
Published: June 2018

Co-firing from woody biomass feedstock is one of the alternatives toward increased use of renewable feedstock in existing coal power plants. However, the economic level of co-firing at a particular power plant depends on several site-specific factors. Torrefaction has been identified recently as a promising biomass pretreatment option to lead to reduction of the feedstock delivered cost, and thus facilitate an increase in the co-firing ratio. In this study, a mixed integer linear program (MILP) is developed to integrate supply chain of co-firing and torrefaction process and find the optimal level of biomass co-firing in terms of minimized transportation and logistics costs, with or without tax credits. A case study of 26 existing coal power plants in three Great Lakes States of the US is used to test the model. The results reveal that torrefaction process can lead to higher levels of co-firing, but without the tax credit, the effect is limited to the low capacity of power plants. The sensitivity analysis shows that co-firing ratio has higher sensitivity to variation in capital and operation costs of torrefaction than to the variation in the transportation and feedstock purchase costs.
Water-Stressed Loquat Trees Need More Time and Heat to Ripen Their Fruits
Authors: Cuevas Julián , Pinillos Virginia , Pérez-Macías Mercedes , Alonso Francisca , González Mónica , Hueso Juan José
Published: June 2018

To determine if water-stressed trees need more time and heat to mature their fruits, we compared chronological and thermal time from bloom to harvest among control fully-irrigated ‘Algerie’ loquat trees and trees suffering prior-to-bloom deficit irrigation (DI). Heat requirement calculation was performed using the double sine method with a lower threshold temperature of 3 °C. The results show that the greater the blooming advancement achieved by DI, the longer the period to mature the fruits. Such a pattern indicates that the longer duration for bloom-harvest period under DI is due to a displacement of the reproductive phenology to cooler dates. However, some effects of DI on heat requirements for ripening persist, indicating a slower fruit development in some, but not all, DI treatments. The differences in fruit development rate between fully-irrigated and water-stressed trees were established during the phase of rapid fruit growth. The comparison of water stress effects on sink (flower size and seed number) and source (leaf number and size, gas exchange and mineral and carbohydrate nutrition) of DI treatments seems to indicate that the amount of stored reserves in the leaves to sustain early fruit development is the most plausible reason behind the increase in thermal time between bloom and harvest in water-stressed loquats.
Early Feed Restriction Programs Metabolic Disorders in Fattening Merino Lambs
Authors: Frutos Javier , Andrés Sonia , Trevisi Erminio , Yáñez-Ruiz David , López Secundino , Santos Alba , Giráldez F.
Published: June 2018

Early postnatal nutrition may have a significant subsequent impact on metabolic disorders during the entire lifespan of lambs. The aim of the present study was to describe the changes in biochemical, immunological, hepatic, and ruminal parameters of fattening lambs derived from early feed restriction during the suckling phase. Twenty-four merino lambs (average body weight, BW, 4.81 ± 0.256 kg) were used, 12 of them were milk-fed ad libitum (ADL) remaining permanently with their dams, whereas the other 12 lambs (restricted, RES) were subjected to milk restriction. After weaning, all the lambs were fed 35 g/kg BW per day of the same complete pelleted diet to ensure no differences between groups in dry matter intake (603 vs. 607 g/day for ADL and RES lambs, respectively, p = 0.703), and were slaughtered at a BW of 27 kg. Biochemical profiles revealed higher concentrations of ceruloplasmin and low-density lipoproteins, whereas insulin concentration was lower in the RES lambs compared to the ADL group. Liver thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were lower in the RES lambs. No significant differences in ruminal or blood immunological parameters were found. In conclusion, early feed restriction promoted metabolic disorders not related to ruminal acidosis occurrence, which can compromise the health status during the fattening period of merino lambs.
Anti-Drug Antibodies: Emerging Approaches to Predict, Reduce or Reverse Biotherapeutic Immunogenicity
Authors: Pratt Kathleen P.
Published: June 2018

The development of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) following administration of biotherapeutics to patients is a vexing problem that is attracting increasing attention from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. This serious clinical problem is also spawning creative research into novel approaches to predict, avoid, and in some cases even reverse such deleterious immune responses. CD4+ T cells are essential players in the development of most ADAs, while memory B-cell and long-lived plasma cells amplify and maintain these responses. This review summarizes methods to predict and experimentally identify T-cell and B-cell epitopes in therapeutic proteins, with a particular focus on blood coagulation factor VIII (FVIII), whose immunogenicity is clinically significant and is the subject of intensive current research. Methods to phenotype ADA responses in humans are described, including T-cell stimulation assays, and both established and novel approaches to determine the titers, epitopes and isotypes of the ADAs themselves. Although rational protein engineering can reduce the immunogenicity of many biotherapeutics, complementary, novel approaches to induce specific tolerance, especially during initial exposures, are expected to play significant roles in future efforts to reduce or reverse these unwanted immune responses.
Efficient Implementations of Four-Dimensional GLV-GLS Scalar Multiplication on 8-Bit, 16-Bit, and 32-Bit Microcontrollers
Authors: Kwon Jihoon , Seo Seog Chung , Hong Seokhie
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we present the first constant-time implementations of four-dimensional Gallant–Lambert–Vanstone and Galbraith–Lin–Scott (GLV-GLS) scalar multiplication using curve Ted 127 - glv 4 on 8-bit AVR, 16-bit MSP430, and 32-bit ARM processors. In Asiacrypt 2012, Longa and Sica introduced the four-dimensional GLV-GLS scalar multiplication, and they reported the implementation results on Intel processors. However, they did not consider efficient implementations on resource-constrained embedded devices. We have optimized the performance of scalar multiplication using curve Ted 127 - glv 4 on 8-bit AVR, 16-bit MSP430, and 32-bit ARM processors. Our implementations compute a variable-base scalar multiplication in 6,856,026, 4,158,453, and 447,836 cycles on AVR, MSP430, and ARM Cortex-M4 processors, respectively. Recently, Four Q -based scalar multiplication has provided the fastest implementation results on AVR, MSP430, and ARM Cortex-M4 processors to date. Compared to Four Q -based scalar multiplication, the proposed implementations require 4.49% more computational cost on AVR, but save 2.85% and 4.61% cycles on MSP430 and ARM, respectively. Our 16-bit and 32-bit implementation results set new speed records for variable-base scalar multiplication.
Optically Transparent Nano-Patterned Antennas: A Review and Future Directions
Authors: Lee Seung Yoon , Choo Moogoong , Jung Sohyeon , Hong Wonbin
Published: June 2018

Transparent antennas have been continuously developed for integration with solar cells, vehicular communications, and ultra-high-speed communications such as 5G in recent years. A transparent antenna takes advantage of spatial extensibility more so than all other antennas in terms of wide range of usable area. In addition, the production price of transparent antennas is steadily decreasing due to the development of nano-process technology. This paper reviews published studies of transparent antennas classified by various materials in terms of optical transmittance and electrical, sheet resistance. The transparent electrodes for the transparent antenna are logically classified and the transparent antennas are described according to the characteristics of each electrode. Finally, the contributions transparent antennas can make toward next-generation 5G high-speed communication are discussed.
The Third and Fourth Workshops on Spectral Line Shapes in Plasma Code Comparison: Isolated Lines
Authors: Sahal-Bréchot Sylvie , Stambulchik Evgeny , Dimitrijević Milan S. , Alexiou Spiros , Duan Bin , Bommier Véronique
Published: June 2018

The purpose of the Spectral Line Shapes in Plasmas (SLSP) code comparison workshop is to compare different computational and analytical methods, in order to pinpoint sources of disagreements, infer limits of applicability, and assess accuracy. The present paper reviews a part of the results of the third (2015) and fourth (2017) workshops related to isolated lines.
MgO-Templated Mesoporous Carbon as a Catalyst Support for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
Authors: Kamitaka Yuji , Takeshita Tomohiro , Morimoto Yu
Published: June 2018

An MgO-templated mesoporous carbon, CNovel®, was employed as a catalyst support for the cathode of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) after modifying its dimensional, crystalline, surface and porous structures and the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activities were examined by the thin-film rotating disk electrode (RDE) method and as well as the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) method. Although the catalytic activity of Pt on CNovel® was comparable with that on a non-porous carbon, Vulcan®, in the RDE configuration without Nafion®, Pt/CNovel showed a considerably higher activity than Pt/Vulcan in the MEA condition with Nafion®. The mechanism inducing this difference was discussed from the results of electrochemical surface area and sulfonic coverage measurements which suggested that Pt particles on inside pores of CNovel® are not covered with Nafion® ionomer while protons can still reach those Pt particles through water network. The MEA performance in the middle and high current-density regions was drastically improved by heat-treatment in air, which modified the pore structure to through-pored ones.
B Cells and B Cell Blasts Withstand Cryopreservation While Retaining Their Functionality for Producing Antibody
Authors: Fecher Philipp , Caspell Richard , Naeem Villian , Karulin Alexey Y. , Kuerten Stefanie , Lehmann Paul V.
Published: June 2018

In individuals who have once developed humoral immunity to an infectious/foreign antigen, the antibodies present in their body can mediate instant protection when the antigen re-enters. Such antigen-specific antibodies can be readily detected in the serum. Long term humoral immunity is, however, also critically dependent on the ability of memory B cells to engage in a secondary antibody response upon re-exposure to the antigen. Antibody molecules in the body are short lived, having a half-life of weeks, while memory B cells have a life span of decades. Therefore, the presence of serum antibodies is not always a reliable indicator of B cell memory and comprehensive monitoring of humoral immunity requires that both serum antibodies and memory B cells be assessed. The prevailing view is that resting memory B cells and B cell blasts in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cannot be cryopreserved without losing their antibody secreting function, and regulated high throughput immune monitoring of B cell immunity is therefore confined to—and largely limited by—the need to test freshly isolated PBMC. Using optimized protocols for freezing and thawing of PBMC, and four color ImmunoSpot® analysis for the simultaneous detection of all immunoglobulin classes/subclasses we show here that both resting memory B cells and B cell blasts retain their ability to secrete antibody after thawing, and thus demonstrate the feasibility of B cell immune monitoring using cryopreserved PBMC.
Remarkable Progress with Small-Molecule Modulation of TRPC1/4/5 Channels: Implications for Understanding the Channels in Health and Disease
Authors: Minard Aisling , Bauer Claudia C. , Wright David J. , Rubaiy Hussein N. , Muraki Katsuhiko , Beech David J. , Bon Robin S.
Published: June 2018

Proteins of the TRPC family can form many homo- and heterotetrameric cation channels permeable to Na+, K+ and Ca2+. In this review, we focus on channels formed by the isoforms TRPC1, TRPC4 and TRPC5. We review evidence for the formation of different TRPC1/4/5 tetramers, give an overview of recently developed small-molecule TRPC1/4/5 activators and inhibitors, highlight examples of biological roles of TRPC1/4/5 channels in different tissues and pathologies, and discuss how high-quality chemical probes of TRPC1/4/5 modulators can be used to understand the involvement of TRPC1/4/5 channels in physiological and pathophysiological processes.
Dislocations and Plastic Deformation in MgO Crystals: A Review
Authors: Amodeo Jonathan , Merkel Sébastien , Tromas Christophe , Carrez Philippe , Korte-Kerzel Sandra , Cordier Patrick , Chevalier Jérôme
Published: June 2018

This review paper focuses on dislocations and plastic deformation in magnesium oxide crystals. MgO is an archetype ionic ceramic with refractory properties which is of interest in several fields of applications such as ceramic materials fabrication, nano-scale engineering and Earth sciences. In its bulk single crystal shape, MgO can deform up to few percent plastic strain due to dislocation plasticity processes that strongly depend on external parameters such as pressure, temperature, strain rate, or crystal size. This review describes how a combined approach of macro-mechanical tests, multi-scale modeling, nano-mechanical tests, and high pressure experiments and simulations have progressively helped to improve our understanding of MgO mechanical behavior and elementary dislocation-based processes under stress.
Central Nervous System Aspergillosis: An Unexpected Complication following Neurosurgery
Authors: Gonzales Zamora Jose Armando , Henry Zachary , Gultekin Sakir Humayun
Published: June 2018

Post-surgical aspergillosis is an uncommon complication that carries a high mortality rate in affected patients. The diagnosis is challenging given the lack of highly sensitive methods to isolate Aspergillus from surgical sites. Here, we present a case of post-surgical aspergillosis that occurred after the resection of acoustic neuroma in an immunocompetent patient. Imaging revealed leptomeningeal enhancement and a cerebellar extra-axial fluid collection adjacent to the right retrosigmoid craniotomy. The patient was taken to the operating room for debridement, where purulent fluid was obtained from subdural space. The diagnosis was achieved by histopathology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in brain tissue. Appropriate investigations failed to detect contamination in the operating room. The patient was successfully treated with 3 months of voriconazole. We highlight the importance of recognizing this uncommon complication and advocate for the use of molecular techniques to improve the diagnostic yield in central nervous system aspergillosis.
Development of Reclosing Method in a Distribution System with Distributed Generation and Battery Energy Storage System
Authors: Seo Hun-Chul
Published: June 2018

The connection of distributed generation (DG) and a battery energy storage system (BESS) in distribution systems has recently been increasing. However, little research has been conducted on the reclosing of the distribution system when both the DG and BESS are connected. Therefore, this paper proposes a new reclosing method for a distribution system with a DG and BESS. The proposed method also has a circuit breaker (CB) installed in the distribution line. A CB close to the DG and BESS is first reclosed after a fixed dead time and, then, the fault clearance is detected using the current flowing to the fault point. Once the fault is cleared, the reclosing of the CB at the source side is attempted after completing a synchronism check. The proposed method is modeled using an electromagnetic transient program. We perform various simulations according to the capacities of the DG and the fault clearance time, and analyze the simulation results. The simulation results show that steady-state power is supplied to the load from the DG and BESS before reclosing to prevent outage, and that the reclosing is successfully performed.
Time-Domain Voltage Sag State Estimation Based on the Unscented Kalman Filter for Power Systems with Nonlinear Components
Authors: Cisneros-Magaña Rafael , Medina Aurelio , Anaya-Lara Olimpo
Published: June 2018

This paper proposes a time-domain methodology based on the unscented Kalman filter to estimate voltage sags and their characteristics, such as magnitude and duration in power systems represented by nonlinear models. Partial and noisy measurements from the electrical network with nonlinear loads, used as data, are assumed. The characteristics of voltage sags can be calculated in a discrete form with the unscented Kalman filter to estimate all the busbar voltages; being possible to determine the rms voltage magnitude and the voltage sag starting and ending time, respectively. Voltage sag state estimation results can be used to obtain the power quality indices for monitored and unmonitored busbars in the power grid and to design adequate mitigating techniques. The proposed methodology is successfully validated against the results obtained with the time-domain system simulation for the power system with nonlinear components, being the normalized root mean square error less than 3%.
Carbon Footprint of Electricity Generation in Brazil: An Analysis of the 2016–2026 Period
Authors: Barros Murillo Vetroni , Piekarski Cassiano Moro , De Francisco Antonio Carlos
Published: June 2018

The present paper aims to evaluate the past and future environmental performance of the electricity generation in Brazil in terms of Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Global Temperature Potential (GTP). To that end, the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tool was used to evaluate the system’s environmental performance, based on ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, using the Ecoinvent v 3.3 database. This study provides data on global warming by the GWP and GTP 100 years impact category. The functional unit and reference flow is kWh. The model was applied to the electricity generation in Brazil for the years 2016–2026 using Umberto NXT Universal software. The results indicate that the greatest environmental impacts lie on generation sources such as oil, natural gas, hydropower and hard coal. Carbon dioxide was the main contributor to atmospheric emissions in the life cycle of the Brazilian electricity matrix in 2016 and 2026. The total potential impact (and per kWh) is expected to decrease until 2021. The Brazilian electricity matrix is expected to be less pollutant in terms of carbon footprint until 2021. The study can contribute to directing public policies, promoting development actions and encouraging different electricity matrices.
DNA Methylation Suppression by Bhendi Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus
Authors: Babu Kandhalu Sagadevan Dinesh , Guria Ashirbad , Karanthamalai Jeyalakshmi , Srikakulam Nagesh , Kumari Kamlesh , Sharma Priyanka , Chandran Sam Aldrin , Barnabas Anburaj Daniel , Tennyson Jebasingh , Pandi Gopal
Published: June 2018

Bhendi yellow vein mosaic virus (BYVMV) belongs to the monopartite begomovirus associated with the β satellite. As a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) virus, it should be amenable to transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene silencing (TGS and PTGS). Previously, we had demonstrated C2, C4 and βC1 to be having different levels of influence on PTGS. Hence in the present study, a series of experiments such as agroinfiltration, chop-polymerase chain reaction (PCR), quantitative PCR (qPCR) and bisulfite next generation sequencing (NGS) were designed to analyse the involvement of BYVMV proteins on DNA methylation suppression. From the preliminary studies, we concluded that BYVMV genes were responsible for TGS suppression and C2, C4 genes from BYVMV were selected for further studies. Agroinfiltration experiments with mutant C2 and C4 partial tandem repeat (PTR) constructs of BYVMV have confirmed the role of C2 and C4 in DNA methylation impairment. The protoplast replication assay has shown that C4 was not an impediment for viral DNA replication and subsequent agroinfiltration studies with the C4 mutant BYVMV PTR construct have revealed the involvement of C4 in viral DNA movement.
A Historical Review of the Development of Electronic Textiles
Authors: Hughes-Riley Theodore , Dias Tilak , Cork Colin
Published: June 2018

Textiles have been at the heart of human technological progress for thousands of years, with textile developments closely tied to key inventions that have shaped societies. The relatively recent invention of electronic textiles is set to push boundaries again and has already opened up the potential for garments relevant to defense, sports, medicine, and health monitoring. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the key innovative pathways in the development of electronic textiles to date using sources available in the public domain regarding electronic textiles (E-textiles); this includes academic literature, commercialized products, and published patents. The literature shows that electronics can be integrated into textiles, where integration is achieved by either attaching the electronics onto the surface of a textile, electronics are added at the textile manufacturing stage, or electronics are incorporated at the yarn stage. Methods of integration can have an influence on the textiles properties such as the drapability of the textile.
Modeling the Heterogeneity of Dengue Transmission in a City
Authors: Kong Lingcai , Wang Jinfeng , Li Zhongjie , Lai Shengjie , Liu Qiyong , Wu Haixia , Yang Weizhong
Published: June 2018

Dengue fever is one of the most important vector-borne diseases in the world, and modeling its transmission dynamics allows for determining the key influence factors and helps to perform interventions. The heterogeneity of mosquito bites of humans during the spread of dengue virus is an important factor that should be considered when modeling the dynamics. However, traditional models generally assumed homogeneous mixing between humans and vectors, which is inconsistent with reality. In this study, we proposed a compartmental model with negative binomial distribution transmission terms to model this heterogeneity at the population level. By including the aquatic stage of mosquitoes and incorporating the impacts of the environment and climate factors, an extended model was used to simulate the 2014 dengue outbreak in Guangzhou, China, and to simulate the spread of dengue in different scenarios. The results showed that a high level of heterogeneity can result in a small peak size in an outbreak. As the level of heterogeneity decreases, the transmission dynamics approximate the dynamics predicted by the corresponding homogeneous mixing model. The simulation results from different scenarios showed that performing interventions early and decreasing the carrying capacity for mosquitoes are necessary for preventing and controlling dengue epidemics. This study contributes to a better understanding of the impact of heterogeneity during the spread of dengue virus.
Impact of Housing and Community Conditions on Multidimensional Health among Middle- and Low-Income Groups in Hong Kong
Authors: Wang Jionghua , Huang Bo , Zhang Ting , Wong Hung , Huang Yifan
Published: June 2018

With decades of urbanization, housing and community problems (e.g., poor ventilation and lack of open public spaces) have become important social determinants of health that require increasing attention worldwide. Knowledge regarding the link between health and these problems can provide crucial evidence for building healthy communities. However, this link has heretofore not been identified in Hong Kong, and few studies have compared the health impact of housing and community conditions across different income groups. To overcome this gap, we hypothesize that the health impact of housing and community problems may vary across income groups and across health dimensions. We tested these hypotheses using cross-sectional survey data from Hong Kong. Several health outcomes, e.g., chronic diseases and the SF-12 v. 2 mental component summary scores, were correlated with a few types of housing and community problems, while other outcomes, such as the DASS-21–Stress scores, were sensitive to a broader range of problems. The middle- and low-income group was more severely affected by poor built environments. These results can be used to identify significant problems in the local built environment, especially amongst the middle- and low-income group.
Associations between the Objectively Measured Office Environment and Workplace Step Count and Sitting Time: Cross-Sectional Analyses from the Active Buildings Study
Authors: Fisher Abi , Ucci Marcella , Smith Lee , Sawyer Alexia , Spinney Richard , Konstantatou Marina , Marmot Alexi
Published: June 2018

Office-based workers spend a large proportion of the day sitting and tend to have low overall activity levels. Despite some evidence that features of the external physical environment are associated with physical activity, little is known about the influence of the spatial layout of the internal environment on movement, and the majority of data use self-report. This study investigated associations between objectively-measured sitting time and activity levels and the spatial layout of office floors in a sample of UK office-based workers. Participants wore activPAL accelerometers for at least three consecutive workdays. Primary outcomes were steps and proportion of sitting time per working hour. Primary exposures were office spatial layout, which was objectively-measured by deriving key spatial variables: ‘distance from each workstation to key office destinations’, ‘distance from participant’s workstation to all other workstations’, ‘visibility of co-workers’, and workstation ‘closeness’. 131 participants from 10 organisations were included. Fifty-four per cent were female, 81% were white, and the majority had a managerial or professional role (72%) in their organisation. The average proportion of the working hour spent sitting was 0.7 (SD 0.15); participants took on average 444 (SD 210) steps per working hour. Models adjusted for confounders revealed significant negative associations between step count and distance from each workstation to all other office destinations (e.g., B = −4.66, 95% CI: −8.12, −1.12, p < 0.01) and nearest office destinations (e.g., B = −6.45, 95% CI: −11.88, −0.41, p < 0.05) and visibility of workstations when standing (B = −2.35, 95% CI: −3.53, −1.18, p < 0.001). The magnitude of these associations was small. There were no associations between spatial variables and sitting time per work hour. Contrary to our hypothesis, the further participants were from office destinations the less they walked, suggesting that changing the relative distance between workstations and other destinations on the same floor may not be the most fruitful target for promoting walking and reducing sitting in the workplace. However, reported effect sizes were very small and based on cross-sectional analyses. The approaches developed in this study could be applied to other office buildings to establish whether a specific office typology may yield more promising results.
A Systematic Review of Attention Biases in Opioid, Cannabis, Stimulant Use Disorders
Authors: Zhang Melvyn , Ying Jiangbo , Wing Tracey , Song Guo , Fung Daniel S. S. , Smith Helen
Published: June 2018

Background: Opiates, cannabis, and amphetamines are highly abused, and use of these substances are prevalent disorders. Psychological interventions are crucial given that they help individuals maintain abstinence following a lapse or relapse into substance use. Advances in experimental psychology have suggested that automatic attention biases might be responsible for relapse. Prior reviews have provided evidence for the presence of these biases in addictive disorders and the effectiveness of bias modification. However, the prior studies are limited, as they failed to include trials involving participants with these prevalent addictive disorders or have failed to adopt a systematic approach in evidence synthesis. Objectives: The primary aim of this current systematic review is to synthesise the current evidence for attention biases amongst opioid use, cannabis use, and stimulant use disorders. The secondary aim is to determine the efficacy of attention bias modification interventions and other addictions related outcomes. Methods: A search was conducted from November 2017 to January 2018 on PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Science Direct, Cochrane Central, and Scopus. The selection process of the articles was in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. A qualitative synthesis was undertaken. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results: Six randomised trials were identified. The evidence synthesized from these trials have provided strong evidence that attentional biases are present in opioid and stimulant use disorders. Evidence synthesis for other secondary outcome measures could not be performed given the heterogeneity in the measures reported and the limited number of trials. The risk of bias assessment for the included trials revealed a high risk of selection and attrition bias. Conclusions: This review demonstrates the potential need for interventions targeting attention biases in opiate and cocaine use disorders.
Hunting, Sale, and Consumption of Bushmeat Killed by Lead-Based Ammunition in Benin
Authors: Ahmadi Shukrullah , Maman Suzanne , Zoumenou Roméo , Massougbodji Achille , Cot Michel , Glorennec Philippe , Bodeau-Livinec Florence
Published: June 2018

Human consumption of animal meat killed by lead ammunition has been reported as a risk factor for elevated blood lead levels. However, little is known about how meat killed by lead ammunition is hunted, prepared, sold, and consumed. We explored the process from hunting to consumption within communities in Benin from the perspective of preventive measures. We conducted 38 semi-structured interviews with hunters (n = 9) and sellers (n = 8) of bushmeat and families (n = 21) as consumers of bushmeat killed by lead ammunition. Data were transcribed, translated, and coded for analysis. We conducted content analysis to identify and describe key themes and processes from hunting to consumption. Many hunters (n = 7/9) used lead-based ammunition. After the meat is hunted, market sellers often buy it directly from the hunters. Amongst the hunters and sellers, few (n = 4/17) acknowledged removing the meat impacted by lead shot prior to sale. Many families (n = 15/21) mentioned consumption of the hunted bushmeat. The meat is cooked before sharing with children. Many families (n = 19/21) mentioned they look for the remains of the lead shot or remove the meat impacted by the shot. The finding suggests that hunting, sale, and consumption of bushmeat killed by lead ammunition are well-known practices in Allada, Benin. The bushmeat often hunted illegally with lead shot is sold in the markets and eventually consumed by families who attempt to clean the meat impacted by the lead shot before cooking it.
An Interactive Model among Potential Human Risk Factors: 331 Cases of Coal Mine Roof Accidents in China
Authors: Tong Ruipeng , Zhai Cunli , Jia Qingli , Wu Chunlin , Liu Yan , Xue Surui
Published: June 2018

In order to explore optimal strategies for managing potential human risk factors, this paper developed an interactive model among potential human risk factors based on the development processes of accidents. This model was divided into four stages, i.e., risk latency stage, risk accumulation stage, risk explosion stage and risk residue stage. Based on this model, this paper analyzed risk management procedures and relevant personal’s responsibility in each stage, and then probed into the interactive mechanism among human risk factors in three aspects, i.e., knowledge, information and communication. The validity and feasibility of the model was validated by analyzing a coal mine roof accident in China. In addition, the contribution of different functional levels’ personnel in risk evolution was discussed. It showed that this model can effectively reveal the interactive mechanism of potential human risk factors, and can thus give significant insights into the development of risk management theories and practices. It also proves that the contribution of different functional levels’ personnel in the model is different. This can further help practitioners design enhanced Behavioral-Based Safety (BBS) intervention approaches which can have a more sustainable and persistent impact on corporate personnel’s safety behavior. Specific recommendations and suggestions are provided fundamentally for future BBS practices in the coal mine industry.
Mir-34a-5p Mediates Cross-Talk between M2 Muscarinic Receptors and Notch-1/EGFR Pathways in U87MG Glioblastoma Cells: Implication in Cell Proliferation
Authors: Di Bari Maria , Bevilacqua Valeria , De Jaco Antonella , Laneve Pietro , Piovesana Roberta , Trobiani Laura , Talora Claudio , Caffarelli Elisa , Tata Ada Maria
Published: June 2018

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive human brain tumor. The high growth potential and decreased susceptibility to apoptosis of the glioma cells is mainly dependent on genetic amplifications or mutations of oncogenic or pro-apoptotic genes, respectively. We have previously shown that the activation of the M2 acetylcholine muscarinic receptors inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in two GBM cell lines and cancer stem cells. The aim of this study was to delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying the M2-mediated cell proliferation arrest. Exploiting U87MG and U251MG cell lines as model systems, we evaluated the ability of M2 receptors to interfere with Notch-1 and EGFR pathways, whose activation promotes GBM proliferation. We demonstrated that the activation of M2 receptors, by agonist treatment, counteracted Notch and EGFR signaling, through different regulatory cascades depending, at least in part, on p53 status. Only in U87MG cells, which mimic p53-wild type GBMs, did M2 activation trigger a molecular circuitry involving p53, Notch-1, and the tumor suppressor mir-34a-5p. This regulatory module negatively controls Notch-1, which affects cell proliferation mainly through the Notch-1/EGFR axis. Our data highlighted, for the first time, a molecular circuitry that is deregulated in the p53 wild type GBM, based on the cross-talk between M2 receptor and the Notch-1/EGFR pathways, mediated by mir-34a-5p.
Use of Curcumin, a Natural Polyphenol for Targeting Molecular Pathways in Treating Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Maiti Panchanan , Dunbar Gary
Published: June 2018

Progressive accumulation of misfolded amyloid proteins in intracellular and extracellular spaces is one of the principal reasons for synaptic damage and impairment of neuronal communication in several neurodegenerative diseases. Effective treatments for these diseases are still lacking but remain the focus of much active investigation. Despite testing several synthesized compounds, small molecules, and drugs over the past few decades, very few of them can inhibit aggregation of amyloid proteins and lessen their neurotoxic effects. Recently, the natural polyphenol curcumin (Cur) has been shown to be a promising anti-amyloid, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agent for several neurodegenerative diseases. Because of its pleotropic actions on the central nervous system, including preferential binding to amyloid proteins, Cur is being touted as a promising treatment for age-related brain diseases. Here, we focus on molecular targeting of Cur to reduce amyloid burden, rescue neuronal damage, and restore normal cognitive and sensory motor functions in different animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. We specifically highlight Cur as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and prion diseases. In addition, we discuss the major issues and limitations of using Cur for treating these diseases, along with ways of circumventing those shortcomings. Finally, we provide specific recommendations for optimal dosing with Cur for treating neurological diseases.
Species Composition, Abundance and Seasonal Phenology of Social Wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) in Wisconsin Vineyards
Authors: Guédot Christelle , Hietala-Henschell Katie , Lois Abby N.
Published: June 2018

Social wasps can be serious pests in fruit growing plantings and are becoming increasingly problematic for grape growers. In this study, we conducted two experiments to assess the species composition and seasonal phenology of social wasps in Wisconsin vineyards in 2015 and 2017. In 2015, three attractants were used: (1) wine; (2) heptyl butyrate (HB); and (3) acetic acid and isobutanol (AAIB) and in 2017, two attractants were used: HB and AAIB. In both years, the same eight species were trapped from the genera Vespula, Dolichovespula, and Polistes. The predominant wasp species trapped were Vespula maculifrons, Vespula vidua, Vespula flavopilosa, and Vespula germanica in 2015 and V. maculifrons, V. flavopilosa, V. germanica, and Dolichovespula maculata in 2017, in order of total abundance. The populations of V. vidua decreased in 2017 compared to 2015, indicating large inter-annual variation. In both years, AAIB lures trapped significantly more V. flavopilosa, V. maculifrons, and V. germanica, the three most prevalent species during grape harvest, than HB, whereas HB lures trapped more V. vidua than AAIB. Wine was generally attractive to all species in 2015. This study identifies for the first time the wasp species present in Wisconsin commercial vineyards using chemical attractants. This knowledge, along with the seasonal phenology of these pest species, will help facilitate the development of management strategies for social wasps in commercial vineyards.
Changes in Endothelial Function after Acute Resistance Exercise Using Free Weights
Authors: Tai Yu Lun , Marshall Erica M. , Parks Jason C. , Mayo Xian , Glasgow Alaina , Kingsley J. Derek
Published: June 2018

We determined the effects of an acute bout of free-weight resistance exercise (ARE) on cardiovascular hemodynamics and endothelial function in resistance-trained individuals. Nineteen young, healthy, resistance-trained individuals performed two randomized sessions consisting of ARE or a quiet control (CON). The ARE consisted of three sets of 10 repetitions at 75% 1-repetition maximum for the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Cardiovascular hemodynamics was assessed using finger photoplethysmography. Forearm blood flow (FBF), and vasodilatory capacity markers, were assessed using venous occlusion plethysmography. Forearm vascular conductance was calculated by the division of mean FBF by mean arterial pressure. A two-way ANOVA was used to compare the effects of condition (ARE, CON) across time (rest, recovery). There were significant (p ≤ 0.05) decreases in mean arterial pressure and total peripheral resistance across conditions and time. There were significant condition-by-time interactions (p ≤ 0.05) for heart rate, stroke volume, and cardiac output after the ARE compared to the CON and rest. FBF was significantly (p = 0.001) increased during the recovery from ARE, as well as vasodilatory capacity markers such as peak blood flow (p = 0.05) and reactive hyperemia-induced blood flow (p = 0.0001). These data suggest that whole-body free-weight exercises acutely reduced blood pressure while simultaneously augmenting FBF, and vasodilatory capacity markers.
Morphotypological Prevalence of Individuals Assessed by the Method of Global Postural Reeducation by Proprioceptive and Muscular Rebalancing (GPR/PMR)
Authors: Silva de Souza Nélio , Ramos Barcellos Renan , G. Martins Ana Carolina , M. M. Vianna da Rosa Glória , A. Araújo Leite Marco , P. Ayres da Silva Carla , Teixeira Silmar , Hugo Bastos Victor
Published: June 2018

Introduction: Postural control integrates information from the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems, controlling the body position in space. Global Posture Reeducation (GPR) is a clinically well-accepted method that mainly addresses the proprioceptive component of this postural system. Although the GPR presents relevant evidence, the postural morphotypology prevalence in the general population is not yet known. Objective: To investigate the morphotypological profile prevalence of individuals evaluated with the GPR method by proprioceptive and muscular rebalancing (GPR/PMR). Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed (prevalence analysis) of patients evaluated by the GPR/PMR method at the Physiotherapy School Clinic of the Serra dos Órgãos University Center. The morphotypological evaluation data were collected and stored in a spreadsheet using the Microsoft Office Excel® program, where the prevalence of each morphotypology (opening, closing, and mixed) was calculated. Results: A total of 123 evaluation sheets were analyzed, of which 50 were men (41%) and 74 were women (59%) with a mean age of 46 years. In the morphotypological diagnosis, the following values were observed: closing (n = 107; 87%); opening (n = 6; 5%) and mixed (n = 9; 7%). The postural diagnosis in closing (87%) presented a statistically significant difference, when compared to the morphotypologies in opening (p < 0.0001) and mixed (p < 0.0001). Few subjects in the sample (n = 5), presented a relation between the mixed work position (standing and sitting) and the mixed morphotypology (p < 0.005). Conclusion: The morphotypological profile of the analyzed population appears to be in closing and does not correlate with the individual’s work position.