bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interrelations between the Oppel-Kundt- and the T-illusion
Authors: Landwehr Klaus
Published: May 2022

In order to investigate interrelations between the Oppel-Kundt- and the T-illusion, T-type figures, comprised of one dotted and one empty line (demarcated by its endpoints), separated by a gap of variable size, and rotated to oblique orientations, were judged with regard to the lengths of the two extents. The T-illusion (overestimation of the length of the undivided line) was greater for a T with a dotted undivided line and a small gap. When the divided line was dotted, the illusion vanished at a small gap and reversed at a larger one. Findings are interpreted to mirror activities of a neural T-schema as well as orientation- and density-sensitive neurons.
The association between unanticipated prolonged post-anaesthesia care unit length of stay and early postoperative deterioration: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Fletcher Luke R , Coulson Timothy G , Story David A , Hiscock Richard J , Marhoon Nada , Nazareth Justin M
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to investigate whether there was an association between an unanticipated prolonged post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU) length of stay and early postoperative deterioration, as defined as the need for a rapid response team activation, within the first seven days of surgery. We conducted a single-centre retrospective cohort study of adult surgical patients, who stayed at least one night in hospital, and were not admitted to critical care immediately postoperatively, between 1 July 2017 and 30 June 2019. A total of 11,885 cases were analysed. PACU length of stay was significantly associated with rapid response team activation on both univariate (odds ratio (OR) per increment 1.57, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.45 to 1.69, P < 0.001) and multivariate analysis (OR per increment 1.41, 95% CI 1.28 to 1.55, P < 0.001). Patients who stayed less than one hour were at low risk of deterioration (absolute risk 3.7%). In patients staying longer than one hour, the absolute increase in risk was small but observable within six hours of PACU discharge. Compar\ed to a one-hour length of stay, a five-hour stay had a relative risk of 4.9 (95% CI 3.7 to 6.1). Other factors associated with rapid response team activation included non-elective surgery (OR 1.78, P < 0.001) and theatre length of stay (OR per increment 1.61, P < 0.001). PACU length of stay was also independently associated with predefined complications and unplanned intensive care unit admission postoperatively. In our cohort, an unanticipated prolonged PACU length of stay of over one hour was associated with an increased incidence of rapid response team activation in the first seven days postoperatively.
Evaluation of Different Surface Treatments to Extend Pavement Life
Authors: Nair Harikrishnan , McGhee Kevin
Published: May 2022

When applied at the right time, pavement preservation treatments can restore a smooth, safe driving surface while delaying the cost for rehabilitation, resulting in reduced life cycle cost. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of three preventive maintenance treatments applied to US 301 in Sussex County, Virginia, to extend pavement life. This paper documents the installation of a Cape seal application of fiber-reinforced chip seal (with microsurfacing on top) over an existing asphalt pavement. A performance comparison was made with more conventional surface treatment options: regular Cape seal (modified single chip seal with microsurfacing), and microsurfacing without a chip seal. Five years after the treatment application, a visual survey complemented by automated distress data from the Virginia Department of Transportation Pavement Management System showed that the section with fiber-reinforced chip seal and microsurfacing performed well with very little reflective cracking. The modified single chip seal with microsurfacing (i.e., regular Cape seal) also performed well, but reflective cracking was higher compared with the fiber-reinforced section. The control section (microsurfacing only) showed extensive cracking after 5 years. This study showed that pavement preservation activities such as the use of fiber-reinforced chip seal with microsurfacing and modified single seal with microsurfacing improved both the pavement condition and the surface characteristics in a very cost-effective manner (based on initial cost). However, long-term performance data are needed to evaluate the benefit/cost of each treatment.
Pedestrians and the Built Environment during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Changing Relationships by the Pandemic Phases in Salt Lake County, Utah, U.S.A.
Authors: Park Keunhyun , Singleton Patrick A. , Brewer Simon , Zuban Jessica
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered people’s travel behavior, in particular outdoor activities, including walking. Their behavior changes may have prolonged effects after the pandemic, and such changes vary by the context and are related to the characteristics of the built environment. But empirical studies about the relationships between pedestrians and the built environment during the pandemic are lacking. This study explores how COVID-19 and related travel restrictions have affected the relationship between pedestrian traffic volume and the built environment. We estimate daily pedestrian volumes for all signalized intersections in Salt Lake County, Utah, U.S.A., from pedestrian push-button log data between January 2019 and October 2020. Multilevel spatial filtering models show that the COVID-19 pandemic has altered the relationship between pedestrian traffic volume and the built environment. During the pandemic, the higher the number of COVID-19 cases, the less (or more negative) the effects of density, street connectivity, and destination accessibility on pedestrian volume being observed. The exception is access to urban parks, as it became more significant in increasing pedestrian activities during the pandemic. The models also highlight the negative impacts of the pandemic in economically disadvantaged areas. Our findings could help urban and transportation planners find effective interventions to promote active transportation and physical activity amid the global pandemic.
Impacts of Field and Laboratory Long-Term Aging on Asphalt Binders
Authors: Singhvi Punit , Mainieri Javier J. García , Ozer Hasan , Sharma Brajendra Kumar , Al-Qadi Imad L. , Morse Kelly L.
Published: May 2022

Asphalt binder aging accelerates cracking of flexible pavement. Quantifying the extent of binder aging allows the formulation and selection of appropriate binders for flexible pavement applications. Asphalt binder aging depends on climatic exposure, asphalt concrete field-surface density, and binder chemistry. The aim of this work was to select a laboratory-aging protocol to represent realistic field aging in Illinois. Binders were extracted from field cores aged from eight to 31 years. Extracted binders were tested for rheology and chemical characteristics. Small- and large-strain rheological parameters were determined. In addition, chemical functional groups and molecular weight distribution of extracted binders were evaluated. Effects of aging across pavement depth were also investigated. Double pressure-aging vessel (PAV) was identified as a suitable laboratory long-term aging protocol to represent eight to 12 years of aging for flexible pavements in Illinois. Thresholds were proposed for selected small- and large-strain rheological parameters representing realistic field aging. These thresholds may be used for binder selection and procurement to ensure the binder’s long-term performance. Furthermore, chemical analysis on extracted binders showed that only specific carbonyl functional groups are affected by field aging.
Material and Structural Characterization of a Wind Turbine Blade for Use as a Bridge Girder
Authors: Ruane Kieran , Zhang Zoe , Nagle Angela , Huynh An , Alshannaq Ammar , McDonald Asha , Leahy Paul , Soutsos Marios , McKinley Jennifer , Gentry Russell , Bank Lawrence
Published: May 2022

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials have been used in a variety of civil and infrastructure applications since the early1980s, including in wind turbine blades. The world is now confronting the problem of how to dispose of decommissioned blades in an environmentally sustainable manner. One proposed solution is to repurpose the blades for use in new structures. One promising repurposing application is in pedestrian and cycle bridges. This paper reports on the characterization of a 13.4-m long FRP wind blade manufactured by LM Windpower (Kolding, Demark) in 1994. Two blades of this type were used as girders for a pedestrian bridge on a greenway (walking and biking trail) in Cork, Ireland. The as-received geometric, material, and structural properties of the 27 year-old blade were obtained for use in the structural design of the bridge. The material tests included physical (volume fraction and laminate architecture) and mechanical (tension and compression) tests at multiple locations. Full-scale flexural testing of a 4-m long section of the blade between 7 and 11 m from the root of the blade was performed to determine the load-deflection behavior, ultimate capacity, strain history, and failure modes when loaded to failure. Key details of the testing and the results are provided. The results of the testing revealed that the FRP material is still in excellent condition and that the blade has the strength and stiffness in flexure to serve as a girder for the bridge constructed.
Evaluation of Geopolymer for Stabilization of Sulfate-Rich Expansive Soils for Supporting Pavement Infrastructure
Authors: Jang Jungyeon , Biswas Nripojyoti , Puppala Anand J. , Congress Surya Sarat Chandra , Radovic Miladin , Huang Oscar
Published: May 2022

Stabilization of sulfate-rich expansive subgrade soils is a persistent cause of concern for transportation infrastructure engineers and practitioners. The application of traditional calcium-based stabilizers is generally not recommended for treating such soils because of the formation of deleterious reaction products such as ettringite. Sulfate-induced heaving causes severe structural damage to pavements and accounts for enormous expenditure from routine maintenance and rehabilitation activities. A research study was undertaken to evaluate the feasibility of using a metakaolin-based geopolymer (GP) for the treatment of sulfate-rich expansive soil. Laboratory studies were conducted on natural soil and artificially sulfate-rich soils, when treated with either lime or GP, to evaluate and compare the improvements in the engineering properties, including unconfined compressive strength, swelling and shrinkage, and resilient moduli characteristics over different curing periods. Microstructural studies, such as field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, were performed on treated soils to detect the formation of reaction products. The engineering studies indicate that GP treatment enhanced strength and resilient moduli while suppressing ettringite formation and the associated swell–shrink potential of the treated soils. The microstructural studies showed that GP gels contribute to the improvement of these engineering properties through the formation of a uniform geopolymer matrix. In addition, the absence of a calcium source suppressed the formation of ettringite in the GP-treated soils. Overall, the findings indicate that GPs could be used as a potential alternative to existing traditional stabilizers for treating sulfate-rich expansive soils.
Advisory-Based Time Slot Management System to Mitigate Waiting Time at Container Terminal Gates
Authors: Nadi Ali , Nugteren Alex , Snelder Maaike , Van Lint J.W.C. , Rezaei Jafar
Published: May 2022

This paper introduces an advisory-based time slot management system (TSMS) to control truck arrivals at seaport terminals with the aim to reduce congestion at terminal gates. A modeling framework is proposed, developed, and applied to assess the impact of a truck arrival shift for a case study in the Port of Rotterdam. This system is designed to apply control policies on truck inflow while taking the behavioral aspect of truck operating companies (TOCs) into account. Discrete choice modeling is used to infer the time-of-day preferences of TOCs for container pick-ups from the exchange of information between port and hinterland stakeholders. These preferences are used to shift truck arrivals to the off-peak period which consequently reduces the high waiting time of trucks at terminals gates. To evaluate the effectiveness of the designed TSMS, a simulation platform that resembles terminal operations has been developed using discrete-event simulation. For the allocation of trucks to a certain time of day, a choice-based stochastic assignment heuristic is designed to approximate the optimum configuration of the truck arrival shift policy experiment. The optimum truck arrival shift design shows that significant gain can be obtained even at a low shift rate.
Determining Yellow Change and Clearance Intervals for Left-Turning Phases: Evaluation of the Current Guidelines with Connected Vehicle Data
Authors: Jerome Zachary , Wang Xingmin , Shen Shengyin , Liu Henry X.
Published: May 2022

In March 2020, the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) published new guidelines for determining traffic signal change and clearance intervals that included using an extended kinematic equation for left turns. Whereas previous guidelines assumed constant speed for all vehicles approaching an intersection, this new equation accounted for left-turning vehicles needing more yellow time because they decelerate (assuming a maximum safe and comfortable rate) before making turning maneuvers. This paper evaluates these guidelines using real-world vehicle trajectories from the Ann Arbor Connected Vehicle Test Environment (AACVTE). These trajectories confirm that free-flowing left-turning vehicles decelerate, but deceleration usually starts at a moderate rate before reaching the critical distance and continues to the middle of the intersection. Vehicles then accelerate to a departure speed at the clearance point. Since the goal of the yellow change interval is to eliminate the dilemma zone such that a free-flowing vehicle can safely traverse the critical distance, these observations imply that the extended kinematic equation will overestimate the required duration for the following two reasons: (1) the critical distance is shortened by the speed reduction before the braking point; (2) the average traversing speed is higher as vehicles usually decelerate at a moderate rate instead of the maximum rate. The equation will underestimate the clearance interval as the average traversing speed through the intersection is slower than the intersection entry speed. We propose a new left-turn kinematic equation for determining yellow change and clearance intervals, and the results are validated from the observed vehicle trajectories.
Representation of Work-Related Trip Patterns in Household and Commercial Travel Surveys
Authors: Reiffer Anna , Barthelmes Lukas , Kagerbauer Martin , Vortisch Peter
Published: May 2022

This paper considers which work-related trip patterns are included in household travel surveys and which in commercial travel surveys and if there are certain patterns that are distinctly underrepresented in either one. The study is structured as a comparison between data from a household travel survey and data from a commercial travel survey. Both surveys were conducted in Germany and within close temporal proximity. We applied cluster analysis to identify differences in the data and identify work-related travel patterns. The results show that work-related travel patterns are quite complex. Although some patterns are covered in both surveys, mobile workers’ travel patterns in particular are not represented well in the household travel survey. Furthermore, our analysis shows that not all commercial trips are generated by motorized vehicles and a considerable share of work-related trips are undertaken using public transport or active modes of transport that are not covered by the commercial travel survey. The results indicate that researchers and transport planners creating travel demand models need to pay more attention to work-related travel behavior and acknowledge that depending on the area of study, traditional household travel surveys may not provide a complete sample of the population; however, simply adding data on commercial trips from commercial travel demand models to data from household travel surveys does not provide a complete picture of work-related travel either.
Classification of Flexible Pavements Based on Texture Data
Authors: Sabillon Christian A. , Hernandez Joaquin , Bassil Maria , Prozzi Jorge
Published: May 2022

The strong correlations between pavement texture and other surface characteristics—such as friction, drainage, and noise—are widely known. However, those relationships are not straightforward and have a strong dependency on the type and properties of the pavement surface. Incorporating surface information into a prediction model for skid resistance has the potential to drastically increase its predictive power. Nonetheless, in practice, pavement surface information is often unknown at the network level and must be inferred based on local expertise. The objective of this study was to address this issue by developing an objective classification model capable of identifying different asphalt pavement surfaces with a high degree of accuracy using only field texture data. High-resolution texture data were collected on 21 highway sections with varying surface types within 60 mi of the city of Austin, Texas using a prototype developed in house. Sophisticated data-processing algorithms were created to ensure the data used in developing the classification model were of the highest possible quality. Based on the most recent literature on the topic, more than 20 texture summary statistics were assessed during this study to find the best combination to predict surface characteristics of asphalt pavements.

The results are robust and indicate that texture summary statistics alone, when used in the right combination, have enough information to develop a pavement surface classification model with a predictive power as high as 89% based on the F1 score.
Exploring Bicyclists’ Visual Attention during Conflicts with Truck Traffic
Authors: Abadi Masoud Ghodrat , Maloney Patrick , Hurwitz David
Published: May 2022

To determine how bicyclists allocate their visual attention, measurable eye-fixations of bicyclists during conflicts with a truck maneuvering at a commercial vehicle loading zone (CVLZ) were studied in a bicycling simulator environment. The potential influence of pavement markings in the conflict area (white lane markings, solid green, and dashed green), truck traffic (parked and exiting), and bicyclists’ gender (female and male) on bicyclists’ visual attention were investigated. Results of a mixed repeated-measures analysis of variance indicated that the type of truck maneuver in the CVLZ had the most significant effect on bicyclists’ visual attention. Dashed green bike lanes were more effective than other design practices to attract bicyclists’ visual attention. It was also found that men fixated more on pavement markings than women regardless of truck maneuver or of pavement marking type.
Effect of hollow fiber packing density and housing shape on the solute removal performance of CRRT filters for acute blood purification
Authors: Mu Changjun , Yamashita Akihiro C.
Published: May 2022

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) has a good therapeutic effect in a variety of diseases, such as acute kidney injury. CRRT filters should feature small membrane surface area, excellent water permeability and solute removal performance for long-term use. Solute removal performance depends on the physicochemical structure of the dialysis membrane as well as on the housing design. On the basis of the same hollow fiber membrane, optimizing the housing design can maximize the performance of the dialysis membrane. In this article, we experimentally demonstrated the influence of hollow fiber packing density (PD) and housing shape (effective hollow fiber length ( L) and inner housing diameter ( D) ratio ( L/ D ratio)) on the performance of CRRT filters. In each continuous hemodialysis mode and post-diluted continuous hemodiafiltration mode, we tested nine CRRT filters with the same high-flux membrane but with different PDs (50%, 55%, and 60%) and L/ D ratios (2.9, 5.3, and 9.3), and we evaluated the effect of different combinations of the two design factors on solute clearance. Our results showed that unlike with the clearance of small molecular weight solutes, the clearance of medium molecular weight solute was obviously affected by PD and L/ D ratio, and the design providing the best removal of medium molecular solutes among the nine experiments was PD = 60% and L/ D ratio = 9.3. This article will help address the lack of research on CRRT filter housing design as well as lead to the development of higher performance filters for acute blood purification.
Cardiac power output index to define hemodynamic response to Impella support in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Sern Lim Hoong
Published: May 2022

Background:

Early assessment of response to Impella in cardiogenic shock may guide escalation of mechanical circulatory support. Therapeutic goal and response to Impella have not previously been defined. This study tested the hypothesis that targeting 3-h post- Impella cardiac power output index (CPOi)—“hemodynamic response”—in cardiogenic shock is associated with 12-h lactate clearance.

Methods:

Single-center study of 37 consecutive patients who underwent left-sided Impella support for cardiogenic shock due to either acute myocardial infarction or decompensated heart failure. Patients who achieved 3-h post-Impella CPOi ⩾ 0.30 W/m2 were defined as Impella “hemodynamic responder.”

Results:

Twelve of the thirty-seven patients achieved 3-h post-impella CPOi  ⩾ 0.30 W/m2 (“hemodynamic responders”). Post-Impella CPOi correlated with 12-h lactate ( r = −0.779, p < 0.001) and lactate clearance ( r = 0.747, p < 0.001). “Hemodynamic responders” had lower 12-h lactate level and greater 12-h lactate clearance (52 (44–58) vs 17 (14–26)%, p < 0.001). Higher pre-Impella norepinephrine dose (−0.341, p = 0.003) and baseline lactate (−0.009, p = 0.003) were independently associated with lower 3-h post-Impella CPOi. Eighteen patients died within 30 days (2/12 “hemodynamic responders” compared to 16/25 “non-responders,” p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Patients who achieved early 3-h post-Impella CPOi of ⩾0.30 W/m2 have greater lactate clearance and better short-term survival. Early post-Impella CPOi of 0.30 W/m2 may be used as a therapeutic goal and define favorable response to Impella in cardiogenic shock.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Older Adult Driving in the United States
Authors: Betz Marian E. , Fowler Nicole R. , Han S. Duke , Hill Linda L. , Johnson Rachel L. , Meador Lauren , Omeragic Faris , Peterson Ryan A. , DiGuiseppi Carolyn
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

To examine how the COVID-19 pandemic affected driving and health outcomes in older adults.

Methods:

We compared Advancing Understanding of Transportation Options (AUTO) study participants enrolled before (December 2019 to March 2020) versus during the pandemic (May 2020 to June 2021). Participants were English-speaking, licensed drivers (≥70 years) who drove weekly and had a primary care provider at a study site and ≥1 medical condition potentially associated with driving cessation. We used baseline self-reported measures on mobility and health.

Results:

Compared to those enrolled pre-COVID-19 ( n = 61), more participants enrolled during COVID-19 ( n = 240) reported driving reductions (26% vs. 70%, p < .001) and more often for personal preference (vs. medical/emotional reasons). While mean social isolation was higher during than pre-COVID-19, self-reported depression, stress, and overall health PROMIS scores did not differ significantly.

Discussion:

Our findings highlight the resiliency of some older adults and have implications for mitigating the negative effects of driving cessation.
Individual and program Characteristics May Drive Variability in Outcomes After Caregivers Participate in a Tailored Support Intervention
Authors: Shepherd-Banigan Megan , Jones Kelley A. , Sullivan Caitlin , Wang Ke , Clark Amy G. , Van Houtven Courtney , Olsen Jennifer M.
Published: May 2022

Critically needed programs designed to support family caregivers have shown inconsistent reductions in stress and burden. To explore drivers of improvement in caregiver outcomes after participation in a support intervention we analyzed data from a one-on-one, tailored problem-solving intervention targeting caregiver wellbeing (2015–2019, n = 503). We explored data patterns across 21 individual, household, and program-level variables using elastic net regression to identify drivers of improvements, and their relative importance. Baseline subjective burden, baseline depressive symptom scores, baseline caregiver problem solving, African American race, and site and coach fixed effects were the most consistent drivers of changes across the explored caregiver outcomes. Caregiver and program characteristics may be promising avenues to target to decrease distress and burden during intervention design. Interventions focusing on highly distressed caregivers may lead to greater improvements. More research is needed to identify how site or interventionists characteristics drive positive intervention effects.
Finding the Balance: Embracing the Two-Eyed Seeing Approach to Understand what Cultural Safety in Care Means to Older Adults Living with HIV
Authors: Vorobyova Anna , Marante Antonio , Cardinal Claudette , Magagula Patience , Lyndon Sharyle , Braley McKenzie , Inglis Kathleen , Parashar Surita
Published: May 2022

Older adults living with HIV (OALHIV) are a fast-growing demographic who rely on home and community care (HCC) services. Cultural safety (an environment free of racism that fosters feelings of safety and respect) is integral to HCC services. We conducted 27 semi-structured interviews with OALHIV in Vancouver, British Columbia about their HCC experiences. Excerpts about cultural safety were qualitatively analyzed using Two-Eyed Seeing. Our themes—Voices from across Turtle Island, Voices from the African continent, Western Perspectives, and Universal Principles—indicate that cultural safety is important yet lacking. While specific aspects of culturally safe HCC services varied between and within cultural groups, some aspects were shared by participants across groups (e.g., respect, compassion, and non-judgment).
A Legal Mapping Analysis and Model Bylaw of Massachusetts Municipal Accessory Dwelling Units
Authors: Gagen Travis M.
Published: May 2022

Adapting the built-environment to include an accessory-dwelling unit (ADU) is one alternative housing solution for community-dwelling older adults (CDOA) to age-in-place and avoid institutionalization. ADUs are one form of the built-environment in which the field of public health law can intervene to accommodate population aging. Under Massachusetts law MGL c. 40A, the state gives authority to municipalities to adopt zoning bylaws to regulate the use of land, buildings, and structures. A legal mapping content analysis was employed to quantify Massachusetts municipalities’ ( N=351) ADU zoning ordinances using the ADU Friendliness Score instrument and to describe the characteristics of ADU availability across the state. Results are organized into four ordinal categories of POOR (score 0–24; 24%), FAIR (score 25–49; 8.5%), GOOD (score 50–74; 53%), and EXCELLENT (score 75–100%; 13.5%). An age-and-disability specific model ADU bylaw is reported as an outcome of this research.
Development and Validation of a Dichotomous Classroom Goal Structure Questionnaire Using the TARGET Framework
Authors: Qian Quan , Lau Kit-ling , Chen Pei
Published: May 2022

Based on the dichotomous classroom goal structure model and TARGET framework, this study developed and validated a new Dichotomous Classroom Goal Structure Questionnaire (DCGSQ). A total of 339 seventh-grade students in Beijing completed the two-phase survey in Study 1. Exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis were used to assess the psychometric quality of the questionnaires in Study 1. The revised DCGSQ was further validated in Study 2 among 583 seventh-grade students in Beijing. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that an 8-factor model best fit the data. The criterion validity of the DCGSQ was supported by the relations between its eight instructional dimensions and student self-efficacy.
Tools and Approaches for Integrating Computational Thinking and Mathematics: A Scoping Review of Current Empirical Studies
Authors: Chan Shiau-Wei , Looi Chee-Kit , Ho Weng Kin , Kim Mi Song
Published: May 2022

The importance of computational thinking (CT) as a 21st-century skill for future generations has been a key consideration in the reforms of many national and regional educational systems. Much attention has been paid to integrating CT into the traditional subject classrooms. This paper describes a scoping review of learning tools for integrating CT and mathematics in current empirical studies published from 2015 to 2021. The review showed that most of the studies implemented CT-intensive Math-connected integration. Five major types of CT tools had been identified, i.e., digital tangibles, apps and games, programming languages, formative or summative assessments, and other technological tools. In many instances, the tools also provide functions of assessment of CT skills. The most assessed CT competencies were including algorithms and algorithmic thinking, abstraction, testing and debugging, loops, and sequences. Geometry and Measurement was the most assessed mathematics topic. Our scoping review is beneficial in the investigation of the literature on CT and mathematics education, as well as guides those who are interested in developing curriculum, programs, or assessments that involve the integration of CT and mathematics.
Postinfectious Acute Cerebellar Syndromes in Children: A Nationally Ascertained Case Series From Australia 2013–2018
Authors: Gunaratna Gayana P. S. , Mohammad Shekeeb S. , Blyth Christopher C. , Clark Julia , Crawford Nigel , Marshall Helen , Dale Russell C. , Jones Cheryl A. , Britton Philip N. ,   on behalf of the PAEDS network
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Postinfectious acute cerebellar syndromes show a wide spectrum of acute severity and can occur with acute febrile illness or vaccine receipt. Varicella has historically been the most common cause, associated with up to 25% of cases in large cohorts. This study aimed to describe the spectrum of syndromes in a setting with high varicella vaccine coverage.

Method

Data were collected on children initially identified as “suspected encephalitis” subsequently designated “not-encephalitis” at participating children's hospitals in the Paediatric Active Enhanced Disease Surveillance (PAEDS) network, Australia, as part of the Acute Childhood Encephalitis study. A comprehensive descriptive analysis was undertaken on prospectively identified, national series of children with postinfectious acute cerebellar syndromes from 2013 to 2018. Cases were classified using a previously validated severity score, and the outcome was assessed at 12 months using the Liverpool Outcome Scale score.

Results

A total of 20 cases (65% were vaccinated for varicella) were included, of which 70% were subcategorized as acute cerebellar ataxia (ACA), 20% acute cerebellitis (AC), and 10% acute fulminant cerebellitis (AFC). An acute febrile illness was noted in 55% and none were related to varicella or were temporally related to varicella vaccination or other childhood vaccines. A subset (total of 7 children) followed up at 12 months all showed reduced Liverpool Outcome Scale scores.

Discussion

The study provides an overall description of this uncommon spectrum of neurologic syndromes and shows the infrequency of varicella zoster virus as a cause in a vaccinated population.
Delivery of miRNA-126 through folic acid-targeted biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles for effective lung cancer therapy
Authors: Golafzani Forough N , Vaziri Ali Z , Javanmardi Masoud , Seyfan Fatemeh , Yazdanifar Mahboubeh , Khaleghi Sepideh
Published: May 2022

Objective:

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems (DDSs) have been playing a considerable role in the eradication of cancer. In this experimental study, we designed and synthesized folic acid (FA)-decorated chitosan (CS) nanocarrier for targeted delivery of miR-126 (as a therapeutic agent) to lung cancer A549 cells.

Materials and methods:

Therefore, the FA-CS-miR-126 nano-complex was perfectly developed and characterized by various analytical devices such as Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) spectroscopies and as well as transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The size was determined lower than 100 nm for synthetics. Then, a gel retardation assay was performed to investigate the entrapment efficiency of nano-complex. Afterward, the sort of in vitro assays was implemented on A549 (FA receptor-positive lung cancer cell line) and MRC5 (normal human diploid cell line) to evaluate the therapeutic efficiency of FA-CS-miR-126.

Results:

As the cell viability (40.7 ± 2.98% cell viability after 72 h treatment with 500 nM), migration assay (weaker migration after 24 h and 48 h), apoptotic and autophagy genes expression level (Caspse9: sixfolds; BAX: 17 folds; ATG5: fourfolds; and BECLIN1: threefolds more than the control group), the reduced expression level of EGF-L7, as a target gene for miR-126 was evaluated by Real-Time PCR too, then, cell cycle arrest (8.66% of cells in sub-G1 phase), and cell apoptosis assay (21.0% of cancer cell in late apoptosis phase) were scrutinized.

Conclusion:

These results are remarkably approved the biocompatible and efficient performance of FA-CS-miR-126 as a promising DDS.
Coating of silver nanoparticles on polyurethane film surface by green chemistry approach and investigation of antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis
Authors: Kara Filiz , Aksoy Eda Ayse , Aksoy Serpil , Hasirci Nesrin
Published: May 2022

Silver nanoparticles with potential antibacterial properties are included in biomaterials for the production of medical devices, which are used for diagnoses or treatment purposes. The aim of the current study was coating the polyurethane (PU) films with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) due to their antibacterial efficacy. PU films were first modified by chitosan (CH), treated with AgNO3 to let CH chelate with silver ions, and then treated with vitamin-C (vit C) or glucose (Glu) to reduce the adsorbed ions to atomic silver to form AgNPs. The surfaces of the films were examined by ATR-FTIR, XPS, XRD, and SEM. Chemical bond formation between CH and Ag ions and AgNPs were determined by ATR-FTIR. Meanwhile, XPS and SEM analyses proved the presence of reduced metallic silver and nanoparticles on the film surfaces, respectively. According to the SEM analyses, a homogeneous distribution of AgNPs, with sizes 99–214 nm and 37–54 nm, on the film surfaces were obtained depending on Glu or vit C reduction, respectively. The films presented excellent antibacterial performance against Gram positive Staphylococcus epidermidis ( S. epidermidis). These results suggested that the mentioned green technology can be easily applied to obtain AgNP coated polymeric surfaces with very high antibacterial efficacy. Although there are some studies dealing with AgNP formation on PU sponges or fibers, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study showing AgNP formation on the CH conjugated PU films.
Albumin-templated manganese carbonate nanoparticles for precise magnetic resonance imaging of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Li Bing , Han Luyi , Wang Hao , Zheng Yuanyuan
Published: May 2022

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of death worldwide. Early and precise diagnosis of myocardial viability after MI is extremely important for effective treatment and prognosis evaluation. Herein, we developed the BSA-templated manganese carbonate (MnCO3@BSA) nanoparticles as an MR imaging contrast agent for accurate detection of the infarcted regions. The chemophysical features, targeting capability toward the infarct, and biocompatibility were evaluated. The nanoparticles showed superior chemical stability. In vitro study suggested that the MnCO3@BSA nanoparticles do not enter normal cardiomyocytes. MR imaging indicated that the MnCO3@BSA with a high longitudinal ( r 1) relaxivity of 5.84 mM−1s−1 at physiological condition specifically accumulated into the infarcted regions of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) mice. In addition, the MnCO3@BSA nanoparticles exhibited low cytotoxicity to cardiomyocytes, no damage to organs and good hemocompatibility. Thereby, the MnCO3@BSA nanoparticles manifested great potential as an extracellular contrast agent of MR imaging for sensitive and specific detection of the infarcted regions during acute myocardial I/R injury.
Meaning in Life and Self-Control Mediate the Potential Contribution of Harsh Parenting to Adolescents’ Problematic Smartphone Use: Longitudinal Multi-Group Analyses
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Meng , Geng Jingyu , Wang Hongxia , Nie Jia , Lei Li
Published: May 2022

Problematic smartphone use (PSU) has become an increasingly serious social issue that gradually impairs adolescents’ daily social functioning. This study aimed to examine the potential contribution of harsh parenting (HP) to PSU by testing a two-mediator model in which meaning in life (MIL) and self-control (SC) were hypothesized to be two mediators. The moderating role of gender was also examined. Eight hundred and twenty-eight middle school students from rural areas in China (mean age = 13.04) reported on harsh parenting, MIL, self-control, and PSU. Both parents also reported on each other’s harsh parenting and their child’s self-control. Multi-group structural equation modeling analyses revealed gender differences in the association patterns among the model variables. Harsh parenting was only indirectly associated with PSU for both boys and girls. MIL and self-control completely mediated the relation between harsh parenting and PSU in sequential manners for boys and girls. And for boys, beyond the common path from harsh parenting to PSU, another indirect path existed from harsh parenting to self-control to PSU. But jointly, MIL and self-control precipitate more indirect effects for girls than for boys in the association between harsh parenting and PSU. Findings suggested that harsh parenting was detrimental to adolescents’ MIL and self-control, which enhances their risk for PSU, especially for girls. These findings provide more insights for efforts to prevent adolescents from PSU.
Qeirat Values and Victim Blaming in Iran: The Mediating Effect of Culture-Specific Gender Roles
Authors: Karimi-Malekabadi Farzan , Falahatpishe Baboli Maryam
Published: May 2022

Sexual assaults are a social problem in Iran; however, psychological factors that predict perceptions of sexual assault remain largely unexamined. Here, we examine the relationship between moral concerns, culture-specific gender roles, and victim blaming in sexual assault scenarios in Iranian culture. Relying on Moral Foundations Theory and recent theoretical developments in moral psychology in the Iranian context, we examined the correlations between five moral foundations (Care, Fairness, Loyalty, Authority, and Purity), a culture-specific set of values called Qeirat (which includes guarding and [over]protectiveness of female kin, romantic partners, broader family, and country), and victim blaming. In a community sample of Iranians ( N = 411), we found Qeirat values to be highly correlated with victim blaming, and that this link was mediated by a number of culture-specific proscriptions about women’s roles and dress code (i.e., Haya). In a regression analysis with all moral foundations, Qeirat values, Haya, and religiosity as predictors of victim blaming, only Haya, religiosity, high Authority values, and low Care values were found to predict how strongly Iranian participants blamed victims of sexual assault scenarios.
Lifetime and Child Sexual Violence, Risk Factors and Mental Health Correlates Among a Nationally Representative Sample of Adolescents and Young Adults in Haiti: A Public Health Emergency
Authors: Cénat Jude Mary , Dalexis Rose Darly , Clorméus Lewis Ampidu , Lafontaine Marie-France , Guerrier Mireille , Michel Guesly , Hébert Martine
Published: May 2022

Very little is known in Haiti and the Caribbean regarding child and lifetime sexual victimization. Using a nationally representative sample of adolescents and young adults aged 15–24, this study aimed to document the prevalence, risk factors and mental health correlates of lifetime and child sexual violence in Haiti. A national cross-sectional surrvey was conducted in Haiti, using a multistage sampling frame, stratified by geographical department, urban or rural setting, gender, and age groups (15–19 and 20–24 years). The final sample included 3586 household participants (47.6% female). A weighted sample of 3945 individuals was obtained and used in the following analyses. Overall rate of lifetime and child sexual violence was, respectively, 27.44% (95% CI 25.94–28.94) and 11.27% (95% CI 10.18–12.35). Lifetime sexual violence rate was significantly higher among female participants (29.02%; 95% CI 27.5–30.55) compared to male (25.73%, 95% CI 24.26–27.2), χ 2 = 4.63, p < .05, but there was no significant gender difference for child sexual victimization. Experiences of family physical violence, emotional abuse by mother and father, divorce of parents, and other physical violence were strongly associated with higher odds of sexual victimization. Participants who reported having experienced sexual violence are more at risk to meet criteria of PTSD (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.66–2.32; p < .0001), depression (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.47–2.02; p < .0001), psychological distress (OR =1.72, 95% CI 1.47–2.02; p < .0001), and substance abuse (OR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.13–1.57; p < .0001). Findings demonstrate that sexual violence is a public health emergency in Haiti. They provide evidence for the development of prevention and intervention programs.
Patterns of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Mental Health: Evidence From College Students in Korea
Authors: Kim Youngmi , Park Aely , Murphy Jennifer
Published: May 2022

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are concerning exposures that may have detrimental effects on mental health. Much of the prior evidence on ACEs comes from the U.S and western developed countries. In light of the limited knowledge of ACEs in other social contexts and the interconnection among adversities, this study aims to identify distinct patterns of co-occurring ACEs and examines the associations between those adversities and mental health in South Korea. We used data from a national sample of Korean college students recruited via non-probability quota sampling in 2019 ( N = 1037). The dependent variables included three measures of mental health assessed by the Brief Symptom Inventory depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and somatization symptoms. The independent variable was the patterns of ACEs identified using 14 indicators of childhood adversity. We conducted a Latent Class Analysis with a distal outcome, using the Bolck, Croons, and Hagenaars method. The analysis found four patterns of ACEs: extreme adversity (8%) , family violence (20.3%) , economic adversity (10.4%), and low adversity (61.3%). The extreme adversity group exhibited multiple exposures, including interpersonal violence in home environments, economic hardship, and bullying victimization by peers. The results suggest that the extreme adversity and family violence groups showed significantly worse mental health symptoms than the economic adversity and low adversity groups. Also, the extreme adversity group reported significantly higher levels of depression symptoms and somatization symptoms than the family violence group. This study expands the current understanding of ACEs and their harmful effects on mental health in young adulthood specific to Korea while comparing them with other social contexts. Researchers and practitioners should recognize the co-occurrence of child adversities, rather than overestimating sole adversity, to develop effective strategies for promoting mental health.
The Effect of Social Security Coverage on U.S. State and Local Government Public Pension Plan Funding
Authors: Perlman Bruce J. , Ponomariov Branco , Reddick Christopher G.
Published: May 2022

Approximately a quarter of U.S. state and local workers’ pension plans are not covered by Social Security. This is problematic and sometimes surprising for many public sector workers, who may receive limited or no Social Security benefits upon retirement due to insufficient or no contributions paid into the system throughout their careers. While non-covered public pension plans are legally obliged to provide a comparable degree of coverage, the lack of a de-facto partial federal guarantee on pension funding has interesting implications explored in this paper. We find that pension plans not covered by Social Security have lower funded ratios and are more volatile due to greater dependence on potentially more aggressive plan investments, assumptions, and performance. We also find that the funded ratio deteriorates over time for both types of plans, and this deterioration might be faster for Social Security covered plans.
Gender-Responsive Approaches in Juvenile Justice: How the System Prioritizes the Content- and Context-Related Needs of Girls
Authors: Anderson Valerie R.
Published: May 2022

This study analyzes how juvenile courts utilize gender-responsive approaches by examining stakeholder narratives about girls in the juvenile justice system. The study uses a directed content analytic approach to examine the extent to which stakeholder narratives align with gender-responsive principles related to content- and context-related needs. Findings revealed that stakeholders most commonly refer to girls’ family dysfunction, delinquency history, and the need for community-based services. Stakeholders were limited in their discussion of girls’ health and provision of trauma-informed care. Learning from stakeholders provides a unique lens to consider ways to integrate gender-responsive practices within the juvenile justice system.