bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ATF3 Coordinates Antitumor Synergy between Epigenetic Drugs and Protein Disulfide Isomerase Inhibitors
Authors: Duncan Ravyn M. , Reyes Leticia , Moats Katelyn , Robinson Reeder M. , Murphy Sara A. , Kaur Balveen , Stessman Holly A.F. , Dolloff Nathan G.
Published: June 2020

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are largely ineffective in the treatment of solid tumors. In this study, we describe a new class of protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) inhibitors that significantly and synergistically enhance the antitumor activity of HDACi in glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer preclinical models. RNA-sequencing screening coupled with gene silencing studies identified ATF3 as the driver of this antitumor synergy. ATF3 was highly induced by combined PDI and HDACi treatment as a result of increased acetylation of key histone lysine residues (acetylated histone 3 lysine 27 and histone 3 lysine 18) flanking the ATF3 promoter region. These chromatin marks were associated with increased RNA polymerase II recruitment to the ATF3 promoter, a synergistic upregulation of ATF3, and a subsequent apoptotic response in cancer cells. The HSP40/HSP70 family genes DNAJB1 and HSPA6 were found to be critical ATF3-dependent genes that elicited the antitumor response after PDI and HDAC inhibition. In summary, this study presents a synergistic antitumor combination of PDI and HDAC inhibitors and demonstrates a mechanistic and tumor suppressive role of ATF3. Combined treatment with PDI and HDACi offers a dual therapeutic strategy in solid tumors and the opportunity to achieve previously unrealized activity of HDACi in oncology.

Significance:

This study uses a first-in-class PDI inhibitor entering clinical development to enhance the effects of epigenetic drugs in some of the deadliest forms of cancer.
Integrative Systems Praxis for Implementation Research (INSPIRE): An Implementation Methodology to Facilitate the Global Elimination of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Gravitt Patti E. , Rositch Anne F. , Jurczuk Magdalena , Meza Graciela , Carillo Lita , Jeronimo Jose , Adsul Prajakta , Nervi Laura , Kosek Margaret , Tracy J. Kathleen , Paz-Soldan Valerie A.
Published: June 2020

Background:

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for a systems thinking approach to health systems strengthening to increase adoption of evidence-based interventions (EBI). The Integrative Systems Praxis for Implementation Research (INSPIRE) methodology operationalizes the WHO systems thinking framework to meet cervical cancer elimination–early detection and treatment (CC-EDT) goals.

Methods:

Using a systems thinking approach and grounded in the consolidated framework for implementation research, INSPIRE integrates multiple research methodologies and evaluation frameworks into a multilevel implementation strategy.

Results:

In phase I (creating a shared understanding), soft systems methodology and pathway analysis are used to create a shared visual understanding of the CC-EDT system, incorporating diverse stakeholder perspectives of the “what, how, and why” of system behavior. Phase II (finding leverage) facilitates active stakeholder engagement in knowledge transfer and decision-making using deliberative dialogues and multiple scenario analyses. Phase III (acting strategically) represents stakeholder-engaged implementation planning, using well-defined implementation strategies of education, training, and infrastructure development. In phase IV (learning and adapting), evaluation of key performance indicators via a reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance framework is reviewed by stakeholder teams, who continuously adapt implementation plans to improve system effectiveness.

Conclusions:

The INSPIRE methodology is a generalizable approach to context-adapted implementation of EBIs.

Impact:

Replacing static dissemination of implementation “roadmaps” with learning health systems through the integration of systems thinking and participatory action research, INSPIRE facilitates the development of scalable and sustainable implementation strategies adapted to local contexts.
MEF2D Fusions Drive Oncogenic Pre-BCR Signaling in B-ALL
Authors: Sadras Teresa , Müschen Markus
Published: June 2020

Chimeric fusion proteins involving transcriptional regulators are a common feature in pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). However, systematic dissection of the core regulatory circuits by which these fusions exert their oncogenic effects is still required. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and robust functional assays, Tsuzuki and colleagues identify the core transcription factor network directed by MEF2D fusions in B-ALL. The new findings demonstrate how activation of MEF2D fusions ultimately converge on pre-BCR signaling and lipid metabolism to drive malignant B-cell transformation.

See related article by Tsuzuki et al., p. 82.
The Landscape of Blood Cancer Research Today—and Where the Field Is Headed
Authors: Haloupek Nicole
Published: June 2020

This editorial integrates the views of Blood Cancer Discovery's editors-in-chief and scientific editors to explore the current and near-future landscape of the study of hematologic malignancies—from the most intriguing new developments in clinical and basic research to the greatest upcoming challenges and how they will be confronted.
A Road Map to IndOOS-2: Better Observations of the Rapidly Warming Indian Ocean
Authors: Beal L. M. , Vialard J. , Roxy M. K. , Li J. , Andres M. , Annamalai H. , Feng M. , Han W. , Hood R. , Lee T. , Lengaigne M. , Lumpkin R. , Masumoto Y. , McPhaden M. J. , Ravichandran M. , Shinoda T. , Sloyan B. M. , Strutton P. G. , Subramanian A. C. , Tozuka T. , Ummenhofer C. C. , Unnikrishnan A. S. , Wiggert J. , Yu L. , Cheng L. , Desbruyères D. G. , Parvathi V.
Published: June 2020

The Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS), established in 2006, is a multinational network of sustained oceanic measurements that underpin understanding and forecasting of weather and climate for the Indian Ocean region and beyond. Almost one-third of humanity lives around the Indian Ocean, many in countries dependent on fisheries and rain-fed agriculture that are vulnerable to climate variability and extremes. The Indian Ocean alone has absorbed a quarter of the global oceanic heat uptake over the last two decades and the fate of this heat and its impact on future change is unknown. Climate models project accelerating sea level rise, more frequent extremes in monsoon rainfall, and decreasing oceanic productivity. In view of these new scientific challenges, a 3-yr international review of the IndOOS by more than 60 scientific experts now highlights the need for an enhanced observing network that can better meet societal challenges, and provide more reliable forecasts. Here we present core findings from this review, including the need for 1) chemical, biological, and ecosystem measurements alongside physical parameters; 2) expansion into the western tropics to improve understanding of the monsoon circulation; 3) better-resolved upper ocean processes to improve understanding of air–sea coupling and yield better subseasonal to seasonal predictions; and 4) expansion into key coastal regions and the deep ocean to better constrain the basinwide energy budget. These goals will require new agreements and partnerships with and among Indian Ocean rim countries, creating opportunities for them to enhance their monitoring and forecasting capacity as part of IndOOS-2.
Atypical Spindle Cell Lipomatous Lesion Resected From Patient With History of CLL
Authors: Wehrle Chase J. , Daigle J. Will , Ullah Asad , Sharma Suash , Ritter Edmond F. , Kruse Edward J.
Published: June 2020

Atypical spindle cell lipomatous neoplasm, also known as well-differentiated spindle cell liposarcoma, represents a newly discovered entity of adipocytic tumors. Recent research has shown this tumor variant to be more related to spindle cell lipoma, rather than the originally hypothesized atypical lipomatous tumor spectrum. Here we present a case of a 58-year-old man with a history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia with an enlarging mass on the posterior left shoulder, initially hypothesized to be a benign lipoma. However, magnetic resonance imaging showed a large, multiseptated, heterogeneous mass concerning for soft tissue sarcoma. After resection, pathologic analysis showed cells closely resembling spindle cell lipoma, with additional cellular and fascicular zones containing lipoblasts and mitotic figures. Molecular analysis showed no MDM2 amplification. This lack of amplification indicates this tumor is distinctly different from an atypical lipomatous tumor, which characteristically displays MDM2 amplification. However, tumor expression of RB1 was normal. The majority of atypical spindle cell lipomatous neoplasms are associated with RB1 deletions. We conclude that we have a unique example of an atypical spindle cell lipomatous tumor.
Don’t seek, don’t find: The diagnostic challenge of Wernicke’s encephalopathy
Authors: Kohnke Sara , Meek Claire L
Published: June 2020

Wernicke’s encephalopathy is caused by thiamine deficiency and has a range of presenting features, including gait disturbance, altered cognitive state, nystagmus and other eye movement disorders. In the past, Wernicke’s encephalopathy was described almost exclusively in the alcohol-dependent population. However, in current times, Wernicke’s encephalopathy is also well recognized in many other patient groups, including patients following bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, cancer and pancreatitis. Early recognition of Wernicke’s encephalopathy is vital, as prompt treatment can restore cognitive or ocular function and can prevent permanent disability. Unfortunately, Wernicke’s encephalopathy is often undiagnosed – presumably because it is relatively uncommon and has a variable clinical presentation. Clinical biochemists have a unique role in advising clinicians about potential nutritional or metabolic causes of unexplained neurological symptoms and to prompt consideration of thiamine deficiency as a potential cause in high-risk patient groups. The aim of this review is to summarize the clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of Wernicke’s encephalopathy and to highlight some non-traditional causes, such as after bariatric surgery.
Shunting the nation: Survival strategies of Indian (and Pakistani) railway workers (1939–1949)
Authors: Bose Aniruddha
Published: June 2020

Between 1939 and 1949, a million men, women and children worked for the railways in India and Pakistan. Drawing on memoires, newspapers and government documents, this article seeks to examine the survival strategies these workers adopted in this tumultuous decade. It starts with a study of their efforts to survive the challenges of the Second World War. The article highlights how they rose to these challenges and played a crucial role in India’s war effort. It also examines how these workers navigated the demands of the Quit India movement. The article discusses evidence that sheds light on how they chose to remain at their posts while extending moral support to the freedom struggle. The article also explores how Indian and Pakistani railway workers coped with the challenge of partition. During what was certainly the greatest challenge faced by any railway workforce on the planet, these workers transported three million refugees over the newly created boundaries. The article discusses the challenges of class conflict that are endemic to modern industrial relations, specifically, how railway workers used acts of everyday resistance as well as organised strikes to protect their interests. Finally, the article discusses how Indian and Pakistani railway workers rose to the challenge posed by the initial years of independence, when both countries were vulnerable. The article argues that the workers adopted a multitude of survival strategies to overcome the challenges of the 1939–1949 decade. The article further argues that survival strategies culminated in a constructive relationship with nationalist politics, consolidated through the crucial decision of railway workers to work through independence and the partition crisis.
“Nothing to offer in return”: Refugees, human rights, and genocide in Cambodia, 1975–1979
Authors: Madokoro Laura
Published: June 2020

From 1975 to 1979, Canadian politicians and diplomats observed and discussed the possibility that a genocide was taking place in Cambodia. The situation was difficult to ascertain, however, given the limited history between the two countries and the deep isolation in which the Khmer Rouge regime operated after rising to power, as well as the Canadian government’s limited interest in international human rights until the late 1970s. It wasn’t until large numbers of refugees began to cross into Thailand in 1977–78, and began to tell their stories to Western diplomats, that human rights discussions at the United Nations began to focus more closely on the situation in Cambodia. Exploring the Canadian government’s use of refugee testimonies, this article explores the relationship between narratives of mass violence and the burgeoning human rights agenda of the late 1970s to highlight the role of refugees in shaping an international human rights agenda.
Are stronger states more humane? A re-evaluation of ‘exemplary villains’
Authors: Chae Seung Hoon
Published: June 2020

In general, the human rights scholarship finds stronger states to be more humane. In particular, Englehart’s recent book and article assert that ‘petty despots’, rather than ‘exemplary villains’, are the real culprits behind the abuse of human rights. However, some exemplary villains are truly exemplary; providing them with greater powers will only intensify human rights abuses. Indeed, the idea that even dictatorships would better protect rights when stronger contradicts some of the most well-known cases of mass-murder that occurred in powerful authoritarian states. In an attempt to resolve this puzzle, this article argues that, while state capacity does matter, it matters differently for dictatorships and democracies. In both regimes, there are certain types of human rights violations that, from the government’s perspective, happen unwittingly. These unauthorized human rights violations are perpetrated by petty despots trying to benefit from the state’s principal–agent problems. Yet, unlike a democracy, a dictatorship can authorize the violation of certain types of human rights to accomplish its objectives. Whereas state capacity can reduce ‘unauthorized’ types of abuses, it would not necessarily diminish such abuses that are ‘authorized’ by the state. The net effects of state capacity, therefore, will not be as positive for autocracies as they are for democracies. To validate this argument, this article conducts 18 ordered logistic regressions with a time-series cross-sectional dataset that encompasses no less than 142 countries from the period of 1981 to 2002. The empirical analysis provides solid support for the theorized relationship among human rights, state capacity and regime type. As predicted, state capacity improves human rights in democracies but not necessarily in autocracies.
Tram, trolleybus and bus services in Eastern-European socialist urban planning: Case studies of Magdeburg, Ostrava and Oryol (1950s and 1960s)
Authors: Khairullina Elvira , Ganges Luis Santos y
Published: June 2020

This study examines urban collective transport policy in the city planning of three European countries under the Socialist Bloc in the 1950s and 1960s. The main aim is to account for the success of the private car in approaches to urban infrastructure and to understand how this affected tramway system planning. This then leads to a new perspective in understanding the conflict between the adoption of transport vehicles: The diversity of argument in tramway planning has been analysed using official publications, professional literature, and the urban and transport plans of the three case study cities. It results that planning solutions prioritised more national and local conditions, their logic and the singularity of their characteristics over the specific principles related to the ideology of the communist regimes.
PTSD symptoms in religious leaders: Prevalence, stressors, and associations with narcissism
Authors: Ruffing Elizabeth G , Bell Chance A , Sandage Steven J
Published: June 2020

Religious leaders face numerous mental health challenges, and prior research suggests that some experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to work-related experiences. This study employed a diverse sample of 274 religious leaders to (a) qualitatively describe the types of work-related experiences they identify as particularly stressful or overwhelming, (b) assess the prevalence of PTSD symptoms associated with these experiences, and (c) test hypothesized associations between PTSD symptoms and narcissism. The study found that the stressful experiences reported typically involved relational conflict, having limited resources, or caring for people suffering. Over half of the sample endorsed symptoms that were above the cutoff for a clinical concern for PTSD, and PTSD symptoms were significantly associated with symptoms of both vulnerable narcissism and grandiose narcissism. Practical implications for the ongoing formation and support of religious leaders are discussed.
Pennsylvania
Authors: Sproul William C.
Published: June 2020

AN ACT making an appropriation to provide the necessary expenses of blind students who are residents of the Commonwealth in attendance at institutions of higher learning.
The Japanese Earthquake
Authors: Caulfield Genevieve
Published: June 2020

This article was written in the form of a letter by Miss Caulfield to her uncle, Dr. Kiernan, of Goshen, New York. It was dated September 18, 1923. Miss Caulfield is partially blind.—The Editor.
Equalizing Opportunities for Blind and Visually Impaired Children around the World
Authors: Brohier W.G.
Published: June 2020

The need for increased special education programs worldwide, better data, more emphasis on prevention, and international partnerships are discussed. Roles that the International Council on Education of the Visually Handicapped (ICEVH) can play are also described.
Education of Blind and Visually Impaired Children in India
Authors: Singh T.B.
Published: June 2020

The author presents historical background and prevalence data on the population of visually impaired and blind children of India. The establishment of government-sponsored and private programs is discussed. Integrated education, research, and priorities for the future are also addressed.
Education of the Blind and Visually Impaired Population of Israel
Authors: Kadmon H.
Published: June 2020

This article describes the various models of educating blind and visually impaired students in Israel, including residential schools, resource rooms, itinerant teachers, and joint and individual initiatives. Although the overall policy on special education encourages the mainstreaming of blind and visually impaired students into regular classrooms, the staff of special education have considerable autonomy in planning programs. This freedom encourages the development of programs that cater to the needs of individual students.
Pacific Perspectives
Authors: Rogerson T.L. , LaGrow S.J. , Gibbs G. , Megogle L. , Wendt M.J.
Published: June 2020

The range in levels of services for visually impaired children in the South Pacific is discussed from several viewpoints.
Distance Education for Teachers of Visually Handicapped Students
Authors: Best A.B.
Published: June 2020

Distance education (correspondence courses) should be ideal for overcoming some of the difficulties associated with training teachers of visually handicapped children. The University of Birmingham, England, runs both full-time and correspondence courses. As this article shows, the experience with these courses indicates that much of, but not all, the information, skills, and attitudes needed by teachers of children with visual handicaps can be acquired through this form of education. Critical elements in implementing such courses are also presented.
Is There a Critical Age for Using the Sonicguide with Blind Infants?
Authors: Sampaio E.
Published: June 2020

The ways in which blind babies and children use electronic sensory substitutes are related to their perceptual development. Previous studies suggested that there is a critical age—13 months—after which children find it difficult to use a device such as the Sonicguide. The results of this study of five blind children aged 5–48 months question the suitability of behavioral cues that have been chosen to determine this critical age. The specific development of blind children and its implications are also discussed.
A Profile of Teacher Educators and the Future of Their Personnel Preparation Programs for Serving Visually Handicapped Children and Youth
Authors: Sllberman R.K. , Corn A.L. , Sowell V.M.
Published: June 2020

A survey of current existing university programs in 1987–1988 that prepare personnel to serve visually handicapped children and youth was sent to all known programs in the mainland United States. Thirty-eight full-time faculty members from 27 universities in 16 states responded to the questionnaire. Data revealed that the future of these programs is at risk, resulting in a shortage of appropriately prepared teachers. Implications are discussed in terms of the current national shortage of teachers of the visually handicapped, the tenuous support for teacher education programs, current levels of funding, and a variety of other factors.
Online Resources in Blindness and Disability: An International Overview
Authors: Rosen L.
Published: June 2020

For professionals conducting research in the fields of blindness and disability, searching the literature by computer offers speedy access to existing data and facilitates the efficient exchange of information. As computer use becomes more prevalent on an international scale, it is useful for researchers to have knowledge of online searching procedures and resources. This overview outlines important databases produced in the United States and elsewhere, where relevant articles and information may be found.
Braille Telecaptioning: Making Real-Time Television Accessible to Deaf-Blind Consumers
Authors: Biederman-Anderson L.
Published: June 2020

The dual sensory loss of hearing and sight results in the most isolating of handicapping conditions. Technological advances to meet this challenge have come from both the blindness and deafness fields. Provision of information in the form of paper braille slows information flow because of length of preparation time. Access to weather or daily news, for example, has required the ability to hear the broadcast. Closed-captioning for the hearing impaired population has converted sound to print within four to six seconds after the audio signal is transmitted, but the system requires that the broadcast be seen. Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) has been awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Education to develop and test a prototype device to make closed-captioned television available to deaf-blind people The Braille TeleCaption System, with an output available in braille and large print, is being tested at the Helen Keller National Center. Existing and new technology makes real-time viewing of news, weather, and entertainment accessible to deaf-blind persons.
Support Services for Visually Impaired Children in Local Day Schools: Residential Schools as a Resource
Authors: Harley R.K. , English W.H.
Published: June 2020

Residential schools for blind people were surveyed to determine the extent of services provided for visually impaired children in local day school programs. All the residential schools were providing some form of service for these children. The most popular services offered by the 41 schools in the survey were professional development services, special intervention programs, preschool services, summer school programs, and book, equipment, and supplies services. Residential schools in the more sparsely populated states provided more services than residential schools in the more densely populated states.
Career Counseling in Rural British Columbia
Authors: Atkinson-Smith D.
Published: June 2020

Within the British Columbia Interior region, a one-person team, or services broker, approach has proven effective and economical in assisting visually impaired and blind clients to be educated, trained, and employed within their own communities, where most of them prefer to stay. It has been shown to be a viable option to the team of specialists approach; not by replacing it but rather by reworking its component parts into one job, which allows a career counselor to provide qualities services as needed, under the auspices of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and the Canada Employment Outreach Programme.
Results of a National Survey of Electronic Travel Aid Use
Authors: Blasch B.B. , Long R.G. , Griffin-Shirley N.
Published: June 2020

Electronic travel aids (ETAs) emit laser beams or high-frequency auditory waves that are reflected from nearby objects. These reflections are received by the ETA and converted to signals that the visually impaired user can perceive and interpret. After reviewing the literature on ETAs, the authors present the results of their survey on the use of and the problems associated with four types of ETAs. They report that the participants in the survey associated aid use with more rapid travel and feelings of safety and confidence in traveling, and that the most frequently used ETAs were the Laser Cane and the Mowat Sensor. These aids were found to be most useful in detecting pedestrians, and obstacles at head and body level.
The Educational Placement of Visually Impaired Children
Authors: Harley R.K. , Garcia M. , Williams M.F.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the educational placement of visually impaired children and related factors that might be helpful in the development of placement procedures for day school programs. The widespread acceptance of multiply handicapped children in day school programs appears to be affecting educational placement and related factors.
Parenting for strengths: Embracing the challenges of raising children identified as twice exceptional
Authors: Reis Sally M. , Renzulli Sara J.
Published: June 2020

Parents of academically talented students with various types of learning differences, often called 2E, need to understand how support their children’s unique needs. In this article, we discuss current research about 2E students and focus on how parents can both nurture and find educational opportunities that encourage their children’s strengths and simultaneously address their deficits. Talent development strategies are discussed for parenting for strengths with this population. Too often, 2E students, have conflicting needs that can complicate the identification and development of their talents and so this article concludes with specific recommendations for parents of these students.
Institutional Constituents of Change for a Sustainable Fashion System
Authors: Ertekin Zeynep Ozdamar , Atik Deniz
Published: June 2020

The sustainability challenges of fashion industry are associated with multiple, interrelated, and complicated issues, involving a large number of different institutional constituents. The collective efforts of different actors at macro level is necessary to address these challenges. However, research that empirically examines multiple actors in the same study are limited. Employing market system dynamics (MSD) as a theoretical framework, this study addresses this gap by providing a more comprehensive perspective on the roles of different institutional constituents - designers, retailers, luxury brands, fashion associations, and consumers - in transformation towards a more sustainable fashion system and the dynamics that mobilize these actors to seek market change. Ethnography with emphasis on participant observation and interviews is adopted as research methodology, supported by secondary data on sustainable fashion practices. The study contributes to macromarketing literature not only by demonstrating the roles of multiple institutional constituents, but also by providing the conflicting perspectives and motives, and innovative ideas and practices in transformation towards a more sustainable fashion system.
Comparison of noise-optimized linearly blended images and noise-optimized virtual monoenergetic images evaluated by dual-source, dual-energy CT in cardiac vein assessment
Authors: Kim Gyeong Min , Choo Ki Seok , Kim Jin Hyeok , Hwang Jae-Yeon , Park Chan Kyu , Lee Ji Won , Lim Soo Jin
Published: June 2020

Background

The coronary venous system is frequently used as an entry route to the heart and treatment modalities for many cardiac diseases and many procedures. Consequently, evaluation of the coronary venous system and understanding cardiac vein anatomy is crucial.

Purpose

To determine the optimal image set in a comparison of noise-optimized linearly blended images (F_0.6) and noise-optimized virtual monoenergetic images (VMI+) evaluated by dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) for cardiac vein assessment.

Material and Methods

Thirty-four patients (mean age 58.2 ± 14.2 years) who underwent DECT due to chest pain were enrolled. Images were post-processed with the F_0.6, and VMI+ algorithms at energy levels in the range of 40–100 keV in 10-keV increments. Enhancement (HU), noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were objectively measured at two points in the great cardiac vein by consensus of two radiologists. Two blinded observers evaluated the subjective image quality of the great cardiac vein on a 4-point scale.

Results

HU, noise, and SNR peaked at 40 keV VMI+ ( P < 0.05) among 50–100 keV VMI+. CNR peaked at 100 keV VMI+; however, there were no significant differences compared to CNR images processed at 40–90 keV VMI+. HU and noise were significantly higher in 40 keV VMI+ than F_0.6 images; however, both SNR and CNR were significantly higher in F_0.6 images. An assessment of subjective vein delineation revealed that F_0.6 images had the highest scores

Conclusion

F_0.6 images were superior to VMI+ and provided the optimal image set for cardiac vein assessment.
Enhancing Decision-Making on Maintenance, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction of Jointed Plain Concrete Pavements using Slab-Based Cracking Data and Life-Cycle Cost Analysis
Authors: Salameh Ryan , Tsai Yichang (James)
Published: June 2020

Many jointed plain concrete pavements (JPCP) on critical roads in the United States are aged and have reached the end of their design lives. They thus require maintenance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction (MR&R) actions, which mainly involve slab replacement or lane reconstruction. Limited budgets challenge transportation agencies to determine the most cost-effective MR&R strategies, especially when life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) is limited by the unreliable prediction of the pavement’s future needs. This paper proposes an enhanced LCCA-based methodology that utilizes slab-based cracking data collected using 3D laser technology, to select the best strategy for MR&R of JPCP by determining the timing and cost of slab replacement and lane reconstruction. By predicting pavement performance based on the current slab-based condition state using a Markov chain forecasting model, slab replacement projects are scheduled, and their feasibility is evaluated to determine the proper timing for lane reconstruction within the analysis period. LCCA is then conducted to select the alternative with the most cost-effective strategy for scheduling slab replacement and lane reconstruction projects. A case study is conducted on two 1-mi segments of I-16 in Georgia to validate the proposed methodology, followed by a sensitivity analysis to identify the input variables having a significant impact on the LCCA results. The developed framework proved its strength in determining the best MR&R strategy based on segment-level need assessment, which is utilized to perform “what if” analyses that evaluate different scenarios of project scheduling and accommodate the requirements and limitations defined by transportation agencies.
Adaptive Bike Share: Expanding Bike Share to People with Disabilities and Older Adults
Authors: MacArthur John , McNeil Nathan , Cummings Austin , Broach Joseph
Published: June 2020

Bike share systems are expanding efforts to be more equitable and accessible to everyone by offering adaptive bicycle options to people who might otherwise be unable to ride. These systems tend to range from the inclusion of electric bikes and standard trikes into the existing systems to offering a more full range of adaptive bicycle options for use at rental location. Surveys of residents living in several low-income communities of color ( n = 1,885) are used to explore the potential need for adaptive bike share options in urban locations. A national survey of cities and bike share operators ( n = 70) is used to document the prevalence and basic models of adaptive bike share programming currently in place. Interviews conducted with bike share representatives in select cities with adaptive bike share programs provide context and details on how specific programs operate. Finally, interviews with adaptive bike share participants ( n = 5) in Portland, Oregon, help to illuminate users’ experiences, including the perceived value and potential improvements for adaptive bike share. This opportunistic combination of data sources indicated that there is an underserved market of people who do not feel they can use existing bike share systems because of some type of physical limitation, but that reaching and serving those people presents substantial hurdles. Current bike share systems are slowly exploring the right way to include accessible options but are challenged by cost, resources, bicycle types, program implementation, and infrastructure.
Field and Laboratory Characterization of Subgrade Resilient Modulus for Pavement Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide Application
Authors: Islam Kazi Moinul , Gassman Sarah , Rahman Md Mostaqur
Published: June 2020

The resilient modulus (MR) of subgrade material is an important parameter in pavement design using the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) and has a significant influence on pavement performance. MR can be obtained indirectly from falling weight deflectometer (FWD) data using a back-calculation tool (i.e., AASHTOWare 2017) or from empirical correlations with soil index properties. MR can also be obtained directly using repeated load triaxial tests (AASHTO T 307-99, 2017). In this study, the field test program included FWD tests and soil sampling. These field tests were performed on six asphalt pavement sections in South Carolina, U.S., to estimate the MR of the subgrade soil. This study involved extensive laboratory characterization of subgrade soils collected from underneath the pavement sections. Laboratory characterization included index tests (sieve analysis, Atterberg limits, specific gravity, moisture content, and standard Proctor density tests) on bulk samples and repeated load triaxial tests on thin-walled tube samples to obtain a direct measure of MR. Results show that the MR values found from the FWD data have similar trends to the laboratory-measured MR values. However, results from lab testing were 33%–75% lower than the back-calculated MR. Laboratory-measured MR, and back-calculated MR were used to determine a C-factor of 0.33, 0.25, and 0.29 for coarse-grained, fine-grained, and all types of soils, respectively. This parameter can be used to estimate resilient modulus for MEPDG Level 2 design inputs across South Carolina and similar geologic regions. The research studies will be facilitated by the local calibration and implementation of the MEPDG.
Utilization Management of Highway Operations Equipment
Authors: Mirheli Amir , Tajalli Mehrdad , Mohebifard Rasool , Hajibabai Leila , Hajbabaie Ali
Published: June 2020

This paper presents fleet utilization management processes for highway operations equipment based on actual tracked and reported usage data obtained from transportation agencies. The objective is to minimize total fleet utilization costs, including operational, purchase, and relocation expenses that yield the optimal utilization values and fleet composition of specific equipment types within each region in a year. The framework includes utilization prediction and optimization models, rather than relying on pre-determined utilization thresholds in existing strategies, to avoid under-utilization, over-utilization, or both. The prediction models are structured using equipment explanatory variables with their significant contributing factors, for example, annual equipment usage, annual fuel cost, downtime hours, age, and class code, to predict operational costs. The optimization model is formulated as a set of mathematical formulations, with embedded predictive models, that minimizes the total costs of (i) keeping an asset in-service using predictive annual operational cost functions, (ii) purchasing new assets in a region in the following year, and (iii) relocating assets by capturing the distance between regions. The costs include equipment purchase, operation, maintenance, and transportation expenses. The proposed framework captures the remedial actions to balance under-/over-utilized assets in the fleet in a cost-efficient manner. The proposed methodology is applied to utilization management of a set of operations equipment, and the findings of the dump trucks are presented. Several scenarios are designed to analyze the sensitivity of the costs to various decisions and parameters. The numerical experiments reveal that the proposed framework can facilitate the utilization prediction and management of highway operations equipment and save up to 16.6% in operational costs considering different demand scenarios.
Resiliency and Self-Care Behaviors in Health Professional Schools
Authors: Lin Li Chen , Chan Melissa , Hendrickson Sherry , Zuñiga Julie A.
Published: June 2020

Background: Resilience is crucial for students in health schools as care becomes more complex and as the adjustment to meet patient, environmental, and professional demands with success can seem a daunting challenge. Self-care activities can support the development of resilience in the student population. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe self-care practices, health-promoting behaviors, and resilience among students, faculty, and staff of the health professional schools at a large metropolitan university. Method: This was a cross-sectional study of data from 148 participants. Analysis included descriptive statistics, t tests, analysis of variance, crosstabs, and Pearson correlations. Results: Resilience was lower among students than among faculty and staff. The most frequent self-care activities were humor and music. Resilience was significantly correlated with the self-care behaviors of praying ( p = .006), healthy sleeping habits ( p = .024), reading ( p = .007), and mindful acceptance ( p = .025); yoga and meditation were not significantly correlated with resilience.
Utilization of waste spent alumina catalyst and agro-waste rice husk ash as reinforcement materials with scrap aluminium alloy wheel matrix
Authors: Dwivedi Shashi Prakash , Sharma Pardeep , Saxena Ambuj
Published: June 2020

In this study, an attempt was made to utilize waste products from industries to develop composite materials. In the present study, car scrap aluminium alloy wheels (SAAWs) was used as matrix material. Waste rice husk ash (RHA) was collected from a rice mill to utilize as a primary reinforcement material. Spent alumina catalyst (SAC) waste was used as a secondary reinforcement material. SAC was collected from the oil refinery industry. These wastes produced lots of soil and air pollution. However, by utilizing these wastes, some environment pollutions can be reduced. Car scrap aluminium alloy wheels (SAAWs) based composite material was developed using RHA as primary reinforcement material and SAC as a secondary reinforcement material by stir casting technique followed by squeeze pressure on the universal testing machine (UTM) in mushy zone. Microstructure behaviour shows a uniform distribution of RHA and SAC in a recycled aluminium alloy matrix. Mechanical properties such as hardness, ductility, compressive strength and tensile strength were improved using RHA and SAC as reinforcement material simultaneously in SAAWs matrix material. Thermal expansion behaviour, soil degradation test and corrosion loss were also observed to see the effect of agro-waste RHA and SAC in recycled aluminium alloy.
Fabrications of cellulose nanocomposite for tailor-made applications
Authors: Ismail Muhamad Fareez , Jasni Ainil Hawa , Ooi Der Jiun
Published: June 2020

The unique properties of nanocelluloses (NCs), including nanodimension, renewability, low toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, easy availability, and low cost, render them the ideal nanomaterials for diverse applications. Composite material consists of matrix material with low volume fraction and self-assembled NC fibers with a high volume fraction of reinforcing domain. These two-phase components are often combined to promote stiffness and improve toughness (by dissipating materials fracture energy). The challenge, however, is to control the alignment and distribution of NC within the matrix. Recent research has been focusing on the production of composites using different methodologies such as electrospun cellulose nanofibers, polymer-grafted NC, nanoparticle binding on NCs, assembly of NCs at the air/water and oil/water interfaces, protein-mediated interactions on NCs, and atomic layer deposition on NCs. In this case, NC serves as an appropriate candidate for composites preparation in comparison to the non-biodegradable nanofillers (e.g. carbon nanoclay and nanotube).
Rising Postoperative C-Reactive Protein in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Sepsis or Inflammation?
Authors: Mukherjee Devdeep , Ranganna Ranganath
Published: June 2020

This study aims to determine the incidence of sepsis in neonates operated for congenital diaphragmatic hernia and ascertain if the level or pattern of C-reactive protein (CRP) could be used to differentiate neonates with sepsis from noninfective inflammation. This study suggests that CRP patterns within the first 48-hours after surgical intervention for congenital diaphragmatic hernia could be used to differentiate neonates with noninfective inflammation from sepsis. A larger, multicentric study is needed to differentiate sepsis from inflammation on the basis of CRP rise and thereby help in avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics.
China’s ‘Belt and Road Initiative’: Implication for Land Locked Ethiopia
Authors: Yalew Mesafint Tarekegn , Changgang Guo
Published: June 2020

This article analyses the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its implications for landlocked Ethiopia. Primary and secondary data sources are used to solicit viable information. The BRI is aimed to enhance policy coordination, financial integration, promote trade and investment, cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations across a wide geographical area involving Asia, Europe and Africa. The BRI is the next step in China’s global strategy after the reform and opening-up period, and it is important for job creation, infrastructural development, trade and investment and other related developments for landlocked least developing countries such as Ethiopia. For instance, the construction of the early BRI project of Addis Ababa–Djibouti railway has reduced transport costs and shortened the transport time from 3 days to 10 hours. Besides, the establishment of the East African Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at Djibouti by the Chinese government to facilitate trade in the region. Cumulatively, the BRI contributes to the growth of trade and investment opportunities for landlocked Ethiopia in terms of financing, infrastructure development and regional integration.
Concealing an HIV-Positive Status in Medical Settings: Discussions in Russian Online Forums
Authors: Dudina Victoria I. , King Elizabeth J. , Tsareva Anna V.
Published: June 2020

Concealment of diagnosis is one of the most important manifestations of HIV-related stigma, which is a major barrier to addressing the growing HIV epidemic in Russia. The purpose of our research was to understand how and why people living with HIV (PLHIV) conceal their HIV status in medical settings. We analyzed data collected through two major Russian online forums for PLHIV. We found that concealing HIV status in medical settings is connected to worries about breach of confidentiality, denial of quality medical care, and judgment from health care providers. PLHIV discuss the dilemmas between risks of disclosing and potential legal or health-related consequences of concealment. We identified strategies that PLHIV use to conceal their status including falsifying medical records, hiding test results, and offering payments to doctors. Understanding status concealment is important for building more effective interactions between health care providers and PLHIV, at both the individual and the institutional levels.
Evaluating the Relationship of Social Service Usage to Neighborhood Community for Older Adults: A Case Study
Authors: Gibbons Joseph
Published: June 2020

Older adults who live in cities can cultivate a sense of neighborhood community that mitigates problems like poverty and ill health. However, it is not certain residence in urban neighborhoods is always related to community. This study investigates the potential of social services to positively associate with neighborhood community. Offering chances for older adults to interact with each other and with service providers who render basic services like social activities, meals, and housing, social services are a unique source of such community. We utilized hierarchical linear models with individual data from the Public Health Management Corporation’s Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Survey and neighborhood data from the American Community Survey. Findings suggest that the association with neighborhood community depends on the type of service and that race/ethnicity has an impact. For older adult Black respondents, residence in mostly Black neighborhoods increases the chances some services will relate to neighborhood community.
Delegation of Taxation Authority and Multipolicy Commitment in a Decentralized Leadership Model
Authors: Akai Nobuo , Watanabe Takahiro
Published: June 2020

This article examines to what extent taxation authority should be delegated to local or lower-level government. Delegation of taxation authority can be regarded as a commitment to the local tax rate ex ante in a decentralized leadership model, in which local governments set policies ex ante and the central government decides transfer policies ex post. Previous papers point out that ex post interregional transfers of the central government distort ex ante regional policies of local governments. However, Silva clarify the case where efficient expenditure by local governments is achieved. This article examines the delegation of taxation authority by extending Silva’s model to include commitment to taxation and generally derives the conditions when efficient public expenditure by local governments can be achieved in relation to the delegation of taxation authority. The model adopted in this article allows various levels of spillovers of local public goods and various types of multipolicy commitments of taxation and/or expenditure.