bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of industry data on pulmonary and immunosuppressive effects of IQOS
Authors: Moazed Farzad , Chun Lauren , Matthay Michael A , Calfee Carolyn S , Gotts Jeffrey
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Heated tobacco products are being touted as novel reduced-harm tobacco products by tobacco companies. In the USA, Philip Morris International submitted a modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) application to the US Food and Drug Administration in 2016 in which it purports that its heated tobacco product, I-Quit-Ordinary-Smoking (IQOS), is associated with reduced harm compared with conventional cigarettes.

Methods

We reviewed Philip Morris International’s MRTP application to assess the pulmonary and immune toxicities associated with IQOS use in both animal and human studies.

Results

Among rats exposed to IQOS, there was evidence of pulmonary inflammation and immunomodulation. In human users, there was no evidence of improvement in pulmonary inflammation or pulmonary function in cigarette smokers who were switched to IQOS.

Conclusion

IQOS is associated with significant pulmonary and immunomodulatory toxicities with no detectable differences between conventional cigarette smokers and those who were switched to IQOS in Philip Morris International’s studies. Philip Morris International also failed to consider how dual use and secondhand aerosol exposure may further impact, and likely increase, the harms associated with these products.
Segmental thoracic epidural anaesthesia in a dog undergoing intercostal thoracotomy and lung lobectomy
Authors: Corona Daniele , Novello Lorenzo
Published: August 2018

A seven-year-old, 25-kg female crossbreed dog received segmental thoracic epidural anaesthesia for left lateral thoracotomy and lung lobectomy. At presentation mild exercise intolerance and weight loss were reported. A chest CT scan revealed a solitary soft tissue mass in the left caudal lobe. Lung lobectomy surgery was scheduled. Under isoflurane anaesthesia, an epidural catheter was threaded through T13–L1 and advanced 50 mm cranially. Bupivacaine and morphine were administered 30 minutes before incision and at 12-hour intervals thereafter. To minimise side effects, the postoperative dose was titrated to guarantee segmental analgesia. Purposeful movements and signs of sympathetic stimulation in response to surgery were not observed. Intraoperatively, a transient 13% increase in arterial blood pressure occurred, while heart rate remained stable compared with baseline. Although the intended postoperative dose was decreased to prevent side effects, pain scores were below the analgesic intervention score. The catheter was removed on the fourth postoperative day. Complications and neurological sequelae were not noticed.
Phenanthridine-based nitrones as substrates for strain-promoted alkyne-nitrone cycloadditions
Authors: Strmiskova Miroslava , Bilodeau Didier A. , Chigrinova Mariya , Pezacki John Paul
Published: August 2018

Over the past decade, bioorthogonal chemistry that facilitates the efficient conjugation of biomolecules has expanded from the copper-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloadditions to a multitude of diverse reactions, varying additives and reactional partners, and most often offering better alternatives with faster rates and lower toxicity of employed reactants. Among these, the copper-free strain-promoted cycloaddition reactions have been demonstrated to be more promising, offering a reaction without toxic metal catalysts and with faster inherent kinetic rate constants. The strain-promoted alkyne-nitrone cycloadditions are easily tunable from both the (strained) alkyne and nitrone perspective, both compounds giving the opportunity to modulate the rate of reaction by substituting various positions. Previously, acyclic nitrones have been evaluated in the strain-promoted alkyne-nitrone reactions; however, they were notably prone to hydrolysis. Some five-membered ring endocyclic nitrones developed concomitantly offered the advantage of relatively fast kinetics and better resistance to degradation in aqueous conditions and have been successfully used for labelling of biomolecules in living systems. Herein, we have prepared and studied nitrones inspired by the phenanthridine scaffold that efficiently undergo strain-promoted alkyne-nitrone reactions. Phenanthridine nitrones react fast with strained cyclooctynes with large bimolecular rate constants while maintaining bioorthogonality and resistance to hydrolysis.
Hydrazinolysis of aryl cinnamates and related esters: the α-effect arises from stabilization of five-membered cyclic transition state
Authors: Um Ik-Hwan , Bae Ae-Ri , Dust Julian M.
Published: August 2018

A kinetic study is reported for nucleophilic substitution reactions of Y-substituted-phenyl cinnamates (1a–1h) with a series of primary amines including hydrazine in H2O containing 20 mol % DMSO at 25.0 °C. The Brønsted-type plot for the reaction of 2,4-dinitrophenyl cinnamate (1a) is linear with βnuc = 0.57 except hydrazine, which exhibits positive deviation from the linear correlation (i.e., the α-effect). The Brønsted-type plots for the reactions of 1a–1h with hydrazine and glycylglycine (glygly) are also linear with βlg = –0.71 and –0.87, respectively, when 1a is excluded from the linear correlation. Thus, the reactions have been concluded to proceed through a concerted mechanism on the basis of the linear Brønsted-type plots and magnitudes of the βnuc and βlg values. The α-effect shown by hydrazine is dependent on electronic nature of the substituent Y in the leaving group, e.g., it increases as the substituent Y becomes a weaker electron-withdrawing group (or as basicity of the leaving aryloxide increases), indicating that the α-effect is not due to destabilization of the ground state but mainly due to stabilization of the transition state. A five-membered cyclic TS structure, which could increase nucleofugality of the leaving aryloxide through H-bonding interaction, has been proposed to account for the leaving-group dependent α-effect found in this study. The theories suggested previously to rationalize the α-effect found for the related systems are also discussed.
Beaver activity increases habitat complexity and spatial partitioning by steelhead trout
Authors: Wathen Gus , Allgeier Jacob E. , Bouwes Nicolaas , Pollock Michael M. , Schindler Daniel E. , Jordan Chris E.
Published: August 2018

Freshwater habitat restoration is a major conservation objective, motivating efforts to restore habitat complexity and quality for fishes. Restoration based on the engineering activities of beavers (Castor canadensis) increases fish habitat complexity, but how this affects fish habitat use and movement behaviours is not well known. We used a network of passive integrated transponder antennas to quantify small-scale movement and microhabitat use of 175 individual juvenile steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in a stream channel with a complex bathymetric profile resulting from a beaver impoundment and in a simplified channel devoid of beaver activity. Our results show that juvenile steelhead exploit microhabitat heterogeneity by employing a range of behaviours that maximizes available habitat via spatial and temporal partitioning among individuals. These results suggest spatial resource partitioning as a potential mechanism for the previously established positive correlations among steelhead density, survival, and production with beaver-based restoration within the study watershed. More broadly, our findings provide insight as to how populations can exploit habitat complexity through spatial partitioning that can be informative for planning restoration and management actions.
Scale and strength of oak–mesophyte interactions in a transitional oak–hickory forest
Authors: Allen David , Dick Christopher W. , Strayer Ethan , Perfecto Ivette , Vandermeer John
Published: August 2018

Forests in eastern North America are undergoing rapid compositional changes as they experience novel climate, disturbance, and pest conditions. One striking pattern is the replacement of canopy oaks (Quercus spp.) by mesic, fire-sensitive, shade-tolerant species like red maple (Acer rubrum L.). To gain insight into the successional patterns driving stand-level canopy oak replacement, we ask two questions: (i) What is the spatial association of oak and mesophyte recruitment compared with oak and mesophyte overstory individuals, and (ii) How do oaks and mesophytes differentially respond to canopy openings. We analyzed census data from a 23 ha forest plot surveyed in 2003, 2008, and 2014. We show that oak recruits are negatively associated with overstory red maples and black cherries (Prunus serotina Ehrh.), whereas mesophytic recruits were positively associated with overstory oaks. Second, we found that proximity to a dead overstory tree increased growth and survival for black cherries, increased growth for red maples, but had no effect on oaks. Black cherries and red maples are therefore better suited than oaks to take advantage of canopy openings and the moderate light available under adult oaks. These same fine scale competitive processes are contributing to canopy oak replacement across eastern North America.
Existence of simple BIBDs from a prime power difference family with minimum index
Authors: Sun Hsin-Min
Published: August 2018

We show that under certain technical conditions that simple [Formula: see text] balanced incomplete block designs (BIBDs) exist for all allowable values of [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an odd prime power. Our primary technique is to argue for the existence of difference families in finite fields, in the flavor of Wilson [J. Number Theory 4 (1972) 17–47]. We provide an extensive analysis in the cases, where [Formula: see text] and also for [Formula: see text].
Near-infrared laser irradiation of a multilayer agar-gel tissue phantom to induce thermal effect of traditional moxibustion
Authors: Cho Jiyong , Prasad Bibin , Kim Jung Kyung
Published: August 2018

Traditional moxibustion therapy can stimulate heat and blood-vessel expansion and advance blood circulation. In the present study, a novel noncontact-type thermal therapeutic system was developed using a near-infrared laser diode. The device allows direct interaction of infrared laser light with the skin, thereby facilitating a controlled temperature distribution on the skin and the deep tissues below the skin. While using a tissue-mimicking phantom as a substitute for real skin, the most important optical and thermal parameters are the absorption/attenuation coefficient, thermal conductivity, and specific heat. We found that these parameters can be manipulated by varying the agar-gel concentration. Hence, a multilayer tissue-mimicking phantom was fabricated using different agar-gel concentrations. Thermal imaging and thermocouples were used to measure the temperature distribution inside the phantom during laser irradiation. The temperature increased with the increase in the agar-gel concentration and reached a maximum value under the tissue phantom surface. To induce a similar thermal effect of moxibustion therapy, controlled laser-irradiation parameters such as output power, wavelength and pulse width were obtained from further analysis of the temperature distribution. From the known optothermal properties of the patient’s skin, the temperature distribution inside the tissue was manipulated by optimizing the laser parameters. This study can contribute to patient-specific thermal therapy in clinics.
Rapid determination of tannin in Danshen and Guanxinning injections using UV spectrophotometry for quality control
Authors: Huang Hongxia , Lv Yuanyuan , Sun Xiaoyi , Fu Shuangshuang , Lou Xuefang , Liu Zengmei
Published: August 2018

A technique for the determination of tannin content in traditional Chinese medicine injections (TCMI) was developed based on ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy. Chemometrics were used to construct a mathematical model of absorption spectrum and tannin reference content of Danshen and Guanxinning injections, and the model was verified and applied. The results showed that the established UV-based spectral partial least squares regression (PLS) tannin content model performed well with a correlation coefficient ([Formula: see text]) of 0.952, root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC) of 0.476[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml, root mean square error of validation (RMSEV) of 1.171[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml, and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.465[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml. Pattern recognition models using linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and [Formula: see text] nearest neighbor ([Formula: see text]-NN) classifiers based on UV spectrum could successfully classify different types of injections and different manufacturers. The established method to measure tannin content based on UV spectroscopy is simple, rapid and reliable and provides technical support for quality control of tannin in Chinese medicine injections.
Phoenix tree leaves-derived biomass carbons for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Tian Zengqiang , Sun Shijiao , Zhao Xiangyu , Yang Meng , Xu Chaohe
Published: August 2018

The biomass carbons with highly developed porosity were prepared by carbonization of phoenix tree leaves (PTLs) followed by activation with KOH. The as-prepared carbons possess large interlayer spacing, abundant oxygen-containing functional groups and high degree of structural disorder. The PTLs derived carbons were firstly employed as anodes for sodium-ion batteries, with the optimized material delivering an initial discharge capacity as high as 602[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] and a reversible capacity of 134[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] after 300 cycles at 100[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text]. Electrochemical mechanism analysis reveals a capacitive dominating Na[Formula: see text] storage process.
A Two-Dimensional Acoustic Tangential Derivative Boundary Element Method Including Viscous and Thermal Losses
Authors: Andersen P. Risby , Henríquez V. Cutanda , Aage N. , Marburg S.
Published: August 2018

In recent years, the boundary element method has shown to be an interesting alternative to the finite element method for modeling of viscous and thermal acoustic losses. Current implementations rely on finite-difference tangential pressure derivatives for the coupling of the fundamental equations, which can be a shortcoming of the method. This finite-difference coupling method is removed here and replaced by an extra set of tangential derivative boundary element equations. Increased stability and error reduction is demonstrated by numerical experiments.
A Three-Dimensional Acoustic Boundary Element Method Formulation with Viscous and Thermal Losses Based on Shape Function Derivatives
Authors: Henríquez V. Cutanda , Andersen P. Risby
Published: August 2018

Sound waves in fluids are subject to viscous and thermal losses, which are particularly relevant in the so-called viscous and thermal boundary layers at the boundaries, with thicknesses in the micrometer range at audible frequencies. Small devices such as acoustic transducers or hearing aids must then be modeled with numerical methods that include losses. In recent years, versions of both the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the Boundary Element Method (BEM) including viscous and thermal losses have been developed. This paper deals with an improved formulation in three dimensions of the BEM with losses which avoids the calculation of tangential derivatives on the surface by finite differences used in a previous BEM implementation. Instead, the tangential derivatives are obtained from the element shape functions. The improved implementation is demonstrated using an oscillating sphere, where an analytical solution exists, and a condenser microphone as test cases.
A High-Order Discontinuous Galerkin Method for Coupled Wave Propagation in 1D Elastoplastic Heterogeneous Media
Authors: Chabot Simon , Glinsky Nathalie , Diego Mercerat E. , Bonilla Luis Fabian
Published: August 2018

We propose a nodal high-order discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method for coupled wave propagation in heterogeneous elastoplastic soil columns. We solve the elastodynamic system written in velocity-strain formulation considering simultaneously the three components of motion. A 3D Iwan elastoplastic model for dry soils under dynamic loading is introduced in the DG method (DG-3C) based on centered fluxes and a low storage Runge–Kutta time scheme. Unlike the linear case, the nonlinear material behavior results in coupling effects between different components of motion. We focus on the choice of the numerical flux for nonlinear heterogeneous media and the classical centered flux is well adapted in terms of stability and direct implementation in 3D. Several numerical applications are studied using a soil column with realistic mechanical properties, and considering successively synthetic and borehole seismic recordings recorded at the Volvi test site (northern Greece).
POMC: The Physiological Power of Hormone Processing
Authors: Harno Erika , Gali Ramamoorthy Thanuja , Coll Anthony P. , White Anne
Published: August 2018

Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) is the archetypal polypeptide precursor of hormones and neuropeptides. In this review, we examine the variability in the individual peptides produced in different tissues and the impact of the simultaneous presence of their precursors or fragments. We also discuss the problems inherent in accurately measuring which of the precursors and their derived peptides are present in biological samples. We address how not being able to measure all the combinations of precursors and fragments quantitatively has affected our understanding of the pathophysiology associated with POMC processing. To understand how different ratios of peptides arise, we describe the role of the pro-hormone convertases (PCs) and their tissue specificities and consider the cellular processing pathways which enable regulated secretion of different peptides that play crucial roles in integrating a range of vital physiological functions. In the pituitary, correct processing of POMC peptides is essential to maintain the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and this processing can be disrupted in POMC-expressing tumors. In hypothalamic neurons expressing POMC, abnormalities in processing critically impact on the regulation of appetite, energy homeostasis, and body composition. More work is needed to understand whether expression of the POMC gene in a tissue equates to release of bioactive peptides. We suggest that this comprehensive view of POMC processing, with a focus on gaining a better understanding of the combination of peptides produced and their relative bioactivity, is a necessity for all involved in studying this fascinating physiological regulatory phenomenon.
Role of Epigenetics in Cardiac Development and Congenital Diseases
Authors: Moore-Morris Thomas , van Vliet Patrick Piet , Andelfinger Gregor , Puceat Michel
Published: August 2018

The heart is the first organ to be functional in the fetus. Heart formation is a complex morphogenetic process regulated by both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Congenital heart diseases (CHD) are the most prominent congenital diseases. Genetics is not sufficient to explain these diseases or the impact of them on patients. Epigenetics is more and more emerging as a basis for cardiac malformations. This review brings the essential knowledge on cardiac biology of development. It further provides a broad background on epigenetics with a focus on three-dimensional conformation of chromatin. Then, we summarize the current knowledge of the impact of epigenetics on cardiac cell fate decision. We further provide an update on the epigenetic anomalies in the genesis of CHD.
Correction of Line‐Sampling Bias of Rock Discontinuity Orientations Using a Modified Terzaghi Method
Authors: Tang Huiming , Zhang Junrong , Huang Lei , Yan Changbin , Hu Shengming , Mohamed Ez Eldin Mutasim Adam
Published: August 2018

The Terzaghi method is widely used to correct the line‐sampling bias of rock discontinuity orientations. The method includes four procedures, one of which is meshing the stereographic projection diagram into cells. The method is based on the bias‐compensatory factor, 1/sin θ, where θ is the angle between the scanline and the discontinuity defined at each cell center. This paper presents a modified Terzaghi method that eliminates meshing, thereby reducing the method to three steps that (1) count the frequencies, (2) weigh the frequencies by the bias‐compensatory factor, and (3) round the weighed frequencies to the nearest integer. Due to the elimination of the mesh, the counting object has changed to the frequency at each pole, and θ in the bias‐compensatory factor is redefined as the angle between the scanline and the discontinuity at each pole. The applicability of the redefined bias‐compensatory factor is verified through a mathematical logical deduction. The accuracy of the conventional and the modified Terzaghi methods are compared using a case study in Wenchuan, China, revealing improved accuracy for the latter.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Hygiene and Morbidity Status among Tertiary Students: The Case of Kotebe Metropolitan University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreeyessus Getachew Dagnew , Adem Dessalew Berihun
Published: August 2018

Considerable fractions of the world’s diseases are communicable, of which over 60% are infectious. Knowledge, attitude, and practice of hygiene are very important to decrease these disease burdens especially in places like higher education institutions. This study is aimed at revealing the status and gaps on knowledge, attitude, and practice of hygiene among Kotebe Metropolitan University students. Alongside, morbidity records of the students’ clinic are reviewed. Sampled regular students who are boarding and who serve the students’ canteen are studied. The investigation applied a cross-sectional study design. A structured questionnaire is administered following a pretest, and the data collected are analyzed using “SPSS v.20.” The review on morbidity record showed that the leading infections so far are respiratory (47%), gastrointestinal (amoebiasis, giardiasis, and typhoid) (34%), and eye and skin infections (16%). Regarding the responses to the knowledge questions, 1451 (60.8%) were correct while 934 (39.2%) were incorrect. Concerning handwashing as knowledge question, significant difference (p≈0.00) existed between genders. Over 50% of the respondents do think parasitic infections typically amoeba is acquired not due to the contaminated vegetables, but rather they assume that such vegetables trigger those parasites already lodging in their gut. Above 60% of the respondents agreed that sharing drinking cups as a sign of affection as unfavorable attitude. In relation to that, the students’ attitude highly varies by gender. However, the responses on hygiene practice enquiries appear to be promising. Further, the students do some practice while not having the desired level of knowledge on hygiene. Generally, there is a considerable gap in the knowledge, attitude, and practice of hygiene among students.
Mathematical Analysis of Influenza A Dynamics in the Emergence of Drug Resistance
Authors: Kanyiri Caroline W. , Mark Kimathi , Luboobi Livingstone
Published: August 2018

Every year, influenza causes high morbidity and mortality especially among the immunocompromised persons worldwide. The emergence of drug resistance has been a major challenge in curbing the spread of influenza. In this paper, a mathematical model is formulated and used to analyze the transmission dynamics of influenza A virus having incorporated the aspect of drug resistance. The qualitative analysis of the model is given in terms of the control reproduction number,Rc. The model equilibria are computed and stability analysis carried out. The model is found to exhibit backward bifurcation prompting the need to lowerRcto a critical valueRc∗for effective disease control. Sensitivity analysis results reveal that vaccine efficacy is the parameter with the most control over the spread of influenza. Numerical simulations reveal that despite vaccination reducing the reproduction number below unity, influenza still persists in the population. Hence, it is essential, in addition to vaccination, to apply other strategies to curb the spread of influenza.
Effect of Adenosine and Adenosine Receptor Antagonists on Retinal Müller Cell Inwardly Rectifying Potassium Channels under Exogenous Glutamate Stimulation
Authors: Lin Zhongjing , Huang Ping , Huang Shouyue , Guo Lei , Xu Xing , Shen Xi , Xie Bing , Zhong Yisheng
Published: August 2018

The vitreousness of glaucoma subjects contains elevated glutamate, and excessive extracellular glutamate is toxic to retinal neurons. Therefore, glutamate clearance is potentially impaired in the retina of glaucoma subjects. Müller cells play an important role in maintaining low extracellular levels of neurotransmitters, such as glutamate. A better understanding of the cross-talk between adenosine and glutamate may provide a better characterization of the regulatory network in Müller cells. Here, Müller cells were purified from the rat retina on postnatal day 5 using the papain digestion method. Application of increasing concentrations of glutamate (0-20 mmol/L) caused a dose-dependent decrease in the expression levels of Kir4.1, Kir2.1, GLAST, and GS. Exogenous adenosine regulated Kir channels and subsequently promoted GLAST and GS expression levels in Müller cells under exogenous glutamate stimulation. These effects were partly dependent on adenosine receptors.
A Novel Approach to a Time‐Dependent‐Coefficient WBK System: Doubly Periodic Waves and Singular Nonlinear Dynamics
Authors: Xu Bo , Zhang Sheng
Published: August 2018

Under investigation in this paper is a more general time‐dependent‐coefficient Whitham‐Broer‐Kaup (tdcWBK) system, which includes some important models as special cases, such as the approximate equations for long water waves, the WBK equations in shallow water, the Boussinesq‐Burgers equations, and the variant Boussinesq equations. To construct doubly periodic wave solutions, we extend the generalized F‐expansion method for the first time to the tdcWBK system. As a result, many new Jacobi elliptic doubly periodic solutions are obtained; the limit forms of which are the hyperbolic function solutions and trigonometric function solutions. It is shown that the original F‐expansion method cannot derive Jacobi elliptic doubly periodic solutions of the tdcWBK system, but the novel approach of this paper is valid. To gain more insight into the doubly periodic waves contained in the tdcWBK system, we simulate the dynamical evolutions of some obtained Jacobi elliptic doubly periodic solutions. The simulations show that the doubly periodic waves possess time‐varying amplitudes and velocities as well as singularities in the process of propagations.
Evaluation of Sutureless, Glueless, Flapless, Intrascleral Fixated Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens in Children with Ectopia Lentis
Authors: NB Kannan , Kohli Piyush , Pangtey Bhanu Pratap Singh , Ramasamy Kim
Published: August 2018

Aim. This paper aims at evaluating refractive outcome and complication profile of sutureless, glueless, flapless, intrascleral fixation of intraocular lens (SFIOL) in pediatric population. Methods. This retrospective study included patients ≤18 years of age who underwent SFIOL for ectopia lentis. Details obtained included preoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), cycloplegic refraction, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA); intraoperative complications; and postoperative UCVA, cycloplegic refraction, and BCVA and complications. Results. Median pre- and postoperative UCVA was logMAR 1.78 (Snellen 20/1200) and logMAR 0.30 (Snellen 20/40), respectively, (p<0.001). Median pre- and postoperative BCVA was logMAR 0.24 (Snellen 20/34) and logMAR 0.18 (Snellen 20/30), respectively. UCVA ≥20/60 was attained in 90% of eyes. BCVA ≥20/30 was attained in 85.0% of eyes. Most common early postoperative complications were hyphaema (10%), transient vitreous hemorrhage (2.5%), and ocular hypotony (2.5%). None of these developed any long-term sequelae. Only one case of subluxation of IOL was seen. No case of late endophthalmitis or retinal detachment was seen. Conclusion. Since refractive error induced is minimal, the procedure is suitable for IOL implantation in children, who are noncompliant with spectacles. The complication profile is similar to that reported in adults.
A Trip Purpose‐Based Data‐Driven Alighting Station Choice Model Using Transit Smart Card Data
Authors: Lu Kai , Khani Alireza , Han Baoming
Published: August 2018

Automatic fare collection (AFC) systems have been widely used all around the world which record rich data resources for researchers mining the passenger behavior and operation estimation. However, most transit systems are open systems for which only boarding information is recorded but the alighting information is missing. Because of the lack of trip information, validation of utility functions for passenger choices is difficult. To fill the research gaps, this study uses the AFC data from Beijing metro, which is a closed system and records both boarding information and alighting information. To estimate a more reasonable utility function for choice modeling, the study uses the trip chaining method to infer the actual destination of the trip. Based on the land use and passenger flow pattern, applying k‐means clustering method, stations are classified into 7 categories. A trip purpose labelling process was proposed considering the station category, trip time, trip sequence, and alighting station frequency during five weekdays. We apply multinomial logit models as well as mixed logit models with independent and correlated normally distributed random coefficients to infer passengers’ preferences for ticket fare, walking time, and in‐vehicle time towards their alighting station choice based on different trip purposes. The results find that time is a combined key factor while the ticket price based on distance is not significant. The estimated alighting stations are validated with real choices from a separate sample to illustrate the accuracy of the station choice models.
Cinnamaldehyde Improves Lifespan and Healthspan in Drosophila melanogaster Models for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Pham Hanh M. , Xu Anna , Schriner Samuel E. , Sevrioukov Evgueni A. , Jafari Mahtab
Published: August 2018

Cinnamon extract has been reported to have positive effects in fruit fly and mouse models for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, cinnamon contains numerous potential active compounds that have not been individually evaluated. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of cinnamaldehyde, a known putative active compound in cinnamon, on the lifespan and healthspan of Drosophila melanogaster models for Alzheimer’s disease, which overexpress Aβ42 and MAPT (Tau). We found that cinnamaldehyde significantly improved the lifespan of both AD and non-AD flies. Cinnamaldehyde also improved the healthspan of AD flies overexpressing the Tau protein by improving climbing ability, evaluated by rapid iterative negative geotaxis (RING), and improving short-term memory, evaluated by a courtship conditioning assay. Cinnamaldehyde had no positive impact on the healthspan of AD flies overexpressing the Aβ42 protein.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Anemia among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreweld Angesom , Tsegaye Aster
Published: August 2018

Background. In pregnancy, anemia is an important factor associated with an increased risk of maternal, fetal, and neonatal mortality, poor pregnancy outcomes, and impaired cognitive development, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess prevalence and factors associated with anemia among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Method. A cross-sectional health facility based study was conducted on 284 pregnant women to assess prevalence and factors associated with anemia at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College from June to August 2014. Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the study participants were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire by interview and review of medical records. About 4 ml of venous blood was collected from each subject for peripheral blood film and complete blood counts (CBC). Binary Logistic regression analysis had been used to check for association between dependent and independent variables. In all cases, P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result. The prevalence of anemia was found to be 11.6% (95 % CI; 7.8%-14.8%). Pregnant women in the second [AOR (95% CI), 6.72 (1.17-38.45), and P=0.03] and third trimester [AOR (95% CI), 8.31 (1.24-55.45), and P=0.029] were more likely to be anemic when compared to pregnant women in their first trimester. Pregnant women who did not receive iron/folic acid supplementation [AOR (95%CI), 4.03(1.49-10.92), and P=0.01] were more likely to be anemic when compared to pregnant women who did take supplementations. Conclusion. In this study the prevalence of anemia in pregnancy was low compared to the findings of others. Gestational age (trimester) and iron/folic acid supplementation were statistically associated with anemia. Therefore, iron supplementation and health education to create awareness about the importance of early booking for antenatal care are recommended to reduce anemia.
Neuroprotective Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide in a Murine Model of Cadmium Toxicity
Authors: Marini Herbert R. , Puzzolo Domenico , Micali Antonio , Adamo Elena Bianca , Irrera Natasha , Pisani Antonina , Pallio Giovanni , Trichilo Vincenzo , Malta Consuelo , Bitto Alessandra , Squadrito Francesco , Altavilla Domenica , Minutoli Letteria
Published: August 2018

Cadmium (Cd) is a harmful heavy metal, which causes severe brain damage and neurotoxic effects. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) stimulates adenosine A2A receptor, thus contrasting several deleterious mechanisms in course of tissue damages. We aimed to investigate the possible neuroprotective effect of PDRN in a murine model of Cd‐induced brain toxicity. Male C57 BL/6J mice were treated as follows: vehicle (0.9% NaCl, 1 ml/kg/day), PDRN (8 mg/kg/day), CdCl2 (2 mg/kg/day), and CdCl2 + PDRN. Animals were tested with the Morris water maze test to assess spatial memory and learning. After 14 days of treatment, brains were processed to evaluate the presence of edema in the cerebral tissue, the expression of mammalian target of rapamycin kinase (mTOR) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the morphological behavior of the hippocampal structures. After CdCl2 administration, the escape latency was high, protein expression of BDNF was significantly decreased if compared to controls, mTOR levels were higher than normal controls, and brain edema and neuronal damages were evident. The coadministration of CdCl2 and PDRN significantly diminished the escape latency, increased BDNF levels, and decreased protein expression of mTOR. Furthermore, brain edema was reduced and the structural organization and the number of neurons, particularly in the CA1 and CA3 hippocampal areas, were improved. In conclusion, a functional, biochemical, and morphological protective effect of PDRN against Cd induced toxicity was demonstrated in mouse brain.
Efficacy of Ingenol Mebutate in the Treatment of Actinic Keratoses: A Pre- and Posttreatment Dermoscopic Comparative Analysis
Authors: Carbotti Mattia , Coppola Rosa , Zanframundo Salvatore , Devirgiliis Valeria , Panasiti Vincenzo
Published: August 2018

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common skin lesion in adults which usually occurs on chronically photoexposed areas and considered as a precancerous lesion or a superficial squamous-cell carcinoma. Many classifications have been proposed and its diagnosis is generally clinical but, sometimes, its wide variety of presentations can make diagnosis difficult, even among expert observers. The malignant potential of AKs imposes an early diagnosis and treatment in order to reduce morbidity and mortality, and, for the characterization of photodamaged skin, noninvasive diagnostic techniques, such as dermoscopy, have proved to be useful, while multiple therapeutic strategies, lesion-directed versus field-directed therapies, are available for the treatment of AKs. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of ingenol mebutate for the treatment of AKs, with a particular focus on patients’ compliance, correlating it to clinical and dermoscopic grading, pre- and posttreatment, of these lesions. Fifty-two enrolled patients with AKs received treatment with ingenol mebutate gel (0.015% for face and scalp; 0.05% for trunk and extremities) and multiple dermatological evaluations. End points of the study were complete and partial clearance of clinically visible AKs on day 90. All acquired data were recorded and statistical analyses were performed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify possible predictive factors. We retrospectively analyzed patient-related and lesion-related factors to identify which variables, among age, gender, lesion site, pain, LSR score, and pretreatment clinical and dermoscopic grading, could independently predict the response to ingenol mebutate treatment. Our findings showed that pretreatment dermoscopic grade II represents an independent predictive factor of the efficacy of ingenol mebutate therapy (OR=14.78, 95% CI: 1.83–119.59, P=0.012) and that response rates differ on the basis of the treated anatomical sites (OR=0.16, 95% CI: 0.03–0.85, P=0.031). Data from this study provide evidence that ingenol mebutate gel is an effective treatment for AK, with relative ease of use, short exposure, and rapid resolution of local reactions, benefits contributing to high adherence of this therapy. Moreover, dermoscopic analysis of skin lesions offers more information than clinical evaluation alone and can be helpful in identifying different groups of AKs, thus selecting the adequate therapeutic choice.
High Occurrence of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Fitness Equipment from Selected Gymnasiums
Authors: Maurice Bilung Lesley , Tahar Ahmad Syatir , Kira Rosdi , Mohd Rozali Aina Ariffah , Apun Kasing
Published: August 2018

Introduction. Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of cutaneous bacterial infection involving community. Methods. In this study, a total of 42 swab samples were collected from the surface of various fitness equipment such as back machines, exercise mats, dip stations, dumbbells, and treadmills. Identification of the bacterial isolates was conducted using biochemical tests and further analysed molecularly using the PCR method targeting nuc gene (270 bp). The nuc gene encodes for the thermonuclease enzyme, a virulent factor of S. aureus. Results. The findings showed 31 out of 42 swab samples (73.81%) were positive with S. aureus. Conclusion. This study showed that gymnasium equipment is a potential reservoir for S. aureus and might play an important role in transmitting the pathogen to humans. Objective. This study was undertaken to assess the presence of S. aureus on the surface of fitness equipment from selected gymnasiums in Kuching and Kota Samarahan, Sarawak (Malaysia).
Biosynthesis, Characterization of Some Combined Nanoparticles, and Its Biocide Potency against a Broad Spectrum of Pathogens
Authors: Eltarahony Marwa , Zaki Sahar , ElKady Marwa , Abd-El-Haleem Desouky
Published: August 2018

The development of environmentally benign procedures for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) is a vital aspect in bionanotechnology applications for health care and the environment. This study describes the biosynthesis of Ag, Co, Ni, and Zn NPs by employing nanobiofactory Proteus mirabilis strain 10B. The physicochemical characterization UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique including ζ potential, and polydispersity index (PDI) confirmed the formation of pure, stable monodisperse quasi-spherical oxide NPs of corresponding metals. The antimicrobial activity of biofabricated NPs was assessed against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, biofilm, yeast, mold, and algae via a well diffusion method. The results displayed significant antagonistic activity in comparison to their bulk and commercial antibiotics. Interestingly, the combined NPs exhibited promising synergistic biocide efficiency against examined pathogens which encourages their applications in adjuvant therapy and water/wastewater purification for controlling multiple drug-resistant microorganisms. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study reported the synthesis of semiconductor NPs by Proteus mirabilis and the biocide potency of combined NPs against a broad spectrum of pathogens not reported previously.
Prostatic Abscess on Xanthogranulomatous Prostatitis: Uncommon Complication of an Uncommon Disease
Authors: Jabbour Youness , Lamchahab Hamza , Harrison Sumba , El Ouazzani Hafsa , Karmouni Tarik , El Khader Khalid , Koutani Abdellatif , Iben Attya Andaloussi Ahmed
Published: August 2018

Xanthogranulomatous prostatitis is a rare benign inflammatory process of the prostate. Only few cases have been reported in the English literature. Xanthogranulomatous prostatitis is usually an incidental finding after needle biopsy or transurethral resection of the prostate in patients suffering from low urinary tract symptoms. We report the case of a 59-years-old patient diagnosed with prostatic abscess managed by transurethral resection of the prostate. Histopathological examination of resected prostatic tissue revealed abscessed xanthogranulomatous prostatitis with no evidence of malignancy. Xanthogranulomatous prostatitis presenting as a prostatic abscess is a rare finding. To the best of our knowledge our case represents the fourth case of xanthogranulomatous prostatitis presenting as prostatic abscess reported in the English literature so far.
The Relationship between Stunting and Some Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors among Yemeni Children and Adolescents
Authors: Al-Mansoob Muhammed A. K. , Masood Muhammed S. A.
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the influence of sex, residence area, age group, school enrollment, poverty status, and income quintiles variables on the prevalence of stunting among Yemeni children and adolescents. The investigation was done on all children and adolescents (3004) aged 5-19 years and included in the last Yemeni Household Budget Survey (YHBS) data of 2005/2006. The data included a classification of the poverty status of surveyed households. The cutoff of -2 z scores of the height-for-age reference suggested by NCHS was used to calculate the prevalence rate of stunting. Descriptive, categorical testing, and logit modelling statistical analysis tools were used in the investigation. The statistical analysis shows the overall prevalence rate of stunting as 49.5% and the prevalence of stunting among males is higher than females. The prevalence of stunting among rural children and adolescents is higher than the urban children and adolescents, and it is higher among children and adolescents who were not enrolled than those enrolled. Children and adolescents of poor households were suffering from stunting (52.8%) as compared to children and adolescents of nonpoor households (47.7%). Children and adolescents living with the poorest, second, and middle-income households were 1.76, 1.73, and 1.46 times more likely to be stunted, respectively. The research provides an evidence that the childhood health situation in Yemen is chaotic and needs careful and effective cooperation and efforts both nationally and internationally to divert the foreseen danger looming.
Spatiotemporal Variation Characteristics of Vegetative PUE in China from 2000 to 2015
Authors: Xu Haitao , Hou Peng , He Zhengwei , Duo A. , Zhang Bing
Published: August 2018

Vegetative precipitation-use efficiency (PUE) is a key indicator for evaluating the dynamic response of vegetation productivity to the spatiotemporal variation in precipitation. It is also an important indicator for reflecting the relationship between the water and carbon cycles in a vegetation ecosystem. This paper uses data from MODIS Net Primary Production (NPP) and China’s spatial interpolation data for precipitation from 2000 to 2015 to calculate the annual value, multiyear mean value, interannual standard deviation, and interannual linear trend of Chinese terrestrial vegetative PUE over the past 16 years. Based on seven major administrative regions, eleven vegetation types, and four climate zones, we analyzed the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of China’s vegetative PUE. The research results are shown as follows: (1) China’s vegetative PUE shows obvious spatial variation characteristics, and it is relatively stable interannually, with an overall slight increasing trend, especially in Northwest and Southwest China. The vegetative PUE is higher, and its stability is declined in Xinjiang, western Gansu, and the southern Tibetan valley. The vegetative PUE is lower, and its stability is increased in northeastern Tibet and southwestern Qinghai. An increasing trend in vegetative PUE is obvious at the edge of the Tarim Basin, in western Gansu, the southern Tibetan valley, and northwestern Yunnan. (2) There is a significant difference in the PUEs among different vegetation types. The average PUE of Broadleaf Forest is the highest, and the average PUE of Alpine Vegetation is the lowest. The stability of the PUE of Mixed Coniferous and Broadleaf Forest is declined, and the stability of the PUE of Alpine Vegetation is increased. The increasing speed of the PUE of Grass-forb Community is the fastest, and the decreasing speed of the PUE of Swamp is the fastest. (3) There is a significant difference in the PUEs among different vegetation types in the same climate zone, the difference in vegetative PUE in arid and semiarid regions is mainly affected by precipitation, and the difference in vegetative PUE in humid and semihumid regions is mainly affected by soil factors. The PUEs of the same vegetation type are significantly different among climate zones. The average PUE of Cultural Vegetation has the largest difference, the stability of the PUE of Steppe has the largest difference, and the increasing speed of the PUE of Swamp has the largest difference.
The Increment of Choroidal Thickness in Euthyroid Graves’ Ophthalmopathy: Is It an Early Sign of Venous Congestion?
Authors: Cagiltay Eylem , Akay Fahrettin , Demir Ozgur , Aydın Erdinç , Akmaz Berkay , Pamuk Baris
Published: August 2018

Objective. Clinical manifestations of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) are caused by the overcompression of orbital tissues within the restricted orbital bone cavity. Impaired ocular blood flow may disrupt the retinal microstructure and functions. In this study, we aimed to investigate the macular and choroidal thickness changes in GO compared with healthy subjects. Materials and Methods. The study group comprised 50 adult patients with previously diagnosed Graves’ disease with ophthalmopathy who were on antithyroid treatment. For the assessment of GO activity, the VISA (vision, inflammation, strabismus, and appearance) inflammatory score was used. When euthyroidism was achieved without side effects, the patients were referred to the ophthalmology clinic for spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) evaluation. Results. Subfoveal, mean, and temporal choroidal thicknesses were increased significantly in the study group according to the controls. The mean choroidal thickness was elevated. Conclusions. This elevation is because of the intraorbital inflammation even in this nonsevere GO group. Choroidal thickness might be affected from the venous obstruction and congestion in patients with GO. The elevation of the choroidal thickness might be an early sign of venous congestion that occurs before the elevation of intraocular pressure.