Misuse of topical over-the-counter medication: A case report

Overuse of topical medication is a national issue. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are dispensed to patients directly without a physician's prescription and when used improperly without proper knowledge can lead to their misuse and toxicity.

"Cyclist at 12 o'clock!": a systematic review of in-vehicle advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for preventing car-rider crashes

Introduction

While Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have become a prominent topic in road safety research, there has been relatively little discussion about their effectiveness in preventing car collisions involving specific vulnerable road users, such as cyclists. Therefore, the primary objective of this systematic literature review is to analyze the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of in-vehicle ADAS in preventing vehicle collisions with cyclists.

Methods

To achieve this goal, this systematic review analyzed a selection of original research papers that examined the effectiveness of ADAS systems in preventing car-cyclist collisions. The review followed the PRISMA protocol, which led to the extraction of 21 eligible studies from an initial pool of 289 sources indexed in the primary scientific literature databases. Additionally, word community-based content analyses were used to examine the research topics and their links within the current scientific literature on the matter.

Results

Although the current number of studies available is still scarce (most sources focus on car-motorcyclist or car-pedestrian crashes), the overall quality of the available studies has been reasonably good, as determined by the selected evaluation methods. In terms of studies' outcomes, the literature supports the value of in-vehicle ADAS for preventing car-cyclist crashes. However, threatful side effects such as unrealistic expectations of these systems and users' overconfidence or desensitization are also highlighted, as well as the need to increase driver training and road user awareness.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that Advanced Driver Assistance Systems have significant potential to contribute to the prevention of driving crashes involving cyclists. However, the literature emphasizes the importance of concurrently enhancing user-related skills in both ADAS use and road-user interaction through educational and training initiatives. Future research should also address emerging issues, such as ADAS-related behavioral ergonomics, and conduct long-term effectiveness assessments of ADAS in preventing car-cycling crashes and their subsequent injuries.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, unique identifier CRD42024505492, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=505492.

[Review of Comprehensive Evaluation System of Vehicle Pollution and Carbon Synergistic Reduction]

Vehicle emissions have become one of the most important air pollution sources in China. Promoting vehicle synergistic reduction of pollution and carbon is the key to improving regional environmental quality and achieving the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. Building a collaborative evaluation system and comprehensive quantitative method is an important prerequisite for scientific and effective implementation of vehicle pollution and carbon synergistic reduction. Therefore, it is significant to extensively review existing synergistic evaluation methods and comprehensive environmental benefit accounting methods of atmospheric pollution and carbon reduction. On this basis, we focused on vehicle emission characteristics, systematically organized the key indicators of vehicle collaborative reduction evaluation, and summarized quantitative methods of policy effects from three aspects (health exposure cost, climate change cost, and pollutant control cost), to provide theoretical support for policy formulation, schemes selection, and their effect evaluation. For the future, the assessment of vehicle coordinated emission reduction is proposed to accelerate unified index system establishment, deeply analyze the spatial distribution of environmental benefits, focus on the pollution transfer caused by vehicle electrification, and explore the quantitative methods of climate change cost due to extreme weather.

Air Pollution inside Vehicles: Making a Bad Situation Worse

Thailand has successfully forwarded Article 8, Protection from Exposure to Tobacco Smoke, of the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). It achieved its 100% smoke-free goals in public places in 2010, next pursuing other bans in outdoor places to lower particulate matter air pollution (PM2.5). Our aim was to expose the secondhand smoke levels in vehicles since SHS is a danger to everyone, but especially to children and youth. This is the first experimental study of its kind in Thailand. We measured PM2.5 for 20 min under four conditions in 10 typical Thai vehicles, including commonly used sedans and small pickup trucks. We used an established protocol with two real-time air monitoring instruments to record PM2.5 increases with different vehicle air exchange and air conditioning conditions. Monitoring was recorded in the vehicle's front and back seats. The most common Thai ventilation condition is all windows closed with fan/air conditioning (AC) in operation because of Thai tropical conditions. Mean exposure levels were three and nearly five times (49 and 72 μg/m3) the 24 h WHO standard of 15 μg/m3 in the back and front seats, respectively. These high PM2.5 exposure levels warrant action to limit vehicle smoking for public health protection.

Evaluation of the in vitro permeation parameters of topical ketoprofen and lidocaine hydrochloride from transdermal Pentravan® products through human skin

In the treatment of pain, especially chronic pain, the rule of multimodal therapy applies, based on various painkillers mechanisms of action. The aim of the conducted study was to evaluate the in vitro penetration of ketoprofen (KET) and lidocaine hydrochloride (LH) through the human skin from a vehicle with transdermal properties. The results obtained with the use of the Franz chamber showed statistically significantly higher penetration of KET from the transdermal vehicle as compared to commercial preparations. It was also shown that the addition of LH to the transdermal vehicle did not change the amount of KET permeated. The study also compared the penetration of KET and LH by adding various excipients to the transdermal vehicle. Comparing the cumulative mass of KET that penetrated after the 24-h study, it was observed that the significantly highest permeation was found for the vehicle containing additionally Tinctura capsici, then for that containing camphor and ethanol, and the vehicle containing menthol and ethanol as compared to that containing Pentravan^® alone. A similar tendency was observed in the case of LH, where the addition of Tinctura capsici, menthol and camphor led to a statistically significant higher penetration. Adding certain drugs such as KET and LH to Pentravan^®, and substances such as menthol, camphor or capsaicin, can be an interesting alternative to administered enteral drugs especially in the group of patients with multiple diseases and polypragmasy.

Motorist's Vestibular Disorientation Syndrome (MVDS)-Proposed Diagnostic Criteria

Motorist's vestibular disorientation syndrome (MVDS) is a disorder in which patients experience dizziness while driving. MVDS is under-reported in the literature, and in clinical practice, it often goes unrecognized. We identified clinical characteristics of patients with MVDS using data from 24 patients who faced difficulties while driving and were diagnosed with MVDS. Their symptoms, duration of illness, precipitating factors, co-morbidities, history of other neuro-otological disorders, severity of symptoms, and associated anxiety and depression were reviewed. Ocular motor movements were recorded using video-nystagmography. Patients with vestibular disorders that can cause similar symptoms while driving were excluded. The mean age of the patients was 45.7 ± 8.7 years, and most were professional drivers (90.5%). The duration of the illness ranged from eight days to ten years. Most patients presented with disorientation (79.2%) exclusively while driving. The most common triggers for symptoms were higher speeds, i.e., >80 km/h (66.7%), multi-lane roads (58.3%), bends and turns (50%), and looking at other vehicles or signals while driving (41.7%). A history of migraines was reported in 62.5% of the patients, and motion sickness was reported in 50% of the patients. Anxiety was reported in 34.3% of patients, and 15.7% had depression. The video-nystagmography did not show any specific abnormalities. Patients responded to drugs used in prophylactic treatments for migraines such as Amitriptyline, Venlafaxine, Bisoprolol, and Magnesium, and to Pregabalin and Gabapentin. Based on these findings, a classification system and a diagnostic criterion for MVDS were proposed.

Patient-Centric Design of Topical Dermatological Medicines

Topical treatments are essential approaches to skin diseases but are associated with poor adherence. Topical vehicles have the primary purpose of ensuring drug effectiveness (by modulating drug stability and delivery, as well as skin properties) but have a marked impact on treatment outcomes as they influence patient satisfaction and, consequently, adherence to topical treatments. There is also a wide variety of vehicles available for topical formulations, which can complicate the decisions of clinicians regarding the most appropriate treatments for specific skin disorders. One of the possible strategies to improve topical-treatment adherence is the implementation of patient-centric drug-product design. In this process, the patient's needs (e.g., those related to motor impairment), the needs associated with the disease (according to the skin lesions' characteristics), and the patient's preferences are taken into consideration and translated into a target product profile (TPP). Herein, an overview of topical vehicles and their properties is presented, along with a discussion of the patient-centric design of topical dermatological medicines and the proposal of TPPs for some of the most common skin diseases.

Pond Sediments Reveal the Increasing Importance of Road Runoff as a Source of Metal Contamination in Industrialized Urban Environments Downwind of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (USA)

Toxic levels of trace metals from human activities accumulate in natural environments, yet these metal mixtures are rarely characterized or quantified. Metal mixtures accumulate in historically industrial urban areas and change as economies shift. Previous research has often focused on the sources and fate of a specific element, which limits our understanding of metal contaminant interactions in our environment. Here, we reconstruct the history of metal contamination in a small pond downstream of an interstate highway and downwind of fossil fuel and metallurgical industries that have been active since the middle of the nineteenth century. Metal contamination histories were reconstructed from the sediment record using metal ratio mixing analysis to attribute the relative contributions of contamination sources. Cadmium, copper, and zinc concentrations in sediments accumulated since the construction of major road arteries in the 1930s and 40s are, respectively, 3.9, 2.4, and 6.6 times more concentrated than those during industry-dominated time periods. Shifts in elemental ratios suggest these changes in metal concentrations coincide with increased contributions from road and parking lot traffic, and to a lesser extent, from airborne sources. The metal mixture analysis demonstrates that in near-road environments, contributions from modern surface water pathways can obscure historical atmospheric industrial inputs.

The use of liquid latex as a pre-treatment to recover debris-covered latent fingerprints from exterior surfaces of vehicles

This study evaluated the effectiveness of using liquid latex as a pre-treatment for fingerprint recovery from the exterior surfaces of vehicles in summer. The sample of this study was 540 sebaceous latent fingerprints deposited on the lower body of three vehicles. Thirty control and thirty experimental fingerprints were deposited on each vehicle, and the experiment was repeated three times. The three vehicles were driven daily for either 2, 3, or 4 weeks after the deposition of fingerprints. After the vehicles reached their designated debris accumulation duration, the latent fingerprints in the control groups were developed with black fingerprint powder. Liquid latex was applied onto the fingerprints in the experimental groups, and they were subsequently developed with black fingerprint powder. A chi-sure test indicated that there was a significant difference in fingerprints recovery performance between two methods (X²  = 4.903, d.f. = 1, p = 0.027). An odds ratio test indicated the control method increases the probability of fingerprint recovery by 1.54 times. A Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate the quality of fingerprints recovered from both methods and it indicated that there is no significant difference in quality using the two methods (p = 0.058). This study indicated that the traditional fingerprint powder method performed better for fingerprint recovery from exterior surfaces of vehicles in summer.

Negligible Toxicokinetic Differences of Glyphosate by Different Vehicles in Rats

Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide. Although glyphosate is not acutely toxic, the intake of glyphosate-based herbicides has caused many accidents. Some studies have suggested that surfactants might be the cause. The purpose of this study was to compare the toxicokinetic (TK) properties of glyphosate according to different vehicles in rats. Glyphosate (1%) was dissolved in distilled water (DW), polyoxyethylene tallow amine (POEA), and Tween 20. After a single oral treatment of glyphosate (50 mg/kg), blood was collected at time intervals, and glyphosate concentrations in the target organ (liver and kidney) were determined 24 h after final blood collection. All samples were analyzed using LC-MS/MS. The TK parameters of glyphosate were similar in the DW and Tween 20 groups. However, there were significant differences in Tmax and volume of distribution (Vd) between the DW and POEA group (p < 0.05). Glyphosate was absorbed about 10 times faster in POEA group rather than DW, and exhibited a higher distribution. However, other important TK parameters of T1/2, AUC, and Cmax were not statistically different among the different vehicle groups. Although glyphosate concentration in the liver was significantly higher in the POEA group than in the DW group, there was no significant difference in the kidney. These results indicate that the toxicokinetics of glyphosate are not significantly affected by POEA. It can be concluded that POEA toxicity itself can be attributed to the acute toxicity of glyphosate-containing products.

Applications of Extracellular Vesicles in Nervous System Disorders: An Overview of Recent Advances

Diseases affecting the brain and spinal cord fall under the umbrella term "central nervous system disease". Most medications used to treat or prevent chronic diseases of the central nervous system cannot cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and hence cannot reach their intended target. Exosomes facilitate cellular material movement and signal transmission. Exosomes can pass the blood-brain barrier because of their tiny size, high delivery efficiency, minimal immunogenicity, and good biocompatibility. They enter brain endothelial cells via normal endocytosis and reverse endocytosis. Exosome bioengineering may be a method to produce consistent and repeatable isolation for clinical usage. Because of their tiny size, stable composition, non-immunogenicity, non-toxicity, and capacity to carry a wide range of substances, exosomes are indispensable transporters for targeted drug administration. Bioengineering has the potential to improve these aspects of exosomes significantly. Future research into exosome vectors must focus on redesigning the membrane to produce vesicles with targeting abilities to increase exosome targeting. To better understand exosomes and their potential as therapeutic vectors for central nervous system diseases, this article explores their basic biological properties, engineering modifications, and promising applications.

The Impact of the Available Infrastructure on the Electric Vehicle Market in Poland and in EU Countries

The dynamic development of the automotive market entails the need to understand its characteristics. The purpose of this publication is to indicate the changes in the automotive sector resulting from the approaching electromobility. In order to achieve this goal, the market of electric and conventional vehicles in Poland are discussed. This paper discusses issues related to employment in the automotive industry, analyses the location of factories of the largest vehicle manufacturers and analyzes the structure of sales. The development of electromobility in Poland against the background of other EU countries was analyzed in detail. The analysis was based on data from September 2022. The analysis has been conducted by means of computations of the correlation of individual variables (numbers of different types of vehicles: traditional vehicles, BEV and PHEV). The presented results show that the number of BEVs and PHEVs is increasing, and the infra-structure is developing. The number of PHEV cars is usually higher than BEV ones. The results of the analysis of the vehicle market in Poland show occurrence of the variety of vehicle types and variety of the types of vehicle power supplies with alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). It can be concluded that standardization would be helpful for further development. The number of charging stations is small compared to the number of vehicles, and the advantage of AC stations is evident. This means investing in infrastructure is necessary to enable further development.

The epidemiology of road traffic accidents and associated factors among drivers in Dilla Town, Southern Ethiopia

Background

Data on the magnitude of road traffic accidents (RTAs) were mostly obtained through police records and hospital registration data. However, insufficient data reporting masked the gravity of the problem, and little attention was paid to the magnitude and correlation of road traffic accidents from the driver's perspective. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of RTA and related factors among drivers.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study involving 316 drivers was conducted in Southern Ethiopia. The participants were chosen using a systematic random sample technique, and the data were obtained using an interview-administered structured questionnaire. To analyze the data, SPSS software (version 20) was employed. In addition to descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression analysis was also employed to find factors connected to traffic accidents. RTA factors were considered statistically significant if they had a P-value of 0.05 or below in the multivariate analysis.

Result

The RTA among drivers was 126 (39.9%) (95% confidence interval (CI): 34.2-45.6%) in the previous year. The following factors were associated with RTA: vehicle maintenance (AOR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.96), media utilization (AOR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.65), participation in driving-related training (AOR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.91), punishment for prior traffic violations (AOR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.47, 0.83), and risky driving behavior (AOR = 7.89, 95% CI: 3.22, 12.38).

Conclusion

Two-fifths of the drivers were involved in a traffic accident. Risky driving behaviors, vehicle maintenance, media usage, attending driving-related training in the previous 2 years, and prior experience with traffic police punishment or warning were all strongly linked to road traffic accidents. In light of these statistics, the Federal Ministry of Transport of Ethiopia and other stakeholders should support making it mandatory for drivers to check their vehicles' safety, provide them with safety training, raise awareness about vehicle maintenance and risky driving behaviors, and enforce strict penalties for traffic violations.

Influence of Environmental Pollution and Living Conditions on Parasite Transmission among Indigenous Ecuadorians

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of environmental pollution and the living conditions of indigenous Ecuadorians on the transmission of enteroparasites in an Andean agricultural area located at high altitude. Environmental pollution was recorded after observation in each community. The parasites were identified by microscopic sediment analysis using physiological saline solution from macerated arthropods, washed vegetables, and human stools, utilizing four coproparasitological techniques (direct examination, Kato–Katz, ether concentration, and Ziehl–Neelsen). The results show that the inadequate disposal of human and animal excreta that contaminate soil and water, incorrect food hygiene, inadequate sanitary infrastructure in houses, a lack of animal veterinary care, and rodent proliferation are important reservoirs of zoonotic parasites. The use of excrement as fertilizer increases the number of flies, which act as mechanical vectors, and vegetables grown in areas with disperse infective parasitic forms act as vehicles that are marketed at the local, regional, and international levels. These analyses verify contamination levels of 52.7% in mechanical vectors, 70.6% in vegetables, and 98.2% in human stools. The agricultural communities analyzed maintained poor hygienic–sanitary and environmental conditions, which had a significant influence on the transmission of enteroparasites that affect human health.

Research on Vehicle Lane Change Warning Method Based on Deep Learning Image Processing

In order to improve vehicle driving safety in a low-cost manner, we used a monocular camera to study a lane-changing warning algorithm for highway vehicles based on deep learning image processing technology. We improved the mask region-based convolutional neural network for vehicle target detection. Suitable anchor frame ratios were obtained by means of K-means++ method clustering for 66,389 vehicle targets with the width/height ratio, which is one more set of anchor frames than the original setting, so as to ensure that the generation accuracy of candidate frames can be improved without sacrificing more network performance. Using the vehicle target annotation set, we trained the vehicle targets. Through the analysis of indicators for mean average precision, a new set of anchor frames was added to improve the accuracy of vehicle target detection. Based on the improved vehicle detection network and an end-to-end lane detection network in series, we proposed an algorithm for the detection of highway vehicle lane-changing behavior with the first-person perspective by summing the inter-frame change rates in the vehicle lane-changing data pool. After the identification and verification of the marked lane-changing picture sequences, a lane-changing detection accuracy rate of 94.5% was achieved.

Exposure to Tobacco Smoking in Vehicles, Indoor, and Outdoor Settings in Germany: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Little is known on whether secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in vehicles, indoor, and outdoor settings is similarly patterned in terms of different socio-epidemiological indicators in Germany. This study aims to estimate the current national-level prevalence and associated socio-epidemiological indicators of SHS exposure in vehicles, indoor, and outdoor settings in the German population, using current data from a representative household survey. We used cross-sectional data (N = 3928 respondents aged 14–99 years) from two waves of the DEBRA survey (German Study on Tobacco Use), conducted between January and March 2020. The reported prevalence of SHS exposure during the last seven days was 19% in vehicles, 25% in indoor settings, and 43% in outdoor settings. We found that younger age and current smoking were consistently associated with higher SHS exposure. Furthermore, people with low education were more likely to be exposed to SHS in vehicles and indoor settings than people with high education. This study found that the prevalence of SHS exposure in vehicles, indoor, and outdoor settings is a relevant feature of everyday life in Germany, especially for younger people and people with lower education, leading to potentially persistent socioeconomic and tobacco-attributable inequalities in morbidity and mortality.

Covid-19 mobility restrictions: impacts on urban air quality and health

In 2020, Covid-19-related mobility restrictions resulted in the most extensive human-made air-quality changes ever recorded. The changes in mobility are quantified in terms of outdoor air pollution (concentrations of PM_2.5 and NO₂) and the associated health impacts in four UK cities (Greater London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Belfast). After applying a weather-corrected machine learning (ML) technique, all four cities show NO₂ and PM_2.5 concentration anomalies in 2020 when compared with the ML-predicted values for that year. The NO₂ anomalies are -21% for Greater London, -19% for Cardiff, -27% for Belfast and -41% for Edinburgh. The PM_2.5 anomalies are 7% for Greater London, -1% for Cardiff, -15% for Edinburgh, -14% for Belfast. All the negative anomalies, which indicate air pollution at a lower level than expected from the weather conditions, are attributable to the mobility restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 lockdowns. Spearman rank-order correlations show a significant correlation between the lowering of NO₂ levels and reduction in public transport (p < 0.05) and driving (p < 0.05), which is associated with a decline in NO₂-attributable mortality. These positive effects of the mobility restrictions on public health can be used to evaluate policies for improved outdoor air quality.

POLICY RELEVANCE

Finding the means to curb air pollution is very important for public health. Empirical evidence at a city scale reveals significant correlations between the reduction in vehicular transport and in ambient NO₂ concentrations. The results provide justification for city-level initiatives to reduce vehicular traffic. Well-designed and effective policy interventions (e.g. the promotion of walking and cycling, remote working, local availability of services) can substantially reduce long-term air pollution and have positive health impacts.

A High-Throughput Nanofluidic Device for Exosome Nanoporation to Develop Cargo Delivery Vehicles

Efficient loading of various exogenous cargos into exosomes while not affecting their integrity and functionalities remains a major challenge. Here, a nanofluidic device named "exosome nanoporator (ENP)" is presented for high-throughput loading of various cargos into exosomes. By transporting exosomes through nanochannels with height comparable to their dimension, exosome membranes are permeabilized by mechanical compression and fluid shear, allowing the influx of cargo molecules into the exosomes from the surrounding solution while maintaining exosome integrity. The ENP consisting of an array of 30 000 nanochannels demonstrates a high sample throughput, and the working mechanism of the device is elucidated through experimental and numerical study. Further, the exosomes treated by the ENP can deliver their drug cargos to human non-small cell lung cancer cells and induce cell death, indicating the potential opportunities of the device for developing new exosome-based delivery vehicles for medical and biological applications.

Field Evaluations of Sulfuryl Fluoride Fumigation for Control of the Common Bed Bug (Hemiptera: Cimicidae), Using a 1.9× Dosage Factor in Motor Vehicles and Filled Cargo Trailers

This study investigated the efficacy of using Vikane gas fumigant (sulfuryl fluoride) at the 1.9× dosage rate for eliminating bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) in two challenging infestation situations: personal vehicles, and confined spaces densely packed with personal belongings. The vehicles used in this study were large minivans with seating that folded into the floor. The confined spaces were cargo trailers filled to 85% capacity with books, furniture, and other household items. Each van and trailer was equipped with ~90 sentinel bed bugs consisting of three groups of 9-11 bed bug eggs, 10 nymphs, and 10 adults. The Vikane Fumiguide calculator was used to determine the target dosage (g-h/m3) to apply in each replicate (e.g., one van or trailer). Sulfuryl fluoride concentrations were measured throughout the fumigation process using a Spectros SF-ReportIR. Concentration readings were input into the Fumiguide to determine when the accumulated dosage (g-h/m3) was achieved, and when aeration should be initiated. After aeration was complete, the sentinel bed bugs were removed from the replicates and bed bug nymph and adult mortality was recorded. Bed bug eggs were monitored for 23 d to determine latent mortality. Fumigated bed bug mortality for each replication was 100% regardless of life stage. Latent mortality was observed in a single bed bug egg, but the first instar never fully eclosed. This study determined that fumigation with sulfuryl fluoride at the 1.9× dosage factor is an effective method for eliminating resistant bed bugs from vehicles and personal belongings in densely packed situations.

Ability of different matrices to transmit African swine fever virus

This opinion assesses the risk posed by different matrices to introduce African swine fever virus (ASFV) to non-affected regions of the EU. Matrices assessed are feed materials, enrichment/bedding materials and empty live pigs transport vehicles returning from affected areas. Although the risk from feed is considered to be lower than several other pathways (e.g. contact with infected live animals and swill feeding), it cannot be ruled out that matrices assessed in this opinion pose a risk. Evidence on survival of ASFV in different matrices from literature and a public consultation was used in an Expert Knowledge Elicitation (EKE) on the possible contamination of products and traded or imported product volumes used on pig farms. The EKE results were used in a model that provided a risk-rank for each product's contamination likelihood ('q'), its trade or import volume from affected EU or Eurasian areas (N) and the modelled number of potentially infected pig farms (N × q). The products ranking higher regardless of origin or destination were mash and pelleted compound feed, feed additives and cereals. Bedding/enrichment materials, hydrolysed proteins and blood products ranked lowest regardless of origin or destination. Empty vehicles ranked lower than compound feed but higher than non-compound feed or bedding/enrichment material. It is very likely (95-99% certainty) that compound feed and cereals rank higher than feed materials, which rank higher than bedding/enrichment material and forage. As this is an assessment based on several parameters including the contamination and delivery to a pig farm, all of which have the same impact on the final ranking, risk managers should consider how the relative rank of each product may change with an effective storage period or a virus inactivation step.

[Trends in Vehicle Emissions in Sichuan Province, 2010-2017]

Vehicle pollution in Sichuan Province is becoming increasingly serious. Here, based on specific inventory calculation methods and multi-caliber activity level data, this study calculated vehicle exhaust emissions from 2010 to 2017 in Sichuan Province. The results show that the average growth rate of vehicle ownership in Sichuan is higher than the national trend. In 2017, vehicle emissions of CO, NO_x, SO₂, NH₃, HC, PM_2.5, PM₁₀, BC, and OC were 706.9, 275.3, 0.3, 5.7, 164.8, 8.1, 8.9, 4.1, and 1.4 kt, respectively. Except for NH₃, showed a downward trend, peaking in 2014-2016. Diesel vehicle ownership showed a strong correlation with the emission of NO_x. Based on these observations, stricter vehicle emission standards offer the greatest potential for emissions reductions, with early implementation offering the greatest reduction potential. The improvement of fuel quality will also have more than a 6% emission reduction effect on pollutant emission each year. HC and NO_x emissions reductions will be an important control on vehicle pollution in Sichuan Province in the future.

Design, Implementation, and Configuration of Laser Systems for Vehicle Detection and Classification in Real Time

The use of real-time vehicle detection and classification systems is essential for the accurate management of traffic and road infrastructure. Over time, diverse systems have been proposed for it, such as the widely known magnetic loops or microwave radars. However, these types of sensors do not offer all the information currently required for exhaustive and comprehensive traffic control. Thus, this paper presents the design, implementation, and configuration of laser systems to obtain 3D profiles of vehicles, which collect more precise information about the state of the roads. Nevertheless, to obtain reliable information on vehicle traffic by means of these systems, it is fundamental to correctly carry out a series of preliminary steps: choose the most suitable type of laser, select its configuration properly, determine the optimal location, and process the information provided accurately. Therefore, this paper details a series of criteria to help make these crucial and difficult decisions. Furthermore, following these guidelines, a complete laser system implemented for vehicle detection and classification is presented as result, which is characterized by its versatility and the ability to control up to four lanes in real time.

Allergic contact dermatitis from potassium sorbate and sorbic acid in topical pharmaceuticals and medical devices

BACKGROUND

The preservatives sorbic acid (SA) and potassium sorbate (PS) are considered rare skin sensitizers. PS-containing products always contain SA to a certain extent, and positivity to PS may reflect sensitization to SA. Their optimal patch-test conditions are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To report on the outcome of testing with SA and PS in various concentrations and/or vehicles.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Seventeen patients with allergic contact dermatitis from PS/SA-containing topical pharmaceuticals and medical devices were patch tested to SA 2% and 5% pet.; SA 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%. eth.; and/or SA 2% aq., whereas PS was patch tested 5% pet. and/or 5% aq.

RESULTS

Only one patient, not tested to the ethanol preparations, presented with a (doubtful) positive reaction to SA 2% pet., while this remained negative in 13 patients who reacted to SA 2% eth. The preparations containing SA 5% pet.; 1%, 3%, and 5% eth.; and SA 2% aq. had little or no additional value. PS 5% pet. performed better than 5% aq., and always mirrored SA sensitization.

CONCLUSIONS

Sensitization to SA and PS is probably underestimated. SA 2% eth. and PS 5% pet. are preferred for patch testing, and patients sensitized to SA should avoid PS-containing products.

HIGHLIGHTS

Potassium sorbate (PS) and sorbic acid (SA) are widely used preservatives. PS-containing products always contain some SA. Both are considered rare skin sensitizers, but contact allergy in response to them might be underestimated. SA 2% eth. and PS 5% pet., rather than SA 2% pet. and PS 5% aq., respectively, may be required to diagnose contact allergy from PS/SA-containing topical pharmaceuticals and medical devices. A positive patch test to PS reflects sensitization to SA, and patients sensitized to SA should also avoid PS-containing products.

High Martensitic Steel after Welding with Micro-Jet Cooling in Microstructural and Mechanical Investigations

Modern means of transport will play a significant role in the smart city. In the automotive industry, high-strength steels such as Docol are employed more often. This kind of material is relatively not very well weldable. The main reason is related to the Heat Affect Zone, the region in which cracks occur. Another disadvantage is connected with differences in values of ultimate strength of parent and weld material. The differences can be diminished using the correct welding process, which employs nickel and molybdenum electrode wires at much lower sulfur content. The weld metal deposit contains mainly martensite and bainite with coarse ferrite, while the parent material contains mainly martensite and rather fine ferrite. New technology, micro-jet cooling after the joining process enables to obtain the microstructure of weld metal deposit at acceptable parameters. Welding with micro-jet cooling could be treated as a very promising welding Docol steels process with high industrial application. Results of non-destructive inspections on macro samples corresponded with further destructive test results (tensile strength, hardness, fatigue, metallographic structure analyses). This article aims to verify fatigue behavior of Docol 1200 M steel after welding supported by the cooling using the micro-jet technique. For the first time, micro-jet cooling was used to weld this kind of steel to check the mechanical properties of the joint, especially to determine the fatigue limit. This study is formulated as follows: investigating fatigue resistance of the Docol 1200 M weld manufactured at the cooling process with micro-jets. The joints were produced in the MAG (Metal Active Gas) technology modified by micro-jet cooling. The results collected in the fatigue test were processed in the form of the Wöhler’s S–N diagram following the fatigue limit of the weld examined. All data have indicated the possibility of obtaining a new method of welded joints with high fatigue limit minimum of 480 MPa. It could be important to achieve a tensile strength of 700 MPa while maintaining the best relative elongation at the level of the base material.

Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Public Transportation Vehicles: A Case Study in Hunan Province, China

Here we report a case study of a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak event during bus trips of an index patient in Hunan Province, China. This retrospective investigation suggests potential airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and the possibility of superspreading events in certain close contact and closed space settings, which should be taken into account when control strategies are planned.

The Use of Liquid Latex to Recover Latent Fingerprints that are Covered in Debris from Exterior Glass Surfaces of Vehicles

The purpose of this research is to determine if latent fingerprints deposited on the exterior glass surfaces of vehicles, then covered in debris, can be recovered. Past research used liquid latex to lift soot to recover trace evidence. Recently, liquid latex has been used to recover latent fingerprints along the bottom of vehicles. In this study, a total of 216 latent fingerprints were deposited on the exterior windows of three vehicles. Three control and three experimental latent fingerprints were placed on each side window. The vehicles collected debris for either 2, 3, or 4 weeks. After debris collection, liquid latex was applied to the experimental sections. The underlying fingerprints were developed with white granular powder. Control fingerprints were developed directly with white granular powder. A chi-square test revealed a significant difference in fingerprint recovery between the control and liquid latex method (X²  = 9.026, d.f. = 1, p = 0.003). An odds ratio determined that the control method increases the probability of latent fingerprint recovery by 2.68. Fisher's exact test indicated that there is no statistically significant difference between the detail of the recovered control and experimental fingerprints (p = 0.065). This study demonstrates that recovery of fingerprints is possible using the liquid latex method; however, the control method recovers more fingerprints on the glass exterior of vehicles. If latent fingerprints are thought to be present on the exterior glass surfaces of vehicles, the control method should be used to improve vehicle processing by investigators.

Comparative skin penetration profiles of formulations including ultradeformable liposomes as potential nanocosmeceutical carriers

BACKGROUND

Ultradeformable liposomes are promising carriers for cosmeceutical actives as they can be loaded with molecules of different polarities, and they present unique penetration properties.

AIMS

While those features have already been tested, we wanted to know whether their special penetration properties could be maintained after incorporation in diverse cosmetic vehicles, including commercial products already in the market.

METHODS

Ultradeformable liposomes loaded with a lipophilic and a hydrophilic fluorescent probe were prepared by lipid film resuspension, followed by extrusion and incorporation to different vehicles and commercial products. Penetration was determined in human and pig skin by incubation, with the Saarbrücken penetration model, followed by the recovery of the probes or by fluorescence microscopy.

RESULTS

The incorporation of ultradeformable liposomes to cosmetic vehicles did not alter their penetration in most of the cases for human skin explants. Pig skin penetration presented significant differences compared with human explants.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultradeformable liposomes could be useful as versatile cosmeceutical carriers in final product formulations.

[Emission Inventory of Intermediate Volatility Organic Compounds from Vehicles in the Yangtze River Delta in 2017 and the Impact on the Formation Potential of Secondary Organic Aerosols]

Intermediate volatility organic compounds (IVOCs) have a significant contribution to the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) in the atmosphere, but are not included in the current emission inventory. In this study, IVOC emissions from vehicles are estimated for the Yangtze River Delta region (YRD) for 2017 based on two methods:the emission factor method and the IVOCs/POA scaling factor method. Uncertainties in the estimated IVOCs emissions and the impact on their potential formation are discussed. The results based on the emission factor method showed that the total vehicular IVOCs emission in the YRD in 2017 was 35800 tons, and that the formation potential of SOA was an estimated 695 tons. IVOCs emissions from trucks accounted for>70% of total IVOCs emissions in most cities in the YRD region. In terms of fuel type, IVOCs emissions from diesel vehicles were much higher than of those from gasoline vehicles. Results based on the IVOCs/POA scaling factor method showed that the emissions calculated by different combinations of IVOCs/POA ratios and POA/PM_2.5 ratios that could vary significantly, with a maximum of 64.2×10⁴ tons and a minimum of just 5.2×10⁴ tons. The resultant SOA formation potential was 1.55×10⁴ tons and 1032 tons for the maximum and minimum, respectively. This study shows that the results of IVOCs emissions based on different estimation methods are associated with large uncertainties, which could directly affect the simulation results of SOA in subsequent air quality models. Therefore, it is necessary to use different inventory results in air quality models and perform model evaluation of SOA in order to obtain more accurate IVOCs emission inventories of vehicles in the YRD region.

Respiratory health problems in adolescents living near main roads in the Upper Silesian industrial zone, Poland

OBJECTIVES

This study explores the association between self-reported exposure to traffic-related air pollution and respiratory health symptoms, as well as lung functions and skin prick tests in adolescents living in the vicinity of main roads.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The data in the study were acquired using a cross-sectional study conducted between 2004-2005 in Chorzów (Silesia, Poland) among adolescents (N = 936) aged 13-15 years, attending junior high schools. Adverse respiratory health symptoms and exposure to traffic-related air pollution were determined on the basis of a questionnaire. Moreover, all children underwent spirometry and skin prick tests. Multivariable logistic regression with multiple imputation for missing data was used to assess the prevalence of adverse respiratory symptoms in relation to self-reported exposure to traffic-related air pollution, adjusted for socioeconomic and environmental factors.

RESULTS

Among respiratory tract diseases, asthma and allergic rhinitis associations were statistically significant (OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.12-4.15 and OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.08-2.64, respectively). Likewise, among respiratory disorders, statistically significant associations were found in the case of wheezes and dyspnea attack (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.10-2.26 and OR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.56-3.66, respectively), with respect to the vicinity of the main road. Living in the area with high traffic intensity was statistically significantly associated with a higher prevalence of asthma and wheezes (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.22-4.39 and 1.48, 95% CI: 1.09-2.01, respectively). The results obtained did not confirm the relationship between the adopted way of exposure to traffic-related air pollution and lung function indices or skin prick tests.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the study suggest that children living in the area with intense traffic are more likely to develop respiratory disorders. Moreover, the vicinity of a main road as well as traffic intensity could be suitable in assessing the relationship between road transport and potential health problems among exposed inhabitants. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2019;32(4):553-67.

Comparative Stability of Oral Vitamin K Liquids Stored in Refrigerated Amber Plastic Syringes

Background: Compounded vitamin K oral liquids may be useful in some patient populations, or when an appropriate solid dosage form is not available. While vitamin K oral liquid is typically prepared with sterile water for injection (SWFI), other compounding agents may be more palatable. Objective: To evaluate stability of compounded vitamin K liquids in SWFI, Ora-Sweet, simple syrup, cherry syrup, and SyrPalta stored in amber plastic oral syringes. Methods: Five types of compounded vitamin K liquids were prepared in triplicate-Ora-Sweet, simple syrup, cherry syrup, SyrPalta, and SWFI without flavoring; aliquoted into amber plastic oral syringes; and stored in a laboratory refrigerator (4.9°C to 5.4°C). On study days, 3 syringes from each batch were removed, diluted to assay concentration, and compared with a freshly prepared US Pharmacopeia reference solution. The samples and reference were analyzed using a previously validated high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet method. Product stability was defined as 90% to 110% labeled amount. Results were further compared using a 2-way ANOVA (analysis of variance; P = .05) with post hoc Tukey's correction for multiple comparisons. Results: Vitamin K in SWFI, SyrPalta, and cherry syrup was stable for 21 days, 7 days, and 24 hours, respectively, under refrigeration in amber plastic oral syringes. Vitamin K in Ora-Sweet and simple syrup demonstrated high within-day variability and low potency. Statistically significant differences were detected between the SWFI formulation and all other vehicles. Conclusion: Vitamin K in SWFI is appropriate for longer-term storage of unit-dosed vitamin K; however, SyrPalta and cherry syrup may be used for short-term storage or immediate administration of vitamin K.

Effects of Lignin-Based Hollow Nanoparticle Structure on the Loading and Release Behavior of Doxorubicin

Because of their exceptional absorption capacity, biodegradability, and nontoxicity, nanomaterials fabricated from renewable natural resources have recently become an increasingly important research area. However, the mechanism of drug encapsulation by lignin nanoparticles and the role of nanoparticle structure on the stability and loading performance still remain unknown. Herein, lignin hollow nanoparticles (LHNPs) were prepared and applied as promising vehicles for the antineoplastic antibiotic drug doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX). The hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions contributed to the encapsulation of hydrophilic DOX by LHNPs with hydrophobic cavities. The encapsulation of DOX was enhanced by the pore volume and surface area. In addition, the nanoparticles contributed to the cellular uptake and the accumulation of the drug within HeLa cells. This work provides a scientific basis for future studies on the selective entrapment properties of hollow polymer nanoparticles derived from biomass material as vehicles for overcoming pharmacokinetic limitations.

Wide-Angle, Ultra-Wideband ISAR Imaging of Vehicles and Drones

In-situ, wide-angle, and ultra-wideband inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imaging of vehicles and drones is demonstrated using a portable ultra-wideband radar. In order to form well-focused ISAR images, motion compensation is performed before applying the k-space imaging algorithm. While the same basic motion compensation methodology is applied to both types of targets, a more complex motion model is needed to better capture the flight path of the drone. The resulting ISAR images clearly show the geometrical outline of the targets and highlight locations of prominent backscattering. The ISAR images are also assessed against images generated through instrumented targets or laboratory measurements, and the image quality is shown to be comparable.

Life-cycle cost as basis to optimize waste collection in space and time: A methodology for obtaining a detailed cost breakdown structure

Extensive research has been carried out on waste collection costs mainly to differentiate costs of distinct waste streams and spatial optimization of waste collection services (e.g. routes, number, and location of waste facilities). However, waste collection managers also face the challenge of optimizing assets in time, for instance deciding when to replace and how to maintain, or which technological solution to adopt. These issues require a more detailed knowledge about the waste collection services' cost breakdown structure. The present research adjusts the methodology for buildings' life-cycle cost (LCC) analysis, detailed in the ISO 15686-5:2008, to the waste collection assets. The proposed methodology is then applied to the waste collection assets owned and operated by a real municipality in Portugal (Cascais Ambiente - EMAC). The goal is to highlight the potential of the LCC tool in providing a baseline for time optimization of the waste collection service and assets, namely assisting on decisions regarding equipment operation and replacement.

Towards Realistic Urban Traffic Experiments Using DFROUTER: Heuristic, Validation and Extensions

Traffic congestion is an important problem faced by Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), requiring models that allow predicting the impact of different solutions on urban traffic flow. Such an approach typically requires the use of simulations, which should be as realistic as possible. However, achieving high degrees of realism can be complex when the actual traffic patterns, defined through an Origin/Destination (O-D) matrix for the vehicles in a city, remain unknown. Thus, the main contribution of this paper is a heuristic for improving traffic congestion modeling. In particular, we propose a procedure that, starting from real induction loop measurements made available by traffic authorities, iteratively refines the output of DFROUTER, which is a module provided by the SUMO (Simulation of Urban MObility) tool. This way, it is able to generate an O-D matrix for traffic that resembles the real traffic distribution and that can be directly imported by SUMO. We apply our technique to the city of Valencia, and we then compare the obtained results against other existing traffic mobility data for the cities of Cologne (Germany) and Bologna (Italy), thereby validating our approach. We also use our technique to determine what degree of congestion is expectable if certain conditions cause additional traffic to circulate in the city, adopting both a uniform pattern and a hotspot-based pattern for traffic injection to demonstrate how to regulate the overall number of vehicles in the city. This study allows evaluating the impact of vehicle flow changes on the overall traffic congestion levels.

Smoke-Free Rules and Secondhand Smoke Exposure in Vehicles among U.S. Adults-National Adult Tobacco Survey, 2009-2010 and 2013-2014

In the United States (U.S.), secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure causes more than 41,000 deaths among nonsmoking adults annually. Adoption of smoke-free laws in public areas has increased, but private settings such as vehicles remain a source of SHS exposure. This study assessed change in voluntary smoke-free vehicle rules and SHS exposure in personal vehicles among U.S. adults between two periods, 2009–2010 and 2013–2014, using data from the National Adult Tobacco Survey (NATS). NATS is a national landline and cellular telephone survey of non-institutionalized adults aged ≥18 years in the 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. We assessed percentage change in the prevalence of smoke-free vehicle rules among all adults and SHS exposure in vehicles among nonsmoking adults, overall, by sociodemographic factors (sex, age, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, annual household income, U.S. region), and by cigarette smoking status. During 2009–2010 to 2013–2014, the percentage of adults with a 100% smoke-free vehicle rule increased from 73.6% to 79.5% (% change = +8.0%; p < 0.05). Among nonsmokers, SHS exposure in vehicles in the previous 7 days decreased from 9.2% to 8.2% (% change = −10.9%; p < 0.05). Smoke-free rules in private settings such as vehicles, in coordination with comprehensive smoke-free policies in indoor public settings, can help reduce SHS exposure and promote smoke-free norms.

Tolerable Levels of Nonclinical Vehicles and Formulations Used in Studies by Multiple Routes in Multiple Species With Notes on Methods to Improve Utility

Formulation of nonclinical evaluations is a challenge, with the fundamental need to achieve multiples of the clinical exposure complicated by differences in species and routes of administration-specific tolerances, depending on concentrations, volumes, dosing regimen, duration of each administration, and study duration. Current practice to approach these differences is based on individual experience and scattered literature with no comprehensive data source (the most notable exception being our 2006 publication on this same subject). Lack of formulation tolerance data results in excessive animal use, unplanned delays in the evaluation and development of drugs, and vehicle-dependent results. A consulting firm, a chemical company, and 4 contract research organizations conducted a rigorous data mining operation of vehicle data from studies dating from 1991 to 2015, enhancing the data from this author's 2006 publication (3 of the six 2015 contributors were also 2006 contributors). Additional data were found in the published literature. The results identified 108 single-component vehicles (and 305 combination formulations) used in more than 1,040 studies across multiple species (dog, primate, rat, mouse, rabbit, guinea pig, minipig, pig, chick embryo, and cat) by multiple routes for a wide range of study durations. The tabulated data include maximum tolerated use levels by species, route, duration of study, dose-limiting toxicity where reported, review of the available literature on each vehicle, guidance on syringe selection, volume and pH limits by route with basic guidance on nonclinical formulation development, and guidance on factors to be considered in nonclinical route selection.

Temporal and spatial variation in allocating annual traffic activity across an urban region and implications for air quality assessments

Patterns of traffic activity, including changes in the volume and speed of vehicles, vary over time and across urban areas and can substantially affect vehicle emissions of air pollutants. Time-resolved activity at the street scale typically is derived using temporal allocation factors (TAFs) that allow the development of emissions inventories needed to predict concentrations of traffic-related air pollutants. This study examines the spatial and temporal variation of TAFs, and characterizes prediction errors resulting from their use. Methods are presented to estimate TAFs and their spatial and temporal variability and used to analyze total, commercial and non-commercial traffic in the Detroit, Michigan, U.S. metropolitan area. The variability of total volume estimates, quantified by the coefficient of variation (COV) representing the percentage departure from expected hourly volume, was 21, 33, 24 and 33% for weekdays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, respectively. Prediction errors mostly resulted from hour-to-hour variability on weekdays and Saturdays, and from day-to-day variability on Sundays and holidays. Spatial variability was limited across the study roads, most of which were large freeways. Commercial traffic had different temporal patterns and greater variability than noncommercial vehicle traffic, e.g., the weekday variability of hourly commercial volume was 28%. The results indicate that TAFs for a metropolitan region can provide reasonably accurate estimates of hourly vehicle volume on major roads. While vehicle volume is only one of many factors that govern on-road emission rates, air quality analyses would be strengthened by incorporating information regarding the uncertainty and variability of traffic activity.

TRAIL-expressing gingival-derived mesenchymal stem cells inhibit tumorigenesis of tongue squamous cell carcinoma

Recent research has verified that mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow or adipose tissues can migrate toward a variety of tumors. In this study, we explored whether human gingival-derived MSCs (G-MSCs) can migrate toward tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) and evaluated the antitumor effect of engineered G-MSCs in expressing and delivering the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). An in vitro cell migration assay with Transwell plates showed that human G-MSCs can migrate toward TSCC cell lines (Tca8113 and Cal27). Then, human G-MSCs, as a type of cell-based vehicle, were transduced with full-length TRAIL and enhanced green fluorescent protein reporter genes by the lentivirus (LV) system (G-MSCs with full-length TRAIL; G-MSCFLT). Tca8113 and Cal27 were co-cultured with G-MSCFLT, respectively, to evaluate the function of G-MSCFLT on tumor cells in vitro. This resulted in G-MSCFLT's inducing a great number of tumor cell necrosis and apoptosis. Meanwhile, in vivo antitumor assays were performed by administering G-MSCFLT to nude mice locally and systematically (mixed injection with tumor cells and tail vein injection). This showed that G-MSCFLT can reduce or even inhibit TSCC growth regardless of the method of administration, especially when the mixed injection of tumor cells and G-MSCFLT was at a ratio of 1:1, which showed no tumor formation. Furthermore, this verified that G-MSCFLT migrated toward TSCC in quantity. These data emphasize the effectiveness of G-MSCs as a vehicle for cell-based gene therapy and the antitumor activity of TRAIL-expressing G-MSCs.

Transport characteristics of nanoscale zero-valent iron carried by three different "vehicles" in porous media

This study investigated the transport properties of nanoscale zero-valent iron (Fe(0)) (nZVI) carried by three vehicles: water, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solution, and SDS foam. Batch experiments were conducted to assess the sedimentation capability of nZVI particles in these three vehicles. Column experiments were conducted to investigate the transport properties of nZVI in porous media formed with different sizes of sand (0.25 mm to 0.5 mm, 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm, and 0.9 mm to 1.4 mm). Three main results were obtained. First, the batch experiments revealed that the stabilities of nZVI particles in SDS solution and SDS foam were improved, compared with that of nZVI particles in water. Moreover, the sedimentation of nZVI in foam was closely associated with the foam drainage volume. The nZVI content in foam was similar to that in the original foaming suspension, and the nZVI particle distribution in foam became significantly more uniform at a stirring speed of 3000 r/min. Second, the transport of nZVI was enhanced by foam compared with water and SDS solution for 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm diameter sand. For sand with diameters of 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm and 0.9 mm to 1.4 mm, the mobility of nZVI carried by SDS solution was optimal, followed by that of nZVI carried by foam and water. Thus, the mobility of nZVI in finer sand was significantly enhanced by foam, compared with that in coarse sand. In contrast, compared with the bare nZVI suspension and nZVI-laden foam, the spatial distribution of nZVI particles carried by SDS solution was significantly uniform along the column length. Third, the SDS concentration significantly influenced the migration of nZVI in porous media. The enhancement in the migration of nZVI carried by SDS solution was greater at an SDS dose of 0.25% compared with that at the other three doses (0.2%, 0.5%, and 1%) for sand with a 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm diameter. Increased SDS concentrations positively affected the transport of nZVI by foam for sand with a 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm diameter, and the SDS concentrations for enhancing the mobility of nZVI carried by SDS foam satisfied the following order: 1% > 0.5% > 0.25% > 0.2%. Thus, SDS solution and SDS foam were better vehicles than water for delivering nZVI particles to porous media for contamination remediation.

Pattern of injury in fatal road traffic accidents in a rural area of western Maharashtra, India

BACKGROUND

Fatal road traffic accidents (RTA) are a major cause of concern all over the world. The outcome of injuries sustained in an RTA depends on various factors including but not limited to: the location of the event, type of vehicle involved, nature of the roads, the time of accident, etc.

AIMS

This study aims to investigate and evaluate prospectively the socio-demographic profile and pattern of injuries in victims of RTA in the rural area of the Ahmedanagar district of Maharashtra state.

METHOD

This prospective study included all victims of RTA that presented to our emergency room from 1 June 2007 to 31 May 2009 and were either found dead on arrival or died during treatment. All the victims were autopsied at the post-mortem centre of Rural Medical College, Loni.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight RTA victims were studied during the period. The most commonly affected age group was 20-39 years. Men died in RTA more than women. Fatal RTA were more prevalent on the secondary road system (47.97 per cent) and especially involved pedestrian and two wheeler vehicle users. Large numbers (n=63, 64.28%) of victims either died on the scene or during transportation. Numbers of skeletal injuries (199) and internal organ injuries (202) exceeded the total number of victims (98) clearly indicating the multiplicity of injuries. The majority of RTA victims (n=46, 46.93%) died due to head injury. The study showed that most deaths in RTA, brought to a tertiary care rural hospital, took place either on the spot or within 24 hours of injury which is very alarming and highlights the need to take urgent steps to establish good pre-hospital care and provision of trauma services at site.

CONCLUSION

A computerised trauma registry is urgently needed to highlight risk factors, circumstances and chains of events leading to accidents. This would be extremely helpful in policy making and health management in India.

Comparison of the efficacy of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid and maleic acid in the removal of three calcium hydroxide intra-canal dressings: A spiral computerized tomography volumetric analysis

Aim:

To assess the efficacy of 17% ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid and 7% maleic acid in the removal of 3 calcium hydroxide preparations placed as intracanal medicaments.

Materials and Methods:

The root canals of 60 single rooted premolars were prepared with a step back technique and randomly assigned into 3 experimental groups (n= 20). Group A was filled with plain calcium hydroxide mixed with distilled water in which barium sulfate was added for radio opacity, Group B was filled with Apexcal and Group C was filled with Metapex. After 7 days each group was divided into 2 sub groups (n= 10). The medicaments were retrieved with 17% EDTA (first sub group) and 7% maleic acid (second sub group). Along with the above irrigants manual and ultrasonic agitation was used. The pre and post removal volume of medicaments in root canals were measured using spiral computerized tomography. The percentage difference was calculated and statistically analyzed using Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney U test.

Results:

17% EDTA and 7% maleic acid efficiently removed calcium hydroxide, distilled water mixture (P= 0.218) and Apexcal (P= 0.684), whereas 7% maleic acid showed better retrieval capability of Metapex than 17% EDTA (P= 0.002).

Conclusion:

Calcium hydroxide, distilled water mixture and polyethylene glycol based calcium hydroxide were efficiently removed by 17% EDTA and 7% maleic acid. 7% maleic acid removed silicone oil based calcium hydroxide preparation better than 17% EDTA.

MODELING OF HUMAN EXPOSURE TO IN-VEHICLE PM(2.5) FROM ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE

Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is estimated to be a significant contributor to in-vehicle human exposure to fine particulate matter of 2.5 µm or smaller (PM(2.5)). A critical assessment was conducted of a mass balance model for estimating PM(2.5) concentration with smoking in a motor vehicle. Recommendations for the range of inputs to the mass-balance model are given based on literature review. Sensitivity analysis was used to determine which inputs should be prioritized for data collection. Air exchange rate (ACH) and the deposition rate have wider relative ranges of variation than other inputs, representing inter-individual variability in operations, and inter-vehicle variability in performance, respectively. Cigarette smoking and emission rates, and vehicle interior volume, are also key inputs. The in-vehicle ETS mass balance model was incorporated into the Stochastic Human Exposure and Dose Simulation for Particulate Matter (SHEDS-PM) model to quantify the potential magnitude and variability of in-vehicle exposures to ETS. The in-vehicle exposure also takes into account near-road incremental PM(2.5) concentration from on-road emissions. Results of probabilistic study indicate that ETS is a key contributor to the in-vehicle average and high-end exposure. Factors that mitigate in-vehicle ambient PM(2.5) exposure lead to higher in-vehicle ETS exposure, and vice versa.

Modeling Of In-Vehicle Human Exposure to Ambient Fine Particulate Matter

A method for estimating in-vehicle PM(2.5) exposure as part of a scenario-based population simulation model is developed and assessed. In existing models, such as the Stochastic Exposure and Dose Simulation model for Particulate Matter (SHEDS-PM), in-vehicle exposure is estimated using linear regression based on area-wide ambient PM(2.5) concentration. An alternative modeling approach is explored based on estimation of near-road PM(2.5) concentration and an in-vehicle mass balance. Near-road PM(2.5) concentration is estimated using a dispersion model and fixed site monitor (FSM) data. In-vehicle concentration is estimated based on air exchange rate and filter efficiency. In-vehicle concentration varies with road type, traffic flow, windspeed, stability class, and ventilation. Average in-vehicle exposure is estimated to contribute 10 to 20 percent of average daily exposure. The contribution of in-vehicle exposure to total daily exposure can be higher for some individuals. Recommendations are made for updating exposure models and implementation of the alternative approach.

Some Aspects of Vehicle Active Safety

Three selected aspects of vehicle active safety are presented in this article: (a) modeling the driver and the driver-vehicle environment system, (b) the dynamic aspects of vehicle rollover, and (c) an analysis of the process of passing. Sample solutions and results show the need for further research in the field of vehicle safety in order to lower the probability of drivers, passengers, and other road users being involved in road accidents.