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Understanding trends in public transport usage by older people over the years is important for the long-term planning and development of age-friendly public transport. Despite extensive research on travel patterns of older people, very limited studies have explored the evolution oftheir public transport usage over the years. Using six years of smartcard transaction data and anonymous cardholder membership data from Shizuoka, Japan, we develop a latent Markov model to account for unobserved heterogeneity and to analyze the evolution of public transport usage by older people. The results indicate that age, gender, and residential built environment influence trends in publictransport usage by older adults over the years. There are five latentstates for older men and women, respectively, demonstrating theexistence of unobserved heterogeneity. Propensity to use public transport affected by unobserved factors tends to retain the same, especially for older people in the latent states of very low, low, and very high propensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article in Experimental Dermatology discusses a study that investigated the potential use of serum leucine-rich α2-glycoprotein (LRG) as a biomarker for generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP). The study compared the levels of LRG in patients with GPP to those with other skin conditions and healthy individuals. The results indicated that serum LRG levels may be a useful biomarker for GPP, but further research is needed. The article provides detailed information about the study's methodology and the characteristics of the participants. However, it is important to note that the study has limitations due to its small sample size and retrospective design. [Extracted from the article]

Pyodermatitis pyostomatitis vegetans is a rare inflammatory condition, affecting the skin and/or mucous membrane. Some cases include both skin and mucous involvement, whereas others develop either skin or mucous lesions only. The typically affected areas are the scalp, face, trunk and extremities, including the flexural areas and umbilicus. Clinical features show erosive granulomatous plaques, keratotic plaques with overlying crusts and pustular lesions. Among mucous lesions, oral mucosa is most frequently involved, and gingival erythema, shallow erosions, cobblestone‐like papules on the buccal mucosa or upper hard palate of the oral cavity are also observed. Some of the lesions assume a 'snail track' appearance. Although there are several similarities between pyodermatitis pyostomatitis vegetans and other diseases, that is pyoderma gangrenosum, pemphigus vegetans and pemphigoid vegetans, the histopathological features of pyodermatitis pyostomatitis vegetans are unique in that epidermal hyperplasia, focal acantholysis and dense inflammatory infiltrates with intraepidermal and subepidermal eosinophilic microabscesses are observed. Direct immunofluorescence findings are principally negative. Activated neutrophils are supposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of pyodermatitis pyostomatitis vegetans. The expression of IL‐36 and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) was observed in the lesional skin, and additionally, eosinophil extracellular traps (EETs) was detected in pyodermatitis pyostomatitis vegetans. A possible pathogenic role of NETs and EETs in the innate immunity and autoinflammatory aspects of pyodermatitis pyostomatitis vegetans was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Aims: Nutritional management of adults with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an important clinical issue. However, it is not clear which dysphagia‐related factors should prompt introduction of alternative nutrition (AN). We aimed to determine which patients with DMD were introduced to AN. Methods: This retrospective study included 56 patients with DMD (median age, 23.5 years). They were divided into patients able to continue oral feeding (OF) and those introduced to AN. Body weight, frequency of ventilator use, daily meals, history of steroid treatment, results of videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing (VF), and awareness of dysphagia were evaluated. Results: Of 56 patients, 19 were in the AN group. After AN introduction, 93% of the patients continued oral intake. The proportion of patients who consumed chopped and liquid diets was higher, and body weight was lower, in the AN than in the OF group. There were no significant differences in age, upper limb function of feeding, frequency of ventilator use, or history of steroid therapy between the two groups. The frequencies of aspiration and residue in the pyriform sinus in VF were higher in the AN group than in the OF group. Decision‐tree analysis showed that food form and subjective difficulty swallowing solid foods were the most important factors affecting the decision‐making for AN. Discussion: Patients with DMD who had difficulty eating solid foods were started on AN because they were unable to maintain their weight. These findings provide information for future longitudinal studies to assess the value of AN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a chronic neutrophilic disorder characterized by recurrent painful ulcers. Aseptic inflammation by neutrophils plays an essential role, and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation can contribute to the pathogenesis of PG. Seventy‐five patients were diagnosed as having PG in our department, among which 58 ulcerative, 4 bullous, 3 pustular and 10 vegetative type. We examined the 20 skin biopsy specimens (11 ulcerative, 3 bullous, 2 pustular and 4 vegetative type), and local NETs formation in various types of PG was compared among each type. The biopsied specimens were double labelled for myeloperoxidase, citrullinated histone H3. Immunofluorescent images indicated that the histopathologic location and depth of NETs formation in PG varied by the clinical subtypes. In ulcerative PG, NETs formation was observed in the upper to deep dermis. In bullous PG, NETs formation was mainly observed in the epidermis. Pustular type showed NETs formation in the epidermis near the pustules, and in vegetative type, showed NETs formation mainly in the upper dermis. These results indicate that NETting neutrophils play an important role in the pathogenesis of various forms of PG, although the location and depth of NETs formation in the skin lesion of PG differ depending on each type. Further studies are necessary to examine what factors identify different clinical features of PG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) robustly secrete type I interferon (IFN) in response to toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8 and TLR9 stimulation.[2] In addition, pDCs secrete cytokines such as interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor- and also control the expression of many inflammatory cytokines. Activation of IFN pathways and plasmacytoid dendritic cell recruitment in target organs of primary Sjögren's syndrome. CD123 and MxA expression in a case of annular erythema associated with primary Sjögren's syndrome successfully treated with hydroxychloroquine. [Extracted from the article]

Blau syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant genodermatosis caused by mutations in the NOD2 (also known as CARD15) and is clinically characterized by idiopathic granulomatous inflammation of multiple organs, mainly the skin, eyes, and joints.[[1]] Cutaneous manifestations of Blau syndrome are discrete, small lichenoid papules or ichthyosiform eruptions on the extremities and trunk.[[2], [4]] Histopathology typically reveals non-caseating epithelioid cell granulomas in the dermis, and thus Blau syndrome is considered to overlap with early-onset sarcoidosis. The present case is the second of I P. acnes i detected in the lesional skin of Blau syndrome; however, there are a few points that should be clarified, that is, whether I P. acnes i is distributed through the disseminated papular lesions or the route of I P. acnes i invasion in juvenile-onset sarcoidosis, and further studies are necessary. They speculated that the mechanism of sarcoid granuloma formation in Blau syndrome may be the result of NOD2 hyperactivity in the presence of MDP, which is a component of I P. acnes i . [Extracted from the article]

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (HFCV) adopters need to continue their vehicle ownership in the subsequent years to achieve the HFCV-related targets set by the Japanese government. In this study, we explored the discontinuance rate of HFCV ownership through a questionnaire survey conducted among HFCV adopters in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, who were wanting to continue or discontinue their ownership. Results showed that the discontinuance rate was remarkably high. Approximately 50% of the private HFCV adopters, who purchased their vehicles between 2014 and 2020, wished to discontinue their HFCV ownership owing to factors such as driving range, vehicle performance, future viability, fuel tank safety, and density of stations. Furthermore, we showed that the discontinuance trend was correlated with the dissatisfaction of HFCV adopters with the driving range and future viability. As a result, they foresee a bleak future owing to the sparse refueling stations network and higher purchase price compared to other vehicle powertrains such as electric and hybrid vehicles. Therefore, to reduce the discontinuance rate and keep HFCVs in the market, Japanese stakeholders must address the concern of HFCV owners. • Discontinuance rate of hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (HFCV) ownership was investigated. • A questionnaire survey was conducted among HFCV adopters in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. • Results showed a remarkably high discontinuance rate of approximately 50%. • Range, performance, viability, safety, and station density were influencing factors. • Stakeholders need to address these concerns to reduce the discontinuance rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing concerns about recent hydrogen-related accidents in leading countries applying hydrogen energy, maintaining public trust in hydrogen infrastructure is crucial for advancing energy transitions. This study investigates how individuals aware and unaware of hydrogen-related accidents perceive the risk of hydrogen refuelling facilities in Japan. The comparative analysis reveals that accident awareness significantly increases public apprehension by amplifying perceived accident probabilities and consequences. Specifically, accident-aware individuals value their subjective understanding of hydrogen knowledge more than objective knowledge when it comes to trusting hydrogen technologies. The direct impact of positive affect on alleviating risk perceptions is found to be counteracted by accident awareness. In terms of behavioural outcomes, this study confirms individuals' inclination to seek information based on their perceived risk. People are more eager to acquire risk preparedness information when they perceive the potential consequences of undesired events as significant. In contrast, the perceived likelihood of risk accidents does not exhibit such a significant relationship. The findings offer valuable insights for recognising circumstances in which the communication of risk preparedness initiatives becomes crucial in the aftermath of accidents. • Public risk perceptions of hydrogen refuelling facilities are investigated. • Perceived accident probability and consequence are distinguished. • Accident-aware and -unaware groups exhibit distinct risk perceptions. • Increased risk perceptions stimulate risk information-seeking behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Https://doi.org/10.1093/ced/llac127 Dear Editor, Patient 1 was a 50-year-old man who was referred to our hospital complaining of recurrent swelling of the lower lip that had first occurred 3 years previously. Most of the cases are in male patients and unilateral.[[1], [3]] In one patient, the lower eyelids were also involved.[2] Whether those cases, such as with periocular granuloma only, are Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome or not is still controversial. In the cases presented for these two patients, histopathological features of intralymphatic histiocytosis (ILH) were observed in the biopsied specimens taken from the lip (Patient 1) and upper eyelid (Patient 2). [Extracted from the article]

COVID-19 is one of the worst global health crises in a century. Japan confirmed its first case of COVID-19 in mid-January and declared a state of emergency in April and May 2020, urging people to stay at home and reduce travel. Using Mobile Spatial Statistics (i.e., population statistics created from operational data of mobile terminal networks), we estimated daily intra- and inter-prefectural population mobility in the Tokyo Megalopolis Region, Japan in 2020. Then, we developed a compartmental model with population mobility to explore the role of stay-at-home requests and travel restrictions in preventing the spread of COVID-19. This model describes the COVID-19 pandemic through a susceptible-exposed-presymptomatic infectious-undocumented and documented infectious-removed (SEPIR) process and incorporates intra- and inter-prefectural population mobility into the transmission process. We found that people significantly reduced travel during the state of emergency, although stay-at-home requests and travel restrictions were recommended rather than mandatory. The reduction in population mobility, combined with other control measures, resulted in a substantial reduction in effective reproduction numbers to below 1, thus controlling the first wave of the pandemic. Moreover, the relationship between population mobility and COVID-19 transmission changed over time. The dampening of the second wave of the pandemic indicated that smaller reductions in population mobility could result in pandemic control, probably because of other social distancing behaviors. Our proposed model can be used to analyze the impact of different public health interventions, and our findings shed light on the effectiveness of soft containments in curbing the spread of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses six cases of pemphigus foliaceus (PF) that presented with periorbital erosive erythema, also known as the raccoon eyes sign. PF is a rare autoimmune disease that causes scaly erythema and erosions on the skin. The patients in the study ranged in age from 76 to 92 years and had underlying medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Treatment with oral prednisolone improved the periorbital lesions, but two patients died from other complications. The authors propose that periorbital erosive erythema can be a characteristic feature of PF and may aid in its clinical diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

As green hydrogen plays an increasingly pivotal role in shaping sustainable economies and society, understanding public acceptance of hydrogen becomes imperative for fostering social support towards hydrogen energy transitions. This study employs a survey-based structural equation modelling method to analyse public perceptions and acceptance of hydrogen technology, fuel cell vehicles, and refuelling infrastructure based on technology acceptance theory. The results highlight the positive impact of the perceived usefulness of hydrogen energy and refuelling stations on individual acceptance levels. A notable discovery reveals that perceived risk consequences significantly influence individuals' acceptance of nearby refuelling infrastructure, whereas perceived risk likelihood does not. Moreover, this study establishes psychological connections among diverse dimensions of hydrogen acceptance: technology acceptance is found to correlate positively with acceptance of refuelling infrastructure, indicating a pathway for cultivating public acceptance from cognitive to practical levels. The acceptance of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles exhibits mediating effects on this pathway, signifying mutual benefits for stakeholders in promoting hydrogen mobility and establishing refuelling infrastructure. [Display omitted] • Latest trends in multidimensional hydrogen acceptance in Japan. • Increased perceived usefulness enhances technology and infrastructure acceptance. • Perceived risk consequences diminish acceptance of hydrogen infrastructure. • Fuel cell vehicle adoption mediates technology and infrastructure acceptance. • Pathways for cultivating public acceptance from cognitive to practical levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The serum IL-25 levels in the PsE, PsV and healthy controls were 101.3 ± 101.7, 47.3 ± 56.0 and 27.1 ± 43.6 pg/ml, respectively, with significantly higher levels in the PsE patients compared with those of the PsV patients ( I p i < 0.05) and healthy controls ( I p i < 0.01) (Steel test) (Figure 1a). Li et al. reported statistically significantly higher serum IgE levels in PsE patients compared with PsV patients.7 We also found that elevated serum IgE levels in our PsE patients; however, the correlation between IL-25 and IgE levels was not significant. Keywords: erythroderma; IL-25 (IL-17E); immunoglobulin E; psoriasis EN erythroderma IL-25 (IL-17E) immunoglobulin E psoriasis e268 e270 3 08/17/22 20220801 NES 220801 Although psoriasis is mediated by Th1/Th17-type cytokines, psoriatic erythroderma (PsE) is suggested to be favoured by a Th2-predominant balance with elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels.1,2 Interleukin-25 (IL-25), also known as IL-17E, is suggested to be a Th2-type cytokine. [Extracted from the article]

As of January 2021, Japan had the world's largest hydrogen station network with merely 4600 hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles (HFCVs) on roads, as compared to the 9000 HFCVs in the US, with only one-third of the hydrogen refueling stations in Japan. To understand behavioral differences among Japanese adopters, we administered a survey, in cooperation with public and private sector stakeholders, involving 89 private HFCV adopters in the Aichi Prefectural region, which hosts the largest number of HFCVs and refueling stations in Japan. Results suggest that HFCV adopters have a higher socioeconomic status than non-adopters, are mostly male in their 50s and above, and have a higher interest in new vehicle fuel technology. HFCV adopters who leased and bought vehicles were similar in terms of socioeconomic status, with differences in attitudes toward governmental incentives. The lack of refueling stations and station business hours restrict HFCV adopters from continuing with this fuel technology. [Display omitted] • Examined experiences of private households with hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles (HFCVs). • These are compared with company HFCV adopters and non-HFCV adopters in Japan. • Private HFCV adopters are mostly male, and older and richer than non-adopters. • Performance, maintenance cost, safety, and price are least reasons for replacing HFCV. • Limited refueling stations and station business hours discourage HFCV adopters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a case of disseminated erythematous drug eruption caused by favipiravir in a patient with COVID-19. The study discusses the clinical presentation of the eruption, diagnostic methods involving patch tests and lymphocyte transformation tests, and emphasizes the importance of considering drug eruption as a possibility in COVID-19 patients with rashes due to the variety of medications used in their treatment.

The article presents a case study of a 65-year-old man with persistent erythema. Topics include findings of a positive anti-nuclear antibody (1:320), anti-DNA antibody, rheumatoid factor and lupus nephritis; and histopathological examination showing perivascular mononuclear cell infiltration in the upper dermis and myxomatous upper to mid-dermis.

This paper proposes customized bus (CB) demand models to investigate dynamic adjustments, spatial dependence, and spatial spillover effects using spatial dynamic panel data techniques and a balanced panel data set collected over two years. The endogeneity introduced by spatial dependence effects is resolved by extending the moment restrictions of the system GMM estimator to a spatial autoregressive dynamic panel. A wide range of variables representing factors related to 1) characteristics of service supply, 2) demographic characteristics, and 3) land use and accessibility were mined and fused to investigate their direct and spillover effects on CB demand. The results reveal the mechanism of spatial dependence such that the increments (or decrement) in demand rather than the amount of demand itself in the neighbourhood contribute to the spatial dependence effects. There is more than 43% matched demand generated in a given area for each-unit increment of demand from its neighbourhood. CB services are more attractive for passengers with long-distance trips, and therefore, increasing the focus on long-distance trips is one potential strategy for increasing ridership. Determined by the role of CB in the transportation system, areas with poor accessibility are found to have larger market niches for CB services. • CB demand shows a stronger time dependence than spatial dependence. • A spatial dynamic panel data model was developed to model CB demand. • The CB services have a large market potential in areas with poor accessibility. • There is more than 43% matched demand generated in a given area for each-unit increment of demand from its neighbourhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Investigated the changes in the risky driving behavior of older drivers with age using naturalistic driving data. • There was heterogeneity in individual trajectories of risky driving behaviors. • The heterogeneity can be explained by the presence of three subgroups of drivers. • Initial levels of risky driving behaviors were much more important than time slopes in identifying subgroups of drivers. • Female, sensation-seeking, and low-mileage drivers were associated with higher driving risk. This study aimed to investigate changes in the risky driving behavior of older drivers with age using naturalistic driving data. The driving behaviors of 44 drivers aged 60 years or older at baseline were tracked for two to five years. Harsh events characterized by elevated g-forces were used as driving outcomes. A multilevel modeling approach was used to examine (1) the heterogeneity in individual trajectories of risky driving behaviors and (2) the factors associated with the average risky driving behavior over the study period and changes in risky driving behavior over time. The results indicated that there was heterogeneity in individual trajectories of risky driving behaviors. Older female drivers and a higher level of sensation seeking (i.e., the tendency to pursue new and different sensations, feelings, and experiences) were associated with higher rates of harsh events over the study period. A reduction in driving exposure was associated with an increase in harsh event rates, and driving exposure can partly explain the sex difference in risky driving behaviors. The cluster analysis indicated that the heterogeneity in individual trajectories of risky driving behaviors can be explained by the presence of three subgroups of drivers, with each group exhibiting specific trajectories. Initial levels of risky driving behaviors were much more important than time slopes in identifying subgroups of drivers, indicating that differences between drivers existed early and remained relatively consistent over the study period. A multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the predictors of class membership identified by the clustering algorithm, and the findings were similar to those from the multilevel regression analysis. The findings of this study enhance our understanding of how older drivers' risky driving behaviors change with age and indicate the distinctive individual processes of change in driving behaviors with age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analyzed the relationship between driving styles and crash risk among older drivers. • Developed a novel driving style recognition method for the analysis. • Although crash involvement rate of cautious older drivers is lower, the difference is not statistically significant. • A cautious driving style alone may not be sufficient to compensate for specific declining functions. Older drivers who are aware of their declining functions tend to adopt a cautious driving style to compensate for their declining driving abilities. However, whether cautious older drivers are associated with a reduced crash risk has not been well studied. In this study, we examined the association between older drivers' cautious driving style and crash risk using a novel driving style recognition method. We proposed a driving style recognition method that does not require predefined thresholds and applied it to the driving data of 71 drivers comprising 59 drivers aged 65 years or older (mean age 72.4; 67.8 % male) and 12 drivers aged 51–64 years (mean age 58.3; 66.7 % male). Drivers were classified into cautious and relatively aggressive groups based on the classification results of their speed, acceleration, and braking styles. The results showed that cautious drivers were characterized by older age, poorer Trail Making Test Part B performance, less frequent night driving, and lower driving exposure, indicating that older drivers may adopt multiple compensatory strategies. Although the crash involvement rate of cautious older drivers was approximately half that of relatively aggressive drivers, the difference was not statistically significant. Furthermore, this difference was expected to decrease when driving exposure was considered. Older drivers who adopted a cautious driving style but were involved in traffic crashes had poorer visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. The results of this study indicate that a cautious driving style alone may not be sufficient to compensate for older drivers' declining functions, particularly the loss of two visual functions observed in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the inauguration of the world's largest green hydrogen facility, the Government of Japan is steadily advancing towards its goal of transforming into a hydrogen-based society, but the lack of interest in adopting hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) among consumers is noticeable. This study examines the socioeconomic profiles of 500 potential car buyers with and without interest in HFCVs. The results show that the potential early adopters of HFCVs exhibit similar trends of sex, employment status, number of people in the households, weekly distance traveled, and frequency of using expressways that influence their decision. They have a significant variance in income, previous battery electric vehicle (BEV) experiences, and knowledge of HFCVs. The results suggest that knowledge of HFCVs and related technologies, and previous experience in driving BEVs encourage respondents to purchase HFCVs. The study suggests that the greater awareness of HFCV can assist policymakers in the successful market adoption. • Interest in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in Japan is investigated. • Profiles of 500 potential car buyers with and without interest are explored. • Potential adopters know vehicle price, incentives and refueling infrastructure more. • They have experienced battery electric vehicles, and interest in new technology. • Awareness of related technologies can promote successful market adoption of HFCVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of the cricopharyngeal bar (CPB), defined as marked protrusion with lacking relaxation and stricture of the upper esophageal sphincter on videofluoroscopy, in patients with inclusion body myositis (IBM). Methods: We conducted a case–control study of comprehensive series of adult healthy individuals and consecutive patients with neuropsychiatric disorders aged over 45 (52 versus 2486). A standard videofluoroscopy was performed. Results: Overall, 47 individuals with CPB were identified. Of the individuals with CPB, 36% were IBM followed by neurodegenerative disorders, muscular disorders, neuromuscular disorders, and others (32%, 21%, 2.1%, and 8.5%, respectively), indicating the heterogeneity of the etiologies. Against muscular disorders, the sensitivity and specificity of the CPB for IBM were 33% (= 17/52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 20–45%) and 96% (= 264/274; 95% CI, 94–99%), respectively. IBM with CPB showed a higher frequency of obstruction-related dysphagia (88% versus 22%, p < 0.001) and severe CPB (76% versus 23%, p < 0.001) than the control with one. The ratio of the upper esophageal distance at the maximum distension at the level of C6 to that of C4 was lower in IBM with CPB than in the controls with one (0.50 versus 0.77, p < 0.001), which suggests the insufficient opening of the upper esophageal sphincter. Conclusion: A CPB could be indicative of IBM. The upper esophagus in IBM with CPB became narrow, like a bottleneck. We provide new perspectives of dysphagia diagnosis by videofluoroscopy, especially for IBM-associated dysphagia, to expand the knowledge on the CPB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been several studies on the role of the monocyte chemotactic protein‐1/C‐C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) signalling pathway in fibrotic diseases, which identified the blockade of this pathway as a potential therapeutic target for treating fibrosis. We examined the efficacy of CCR2 antagonist (RS‐504393) in a mouse model of scleroderma induced by bleomycin. RS‐504393 was administered via intradermal injection 6 hours prior to bleomycin injection, in the same sites. Histopathological examination showed that RS‐504393 treatment suppressed dermal fibrosis and decreased dermal thickness. The numbers of mast cells and myofibroblasts in the skin of RS‐504393–treated mice were significantly lower compared with those in PBS‐treated mice. Moreover, the amount of collagen in the skin of RS‐504393–treated mice was significantly lower compared with that in the PBS‐treated mice. Additionally, mRNA levels of TGF‐β1 and collagen I alpha 1 in sclerotic skin were significantly decreased by RS‐504393, and semiquantitative histopathological scoring of the lungs showed inhibition of fibrosis in RS‐504393–treated mice. The amount of collagen in the lung of the RS‐504393–treated mice was lower compared with that in the PBS‐treated mice. These data suggest that CCR2 antagonist RS‐504393 may be a therapeutic agent for human scleroderma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous vasculitis can be classified into two types based on the affected vessel size: small vessel vasculitis predominantly affecting dermal venules, and muscular vessel vasculitis as found in cutaneous arteritis predominantly affecting arteries located at the dermal‐subcutaneous junction. We describe two cases with a novel small vessel vasculitis disorder, which exclusively affected arterioles in the mid‐dermis, and show clinical and pathological difference distinct from cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa and cutaneous venulitis. Both patients were male, and presented with painful infiltrative plaques, involving the palms, soles, and thighs without extracutaneous involvement except for fever and arthralgia. Histopathological examination revealed vasculitis in the mid‐dermis characterized by a predominant infiltration of neutrophils with vessel wall fibrinoid necrosis and leukocytoclasia identical to the features of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, except that the affected vessels were arterioles rather than venules. Serological examinations showed normal levels of serum complements, immune complexes, and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, and vasculitis disorders associated with systemic diseases were excluded in both patients. The patients showed a good response to short‐term treatment with prednisolone up to 30 mg. This novel cutaneous arteriolitis clinicopathologically different from both cutaneous venulitis and cutaneous arteritis appears to be a skin‐limited disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cares for ecological problems positively effect mode choice of rail. • Attitude towards physical activity encourages more walking and cycling. • Treating for taste heterogeneity in mode choice is important in latent variable choice models. • Physical activities effect mode choice more than ecological motivations do. • Health and environmental policies can marginally benefit transport policies. The worldview on environmentalism has evolved significantly from traditional environmental concerns to the emergence of some new concepts, such as the limit to the human ability and the balance of nature. Transport policymakers may pose a question of whether this new way of thinking has an effect on mode choice. However, a clear answer to this question has not been found. Similarly, the intuitive expectation that physical activity can be a motivation for the selection of more physically active travel modes has not been well documented. This study attempts to investigate the potential influences of the ecological view on environmentalism and attitude towards physical activity on mode choice. The analytic data comes from a sample of 821 respondents with 1840 reported trips in an online survey conducted in Nagoya, Japan in 2018. The postulated effects were investigated in the framework of an integrated choice and latent variable model and a latent class choice model. The estimates from our models showed that environmentalism had a positive effect on the share of rail though its effect on class assignment, and attitude towards physical activity had a positive effect on both utilities and shares of bicycling and walking. In addition, findings from our study signified the importance of heterogeneity treatments in mode choice models with latent variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pustulotic arthro‐osteitis (PAO) is a major comorbidity of palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP), which is frequently seen in Japanese patients. To determine the characteristics of Japanese patients with PAO, we conducted a multicenter, retrospective epidemiologic survey at four university hospitals. Methods: Clinical features including age, gender, duration of disease, extrapalmoplantar lesion, smoking habit, focal infection, site of joint pain, bone scintigraphy with Technetium99, and therapies were retrospectively evaluated. Results: In total, 165 patients with PAO were identified among 576 patients with PPP (28.6%). The male to female ratio was 1 : 3.7, and the mean age was 50.2 years. The mean disease duration of PAO was 6.0 years. Smoking habit was observed in 104 patients. Focal infection was detected in 74 patients, who developed tonsillar infection (n = 41), sinusitis (8), odontogenic infection (40), and others (2). Fifteen patients had multifocal infection. Technetium bone scintigraphy was performed in 97 cases. Increased uptake was most frequently observed in the sternocostoclavicular regions, followed by wrist and ankle, sacroiliac joint, knee and elbow, finger and toe, lumbar spine, thoracic spine, scapula, and thigh. Patients were mainly treated with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, methotrexate, cyclosporine, antibiotics, and biologics, as well as tonsillectomy and dental treatment. Conclusion: PAO frequently involves the anterior chest wall of middle‐aged women with smoking habit and is closely associated with focal infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® LOUD (LSVT®) is an intensive program devised in the United States to train patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) to speak louder, at normal intensity, while keeping a good voice quality. Four weeks of LSVT® has been shown to increase vocal loudness and improve intelligibility among Japanese-speaking PD patients. However, the long-term effects of LSVT® have not been examined in these patients. Objective. This study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of LSVT® on Japanese-speaking PD patients. Methods. Twenty-one Japanese PD patients underwent a standardized course (four sessions over four consecutive days, for four weeks) of LSVT® at our hospital. Vocal loudness and intelligibility were assessed at the following three time-points: pretreatment (baseline), immediately after treatment, and at the end of the 12 month follow-up (12FU). Sound pressure levels (dB SPL) were measured during the following tasks: sustained phonation of /a/, reading a standardized text, and delivery of a monologue. Three experienced speech-language pathologists, who were blinded to patients' identities and assessment points, assessed speech intelligibility based on recorded audio samples of each participant during the reading and monologue tasks. Results. Fourteen patients were evaluated at 12FU. Changes in dB SPL from baseline to immediately after treatment were +6.5 dB, +4.2 dB, and +2.8 dB, and those from baseline until 12FU were +4.7 dB, +3.5 dB, and +2.5 dB in sustained phonation of /a/, reading a passage, and delivery of a monologue, respectively. These changes were significant (p < 0.025) in both the baseline-to-immediately-after-treatment and baseline-to-12FU intervals. Intelligibility relative to baseline was significantly improved immediately after treatment, but not at 12FU. Conclusions. LSVT® had a long-term effect on the vocal loudness of Japanese-speaking PD patients. A short-term effect was seen in intelligibility, however, there was no significant long-term effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, many genes related to neurodevelopmental disorders have been identified by high-throughput genomic analysis; however, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism underlying neurodevelopmental disorders remains to be established. To further understand these underlying mechanisms, we performed a comprehensive genomic analysis of patients with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders. Genomic analysis using next-generation sequencing with a targeted panel was performed for a total of 133 Japanese patients (male/female, 81/52) with previously undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders, including developmental delay (DD), intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and epilepsy. Genomic copy numbers were also analyzed using the eXome Hidden Markov Model (XHMM). Thirty-nine patients (29.3%) exhibited pathogenic or likely pathogenic findings with single-gene variants or chromosomal aberrations. Among them, 20 patients were presented here. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in 18 genes, including ACTG1 , CACNA1A , CHD2 , CDKL5 , DNMT3A , EHMT1 , GABRB3 , GABRG2 , GRIN2B , KCNQ3 , KDM5C , MED13L , SCN2A , SHANK3 , SMARCA2 , STXBP1 , SYNGAP1 , and TBL1XR1. A diagnostic yield of 29.3% in this study was nearly the same as that previously reported from other countries. Thus, we suggest that there is no difference in genomic backgrounds in Japanese patients with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disabilities. Although most of the patients possessed de novo variants, one of the patients showed an X-linked inheritance pattern. As X-linked recessive disorders exhibit the possibility of recurrent occurrence in the family, comprehensive molecular diagnosis is important for genetic counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After attaining great prevalence from the end of 2013, customized bus (CB) transit services have experienced a huge decline in China. The feasibility of this new bus sharing system is thus being questioned. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the actual role of CB services in the overall transportation system based on successful cases, as the role of the CB service determines its primary service object, system construction, marketing orientation, and even government function. To examine the role of CB services, this study investigates the practical performance, advantages, and spatial and temporal coverage of a successful CB system based on practical subscription data for more than two years. The results illustrate that the CB service is an eclectic choice that can balance service quality and cost between traveling by traditional public transportation (PT) and private cars/taxis. Even though the travel cost increased to a limited extent, the CB service significantly improved the travel experience in terms of the travel time, travel speed, number of stations, and difference arrival time compared to PT services. The multinomial logit model and regression models demonstrate a significant positive relationship between the relative advantage and amount of demand for the CB services. Furthermore, the CB service primarily serves trips generated during the peak traffic hours of the city and supplements traditional PT service in areas with poor coverage levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empirical experience of air and high-speed rail (HSR) cooperation in Europe and China indicates that seamless intermodal connections are crucial for expanding air-HSR integration services' market share, particularly in long-haul travel. Given that substantial practical obstacles impede the integrated scheduling of air and HSR systems, adapting oneself to the former competitor is of great practical value but remains largely underexplored. This paper presents a method for improving synchronous operations of air and HSR by unilaterally scheduling airline timetable and airfare, which is an attempt to facilitate air-HSR cooperation to an advanced level of operational integration. Accordingly, a stated preference survey was conducted in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei mega-city region to uncover traveller preferences for air-HSR integration services (AHISs) in the airport cluster context based on discrete choice modelling. Using behavioural models as travel demand assignment criteria, an on-demand scheduling model is developed to maximise the total revenue of air transport involved in AHISs. The empirical case investigates AHISs from Beijing to twenty domestic cities via Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport. The results show that the optimal scheduling solution decreases air-HSR connection time by a maximum of 41.83% and highlights the necessity of providing efficient shuttle systems, baggage through-check and flexible ticket services to enhance intermodal product appeal. Additionally, incorporating an airfare adjustment mechanism into timetable scheduling is proven supportive of increasing air transport's revenue up to 16.44% while promoting seamless AHISs, thereby ensuring practical motivation for AHIS upgrades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specular 4H-SiC layers have been homoepitaxially grown on 4H-SiC(112¯0), parallel to the c axis (<0001>), by chemical vapor deposition at 1500 °C. An x-ray diffraction analysis has revealed that a lattice-mismatch strain between n[sup -] epilayers and n[sup +] substrates could be minimized by introducing n-type buffer layers. The donor concentration of unintentionally doped epilayers could be reduced down to 1x10[sup 14] cm[sup -3] under a C-rich growth condition. Through isothermal capacitance transient spectroscopy measurements, three acceptor-like traps with activation energies of 0.27, 0.32, and 0.66 eV have been detected with a total trap concentration as low as 3.8x10[sup 12] cm[sup -3]. The capture cross section of the deepest trap, the Z[sub 1] center, at high temperatures has been determined. © 2001 American Institute of Physics. Specular 4H-SiC layers have been homoepitaxially grown on 4H-SiC(112¯0), parallel to the c axis (<0001>), by chemi! cal vapor deposition at 1500 °C. An x-ray diffraction analysis has revealed that a lattice-mismatch strain between n[sup -] epilayers and n[sup +] substrates could be minimized by introducing n-type buffer layers. The donor concentration of unintentionally doped epilayers could be reduced down to 1x10[sup 14] cm[sup -3] under a C-rich growth condition. Through isothermal capacitance transient spectroscopy measurements, three acceptor-like traps with activation energies of 0.27, 0.32, and 0.66 eV have been detected with a total trap concentration as low as 3.8x10[sup 12] cm[sup -3]. The capture cross section of the deepest trap, the Z[sub 1] center, at high temperatures has been determined. © 2001 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mixed flows of conventional car and microcar at highway and arterial are studied. • Two-lane multi-cell traffic cellular automata model is developed. • Lane changes, decelerations and speed variation are investigated as safety indices. • Microcars lower safety at free flow on highway but not at other conditions. • Emissions decrease with microcars increase except at free flow on highway. This study analyzes the characteristics of traffic flow in the presence of micro-cars in a vehicle mix. A two-lane multi-cell traffic cellular automaton (TCA) model is formulated to simulate mixed traffic flow comprising conventional passenger cars and micro-cars. The segments of an urban highway and arterial road, both with two lanes and measuring 700 m in length, are simulated; the latter includes an intersection delay with a signal cycle at the midpoint. Traffic flows with different proportions of micro-cars are investigated in the simulation. Four aspects of traffic conditions are calculated: the number of lane changes, the number of decelerations, the coefficient of speed variation (which may be indicative of safety performance), and the HC, CO, and NO x emissions (as a measure of environmental impact). The simulation results suggest that mixed flow with micro-cars leads to higher frequencies of lane-changing on both highways and arterial roads, although the incremental change on the latter is smaller. With the introduction of micro-cars on the highway, the frequency of decelerations increases in free flow and decreases in congested flow; however, on the arterial road, it decreases the frequency of decelerations and has an insignificant impact on free flow. The introduction of micro-cars has a similar impact on the coefficient of speed variation. Under free flow conditions on highways, the introduction of micro-cars has a negative influence on the three aforementioned parameters related to safety. However, for free flow on arterial roads or congested flow on highways and arterial roads, the results are inconclusive because the effect of micro-cars is contradictory in terms of the three parameters. Vehicle emissions, such as HC, CO, and NO x , increase during free flow on highways, but are always lower on arterial roads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by sterile pustules predominantly involving the palms and soles. The purpose of this review was to describe the characteristics of Japanese PPP patients as PPP is frequently observed within the Japanese population. Most Japanese dermatologists consider PPP a distinct entity, and co-existence of PPP and psoriasis is rare; however, outside Japan, PPP is often considered to be palmoplantar psoriasis, and an extra-palmoplantar lesion associated with PPP is considered to be psoriasis. PPP frequently develops or exacerbates following focal infections such as tonsillitis, odontogenic infection, and sinusitis, either with or without arthralgia. Pustulotic arthro-osteitis (PAO) is a major comorbidity of PPP, most often affecting the anterior chest wall. In Japanese patients, PAO is frequently seen, whereas cases of SAPHO (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis) syndrome with symptoms other than PPP and sternocostoclavicular joint pain are extremely rare. A difference in incidence depending on race suggests that different genetic backgrounds may be responsible for susceptibility to these disorders. The treatment of focal infections often results in dramatic effects on cutaneous lesions, as well as joint pain. The characteristics of Japanese patients with PPP are female predominance, mostly smokers, rare co-existence with psoriasis, frequent association with PAO, almost no accompanying celiac disease, and closely associated with focal infection. PPP should be separately considered from palmoplantar psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents an application of a recently proposed methodology for modeling connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) in heterogeneous traffic flow, to investigate the impact of setting dedicated lanes for CAVs on traffic flow throughput. A fundamental diagram approach was introduced which reveals the pros and cons of setting dedicated lanes for CAVs under various CAV penetration rates and demand levels. The performance of traffic flow under different number of CAV dedicated lanes is compared with mixed flow situation. Simulation results indicate that at a low CAV penetration rate, setting CAV dedicated lanes deteriorates the performance of the overall traffic flow throughput, particularly under a low density level. When CAVs reach a dominant role in the mixed flow, the merits of setting dedicated lanes also decrease. The benefit of setting CAV dedicated lane can only be obtained within a medium density range. CAV penetration rate and individual CAV performance are significant factors that decide the performance of CAV dedicated lane. The higher level of performance the CAV could achieve, the greater benefit it will attain through the deployment of CAV dedicated lane. Besides, the performance of CAV dedicated lane can be improved through setting a higher speed limit for CAVs on the dedicated lane than vehicles on other normal lanes. This work provides some insights into the impact of the CAV dedicated lane on traffic systems, and helpful in deciding the optimal number of dedicated lanes for CAVs. Highlights • Established a three-lane heterogeneous flow model incorporating CAV dedicated lane policy. • Investigated the impact of CAV dedicated lane policy on traffic flow throughput. • Provide insights into heterogeneous flow dynamics with CAV dedicated lanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global positioning system (GPS) trajectory data are extensively utilized in various fields, such as driving behavior analysis, vehicle navigation systems, and traffic management. GPS sensors installed in numerous driving recorders and smartphones facilitate data collection on a large-scale in a high-frequency manner. Therefore, map-matching algorithms are indispensable to identify the GPS trajectories on a road network. Although the local map-matching algorithm reduces computation time, it lacks sufficient accuracy. Conversely, the global map-matching algorithm enhances matching accuracy; however, the computations are time consuming in the case of large-scale data. Therefore, this study proposes a method to improve the accuracy of the local map-matching algorithm without affecting its efficiency. The proposed method first executes the incremental map-matching algorithm. It then identifies the mismatching links in the results based on the connectivity of the links. Finally, the shortest path algorithm and the longest common subsequence are used to correct these error links. An elderly driver's driving recorder data were used to conduct the experiment to compare the proposed method with four state-of-the-art map-matching algorithms in terms of accuracy and efficiency. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method can significantly increase the accuracy and efficiency of the map-matching process when considering high-frequency and large-scale data. Particularly, compared with the two-benchmark global map-matching algorithms, the proposed method can reduce the error rate of map-matching by nearly half, only consuming 18% and 58% of the computation time of the two global algorithms, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shared mobility services, autonomous vehicles (AVs), and electric vehicles (EVs) are potential solutions to issues triggered by suburbanization, greenhouse gas emissions, and population aging. In this study, a shared autonomous electric vehicle (SAEV) system is proposed to create a convenient and environmentally friendly shared mobility service system based on AVs for commuters and aging users in the suburbs by exploiting the idle time of park-and-ride private vehicles in Japan. The SAEV system provides mobility services to two user groups, "inbound commuters" and "elderly and disabled residents," in two study areas. The proposed system performance was investigated using an agent-based simulation. The results show that non-EV scenarios have a better level of service owing to the improvement in average waiting time by about 20% when compared to EV scenarios which require charging. However, the SAEVs can still provide acceptable levels of mobility services. The waiting time can be maintained within 5 min when the fleet size is set at 40 trips per vehicle or less, and ride-sharing can reduce the waiting time significantly when the demand is high such as 80 trips per vehicle. Further, an average emission reduction of over 40% is anticipated when compared with the users' previous travel modes. The system managers are advised to keep the demand trips per vehicle under 40 trips/vehicle for a low waiting time (approximate 5 min or less). • A shared autonomous electric vehicle system based on park and ride is investigated. • The impacts of battery charging and ride-sharing on system performance are reviewed. • The number of demand trips per vehicle required to maintain a low waiting time, were arrived at. • Ride-sharing offered less improvement to scenarios under 40 demand trips/vehicle than ones over 80 demand trips/vehicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the case of a Japanese woman with an interstitial deletion within the 7q31.1q31.3 region, she presented with mild intellectual disability since infancy, and later developed characteristic psychiatric manifestations, including abnormal behavior, delusions, and hallucinations. She was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia (F20.0, International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision). Array comparative genomic hybridization examination revealed the deletion involving several important genes for neurodevelopment. Particularly, FOXP2, DOCK4, MET, and WNT2 in this region are suggested to be related to language impairment, autistic disorders, and cognitive disorders, via the WNT pathway. In addition, the WNT signal pathway has been suggested to be implicated in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, there is no case report regarding schizophrenia associated with a 7q31 microdeletion. We suspect that the disruptions of these one or plural genes among the interstitial deletion of 7q31.1q31.3 may be involved in the development of schizophrenia in this woman. This is the first report on schizophrenia associated with a 7q31 microdeletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Fatigue is one of the riskiest causes of traffic accidents threatening road safety. Due to lack of proper criteria, the identification of fatigue-related accidents by police officers largely depends on inferential evidence and their own experience. As a result, many fatigue-related accidents are misclassified and the harmfulness of fatigue on road safety is misestimated. Method In this paper, a joint model framework is introduced to analyze factors contributing to misclassification of a fatigue-related accident in police reports. Association rule data mining technique is employed to identify the potential interactions of factors, and logistic regression models are applied to analyze factors that hinder police officers' identification of fatigue-related accidents. Using the fatigue-related crash records from Guangdong Province during 2005–2014, factors contributing to the false positive and false negative detection of the fatigue-related accident have been identified and compared. Results Some variables and interactions were identified to have significant impacts on fatigue-related accident detection. Conclusions Based on the results, it can be inferred that the stereotype of certain groups of drivers, crash types, and roadway conditions affects police officers' judgment on fatigue-related accidents. Practical applications This finding can provide useful information for training police officers and build better criteria for fatigue identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Fatigue driving is one of the most risky driving-related behaviors and represented a significant social and economic cost to the community. Several studies have already examined the relationship between fatigue driving behavior and traffic injury severity from different aspects. However, fatigue driving and injury severity in traffic crash may share some common influential factors. Ignoring the impact of these common factors will lead to endogeneity problem and result in biased parameter estimation. Method Based on 38,564 crash records during 2006–2011 in Guangdong province, China, we apply a bivariate endogenous binary-ordered probit model to examine the relationship between fatigue driving and injury severity considering endogeneity of fatigue driving. We also explore the difference of influential factors between commercial and non-commercial vehicle drivers. Results This study identifies several common observed influential factors of fatigue driving propensity and fatal injury propensity and reveals a substantial and significant negative correlation of unobserved factors between them. Conclusions The influence of fatigue driving on injury severity is significantly underestimated if the endogeneity of fatigue driving on fatal injury propensity is ignored. Factors such as vehicle insurance and road types not only affect fatal injury propensity, but also fatigue driving propensity. Practical applications The findings in this study can help better understand how those factors affect fatigue driving and injury severity, and contributes to more efficient policy for preventing the harmfulness of fatigue-related crashes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multivariate count model is developed by introducing a simple and practical formula. The formulation begins with a modification of the standard ordered response model to adopt the count outcomes nature. This modification is accomplished by introducing a non-linear asymmetric interdependence structure among the error terms using the copula-based model. To avoid simulation maximum-likelihood for evaluating the multi-outcome density, we utilize the composite marginal likelihood (CML) approach. The proposed copula-based model with the CML approach allows for asymmetric (tail) dependency without a need for a simulation mechanism. Non-parametric graphical techniques with the empirical copula as well as conventional goodness-of-fit statistics are utilized to guide copula selection. In addition, unobserved heterogeneity across observations is also addressed through a heterogeneous dispersion parameter in the proposed model. The heterogeneous dispersion parameter model is a suitable alternative to random parameter count models in that captures heterogeneity in variance, while allowing for closed form while the latter needs numerical integration or simulation. We apply these techniques to study the interdependence structure among four types of traffic crashes using three years (2005–2007) of cross-sectional crash data record for 274 multilane freeway segments in the State of Washington, USA. These four categories of crash types are the rear end; sideswipe; fixed objects and other crash types. The empirical results show a significant presence of unobserved heterogeneous dependency across these types of crashes. The results indicate the important role of unobserved heterogeneity in variance and covariance structure estimation. An important outcome of this result is that it can affect inference on the relative impact of roadway geometrics on crash occurrence. For example, we find that horizontal curve related parameters on freeway segments substantially increase the joint likelihood of rear-end, sideswipe, fixed objects and other crash types, when compared to the characteristics of vertical curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to develop a heterogeneous traffic-flow model to study the possible impact of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) on the traffic flow. Based on a recently proposed two-state safe-speed model (TSM), a two-lane cellular automaton (CA) model was developed, wherein both the CAVs and conventional vehicles were incorporated in the heterogeneous traffic flow. In particular, operation rules for CAVs are established considering the new characteristics of this emerging technology, including autonomous driving through the adaptive cruise control and inter-vehicle connection via short-range communication. Simulations were conducted under various CAV-penetration rates in the heterogeneous flow. The impact of CAVs on the road capacity was numerically investigated. The simulation results indicate that the road capacity increases with an increase in the CAV-penetration rate within the heterogeneous flow. Up to a CAV-penetration rate of 30%, the road capacity increases gradually; the effect of the difference in the CAV capability on the growth rate is insignificant. When the CAV-penetration rate exceeds 30%, the growth rate is largely decided by the capability of the CAV. The greater the capability, the higher the road-capacity growth rate. The relationship between the CAV-penetration rate and the road capacity is numerically analyzed, providing some insights into the possible impact of the CAVs on traffic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dear editor, We herein describe a case of localized acquired cutis laxa without evidence of antecedent inflammation in a patient with type I diabetes and renal failure, who underwent transplantation followed by immunosuppressive therapy. In conclusion, we report herein a case of localized acquired cutis laxa in a patient who underwent transplantation followed by immunosuppressive therapy. [Extracted from the article]

Precise charging time prediction can effectively mitigate the inconvenience to drivers induced by inevitable charging behavior throughout trips. Although the effectiveness of the machine learning (ML) algorithm in predicting future outcomes has been established in a variety of applications (transportation sector), the investigation into electric vehicle (EV) charging time prediction is almost new. This calls for the investigation of the ML algorithm to predict EV charging time. The study developed an EV charging time prediction model based on two years of charging event data collected from 500 EVs in Japan. To predict EV charging time, this paper employed three ML algorithms: extreme learning machine (ELM), feed-forward neural network (FFNN), and support vector regression (SVR). Furthermore, ML algorithms parameters are optimized by a metaheuristic techniques: the gray wolf optimizer (GWO), particle swarm optimizer (PSO), and genetic algorithm (GA) to achieve higher accuracy and robustness. The prediction results reveal that GWO-based ML models yielded better results compared to other models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We conducted this study to clarify the progress of cutaneous arteritis. Methods: We examined 21 cases of cutaneous arteritis that were diagnosed at our hospital between 2005 and 2020. The male‐to‐female ratio was 1:6 with a mean age of 52.2 years. Results: The lower legs were involved in all cases, and the upper extremities or trunk was also involved in some cases. Cutaneous manifestations presented as indurated erythema (n = 15), subcutaneous induration (11), edema (7), livedo (6), and ulcer (3). In addition, extracutaneous conditions including numbness (10), arthritis (8), fever (2), and myalgia (1) were observed. Laboratory tests showed an increase of inflammatory markers in most cases (14). Histopathological features showed necrotizing vasculitis of small‐sized arteries at the dermo‐subcutaneous junction, and the inflammatory stages of arteritis were histopathologically divided into acute stage (5), subacute stage (5), reparative stage (7), and healed stage (1). The therapies administered were oral prednisolone (11), antiplatelet drug (14), warfarin (1), non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (6), biological drug (1), and other drugs (14). There were no cases showing progression to systemic polyarteritis nodosa during follow‐up period. All three patients with ulceration complained of numbness, and one was revealed to have mononeuropathy multiplex. They were treated with low‐dose oral prednisolone. Three ulceration cases were histopathologically classified into the acute and subacute stages. Conclusions: In conclusion, all 21 patients followed a chronic course with recurrent skin lesions without systemic complications. Cases with ulceration seem to reveal neurological symptoms and need systemic steroid treatment. We conducted this study to clarify the progress of cutaneous arteritis. We examined 21 cases of cutaneous arteritis that were diagnosed at our hospital between 2005 and 2020 and all patients followed a chronic course with recurrent skin lesions without systemic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the impact of road gradient on the electricity consumption of electric vehicles (EVs) by combining long-term GPS tracking data with digital elevation map (DEM) data for roads in Aichi prefecture, Japan. Eight regression models are constructed and analysed to compare the differences between linear and logarithmic forms of trip energy consumption, differences between considering the road gradient or not, and differences between considering the fixed effects of EVs or not. By categorizing gradients and assigning a percentage of the trip distance to each category, a significantly better model of electricity consumption can be achieved. The results of this study are a novel contribution toward understanding the challenges and benefits associated with downgrade braking on energy regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case study describes a 31-year-old male with Noonan syndrome and tetralogy of Fallot presenting a solitary nodule on the left upper arm, diagnosed as ectopic syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SCAP). This rare variant of SCAP on the upper extremity, without nevus sebaceous association, highlights the possibility of unusual presentations and potential connections between Noonan syndrome and skin neoplasms, necessitating further research into underlying genetic alterations.

This study explores how battery electric vehicle users choose where to fast-charge their vehicles from a set of charging stations, as well as the distance by which they are generally willing to detour for fast-charging. The focus is on fast-charging events during trips that include just one fast-charge between origin and destination in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Mixed logit models with and without a threshold effect for detour distance are applied to panel data extracted from a two-year field trial on battery electric vehicle usage in Japan. Findings from the mixed logit model with threshold show that private users are generally willing to detour up to about 1750 m on working days and 750 m on non-working days, while the distance is 500 m for commercial users on both working and non-working days. Users in general prefer to charge at stations requiring a shorter detour and use chargers located at gas stations, and are significantly affected by the remaining charge. Commercial users prefer to charge at stations encountered earlier along their paths, while only private users traveling on working days show such preference and they turn to prefer the stations encountered later when choosing a station in peak hours. Only private users traveling on working days show a strong preference for free charging. Commercial users tend to pay for charging at a station within 500 m detour distance. The fast charging station choice behavior is heterogeneous among users. These findings provide a basis for early planning of a public fast charging infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]