bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Heterogeneity in Histology-Independent Technologies and the Implications for Cost-Effectiveness
Authors: Murphy Peter , Claxton Lindsay , Hodgson Robert , Glynn David , Beresford Lucy , Walton Matthew , Llewellyn Alexis , Palmer Stephen , Dias Sofia
Published: January 2021

Background

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and a number of international health technology assessment agencies have recently undertaken appraisals of histology-independent technologies (HITs). A strong and untested assumption inherent in the submissions included identical clinical response across all tumour histologies, including new histologies unrepresented in the trial. Challenging this assumption and exploring the potential for heterogeneity has the potential to impact upon cost-effectiveness.

Method

Using published response data for a HIT, a Bayesian hierarchical model (BHM) was used to identify heterogeneity in response and to estimate the probability of response for each histology included in single-arm studies, which informed the submission for the HIT, larotrectinib. The probability of response for a new histology was estimated. Results were inputted into a simplified response-based economic model using hypothetical parameters. Histology-independent and histology-specific incremental cost-effectiveness ratios accounting for heterogeneity were generated.

Results

The results of the BHM show considerable heterogeneity in response rates across histologies. The predicted probability of response estimated by the BHM is 60.9% (95% credible interval 16.0; 91.8%), lower than the naively pooled probability of 74.5%. A mean response probability of 56.9% (0.2; 99.9%) is predicted for an unrepresented histology. Based on the economic analysis, the probability of the hypothetical HIT being cost-effective under the assumption of identical response is 78%. Allowing for heterogeneity, the probability of various approval decisions being cost-effective ranges from 93% to 11%.

Conclusions

Central to the challenge of reimbursement of HITs is the potential for heterogeneity. This study illustrates how heterogeneity in clinical effectiveness can result in highly variable and uncertain estimates of cost-effectiveness. This analysis can help improve understanding of the consequences of histology-independent versus histology-specific decisions.
How Individual States and Traits Predict Aesthetic Appreciation of Haiku Poetry
Authors: Hitsuwari Jimpei , Nomura Michio
Published: January 2021

The factors influencing poetry’s aesthetic appreciation are largely unknown. Some studies have reported features that affect the aesthetic appreciation of poetry. This study sought to determine which states and traits predict the aesthetic appeal of haiku poetry. We recruited 277 participants to rate 36 haiku on five characteristics: imagery vividness, stimulus valence, arousal, valence of felt emotion, and aesthetic appeal of haiku. Then, participants completed questionnaires that assessed their own traits. We found both valence of felt emotion and imagery vividness generally predicted haiku’s aesthetic appeal; additionally, the influence of imagery vividness on aesthetic appeal was partially mediated by valence of felt emotion. As mental imagery fosters emotional evocation, vivid imagery increases positive felt emotions associated with aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the traits of visual imagery ability, awe-proneness, and nostalgia-proneness predicted haiku’s aesthetic appeal. This study advances our knowledge of how individual states and traits determine the aesthetic appeal of haiku.
Semi-infinite programming for trajectory optimization with non-convex obstacles
Authors: Hauser Kris
Published: January 2021

This article presents a novel optimization method that handles collision constraints with complex, non-convex 3D geometries. The optimization problem is cast as a semi-infinite program in which each collision constraint is implicitly treated as an infinite number of numeric constraints. The approach progressively generates some of these constraints for inclusion in a finite nonlinear program. Constraint generation uses an oracle to detect points of deepest penetration, and this oracle is implemented efficiently via signed distance field (SDF) versus point cloud collision detection. This approach is applied to pose optimization and trajectory optimization for both free-flying rigid bodies and articulated robots. Experiments demonstrate performance improvements compared with optimizers that handle only convex polyhedra, and demonstrate efficient collision avoidance between non-convex CAD models and point clouds in a variety of pose and trajectory optimization settings.
Measuring functional connectivity in patients with strabismus using stationary functional magnetic resonance imaging: a resting-state network study
Authors: Yu Kang , Lin Qi , Ge Qian-Min , Yu Chen-Yu , Li Qiu-Yu , Pan Yi-Cong , Shao Yi
Published: January 2021

Background

Strabismus (STR) is a common eye disease characterized by abnormal eye movements and stereo vision. Neuroimaging studies have revealed that STR patients have impaired functional connectivity (FC) in the visual cortex and sensorimotor cortex.

Purpose

To investigate alterations in FC and connections within and between subnetworks of the visual network (VN), sensorimotor network (SMN), and default mode network (DMN) in patients with STR.

Material and Methods

A total of 32 patients with STR (24 men, 8 women) and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) (24 men, 8 women) were recruited. Participants underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans. The resting-state network (RSN) was examined by independent component analysis, and differences in RSN FC between STR and HC groups were evaluated with the t test. Functional network connectivity (FNC) analysis was performed for the three RSNs.

Results

Compared to the HC group, the STR group showed increased FC in the VN and SMN (voxel-level P < 0.01; two-tailed Gaussian random field correction; cluster-level P < 0.05). There were no significant alterations in DMN FC between the two groups. FNC analysis of connections in the RSN revealed that one of the three connections in the VN was reduced, but no connectivity changes were observed in the SMN or DMN. FNC analysis of the connection between two RSNs showed that two had increased and one had a decreased connection value.

Conclusion

The VN, SMN, and DMN are reorganized in patients with STR compared to HCs, providing novel insight into the neural substrates of STR.
Strategy of pacemaker and electrode replacement for superior vena cava stenosis
Authors: Zheng Zhi-Peng , Zhang Wei , Zeng Zhi-huan , Zheng Jian-yi
Published: January 2021

Cardiac implantable devices are commonly used for superior vena cava stenosis, but there have been few reports of electrode replacement in the stenosed superior vena cava. A 73-year-old man was diagnosed with second-degree type II atrioventricular block and a permanent dual-chamber, rate-modulated pacing pacemaker was implanted 10 years previously. Because of depletion of the pacemaker battery and an increase in the ventricular pacing threshold, replacement of the pacemaker and ventricular electrode was required. During the operation, we found that the patient had severe superior vena cava stenosis on angiography, and this caused obstruction when a common guidewire was used to pass through the superior vena cava. After attempting various methods, we successfully passed through the vascular stenosis with a super slide guidewire and a long sheath, and completed replacement of the pacemaker and ventricular electrode. We summarize the related literature of superior vena cava stenosis related to a cardiac implantable device, and discuss the replacement strategy of this complication and other treatment options.
Leukemoid reaction with severe thrombocytopenia in a dying patient: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hongwei Huang
Published: January 2021

Leukemoid reaction complicated by thrombocytopenia is rare, usually seen in patients with malignant conditions, and is often associated with poor prognosis. Here, the case of a 28-year-old healthy female without exceptional past medical history, who suffered from severe vaginal infection, is reported. Although symptoms improved, the white blood cell (WBC) count continued to increase up to 78 460 cells/µl, however, the patient continued to improve and the outcome was good. The case revealed that an increasing WBC count may not change in synchrony with clinical symptoms. When faced with this scenario, procalcitonin measurements may play an important role in differentiating diagnosis and guiding treatment.
A rare case of adult diffuse midline glioma with H3 K27M mutant in the prepontine cistern
Authors: Chen Xueling , Zhong Ling , Lin Jianwen , Yu Jian
Published: January 2021

Diffuse midline glioma with the H3.3 histone A ( H3F3A) or H3 clustered histone 2/3 ( HIST1H3B/C) K27M mutation occurs primarily in children and less frequently in adults involving the midline structures of the central nervous system. This case report describes an adult patient with a diffuse midline glioma H3 K27M mutant in the prepontine cistern, which is an unusual site in clinical practice. The clinical, radiographic and histopathological data from the case are presented. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a progressively enlarged and enhanced nodule in the right prepontine cistern, with diffuse involvement of the meninges and communicating hydrocephalus. Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid occasionally found suspiciously atypical cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and multiple nucleoli, as well as a severely elevated opening pressure and protein level, slightly elevated white cell count and decreased chloride level. Empirical antituberculosis treatment was administered but eventually proved to be ineffective. The definite diagnosis was made by histopathological analysis of the lesion based on the features of positive H3 K27M mutant protein and diffusely infiltrating growth. A diffuse midline glioma with the H3 K27M mutation may rarely present in an unusual site. A biopsy is recommended at an early stage for suspected cases to facilitate a definite diagnosis.
Tumor necrosis factor-α small interfering RNA alveolar epithelial cell-targeting nanoparticles reduce lung injury in C57BL/6J mice with sepsis
Authors: Qian Like , Yin Xi , Ji Jiahao , Chen Zhengli , Fang He , Li Hu , Zhu Feng , Chang Fei
Published: January 2021

Background

The role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α small interfering (si)RNA alveolar epithelial cell (AEC)-targeting nanoparticles in lung injury is unclear.

Methods

Sixty C57BL/6J mice with sepsis were divided into normal, control, sham, 25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg siRNA AEC-targeting nanoparticles groups (n = 10 per group). The wet:dry lung weight ratio, and hematoxylin and eosin staining, western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for inflammatory factors were conducted to compare differences among groups.

Results

The wet:dry ratio was significantly lower in control and sham groups than other groups. TNF-α siRNA AEC-targeting nanoparticles significantly reduced the number of eosinophils, with significantly lower numbers in the 50 mg/kg group than in 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg groups. The nanoparticles also significantly reduced the expression of TNF-α, B-cell lymphoma-2, caspase 3, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, with TNF-α expression being significantly lower in the 50 mg/kg group than in 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg groups.

Conclusion

TNF-α siRNA AEC-targeting nanoparticles appear to be effective at improving lung injury-related sepsis, and 50 mg/kg may be a preferred dose option for administration.
Preliminary report of modified expansive laminoplasty in the treatment of thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum
Authors: Xue You-Di , Zhang Zhao-Chuan , Ma Chao , Dai Wei-Xiang
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study was performed to evaluate the role of posterior suspension of the laminae–ossification of the ligamentum flavum complex combined with miniplate fixation (modified expansive thoracic laminoplasty) in treating thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum (TOLF).

Methods

Eight patients with TOLF treated by modified expansive thoracic laminoplasty were retrospectively analyzed. Their general information, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complications were recorded. Neurological functional recovery was evaluated by the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score and Hirabayashi recovery rate preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the final follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative imaging was performed, and the decompression range and internal fixation positioning were evaluated.

Results

The mJOA score significantly improved from 4.63 points preoperatively to 9.0 points at the final follow-up (Hirabayashi recovery rate of 77.75%). Postoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed sufficient decompression of the surgical segment. At the final follow-up, the internal implants were well-placed, the lamina–ligamentum flavum complex showed no significant displacement, and neurological functional recovery was satisfactory.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment of TOLF is complicated and high-risk. Characterized by simplicity and sufficient decompression, modified expansive thoracic laminoplasty can reduce the risk of cerebrospinal fluid leakage and nerve injury with satisfactory neurological functional recovery.
Mediastinal tuberculous lymphadenitis presenting with insidious back pain in a male adult: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ren Xuli , Li Kai , Li Longyun , Zhao Guoqing
Published: January 2021

Mediastinal tuberculous lymphadenitis (MTL) is mostly observed in primary tuberculosis in infants, children and adolescents, and is not found commonly in adults. Mediastinal tuberculous lymphadenitis cases may present with an insidious progression of tuberculous symptoms, including gradual deterioration in the lungs and a variety of clinical characteristics; however, initial symptoms are rarely only chronic back pain. We present the case of a 33-year-old man with mediastinal tuberculous lymphadenitis misdiagnosed as myofascitis. Since such individuals do not develop respiratory symptoms in the initial stages, they often go undiagnosed and can potentially spread tuberculosis.
Right Hemisphere Memory Bias Does Not Extend to Involuntary Memories for Negative Scenes
Authors: Moeck Ella K. , Thomas Nicole A. , Takarangi Melanie K. T.
Published: January 2021

Attention is unequally distributed across the visual field. Due to greater right than left hemisphere activation for visuospatial attention, people attend slightly more to the left than the right side. As a result, people voluntarily remember visual stimuli better when it first appears in the left than the right visual field. But does this effect—termed a right hemisphere memory bias—also enhance involuntary memory? We manipulated the presentation location of 100 highly negative images (chosen to increase the likelihood that participants would experience any involuntary memories) in three conditions: predominantly leftward (right hemisphere bias), predominantly rightward (left hemisphere bias), or equally in both visual fields (bilateral). We measured subsequent involuntary memories immediately and for 3 days after encoding. Contrary to predictions, biased hemispheric processing did not affect short- or long-term involuntary memory frequency or duration. Future research should measure hemispheric differences at retrieval, rather than just encoding.
Why Do Actions in Slow Motion Appear to Last Longer? On the Effect of Video Speed Information
Authors: Sperl Laura , Hüttner Norman , Schroeger Anna
Published: January 2021

When displayed in slow motion, actions are often perceived longer compared with original speed. However, it remains to be determined why this bias exists. Is it possible that the bias emerges because participants underestimate the factor by which a video was slowed down and hence arrive at erroneous conclusions about the original duration? If true, providing explicit information about the respective video speed should eliminate this slow motion effect. To scrutinize the nature of this bias, participants rated the original duration of sports actions displayed at original speed or slow motion. Results revealed the expected overestimation bias consisting in longer ratings with increasing slow motion. However, the bias disappeared when information about the current video speed was provided. The observations suggest an influence of knowledge about video playback speed on cognitive-evaluative processes which may hold important implications for future research and practice.
Canonical Size in Haptic Drawings
Authors: Szubielska Magdalena , Wojtasiński Marcin
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to test differences in drawn size of familiar objects of different physical size in haptic drawings produced by blindfolded sighted participants. Using two sizes of the foil sheets on which they made convex drawings, they drew one object per foil. The results showed that the size of drawings increased linearly with the rising rank of real-world size. Although larger drawings were created on larger foils than on smaller ones, the ratio of the object drawn size within the foil sheet size did not differ across foil sizes. Hence, canonical size—a phenomenon known so far from studies on the visual domain—revealed here in a task performed in the haptic domain.
Influence of Alcohol and Cognitive Capacity on Visual Number Judgements
Authors: Harvey Alistair J. , Seedhouse Molly
Published: January 2021

We used an enumeration task to address the question of whether acute alcohol intoxication reduces cognitive or perceptual capacity. To control for individual differences in cognitive resources, we took a sober record of each participant’s working memory capacity (WMC). Alcohol was expected to impair enumeration performance, either for the automatic parallel counting of small stimulus sets indicating a perceptual impairment, or the controlled counting or estimating of larger sets indicating a cognitive impairment. Enumeration showed an overall decline in accuracy following a vodka beverage and the deficit was negligible for small sets, which is inconsistent with a loss of perceptual capacity. Having a higher WMC facilitated the enumeration of larger sets and the correlation between WMC and accuracy was stronger in the alcohol condition suggesting that low-WMC participants were more impaired by the beverage. Our findings therefore suggest that alcohol diminished cognitive rather than perceptual capacity.
Effects of Action Video Game Play on Arithmetic Performance in Adults
Authors: Novak Elena , Soyturk Ilker
Published: January 2021

This experimental study investigated the state (short-term) effects of action video game (AVG) training on arithmetic performance and their persistence over time. In addition, it examined group differences between experienced and novice AVGers. Twenty-nine college students without a prior AVG experience were randomly assigned to one of the two training groups: AVG and non-AVG. After 40 minutes of video game training, the arithmetic problem-solving speed and accuracy of non-AVG group increased, while the AVG group’s arithmetic performance decreased, thus suggesting a possibility of state effects of a non-AVG training on arithmetic performance. The state effects did not persist over time; on a delayed posttest, both groups’ arithmetic performance was similar to their pretraining scores. In addition, there were nonsignificant differences in arithmetic performance between experienced and novice AVGers. Implications for investigating the game mechanics and transfer mechanism between the game and transfer task are discussed.
Impact of a sensory activity schedule intervention on cognitive strategy use in autistic students: A school-based pilot study
Authors: Mills Caroline J , Chapparo Christine , Hinitt Joanne
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Autistic students may experience difficulty performing classroom tasks due to atypical sensory processing and inefficient use of higher-order cognitive strategies. Limited research has investigated the influence of in-class sensory activities to enhance the thinking strategies required for task performance. This study evaluated a classroom-based sensory activity schedule and its impact on cognitive strategy use.

Methods

A quasi-experimental, non-equivalent groups design was used. Students ( n = 30, mean age 7.4 years) with atypical sensory processing negatively impacting classroom performance, and their teachers ( n = 23), from six autism-specific schools were grouped into intervention (Sensory Activity Schedule and usual teaching) and control (usual teaching only) groups. Students’ cognitive strategy use during the performance of classroom tasks was evaluated at baseline and post-intervention using Perceive, Recall, Plan, Perform Stage Two Cognitive Task Analysis.

Results

Statistical analysis (Mann–Whitney U test) indicated that students who received the Sensory Activity Schedule intervention improved significantly more than control group students in overall cognitive strategy use ( Z = –2.32, p = 0.02), and with strategy items involving attention and sensory perception (perceive, Z = –2.26, p = 0.02), and planning and organisation (Plan, Z = –.254, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The Sensory Activity Schedule may enhance autistic students’ capacity to apply cognitive strategies more effectively during performance of classroom tasks.
Towards an urban degrowth: Habitability, finity and polycentric autonomism
Authors: Savini Federico
Published: January 2021

Over the last decade, degrowth has offered a concrete alternative to eco-modernization, projecting a society emancipated from the environmentally destructive imperative of competition and consumption. Urban development is the motor of economic growth; cities are therefore prime sites of intervention for degrowth activists. Nevertheless, the planning processes that drive urban development have yet to be questioned from a degrowth perspective. To clear a path for a degrowth urban agenda, this paper rethinks the institutions governing urban development in growth-dependent contemporary economies. It starts by problematizing the regional territorialization of economic competition, ideology of land scarcity, and institution of zoned property rights, which together make urban development an engine of growth. It then outlines three transitions toward urban degrowth, arguing for a regional imaginary of polycentric autonomism, a paradigm of finity in development, and care for habitability as principle of spatial organization.
Bypass urbanism: Re-ordering center-periphery relations in Kolkata, Lagos and Mexico City
Authors: Sawyer Lindsay , Schmid Christian , Streule Monika , Kallenberger Pascal
Published: January 2021

This paper introduces the concept of “bypass urbanism” to account for a process of urbanization that is reordering center-periphery relations of urban regions into new hierarchies. Bypass urbanism became visible through a comparison of large-scale urban transformations at the peripheries of Kolkata, Lagos, and Mexico City by zooming out and considering their impacts on the socio-spatial structure of the extended urban regions. Bypass urbanism is not emerging from the construction of a singular new town or real estate project, but is the result of the simultaneous development of an ensemble of various independent but related projects. Therefore, bypass urbanism usually does not emanate from a coherent planning initiative, even less so from a hidden “master plan” at the hands of any single developer or state agency, but it emerges through a convergence of interests over large areas of land at the geographical periphery of urban regions that have been made available for new urban developments by various measures. We understand bypass urbanism as a multidimensional process that includes material-geographical bypassing, the bypassing of regulatory frameworks, and socio-economic bypassing in everyday life. It results in the creation of exclusive and excluding spaces that enable middle and upper-class lifestyles, at the same time leading to the peripheralization of extant urban areas that are bypassed and neglected. The massive scale of bypass urbanism that we have observed represents a new quality of urban development resulting not in isolated urban enclaves or archipelagos, but in the fundamental restructuring of the extended urban region with far reaching and incalculable repercussions.
Structural design and optimization of a series of 13.2 MW downwind rotors
Authors: Yao Shulong , Chetan Mayank , Griffith D Todd
Published: January 2021

The quest for reduced LCOE has driven significant growth in wind turbine size. A key question to enable larger rotor designs is how to configure and optimize structural designs to constrain blade mass and cost while satisfying a growing set of challenging structural design requirements. In this paper, we investigate the performance of a series of three two-bladed downwind rotors with different blade lengths (104.3-m, 122.9-m, and 143.4-m) all rated at 13.2 MW. The primary goals are to achieve 25% rotor mass and 25% LCOE reduction. A comparative analysis of the structural performance and economics of this family rotors is presented. To further explore optimization opportunities for large rotors, we present new results in a root and spar cap design optimization. In summary, we present structural design solutions that achieve 25% rotor mass reduction in a SUMR13i design (104.3-m) and 25% LCOE reduction in a SUMR13C design (143.4-m).
Value-Based Approach to Assess the Impact of Lifestyles on Mode Shares
Authors: Van Acker Veronique , Sandoval Sazkia , Cools Mario
Published: January 2021

Travel behavior research has long been dominated by a rational perspective considering primarily objective factors such as price, travel time, and speed. Only at the end of the 1990s was attention also paid to subjective factors such as perceptions and attitudes. Since then, a growing number of studies combine objective and subjective factors in explaining travel behavior. This paper adds to this by focusing on the influence of lifestyles on mode share. To this end, an online survey was carried out in Belgium, completed successfully by 334 respondents. Lifestyles were measured based on a psychographic or value-based approach using the Portrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ) developed by Schwartz. Results of a structural equation model (SEM) indicate that using value-based lifestyles adds new insights to the analysis of mode share. Personal values have not only a direct effect on mode share but also an indirect effect because of interactions with urban residential location choices, car ownership decisions, and activity patterns. The findings suggest that public transport use could be encouraged by promoting it as an act of caring for others. At the same time, policy-makers should invest in creating positive experiences for travelers using public transport.
Development and Testing of Structurally Independent Foundations for High-Speed Containment Concrete Barrier
Authors: Kovar James , Sheikh Nauman , Bligh Roger , Cakalli Sofokli , Retterer Taya , Ries Jon
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the development and testing of single slope barriers with independent foundations that can be installed at a wide range of site conditions. The researchers developed designs of barriers with foundation systems by conducting a series of finite element simulations and performing full-scale vehicle impact tests under the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ (AASHTO) Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware ( MASH) Test Level 5 (TL-5) and Test Level 4 (TL-4) conditions. In this process, foundation designs were developed for site conditions that may require shallow foundations, or foundations that have a smaller footprint. Depending on the site conditions and the presence of underground structures, designers could select the most fitting option from these designs. Impact performance of the developed barrier and foundation systems was evaluated using full-scale finite element impact simulations under MASH TL-5 and TL-4 impact conditions. Two critical systems were selected for full-scale crash testing: a 54 in. tall single slope barrier with drilled shaft foundations, and a 36 in. tall single slope barrier with moment slab foundation. The barrier with the drilled shaft foundation system was tested to MASH Test 5-12 conditions, and the barrier with the moment slab foundation system was tested to MASH Test 4-12 conditions. Both systems performed acceptably with respect to the MASH criteria. This paper presents the various barrier and foundation designs that were developed, key results from the simulation analyses, and details of the crash testing performed on the two selected systems.
Evaluation of Network-Level Data Collection Variability and its Influence on Pavement Evaluation Utilizing Random Forest Method
Authors: Jia Xiaoyang , Woods Mark , Gong Hongren , Zhu Di , Hu Wei , Huang Baoshan
Published: January 2021

The use of pavement condition data to support maintenance and resurfacing strategies and justify budget needs becomes more crucial as more data-driven approaches are being used by the state highway agencies (SHAs). Therefore, it is important to understand and thus evaluate the influence of data variability on pavement management activities. However, owing to a huge amount of data collected annually, it is a challenge for SHAs to evaluate the influence of data collection variability on network-level pavement evaluation. In this paper, network-level parallel tests were employed to evaluate data collection variability. Based on the data sets from the parallel tests, classification models were constructed to identify the segments that were subject to inconsistent rating resulting from data collection variability. These models were then used to evaluate the influence of data variability on pavement evaluation. The results indicated that the variability of longitudinal cracks was influenced by longitudinal lane joints, lateral wandering, and lane measurement zones. The influence of data variability on condition evaluation for state routes was more significant than that for interstates. However, high variability of individual metrics may not necessarily lead to high variability of combined metrics.
Explorative Visualization for Traffic Safety using Adaptive Study Areas
Authors: Berres Anne S. , Xu Haowen , Tennille Sarah A , Severino Joseph , Ravulaparthy Srinath , Sanyal Jibonananda
Published: January 2021

The pressing need to improve trafﬁc safety has become a societal concern in many cities around the world. Many trafﬁc accidents are not occurring as stand-alone events but as consequences of other road incidents and hazards. To capture the trafﬁc safety indications from a holistic aspect, this paper presents a suite of visualization techniques to explore large trafﬁc safety datasets collected from different sources using adaptive study areas which include the whole region (Hamilton County, Ohio, U.S.) as well as smaller sub-areas. In the present study, these data source include (1) Hamilton County’s 911 emergency response data, which includes trafﬁc incidents as well as other types of incidents throughout the county, and (2) Tennessee crash data, which contains only vehicle crashes with more detail on the circumstances of each crash. Both abstract and spatial visualization techniques are used to derive a better understanding of trafﬁc safety patterns for different trafﬁc participants in various urban environments. In addition to the entire region of Hamilton County, safety is examined on the highways, in the downtown area, and in a shopping district east of the city center. It is possible to characterize incidents in the different areas, gain a better understanding of common incident patterns, and identify outliers in the data. Finally, a textured tile calendar is presented to compare spatiotemporal patterns.
Survey of Practices on Performance Measurement of U.S. Inland Waterway Freight Transportation
Authors: Parvez Farazi Nahid , Zou Bo , Sriraj P.S.
Published: January 2021

The inland waterway freight transportation system plays a vital role in the trade and commerce of the U.S.A. To ensure that the system performs at an acceptable level, routine monitoring and performance evaluation of the system is critical. Individual states are responsible for developing and implementing suitable performance measurement systems for their respective inland waterways. This paper focuses on surveying, reviewing, and synthesizing current performance measurement practices adopted by different states in the U.S.A. It finds that, among the 38 states with inland navigability, only 12 states have established performance measures to monitor the performance of their inland water transportation systems. To aid the states in developing and enhancing inland waterway performance measurement programs, the paper further outlines the current state of research on inland waterways, recommendations from various federal and maritime organizations, and also current practice outside of the U.S.A. Based on a scan of the publicly available data sources, the paper proposes a two-dimensional performance measurement practice from the perspectives of performance areas and infrastructure types. Such an approach will help state Departments of Transportation to identify system needs and deficiencies while offering a comprehensive picture of performance of an inland water freight transportation system.
Sensitivity Analysis of the Transit Signal Priority Requesting Threshold and the Impact on Bus Performance and General Traffic
Authors: Sheffield Michael H. , Schultz Grant G. , Bassett David , Eggett Dennis L.
Published: January 2021

An analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of changing the transit signal priority (TSP) requesting threshold on bus performance and general traffic, using field-generated data exclusively. Route 217, a conventional bus route that uses a dedicated short-range communication (DSRC)-based TSP system as part of its normal day-to-day operations, was analyzed over a three-month period from May 2019 through August 2019. The requesting thresholds evaluated for Route 217 were 3, 2, and 0 min, which stipulate how far behind schedule the bus must be to request TSP. For each requesting threshold, bus performance was evaluated through on-time performance (OTP), schedule deviation, travel time, and dwell time, while the traffic analysis was performed by evaluating split failure, change in green time, and the frequency at which TSP was served. A combination of observational and statistical analyses concluded with convincing evidence that OTP, schedule deviation, and travel time improve as the requesting threshold approaches zero with negligible impacts on general traffic. As the requesting threshold changed from 3, to 2, to 0 min, OTP increased 2.0% and 2.5%, respectively; mean schedule deviation improved by 15.9 s and 20.9 s, respectively; and travel time decreased at 75% of timepoints. Meanwhile, negative impacts to traffic occurred if an increase in split failure was measured after TSP was served, a phenomenon observed a maximum of once every 43 min. Thus, it is concluded that bus performance improves as the requesting threshold approaches zero with inconsequential impacts on general traffic.
Quantitative 3-T Magnetic Resonance Imaging After Matrix-Associated Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation With Autologous Bone Grafting of the Knee: The Importance of Subchondral Bone Parameters
Authors: Jung Matthias , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Holwein Christian , Suchowierski Joachim , Diallo Thierno D. , Gersing Alexandra S. , Bamberg Fabian , Baumann Frederic A. , Ruschke Stefan , Jungmann Pia M.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) with autologous bone grafting (ABG) is an effective surgical treatment for osteochondral defects. Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques are increasingly applied as noninvasive biomarkers to assess the biochemical composition of cartilage repair tissue.

Purpose:

To evaluate the association of quantitative MRI parameters of cartilage repair tissue and subchondral bone marrow with magnetic resonance morphologic and clinical outcomes after MACI with ABG of the knee.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Qualitative and quantitative 3 T MRI of the knee was performed in 21 patients (16 male) at 2.5 years after MACI with ABG at the medial (18/21) or lateral (3/21) femoral condyle for the treatment of osteochondral defects. Morphologic MRI sequences were assessed using MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) 2.0 scores. T2 relaxation time measurements for the assessment of cartilage repair tissue (CRT2) were obtained. Single-voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy was performed in underlying subchondral bone marrow (BM) and at both central femoral condyles. The presence of pain and Tegner scores were noted. Statistical analyses included Student t tests, correlation analyses, and multivariate regression models.

Results:

The mean defect size was 4.9 ± 1.9 cm2. At a follow-up of 2.5 ± 0.3 years, 9 of 21 patients were asymptomatic. Perfect defect filling was achieved in 66.7% (14/21) of patients. MOCART 2.0 scores (74.1 ± 18.4) did not indicate pain (68.3 ± 19.0 [pain] vs 81.7 ± 15.4 [no pain]; P = .102). However, knee pain was present in 85.7% (6/7) of patients with deep bony defects (odds ratio, 8.0; P = .078). Relative CRT2 was higher in hypertrophic cartilage repair tissue than in repair tissue with normal filling (1.54 ± 0.42 vs 1.13 ± 0.21, respectively; P = .022). The underlying BM edema–like lesion (BMEL) volume was larger in patients with underfilling compared with patients with perfect defect filling (1.87 ± 1.32 vs 0.31 ± 0.51 cm3, respectively; P = .002). Patients with severe pain showed a higher BMEL volume (1.2 ± 1.3 vs 0.2 ± 0.4 cm3, respectively; P = .046) and had a higher BM water fraction (26.0% ± 12.3% vs 8.6% ± 8.1%, respectively; P = .026) than did patients without pain.

Conclusion:

Qualitative and quantitative MRI parameters including the presence of subchondral defects, CRT2, BMEL volume, and BM water fraction were correlated with cartilage repair tissue quality and clinical symptoms. Therefore, the integrity of subchondral bone was associated with outcomes after osteochondral transplantation.
Management of Osteoarthritis Using 1 Intra-articular Platelet Concentrate Administration in a Canine Osteoarthritis Model
Authors: Alves João Carlos Agostinho , Santos Ana Margarida Moniz Pereira dos , Jorge Patrícia Isabel Figueiredo , Lavrador Catarina Falcão Trigoso Vieira Branco , Carreira Luis Miguel Alves
Published: January 2021

Background:

Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a significant burden to societies, as it affects quality of life and performance and implies a large cost in terms of health care. Autologous platelets are a regenerative treatment modality for OA that are thought to be a potential stimulation of the natural healing cascade.

Purpose:

To describe the effect of the platelet concentrate V-PET in the management of OA in a naturally occurring canine model, using several outcome assessment modalities.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 40 joints of active working police dogs with hip OA were randomly assigned to a control group (CG) and a platelet concentrate group (PCG; treatment) and evaluated. At treatment day (T0) and 8, 15, 30, 90, and 180 days after treatment, weight distribution, joint range of motion at flexion and extension, thigh girth, digital thermography, radiographic signs, 4 clinical metrology instruments, and synovial fluid interleukin 1 and C-reactive protein levels were recorded. Results were compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance with a Huynh-Feldt correction, paired-samples t test, or Wilcoxon signed rank test, with P < .05.

Results:

Dogs were 6.5 ± 2.4 years old (mean ± SD) and had a body weight of 26.7 ± 5.2 kg. At T0, 32 (80%) joints were graded as having mild OA, 6 (15%) as moderate, and 2 (5%) as severe. No differences were found between groups at T0. Between the PCG and CG, the symmetry index showed significant improvements in the PCG from 8 days ( P = .01) to 180 days ( P = .01). Joint flexion also improved in the PCG up to 90 days ( P < .05) and extension improved up to 180 days ( P < .01). Several clinical metrology instrument scores also improved up to 90 to 180 days after treatment. In the CG, radiographic signs progressed, while the PCG showed some improved signs. In both groups, increasing body weight and age corresponded with worse clinical and laboratory findings.

Conclusion:

A single injection of platelet concentrate had a positive effect, lasting up to 6 months, on several clinical, imaging, and laboratory signs in a naturally occurring canine OA model.

Clinical Relevance:

We characterized the effects of this platelet concentrate in dogs, considered the gold standard of the study of OA, with a group of working animals with similar high demands as athletes.
Resilience in Public Sector Managers
Authors: Plimmer Geoff , Berman Evan M. , Malinen Sanna , Franken Esme , Naswall Katharina , Kuntz Joana , Löfgren Karl
Published: January 2021

This study discusses the concept of employee resilience (ER), defined as the capability to use resources to continually adapt and flourish at work, even when faced with challenging circumstances. The concept is grounded in positive psychology and conservation of resources (COR) theory and complements other concepts such as coping which describe employees and managers adapting to challenge and change. This study validates a scale of ER and examines attributes and job factors associated with heightened ER in public sector line managers. Study results show that heightened ER is associated with public service motivation (PSM), employees’ pro-social skills and constructive leadership by supervisors. ER is also associated with a climate for innovation. Theoretical and practical implications for strengthening employees’ resilience in public organizations are discussed.
Hybrid and Non-Hybrid Block-Based Programming Languages in an Introductory College Computer-Science Course
Authors: Hsu Wen-Chin , Gainsburg Julie
Published: January 2021

Block-based programming languages (BBLs) have been proposed as a way to prepare students for learning to program in more sophisticated, text-based languages, such as Java. Hybrid BBLs add the ability to view and edit the block commands in auto-generated, text-based code. We compared the use of a non-hybrid BBL (Scratch), a hybrid BBL (Pencil Code), and no BBL across three sections of an introductory CS course that taught Java programming, to determine whether either type of BBL offered cognitive or affective advantages for learning Java. Students in the BBL groups were surveyed about their perceptions of each BBL in terms of ease of use and helpfulness in learning Java, and all three groups were compared on their performance in Java programming. The results showed that, in this introductory CS course, neither type of BBL offered an advantage in preparing students for learning Java. These results held regardless of the students’ level of Java knowledge prior to the course.
Machine Learning-Based Student Modeling Methodology for Intelligent Tutoring Systems
Authors: Yang Chunsheng , Chiang Feng-Kuang , Cheng Qiangqiang , Ji Jun
Published: January 2021

Machine learning-based modeling technology has recently become a powerful technique and tool for developing models for explaining, predicting, and describing system/human behaviors. In developing intelligent education systems or technologies, some research has focused on applying unique machine learning algorithms to build the ad-hoc student models for specific educational systems. However, systematically developing the data-driven student models from the educational data collected over prior educational experiences remains a challenge. We proposed a systematic and comprehensive machine learning-based modeling methodology to develop high-performance predictive student models from the historical educational data to address this issue. This methodology addresses the fundamental modeling issues, from data processing, to modeling, to model deployment. The said methodology can help developing student models for intelligent educational systems. After a detailed description of the proposed machine learning-based methodology, we introduce its application to an intelligent navigation tutoring system. Using the historical data collected in intelligent navigation tutoring systems, we conduct large-scale experiments to build the student models for training systems. The preliminary results proved that the proposed methodology is useful and feasible in developing the high-performance models for various intelligent education systems.
COP2ING With a New Normal: Navigating the Return to Society for Older Adults With Dementia and Their Caregivers
Authors: Hamilton Chitra K. , Paniagua Miguel A. , Jones Christopher A.
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 has stressed the healthcare system in ways our society has not seen before. Less visibly, elderly patients and their caregivers have been stressed as well, both by the virus and by the public health measures required to slow its spread. After months of isolating, patients with dementia and their caregivers are worried about reentering a society with different rules and expectations. Although an extremely complex topic, the re-entry of individuals with cognitive impairment back into society is critical for both the wellbeing of the person as well as the caregiver. Successful re-entry into society will vary based on a person’s interests and baseline cognition, however, the ability to participate in activities and events that previously provided joy and stimulation is the first step. This paper, written by practicing geriatricians and palliative clinicians, offers some concrete counseling strategies and tips for caregivers to help navigate re-entry into society with their loved ones.
At the Intersection of COVID-19 and Sex Work in the United States: A Call for Social Work Action
Authors: Bromfield Nicole F. , Panichelli Meg , Capous-Desyllas Moshoula
Published: January 2021

The emergence of COVID-19 in the United States in early 2020 has severely disrupted the lives of most Americans, and people engaged in sex trade are no exception. People in sex work encounter multiple challenges when trying to access the services they need, particularly as they fear arrest, stigma, and pathology related to their work. These barriers have been amplified during the global COVID-19 pandemic, as sex trade workers may further lack access to crucially needed health care and may not have a mechanism for generating a basic income to meet their daily survival needs. Using an intersectional feminist lens, in this article, we discuss the impact of COVID-19 on people in sex work while highlighting sex workers’ resiliency and community action in the face of the pandemic. We highlight empowerment work led by black and brown sex worker communities. As authors and advocates, we call for critical feminist social work action that situates social workers as advocates for the human rights, well-being, and health of individuals in sex work, with a focus on centering the voices of those with lived experience and a focus on harm reduction, during and in the lingering aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.