bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Factors Influencing the Vehicle Damage Level in Fatal Truck-Related Accidents and Differences in Rural and Urban Areas
Authors: Linchao Li , Fratrović Tomislav
Published: September 2016

Accidents involving large trucks very often end up with deadly consequences. Innocent people getting killed are acknowledged globally as one of the traffic safety greatest problems and challenges. While risk factors on truck-related accidents have been researched extensively, the impact on fatalities has received little or no attention, especially considering rural and urban areas, respectively. In this study, the generalized ordered logit model was used in Stata 11.0 to explore the complex mechanism of truck-related accidents in different areas. Data were obtained from The Trucks in Fatal Accidents database (TIFA). The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) indicates that the model used in this paper is superior to traditional ordered logit model. The results showed that 9 variables affect the vehicle damage level in a fatal crash in both areas but with different directions. Furthermore, 23 indicators significantly affect the disabling damage in the same manner. Also, there are factors that are significant solely in one area and not in the other: 12 in rural and 2 in urban areas.
Determination of temperature dependences of material constants for lead-free (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3–Ba2NaNb5O15 piezoceramics by inverse method
Authors: Yoshida Katsuya , Kakimoto Ken-ichi , Weiß Manuel , Rupitsch Stefan J. , Lerch Reinhard
Published: September 2016

The enhancement of the piezoelectric, dielectric, and elastic properties of lead-free piezoceramics is essential to achieving a usable alternative to common lead-based piezoceramics. In this contribution, the temperature dependences of the material constants for 0.985(Na0.5K0.5)NbO3–0.015Ba2NaNb5O15 (NKN–1.5BNN) were characterized and compared with those of MnO-doped (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3 (NKN–Mn). The material constants were determined by the simulation-based inverse method. As a result, NKN–Mn and NKN–1.5BNN were found to show significant differences in the temperature behaviors of piezoelectric, elastic, and dielectric constants. In particular, for temperatures less than 40 °C, material constants that mainly affect shear mode vibration in NKN–1.5BNN gradually increased with increasing temperature, whereas those of NKN–Mn remained constant because of a different crystal structure. In addition, we explain the observed mechanical softness of NKN–1.5BNN in the shear direction on the basis of characteristic material constant relations, macroscopic (scanning electron microscopy), and crystal structure examinations (X-ray diffractometry).
The inheritance of female colour polymorphism inIschnura genei(Zygoptera: Coenagrionidae),with observations on melanism under laboratory conditions
Authors: Sanmartín-Villar Iago , Cordero-Rivera Adolfo
Published: September 2016

Current research on female colour polymorphism inIschnuradamselflies suggests that a balanced fitness trade-off between morphotypes contributes to the maintenance of polymorphism inside populations. The genetic inheritance system constitutes a key factor to understand morph fluctuation and fitness.Ischnura genei, an endemic species of some Mediterranean islands, has three female colour morphs, including one androchrome (male-coloured) and two gynochromes. In this study, we reared two generations ofI. geneiunder laboratory conditions and tested male behavioural responses to female colour morphs in the field. We recorded ontogenetic colour changes and studied morph frequency in three populations from Sardinia (Italy). Morph frequencies of laboratory crosses can be explained by a model based on an autosomal locus with three alleles and sex-restricted expression, except for one crossing of 42 families with unexpected offspring. The allelic dominance relationship was androchrome >infuscans>aurantiaca. Old individuals reared in the laboratory exhibited different levels of melanism in variable extent depending on sex and morph. Results of model presentations indicate a male preference for gynochrome females and the lack of recognition of androchromes as potential mates.Aurantiacafemales were the most frequent morph in the field (63–87%). Further studies in other populations and islands are needed to understand the maintenance of this polymorphism.
Inferring extinction in North American and Hawaiian birds in the presence of sighting uncertainty
Authors: Roberts David L. , Jarić Ivan
Published: September 2016

For most species the timing of extinction events is uncertain, occurring sometime after the last sighting. However, the sightings themselves may also be uncertain. Recently a number of methods have been developed that incorporate sighting uncertainty in the inference of extinction based on a series of sightings. Here we estimate the timing of extinction for 41 of 52 North American and Hawaiian bird taxa and populations, the results of which suggest all became extinct before 2009. By acknowledging sighting uncertainty it results in two opposite effects, one pushing the timing of extinction away from the last sighting and the other drawing the timing of extinction nearer to it. However, for 14 assessed taxa and populations the upper 95% bounds lie beyond the end of the observation period and therefore suggest the possibility of continued persistence. This has important implications for conservation decision-makers and potentially reduces the likelihood of Romeo’s Error.
Classification of Carotid Plaque Echogenicity by Combining Texture Features and Morphologic Characteristics
Authors: Huang Xiaowei , Zhang Yanling , Qian Ming , Meng Long , Xiao Yang , Niu Lili , Zheng Rongqin , Zheng Hairong
Published: September 2016

Objectives

Anechoic carotid plaques on sonography have been used to predict future cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether carotid plaque echogenicity could be assessed objectively by combining texture features extracted by MaZda software (Institute of Electronics, Technical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland) and morphologic characteristics, which may provide a promising method for early prediction of acute cardiovascular disease.

Methods

A total of 268 plaque images were collected from 136 volunteers and classified into 85 hyperechoic, 83 intermediate, and 100 anechoic plaques. About 300 texture features were extracted from histogram, absolute gradient, run‐length matrix, gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix, autoregressive model, and wavelet transform algorithms by MaZda. The morphologic characteristics, including degree of stenosis, maximum plaque intima‐media thickness, and maximum plaque length, were measured by B‐mode sonography. Statistically significant features were selected by analysis of covariance. The most discriminative features were obtained from statistically significant features by linear discriminant analysis. The K‐nearest neighbor classifier was used to classify plaque echogenicity based on statistically significant and most discriminative features.

Results

A total of 30 statistically significant features were selected among the plaques, and 2 most discriminative features were obtained from the statistically significant features. The classification accuracy rates for 3 types of plaques based on statistically significant and most discriminative features were 72.03% (κ= 0.571; P < .001) and 88.14% (κ= 0.820; P < .001), respectively. The receiver operating characteristic curve for identifying anechoic plaques showed an area under the curve of 0.918 when the most discriminative features were used to train the classifier.

Conclusions

It is feasible to classify carotid plaque echogenicity by combining texture features extracted from sonograms by MaZda and morphologic characteristics.
Mental disorders that most affect university teachers: a study in a medical expertise service Transtornos mentais que mais acometem professores universitários: um estudo em um serviço de perícia médica
Authors: Batista Jaqueline Brito Vidal , Carlotto Mary Sandra , Oliveira Malu Nunes de , Zaccara Ana Aline Lacet , Barros Eveline de Oliveira , Duarte Marcella Costa Souto
Published: September 2016

Objetivos: identificar os transtornos mentais que mais provocam afastamento de docentes em uma instituição de ensino superior. Método: um estudo retrospectivo de natureza documental desenvolvido em instituição de ensino superior do município de João Pessoa – PB. A amostra foi constituída por 254 fichas de docentes atendidos em um serviço de perícia médica da instituição selecionada para o estudo. Os dados obtidos foram analisados quantitativamente por frequência e percentual. Resultados: quase toda a amostra foi composta por docentes do sexo feminino, com faixa etária entre 40 e 49 anos, e a depressão foi responsável por 53% dos afastamentos de professores, a esquizofrenia (12%), o transtorno bipolar (10%), a reação aguda ao estresse (8%), a ansiedade (7%), os transtornos delirantes (4%) e outros (8%). Conclusão: o transtorno mental que mais acomete a categoria docente pesquisada é a depressão. Portanto, são necessárias novas investigações que possam analisar a gravidade dessa problemática. Descritores: Saúde mental, Docentes, Doenças Profissionais.
Care for the elderly: factors that influence the performance of health professionals inprimary care Atenção à pessoa idosa: fatores que influenciam o desempenho dos profissionais de saúde na atenção básica
Authors: Almeida Silvana Tanalise Guedes , Souza Maria Augusta Medeiros de , Rodrigues Jailson Alberto , Silva Débora Cíntia Oliveira da , Nogueira Jordana de Almeida , Moreira Maria Adelaide Silva Paredes
Published: September 2016

Objetivo: analisar os fatores que influenciam o desempenho das equipes de saúde da família (ESF) na atenção a pessoa idosa na perspectiva da micro e mesogestão. Método: Estudo tipo inquérito, realizado em João Pessoa - PB, que envolveu 250 profissionais de saúde. Os dados foram coletados por fonte primária, utilizando-se um questionário contendo questões relacionadas à avaliação dos serviços de saúde na atenção ao idoso. Resultados: Quanto aos componentes da micro-gestão, 22,8% apontou falta de aperfeiçoamento para o trabalho com o idoso, baixa oferta de atividades grupais (26,4%), desarticulação da equipe (18,8%) e práticas pouco humanizadas (16,4%). Entre os componentes da esogestão, foram mencionadas inadequação e indisponibilidade de recursos materiais e humanos (16,4%/12,4%), inacessibilidade (28,4%); baixo cumprimento do princípio da integralidade (9,6%). Conclusão: Ampliar a capacidade resolutiva das ESF e potencializar as atribuições específicas da micro-gestão requer adequação tecnológica/estrutural das unidades, investimento em capacitação, inclusão social do idoso. Descritores: Pessoa idosa, Atenção Primária à Saúde, Avaliação de Serviços de saúde.
Look the nurse about the spirituality in care production Olhar do enfermeiro sobre a espiritualidade na produção do cuidado
Authors: Lima Maria do Rosário de Araújo , Nunes Maria Luísa de Almeida , Ouro Ana Cristina Correia , Klüppel Berta Lúcia Pinheiro , Sá Lenilde Duarte
Published: September 2016

Objetivo: este artigo aborda uma pesquisa de campo, desenvolvida em 2012, junto aos enfermeiros da atenção básica no município do Conde, Estado da Paraíba, onde sua população se declara 69% pardos/negros e 2% indígenas e amarelos. Método: Utilizou-se o método da História Oral Temática. Resultado: como resultado obteve-se quatro tendências de abordagens sobre a espiritualidade, a partir do olhar dos enfermeiros: a do tipo teológico, fundamentada nas crenças judaico-cristãs, foi predominante. Seguindo-se com a racionalizada/leiga; a de cunho energético e a de perspectiva libertadora. Conclusão: considera-se ser preciso avançar com as discussões acerca da espiritualidade e conteúdos afins, para clarificar os significados, as implicações e a subjetividade contida no processo de cuidado do ser humano, independente do grupo étnico ao qual pertença, da religião professada e da não opção por religião formal. É a espiritualidade, e não a religião, que compõe a alternativa de um novo paradigma civilizatório. Descritores: Enfermagem; Espiritualidade; Produção de cuidado.
The active ageing as life experience: narratives of elderly people O envelhecimento ativo como experiência de vida: narrativas de pessoas idosas
Authors: Soares Nanci , Silva Alcione Leite
Published: September 2016

Objetivo: Analisar a experiência de envelhecimento ativo na história de vida de pessoas idosas ativas, na cidade de Franca-SP. Método: Utilizamos a pesquisa bibliográfica, documental e de campo. Fizemos a abordagem qualitativa, optando pelo método história oral, pois este procura explicar os significados do cotidiano de maneira significativa através das histórias de vidas, recolhendo informações por meio de entrevista. Resultados: O referencial teórico-metodológico encontra-se nas seguintes categorias: 1)identidade na velhice: pessoa, sociabilidade e trabalho e 2) identidade e envelhecimento ativo. Discussão: As análises dos dados compreenderam três fases distintas: organização e estruturação dos dados, classificação dos dados e interpretação dos dados. Conclusão: Assim, o desafio do século XXI é garantir o envelhecimento ativo e digno à população, buscando uma sociedade para todas as idades de forma que as pessoas idosas tenham participação na vida social, combatendo os fatores determinantes que comprometem o envelhecimento ativo. Descritores: envelhecimento ativo; experiência de vida; narrativas de pessoa idosa.
The context of the care of the nursing professional for people with leprosy in family health strategy O contexto da atenção do enfermeiro às pessoas com hanseníase na estratégia saúde da família
Authors: Carvalho Francisca Patrícia Barreto , Miranda Francisco Arnoldo Nunes , Simpson Clélia Albino , Queiroz Tatiane Aparecida , Isoldi Deyla Moura Ramos
Published: September 2016

Objetivo: analisar o fenômeno da atenção do enfermeiro à pessoas com hanseníase na ESF nos níveis contextuais imediato, específico, geral e metacontextual.A hanseníase é uma doença considerada contagiosa e mutilante, trazendo discriminação e exclusão da sociedade. A assistência de enfermagem voltada para a promoção da saúde pode garantir uma assistência de melhor qualidade do que o paradigma da eliminação focado na doença. A Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) é um dos principais eixos responsáveis por realizar esta assistência. Conclusão: A compreensão das fragilidades de cada contexto possibilita ações que visam minimizar as dificuldades encontradas pelos enfermeiros para prover uma assistência com excelência que diminua não só a carga da doença, mas também suas sequelas e o sofrimento das pessoas acometidas
Health promotion in groups of elderly: reflections for active ageing Promoção de saúde em grupos de idosos: reflexões para o envelhecimento ativo
Authors: Araújo Leite Medeiros Fabíola de , Medeiros Ana Claudia Torres , Bittencourt Greicy Kelly Gouveia Dias , Nóbrega Maria Mirian Lima
Published: September 2016

Objetivos: analisar as percepções de idosos sobre a promoção de saúde em prol de um envelhecimento ativo; refletir sobre estratégias viáveis à promoção de saúde entre grupos de idosos visando o alcance do envelhecimento ativo. Método: estudo descritivo e exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, realizado com 45 idosos pertencentes a um grupo de convívio. O projeto foi aprovado pela plataforma brasil sob o CAAE 07243812.6.0000.5187. Resultados: a maioria dos idosos pertencentes a esse grupo tinha acesso a informações sobre seu padrão de envelhecimento. Ao questionar sobre promoção de saúde e envelhecimento ativo, fora possível elencar duas categorias temáticas: I) percepções das pessoas idosas sobre saúde; II) percepções das pessoas sobre estratégias de promoção a saúde e empoderamento do envelhecimento ativo. Conclusão: espaços de vivências e grupo de idosos permitem a elaboração de propostas para a promoção a saúde e o empoderamento do envelhecimento ativo.
Prevalence of burnout syndrome among physicians of a federal education hospital Prevalência da síndrome de burnout em médicos de uma instituição hospitalar federal de ensino
Authors: Carreiro Bruno Oliveira , Dantas Tatiana Rodrigues da Silva , Pascoal Francilene Figueirêdo da Silva , Moraes Marina Nascimento , Cordeiro Renata Cavalcanti , Ferreira Filha Maria de Oliveira
Published: September 2016

Objetivo: estimar a prevalência de burnout entre médicos de uma instituição hospitalar federal de ensino localizada no estado da Paraíba/Brasil. Método: estudo descritivo e observacional, do qual participaram 134 médicos, escolhidos aleatoriamente entre médicos-residentes, professores da ufpb e médicos servidores federais da instituição. foram utilizados três questionários: caracterização sócio-demográfica e profissional, mbi-hss e o itra. os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística com o auxílio do spss-18.0. Resultados: foi evidenciada uma prevalência da síndrome de 81,34% e as características predominantes dentre os pesquisados acometidos pelo burnout foram: adulto jovem, com filhos, sem companheiro, em início de carreira, trabalhando em várias instituições de saúde, com relação delicada com as chefias, em diversas atividades e com tarefas pouco definidas. Conclusão: concluiu-se que foi de alta prevalência o burnout no contexto de trabalho médico hospitalar, devendo ser alvo de políticas públicas para diminuir estressores oriundos desse tipo de trabalho.
Leprosy: focusing on health education for projovem Hanseníase: enfocando a educação em saúde para o projovem
Authors: Monteiro Bruna Rodrigues , Pinheiro Mônica Gisele Costa , Isoldi Deyla Moura Ramos , Cabral Ana Michele Farias , Simpson Clélia Albino , Mendes Felismina Rosa Parreira
Published: September 2016

Objetivo: Identificar o conhecimento dos adolescentes ligados ao Programa Nacional de Inclusão de Jovens, sobre a hanseníase, envolvendo temas como etiologia, transmissão, sinais e sintomas e a busca pelo tratamento. Método: Estudo exploratório e descritivo. Para a coleta de dados foi utilizado um questionário contendo questões fechadas sobre a hanseníase antes e após a ação educativa com 109 jovens de ambos os sexos de 13 a 17 anos de idade. Resultados: Mostram o desconhecimento quanto a etiologia, transmissão, sinais e sintomas, sendo adquirido após a palestra. Conclusão: A educação em saúde possibilita ao profissional de enfermagem a promover de forma interativa e dinâmica o conhecimento do jovem. Descritores: Educação em Saúde; Hanseníase; Enfermagem.
Satellite‐enhanced dynamical downscaling for the analysis of extreme events
Authors: Nunes Ana M. B.
Published: September 2016

The use of regional models in the downscaling of general circulation models provides a strategy to generate more detailed climate information. In that case, boundary‐forcing techniques can be useful to maintain the large‐scale features from the coarse‐resolution global models in agreement with the inner modes of the higher‐resolution regional models. Although those procedures might improve dynamics, downscaling via regional modeling still aims for better representation of physical processes. With the purpose of improving dynamics and physical processes in regional downscaling of global reanalysis, the Regional Spectral Model—originally developed at the National Centers for Environmental Prediction—employs a newly reformulated scale‐selective bias correction, together with the 3‐hourly assimilation of the satellite‐based precipitation estimates constructed from the Climate Prediction Center morphing technique. The two‐scheme technique for the dynamical downscaling of global reanalysis can be applied in analyses of environmental disasters and risk assessment, with hourly outputs, and resolution of about 25 km. Here the satellite‐enhanced dynamical downscaling added value is demonstrated in simulations of the first reported hurricane in the western South Atlantic Ocean basin through comparisons with global reanalyses and satellite products available in ocean areas.
Evaluation of multisatellite precipitation products by use of ground‐based data over China
Authors: Huang Anning , Zhao Yong , Zhou Yang , Yang Ben , Zhang Lujun , Dong Xinning , Fang Dexian , Wu Yang
Published: September 2016

Five satellite precipitation products, including Climate Prediction Center Morphing Technique (CMORPH), Precipitation Estimation From Remotely Sensed Information Using Artificial Neural Network (PERSIANN), Tropical Rainfall Measuring Missing (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) version 7 products 3B41RTV7, 3B42RTV7, and 3B42V7, are systematically evaluated by comparing to the daily precipitation data collected from ~2400 gauge stations over China during January 2000 to December 2014. Satellite estimates generally capture the overall spatial‐temporal variation of precipitation over China with relatively better ability in warm seasons than in cold seasons. Meanwhile, satellite precipitation estimates also tend to show better agreement with gauge observations over humid regions than over arid and alpine regions. Analysis of the systematic and random error components suggests that the uncertainties in both TRMM3B42RTV7 and TRMM3B42V7 precipitation estimates are significantly reduced over most parts of China compared to the other three satellite products. Among the five products, the research product TRMM3B42V7 with bias adjustments agrees the most with the gauge observation in terms of spatiotemporal variation, amplitude and pattern of variability, occurrence of rainy events, and probability distribution function of the precipitation amount for different rain rates over most parts of China; the near‐real‐time product TRMM3B42RTV7 with the application of improved retrieval algorithms and more satellite data performs the second best over most subregions of eastern China. The improvements of TRMM3B42RTV7 without bias adjustments over eastern China relative to CMORPH, PERSIANN, and TRMM3B41RTV7 are encouraging and favorable for the operational applications.
tert‐Butyl acetate [MAK Value Documentation, 2007]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2016

The article contains sections titled:

Developmental Toxicity

Manifesto (prenatal toxicity)
Highly Efficient Multivalent 2D Nanosystems for Inhibition of Orthopoxvirus Particles
Authors: Ziem Benjamin , Thien Hendrik , Achazi Katharina , Yue Constanze , Stern Daniel , Silberreis Kim , Gholami Mohammad Fardin , Beckert Fabian , Gröger Dominic , Mülhaupt Rolf , Rabe Jürgen P. , Nitsche Andreas , Haag Rainer
Published: September 2016

Efficient inhibition of cell–pathogen interaction to prevent subsequent infection is an urgent but yet unsolved problem. In this study, the synthesis and functionalization of novel multivalent 2D carbon nanosystems as well as their antiviral efficacy in vitro are shown. For this reason, a new multivalent 2D flexible carbon architecture is developed in this study, functionalized with sulfated dendritic polyglycerol, to enable virus interaction. A simple “graft from” approach enhances the solubility of thermally reduced graphene oxide and provides a suitable 2D surface for multivalent ligand presentation. Polysulfation is used to mimic the heparan sulfate‐containing surface of cells and to compete with this natural binding site of viruses. In correlation with the degree of sulfation and the grafted polymer density, the interaction efficiency of these systems can be varied. In here, orthopoxvirus strains are used as model viruses as they use heparan sulfate for cell entry as other viruses, e.g., herpes simplex virus, dengue virus, or cytomegalovirus. The characterization results of the newly designed graphene derivatives demonstrate excellent binding as well as efficient inhibition of orthopoxvirus infection. Overall, these new multivalent 2D polymer nanosystems are promising candidates to develop potent inhibitors for viruses, which possess a heparan sulfate‐dependent cell entry mechanism.
Post‐9/11 cancer incidence in World Trade Center‐exposed New York City firefighters as compared to a pooled cohort of firefighters from San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia (9/11/2001‐2009)
Authors: Moir William , Zeig‐Owens Rachel , Daniels Robert D. , Hall Charles B. , Webber Mayris P. , Jaber Nadia , Yiin James H. , Schwartz Theresa , Liu Xiaoxue , Vossbrinck Madeline , Kelly Kerry , Prezant David J.
Published: September 2016

Background

We previously reported a modest excess of cancer in World Trade Center (WTC)‐exposed firefighters versus the general population. This study aimed to separate the potential carcinogenic effects of firefighting and WTC exposure by comparing to a cohort of non‐WTC‐exposed firefighters.

Methods

Relative rates (RRs) for all cancers combined and individual cancer subtypes from 9/11/2001 to 12/31/2009 were modeled using Poisson regression comparing 11,457 WTC‐exposed firefighters to 8,220 urban non‐WTC‐exposed firefighters.

Results

Compared with non‐WTC‐exposed firefighters, there was no difference in the RR of all cancers combined for WTC‐exposed firefighters (RR = 0.96, 95%CI: 0.83–1.12). Thyroid cancer was significantly elevated (RR = 3.82, 95%CI: 1.07–20.81) from 2001 to 2009; this was attenuated (RR = 3.43, 95%CI: 0.94–18.94) and non‐significant when controlling for possible surveillance bias. Prostate cancer was elevated during the latter half (2005–2009; RR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.01–1.88).

Conclusions

Further follow‐up is needed to assess the relationship between WTC exposure and cancers with longer latency periods. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:722–730, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mental health status of World Trade Center tower survivors compared to other survivors a decade after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
Authors: Gargano Lisa M. , Nguyen Angela , DiGrande Laura , Brackbill Robert M.
Published: September 2016

Background

Studies of individuals directly exposed to the World Trade Center (WTC) terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have found increased risk for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and binge drinking (BD). No long‐term studies have been conducted on one highly exposed group, WTC tower evacuees.

Methods

The study sample included 7,695 adult civilians in the WTC Health Registry. Logistic regression was used to examine the odds of PTSD and BD in 1,946 towers evacuees compared to 5,749 others in nearby buildings or on the street.

Results

WTC tower survivors were at increased risk for PTSD and BD compared to the others. Infrastructure and behavioral barriers experienced during evacuation were significantly associated with PTSD.

Conclusions

WTC tower evacuees are at increased risk for PTSD and BD. Understanding the effects of disaster‐related evacuation barriers on the long‐term mental health status of survivors can help in the planning of continuing post‐disaster treatment. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:742–751, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The association between body mass index and gastroesophageal reflux disease in the World Trade Center Health Program General Responder Cohort
Authors: Icitovic Nikolina , Onyebeke Lynn C. , Wallenstein Sylvan , Dasaro Christopher R. , Harrison Denise , Jiang Jieying , Kaplan Julia R. , Lucchini Roberto G. , Luft Benjamin J. , Moline Jacqueline M. , Pendem Lakshmi , Shapiro Moshe , Udasin Iris G. , Todd Andrew C. , Teitelbaum Susan L.
Published: September 2016

Background

There is increasing concern about the obesity epidemic in the United States. Obesity is a potential risk factor for a number of chronic diseases, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This analysis examined whether body mass index (BMI) was associated with physician‐diagnosed GERD in World Trade Center (WTC) general responders.

Methods

19,819 WTC general responders were included in the study. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to compare time to GERD diagnosis among three BMI groups (normal (<25 kg/m2), overweight (≥25 and <30 kg/m2), and obese (≥30 kg/m2)).

Results

Among the responders, 43% were overweight and 42% were obese. The hazard ratio for normal versus overweight was 0.81 (95% Confidence Interval (CI), 0.75–0.88); normal versus obese 0.71 (95%CI, 0.66, 0.77); and overweight versus obese 0.88 (95%CI, 0.83–0.92).

Conclusion

GERD diagnoses rates were higher in overweight and obese WTC responders. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:761–766, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Isolated small airway reactivity during bronchoprovocation as a mechanism for respiratory symptoms in WTC dust‐exposed community members
Authors: Berger Kenneth I. , Kalish Samantha , Shao Yongzhao , Marmor Michael , Kazeros Angeliki , Oppenheimer Beno W. , Chan Yinny , Reibman Joan , Goldring Roberta M.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Small airway dysfunction occurs following WTC dust exposure, but its role in producing symptoms is unclear.

Methods

Methacholine challenge (MCT) was used to assess the relationship between onset of respiratory symptoms and small airway abnormalities in 166 symptomatic WTC dust‐exposed patients. Forced oscillation testing (FOT) and respiratory symptoms were assessed during MCT. FOT parameters included resistance at 5 and 20 Hz (R5 and R20) and the R5 minus R20 (R5–20).

Results

Baseline spirometry was normal in all (mean FEV1 100 + 13% predicted, mean FEV1/FVC 80 + 4%). MCT revealed bronchial hyperreactivity by spirometry in 67 patients. An additional 24 patients became symptomatic despite minimal FEV1 change (<5%); symptom onset coincided with increased R5 and R5–20 (P > 0.001 vs. baseline). The dose–response of FOT (reactivity) was greater compared with subjects that remained asymptomatic (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

FOT during MCT uncovered reactivity in small airways as a mechanism for respiratory symptoms in subjects with inhalational lung injury. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:767–776, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improvement in severe lower respiratory symptoms and small airway function in World Trade Center dust exposed community members
Authors: Caplan‐Shaw Caralee , Kazeros Angeliki , Pradhan Deepak , Berger Kenneth , Goldring Roberta , Zhao Sibo , Liu Mengling , Shao Yongzhao , Fernandez‐Beros Maria Elena , Marmor Michael , Levy‐Carrick Nomi , Rosen Rebecca , Ferri Lucia , Reibman Joan
Published: September 2016

Objective

Longitudinal assessment of lower respiratory symptoms (LRS) in community members with World Trade Center (WTC) exposures.

Methods

Adult members of a treatment program with complete standardized visits were evaluated (n = 798). Association of demographic characteristics, mental health symptoms and lung function with trajectory of LRS between initial and monitoring visit was evaluated.

Results

Severe LRS were present in 70% at initial and 63% at monitoring visit. Initial severe LRS were associated with WTC dust cloud exposure and mental health symptoms. Spirometry measures were not associated with LRS severity or trajectory; improvement in LRS was associated with improved lung function measured with forced oscillometry techniques.

Conclusion

Many community patients in a WTC treatment program had severe LRS associated with exposures and mental health symptoms. Improvement in LRS was associated with improvement in measures of small airway function. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:777–787, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aminopyridinyl–Pseudodeoxycytidine Derivatives Selectively Stabilize Antiparallel Triplex DNA with Multiple CG Inversion Sites
Authors: Okamura Hidenori , Taniguchi Yosuke , Sasaki Shigeki
Published: September 2016

The sequence‐specific formation of triplex DNA offers a potential basis for genome‐targeting technologies. In an antiparallel triplex DNA, the sequence‐specificity is established by the formation of specific base triplets (G−GC, A−AT, and T−AT) between a triplex‐forming oligonucleotide (TFO) and a duplex DNA. However, there are no natural nucleosides that can selectively recognize the inverted CG and TA base pairs. Therefore, the recognition of the CG and TA inversion sites to form a stable triplex DNA has been a long‐standing goal for the triplex‐forming technology. We now describe the design and synthesis of pseudo‐deoxycytidine (ΨdC) derivatives for selective recognition of the CG base pair to expand the triplex‐forming sequence. The aminopyridine‐bearing ΨdC derivatives showed high selectivity and affinity toward the CG base pair in all neighboring base contexts. Remarkably, 3‐methyl‐2‐aminopyridinyl−ΨdC (MeAP−ΨdC) formed a stable triplex with the promoter sequence of the hTERT gene containing four CG inversion sites, and effectively inhibited its transcription in human cancer cells. Thus, MeAP−ΨdC is expected to serve as a new starting point of triplex‐forming oligonucleotides for a wide variety of genome‐targeting applications.
Preparation and characterization of a polydimethylsiloxane‐modified, epoxy‐resin‐based polyol dispersion and its crosslinked films
Authors: Liu Di , Wu Guo‐Min , Kong Zhen‐Wu
Published: September 2016

Waterborne polydimethylsiloxane‐modified epoxy‐resin‐based polyol dispersions were synthesized by the reaction of 2,4‐toluene diisocyanate with 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl) propionic acid, hydroxypropyl‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane (HTPDMS), and bisphenol A epoxy resin based polyol. These HTPDMS‐modified polyol dispersions exhibited a small particle size and an excellent dispersion stability. Two‐component waterborne polyurethane (2K‐WPU) was prepared from the HTPDMS‐modified polyol dispersion and a hydrophilic‐modified polyisocyanate. The structure of the HTPDMS‐modified polyol and its crosslinked 2K‐WPU films (SEFs) were characterized with Fourier transform infrared and NMR spectroscopies. The effects of the HTPDMS content on the mechanical and thermal properties of the resulting SEFs were investigated. The results show that the thermal stability of the crosslinked SEFs was enhanced with increasing HTPDMS content, whereas the modulus, tensile strength, and pencil hardness values of the films decreased with increasing HTPDMS content. Siloxane segments migrated onto the surface during the film‐formation process. The contact angle of the films increased from 71 to 96 °, and the water absorption ratio of the films decreased from 6.6 to 5.0% when the HTPDMS content in the films increased from 0 to 10%. These results indicate that the water resistance of the films was enhanced by the introduction of HTPDMS into the 2K‐WPU networks. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44342.
Evaluation of bioresorbable polymers as potential stent material—In vivo degradation behavior and histocompatibility
Authors: Liao Lan , Peng Cheng , Li Suming , Lu Zhiqian , Fan Zhongyong
Published: September 2016

A PLLA‐TMC‐GA terpolymer of 90/5/5 molar ratio was synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization of l‐lactide (LLA), trimethylene carbonate (TMC), and glycolide (GA), using stannous octoate as initiator. In vivo degradation of the obtained terpolymer and a composite made up of the terpolymer matrix reinforced by PLLA‐GA fibers was realized by subcutaneous implantation in rats for 9 months, in comparison with PLLA homopolymer and PLLA‐TMC copolymer of 95/5 molar ratio. The terpolymer shows ideal degradation profile because it is expected to maintain relatively high radial support for 3 months and lose its mechanical properties in 3 to 6 months inferred from molar mass changes. Increase of crystallinity and LLA content in the terpolymer and composite is observed during degradation. According to the gross observation and H&E staining appearance, all samples present good tissue compatibility. These results suggest that the terpolymer is promising for uses as fully biodegradable vascular scaffold. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44355.
Mechanical properties of individual fiber segments of electrospun lignocellulose‐reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Šutka Anna , Antsov Mikk , Järvekülg Martin , Visnapuu Meeri , Heinmaa Ivo , Mäeorg Uno , Vlassov Sergei , Šutka Andris
Published: September 2016

The influence of lignocellulosic nanofibers (LCNF) additive on the inherent mechanical properties of submicron electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) fibers is reported. LCNF with a diameter of 25 ± 15 nm and a length of 220 ± 90 nm obtained from hemp shives were dispersed in aqueous PVA solutions to produce homogeneous nanocomposite fibers with 0, 5, and 10 w/w % LCNF loads in solid PVA. Tensile tests on mats show that LCNF additive causes up to sevenfold increase in stiffness and significant decrease in elongation at yield. AFM‐based 3‐point bending tests on single LCNF‐doped fibers reveal up to 11.4 GPa Young's modulus in the diameter range of 300 to 500 nm, indicating a 2.4 times increase compared to neat PVA fibers. Mechanical properties of both neat and LCNF‐doped PVA fibers are found to be strongly size‐dependent at lower fiber diameters, with Young's modulus values exceeding 100 GPa at below 100 nm diameters. The results can be explained by extensive restructuration of hydrogen bonding network due to the LCNF additive. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44361.
Classification and speed estimation of vehicles via tire detection using single‐element piezoelectric sensor
Authors: Rajab Samer , Al Kalaa Mohamad O. , Refai Hazem
Published: September 2016

This paper presents novel vehicle classification technology by utilizing a single‐element piezoelectric sensor placed diagonally on a traffic lane to accurately identify vehicles. Novelty of this technique originates from using diagonally placed piezoelectric strip sensor and machine learning technology to provide a highly accurate and cost‐effective alternative to current vehicle classification systems. Diagonal placements of the piezoelectric strip sensor ensure detection of passing vehicle tires by facilitating vehicle classification process. Presented technology is capable of accurately classifying vehicles into a relatively large number of classifications, including motorcycle, which has proven to be a challenging category in present‐day commercial vehicle classifiers. Vehicle classification is a vital intelligent transportation systems application. Accurate data reporting aids suitable roadway design for safety and capacity and can also support other purposes, such as reporting highway congestion to the general public or providing area denseness data to interested businesses.

To make a classification decision, a vehicle's signal is acquired from diagonal piezoelectric strip sensor, processed, and then applied to a machine learning algorithm. A speed estimation technique using the same single‐element piezoelectric sensor was also developed, tested, and compared with an embedded vehicle classifier currently used by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. Testing on several highway sites indicated up to 97% classification accuracy. This paper presents a complete description of the developed system, including sensor installation, data acquisition and processing, and classification algorithm. Overall, the system offers a high‐performance cost‐effective solution for vehicle classification that minimizes roadwork typically required for loop and sensor installations of current systems. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient solution algorithm for finding spatially dependent reliable shortest path in road networks
Authors: Chen Bi Yu , Lam William H. K. , Li Qingquan
Published: September 2016

Travel times are generally stochastic and spatially correlated in congested road networks. However, very few existing route guidance systems (RGS) can provide reliable guidance services to aid travellers planning their trips with taking account explicitly travel time reliability constraint. This study aims to develop such a RGS with particular consideration of travellers' concern on travel time reliability in congested road networks with uncertainty. In this study, the spatially dependent reliable shortest path problem (SD‐RSPP) is formulated as a multi‐criteria shortest path‐finding problem in road networks with correlated link travel times. Three effective dominance conditions are established for links with different levels of travel time correlations. An efficient algorithm is proposed to solve SD‐RSPP by adaptively using three established dominance conditions. The complexities of road networks in reality are also explicitly considered. To demonstrate the applicability of proposed algorithm, a comprehensive case study is carried out in Hong Kong. The results of case study show that the proposed solution algorithm is robust to take account of travellers' multiple routing criteria. Computational results demonstrate that the proposed solution algorithm can determine the reliable shortest path on real‐time basis for large‐scale road networks. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Severity of ASD symptoms and their correlation with the presence of copy number variations and exposure to first trimester ultrasound
Authors: Webb Sara Jane , Garrison Michelle M. , Bernier Raphael , McClintic Abbi M. , King Bryan H. , Mourad Pierre D.
Published: September 2016

Current research suggests that incidence and heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms may arise through a variety of exogenous and/or endogenous factors. While subject to routine clinical practice and generally considered safe, there exists speculation, though no human data, that diagnostic ultrasound may also contribute to ASD severity, supported by experimental evidence that exposure to ultrasound early in gestation could perturb brain development and alter behavior. Here we explored a modified triple hit hypothesis [Williams & Casanova, ] to assay for a possible relationship between the severity of ASD symptoms and (1) ultrasound exposure (2) during the first trimester of pregnancy in fetuses with a (3) genetic predisposition to ASD. We did so using retrospective analysis of data from the SSC (Simon's Simplex Collection) autism genetic repository funded by the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative. We found that male children with ASD, copy number variations (CNVs), and exposure to first trimester ultrasound had significantly decreased non‐verbal IQ and increased repetitive behaviors relative to male children with ASD, with CNVs, and no ultrasound. These data suggest that heterogeneity in ASD symptoms may result, at least in part, from exposure to diagnostic ultrasound during early prenatal development of children with specific genetic vulnerabilities. These results also add weight to on‐going concerns expressed by the FDA about non‐medical use of diagnostic ultrasound during pregnancy. Autism Res 2017, 10: 472–484. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cardamonin, a chalcone, inhibits human triple negative breast cancer cell invasiveness by downregulation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling cascades and reversal of epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Shrivastava Shweta , Jeengar Manish Kumar , Thummuri Dinesh , Koval Alexey , Katanaev Vladimir L. , Marepally Srujan , Naidu V.G.M.
Published: September 2016

Cardamonin (CD), an active chalconoid, has shown potent anticancer effects in preclinical studies; however, the effect and underlying mechanism of CD for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is unclear. This study aims to examine the cytotoxic effects of CD and investigate the underlying mechanism in human TNBC cells. The results show that CD exhibits cytotoxicity by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in TNBC cells via modulation of Bcl‐2, Bax, cyt‐C, cleaved caspase‐3, and PARP. We find that CD significantly increases expression of the epithelial marker E‐cadherin, while reciprocally decreasing expression of mesenchymal markers such as snail, slug, and vimentin in BT‐549 cells. In parallel with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) reversal, CD down regulates invasion and migration of BT‐549 cells. CD markedly reduces stability and nuclear translocation of β‐catenin, accompanied with downregulation of β‐catenin target genes. Using the TopFlash luciferase reporter assay, we reveal CD as a specific inhibitor of the Wnt3a‐induced signaling. These results suggest the involvement of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in the CD‐induced EMT reversion of BT‐549 cells. Notably, CD restores the glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK3β) activity, required for β‐catenin destruction via the proteasome‐mediated system, by inhibiting the phosphorylation of GSK3β by Akt. These occurrences ultimately lead to the blockage of EMT and the invasion of TNBC cells. Further antitumor activity of CD was tested in 4T1 (TNBC cells) induced tumor and it was found that CD significantly inhibited the tumor volume at dose of 5 mg/kg‐treated mice. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):152–169, 2017
Nutrigenomics of extra‐virgin olive oil: A review
Authors: Piroddi Marta , Albini Adriana , Fabiani Roberto , Giovannelli Lisa , Luceri Cristina , Natella Fausta , Rosignoli Patrizia , Rossi Teresa , Taticchi Agnese , Servili Maurizio , Galli Francesco
Published: September 2016

Nutrigenomics data on the functional components of olive oil are still sparse, but rapidly increasing. Olive oil is the main source of fat and health‐promoting component of the Mediterranean diet. Positive effects have been observed on genes involved in the pathobiology of most prevalent age‐ and lifestyle‐related human conditions, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. Other effects on health‐promoting genes have been identified for bioactive components of olives and olive leafs. Omics technologies are offering unique opportunities to identify nutritional and health biomarkers associated with these gene responses, the use of which in personalized and even predictive protocols of investigation, is a main breakthrough in modern medicine and nutrition. Gene regulation properties of the functional components of olive oil, such as oleic acid, biophenols and vitamin E, point to a role for these molecules as natural homeostatic and even hormetic factors with applications as prevention agents in conditions of premature and pathologic aging. Therapeutic applications can be foreseen in conditions of chronic inflammation, and particularly in cancer, which will be discussed in detail in this review paper as major clinical target of nutritional interventions with olive oil and its functional components. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(1):17–41, 2017
Engineering responsive supramolecular biomaterials: Toward smart therapeutics
Authors: Webber Matthew J.
Published: September 2016

Engineering materials using supramolecular principles enables generalizable and modular platforms that have tunable chemical, mechanical, and biological properties. Applying this bottom‐up, molecular engineering‐based approach to therapeutic design affords unmatched control of emergent properties and functionalities. In preparing responsive materials for biomedical applications, the dynamic character of typical supramolecular interactions facilitates systems that can more rapidly sense and respond to specific stimuli through a fundamental change in material properties or characteristics, as compared to cases where covalent bonds must be overcome. Several supramolecular motifs have been evaluated toward the preparation of “smart” materials capable of sensing and responding to stimuli. Triggers of interest in designing materials for therapeutic use include applied external fields, environmental changes, biological actuators, applied mechanical loading, and modulation of relative binding affinities. In addition, multistimuli‐responsive routes can be realized that capture combinations of triggers for increased functionality. In sum, supramolecular engineering offers a highly functional strategy to prepare responsive materials. Future development and refinement of these approaches will improve precision in material formation and responsiveness, seek dynamic reciprocity in interactions with living biological systems, and improve spatiotemporal sensing of disease for better therapeutic deployment.