bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trailblazing Roblox Virtual Synthetic Testbed Development for Human-Robot Teaming Studies
Authors: Raimondo Felix R. , Wolff Alexandra T. , Hehr Alexander J. , Peel Matthew A. , Wong Margaret E. , Chiou Erin K. , Demir Mustafa , Cookea Nancy J.
Published: October 2022

Virtual testbeds are fundamental to the success of research on cognitive work in safety-critical domains. A testbed that can meet researchers' objectives and create a sense of reality for participants positively impacts the research process; they have the potential to allow researchers to address questions not achievable in physical environments. This paper discusses the development of a synthetic task environment (STE) for Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) to advance the boundaries of Human-Robot Teams (HRTs) using Roblox. Virtual testbeds can simulate USAR task environments and HRT interactions. After assessing alternative STE platforms, we discovered Roblox not only met our research capabilities but also would prove invaluable for research teams without substantial coding experience. This paper outlines the design process of creating an STE to meet our research team's objectives.
Impact of Seat Material on Comfort, Preference and Performance During Computer-Based Tasks over a Prolonged Bout of Sitting
Authors: Afterman Melissa , Houghton Frederick , Honan Meg , Barr Alan , Harris-Adamson Carisa
Published: October 2022

Prolonged sitting time is associated with negative health outcomes, including physical discomfort. Chair design affects seat posture, micro-movement, and pressure distribution, which impacts the user experience. This study investigated the impact of mesh versus foam material, on comfort, preference, and subjective performance. Two chairs were used over a three-hour bout of sitting on two different days. Analysis showed no significant difference in pain, comfort, discomfort, or fatigue between chairs, but pain increased in both chairs during the last hour of sitting. The foam chair felt more supportive than the mesh chair at the end of the test period, while more participants preferred the mesh seat material overall. The overall results indicate that there was not a substantial difference in user experience during a long bout of sitting in chairs of foam or mesh material.
Analyzing Driver’s Facial Muscle Movements on a Highway
Authors: Mostowfi Sara , Kim Jung Hyup
Published: October 2022

Driving could be affected by various external variables such as traffic congestion, roadside infrastructure, and in-cabin situations. Although those factors might influence a driver’s cognitive behavior, not many studies have been done to understand drivers’ emotional changes corresponding to the external driving factors. To address this research gap, the current study aimed to analyze and compare what facial expressions drivers made when they drove straight, exited/entered or near the shoulder of a highway. The human-inthe-loop (HTIL) simulation experiment was conducted, and drivers’ facial muscle movements were recorded while they drove straight, exited/entered, and near the shoulders of a highway. According to the results, we found that drivers opened their mouths wider while exiting and entering the highway. Also, the movements of three facial muscles were more evident when they entered or exited the highway and driving near the shoulder. The outcome of this study might provide knowledge to human-computer-interaction practitioners and engineers on designing advanced driving assistance systems.
Systematic Review and Comparison of Physical Activity Variations Among Global Worker Populations
Authors: Stribling Hannah , Gonzales Alec , Cha Jackie
Published: October 2022

There are varying levels of physical activity between different occupations, and these levels for the same job can differ among global populations. The purpose of this review was to identify and compare physical activity among occupations and across countries, grouped as continents. A systematic review was conducted adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Five databases were searched, and 10,923 articles were systematically reviewed. Twelve studies were included based on reported measurements of physical activity in metabolic equivalents (METs) using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Preliminary results show that healthcare practitioners report the highest levels of physical activity. It was found that occupations in Europe reported the greatest mean MET of all continents included in this study. These results can be used to build a database of physical activity levels of different work populations and regions for researchers and practitioners to use for benchmarking.
An Investigation of the PERvasive Learning Systems Impact on Soldiers’ Self-Efficacy for Self-Regulation Skills
Authors: Craig* Scotty D. , Siegle Robert F. , Li Siyuan , Cooper Nia-Renee , Liu Yue , Roscoe Rod D.
Published: October 2022

The current study an empirical evaluation of the PERvasive Learning System (PERLS). PERLS is a mobile microlearning platform designed for learning anytime and anywhere, taking advantage of planned and unplanned time during a learner’s daily schedule to enhance and reinforce learning. Soldiers taking classes from the Sabalauski Air Assault School at Fort Campbell, KY were recruited. This evaluation compared the impact of PERLS on soldiers’ self-efficacy for their self-regulated learning ability. This evaluation found evidence of impact for the PERLS when implemented into classroom setting with soldiers that used PERLS indicating higher self-efficacy scores.
Modifying International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) to Guide Development of Environmental Interventions for Transfer Performance by Individuals with Disabilities and Their Caregivers
Authors: Lee Su Jin , Sanford Jon A.
Published: October 2022

To improve ICF’s utility in guiding design decisions about physical environmental interventions forindividuals with activity limitations and their caregivers, a more robust approach is needed to classify, describe, and measure the task-relevant environmental characteristics that create demands on activity performance. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate one possible approach, through examination of physical environmental influences that impact caregiver-assisted toilet transfer performance by older adults and their caregivers. By applying the Modified Dyadic ICF in our analysis of caregiver-assisted transfers, we make suggestions for conceptualization of physical environmental factors in the ICF. This work suggests that physical environmental influences in dyadic activity performance are highly dynamic, oftentimes reciprocal, and task-specific. The proposed approach appears to be a feasible method to reveal areas of suboptimal environmental interaction during activity performance, which can be remedied by future environmental design interventions. Future research is needed on additional activities to validate the generalizability of this approach.
The Effects of Laboratory Environment Type on Intermittent Sound Localization
Authors: Roberts Armisha , McMullen Kyla
Published: October 2022

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are gaining commercial popularity. 3D sound guidelines for AR and VR are derived from psychoacoustic experiments performed in contrived, sterile laboratory settings. Often, these settings are expensive, inaccessible, and unattainable for researchers. The feasibility of conducting psychoacoustic experiments outside the laboratory remains unclear. To investigate, we explore 3D sound localization experiments in-lab (IL) and out-of-the lab (OL). The IL study condition was conducted as a traditional psychoacoustic experiment in a soundproof booth. The OL condition occurred in a quiet environment of the participants' choosing, using commercial-grade headphones. Localization performance did not vary significantly for OL participants compared to the IL participants, with larger variation observed in the IL condition. Participants needed significantly more time to complete the experiment IL than OL. The results suggest that conducting headphone-based psychoacoustic experiments outside the laboratory is feasible if completion time is negligible.
Comparing Levels and Types of Situational-Awareness based Agent Transparency in Human-Agent Collaboration
Authors: Daronnat Sylvain , Azzopardi Leif , Halvey Martin
Published: October 2022

Increasing agent transparency is an ongoing challenge for Human-Agent Collaboration (HAC). Chen et al. proposed the three level SAT framework to improve Agent Transparency and users’ Situational Awareness (SA) by informing about (1) what the agent is doing, (2) why the agent is doing it and (3) what the agent will do next. Explanations can be descriptive (informing the user decision-making process) or prescriptive (guiding the user toward a pre-determined choice). To study these differences, we conducted a 3 (SA level) x 2 (explanation types) online between-group user experiment (n=180) where we designed six visual explanations and tested their impact on task performance, reliance, reported trust, cognitive load and situational awareness in a goal-oriented HAC interactive task. We found that SA level 1 explanations led to better task performance, while SA level 2 explanations increased trust. Moreover, descriptive explanations had a more positive impact on participants compared to prescriptive explanations.
Transfer and Retention: A Systematic Exploration of the Effect of a Driver Attention Training Program
Authors: Glassman Jeffrey E. , Politowicz Michael S. , Yamani Yusuke
Published: October 2022

Young drivers are found to be particularly poor at anticipating latent hazards compared to experienced drivers. Road Awareness and Perception Training (RAPT; Pradhan et al., 2009) is a PC-based driver training program that was designed and demonstrated to improve latent hazard anticipation in young drivers. The current longitudinal study aims to examine retention and transfer of RAPT. Participants will complete pre- and post-training evaluation of their latent hazard anticipation skills in both near- and far-transfer scenarios, and all participants will be randomly assigned to either a RAPT or Placebo training group. Two months later, they will be asked to return for the second evaluation session where their latent hazard anticipation skills will be measured again. We hypothesize that latent hazard anticipation performance will persist for the near-transfer scenarios but decay for the far-transfer scenarios.
A unified valence scale based on diagnosis of facial expressions
Authors: Schmitz-Hübsch Alina , Becker Ron
Published: October 2022

Affect-adaptive systems detect the emotional user state, assess it against the current situation, and adjust interaction accordingly. Tools for real-time emotional state detection, like the Emotient FACET engine (Littlewort et al., 2011), are based on the analysis of facial expressions. When developing affect-adaptive systems, output from the diagnostic engine must be mapped onto theoretical models of emotion. The Circumplex Model of Affect (Russell, 1980) describes emotion on two dimensions: valence and arousal. However, FACET offers three classifiers for valence: positive, neutral, and negative valence. The present study aimed at developing an algorithm that converts these into a unified valence scale. We used FACET to analyze valence-labeled images from the AffectNet database. In a multiple regression analysis, FACET classifier values predicted database valence and explained 38% of the variance. By inserting classifier values into the regression equation, a unified valence scale can be calculated that matches dimensional models of emotion. This research forms the groundwork for adaptation of the emotional user state based on the FACET engine. A future affect-adaptive system can now use the FACET engine to detect the emotional user state on a unified valence dimension, which allows for distinct classification and interpretation of emotions.
The Impact of Role Authority and Communication Initiative on HAT Outcomes
Authors: Guyton Zachary , Pierson Kiara , Garay Trinity , Novitzky Michael , McLaughlin Anne Collins , Rovira Ericka
Published: October 2022

Theobjective ofthisstudy wasto understand howrole authority and communication initiative of autonomous agents impact Human-Autonomy Team (HAT) performance, trust, workload, and cohesion. The study employed a 2 (role authority: peer vs.subordinate) x 2 (communication initiative: proactive vs.reactive robot communication) mixed factorial design.Participantsworkedcollaboratively with Boston Dynamic’s Spot robotto conductanin-person search and rescue taskin afield environment.The study revealedthe subordinate role authority condition, where therobot-is-subordinate tothehuman, imposed a higher workload thanthe peer condition, where the robot-is-peertothe human.
Towards Autonomous Cyber Defense: Predictions from a cognitive model
Authors: Du Yinuo , Prébot Baptiste , Xi Xiaoli , Gonzalez Cleotilde
Published: October 2022

We propose that cognitive models will help advance autonomous cyber defense. Congitive models, in contrast to many other sophisticated approaches, such as machine learning models, have the ability to represent human actions, account for human cognitive constraints, and make more accurate predictions of the decisions a human would make. The success of cyber defense largely depends on the ability to predict the attacker’s actions, and expert cyber defenders acquire such an ability through experience. We propose a cognitive model of a cyber defender and demonstrate the model’s predictions in a simple but realistic scenario against two types of attack strategies and under various conditions of noise and feedback frequency regarding the attacker’s actions. The results of the simulations illustrate the expected impact on defense losses when attackers are more knowledgeable,fast, and directed in their attacks compared to when an attacker meanders around; results show how losses increase in the presence of normal activity and how a defender can benefit from receiving feedback less often to reduce losses. We discuss the implications of these results for the future of autonomous cyber defense.
Lessons Learned to Effectively Teach and Evaluate Undergraduate Engineers in Work Design and Ergonomics Laboratory from a World Before, During, and After COVID-19
Authors: Gawade Vidita , Bifulco Christina , (Grace) Guo Weihong
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional in-person engineering education requiring instructors to adapt to a remote-learning environment. Hands-on engineering is a critical component of engineering education, where students learn applications of the industry through physical design. Remote learning provides opportunities for students to think and instructors to evaluate students using online-learning tools that may not be available in an in-person lab setting. This study compares the effectiveness of undergraduate engineering education in Work Design and Ergonomics Laboratory taught in-person pre-pandemic to during-pandemic remote teaching and post-pandemic in-person instruction. Various hypothesis tests reveal mode of instruction’s impact on effectiveness of engineering education. Three lab case studies (Eye Tracker, Lean Lego, and Time Study) and student evaluations (Student Experience of Teaching Surveys (SETs)) of the course and instructor help assess student learning outcomes and experiences. We analyze the barriers to teaching the lab synchronously both in-person and remotely and how to overcome those.
Pathfinder Networks for Measuring Operator Mental Model Structure with a Simple Autopilot System
Authors: Politowicz Michael S. , Sato Tetsuya , Chancey Eric T. , Yamani Yusuke
Published: October 2022

Pathfinder networks are a method to represent mental models from empirically generated pairwise relatedness ratings. This study examined the effects of training exposure on mental model structures based on relatedness ratings collected using the Target Rating method. Forty-eight participants read instruction slides with or without explicit information on the functionality of an autopilot system (Advanced Mental Model or Basic Mental Model groups, respectively). Participants provided relatedness ratings and completed a comprehension test. The Advanced Mental Model group had more common links with the expected model, higher within-group network similarity scores, and higher mental model assessment questionnaire scores than the Basic Mental Model group. Both groups had coherence scores above the minimum threshold for internal consistency. Pathfinder network analysis was sensitive to changes produced by a simple exposure training intervention. In practice, a simple training program may effectively influence operator mental models in novel technological environments such as Advanced Air Mobility.
Investigating the Eﬀects of Driver Factors on Crash Involvement using SHRP2 Naturalistic Driving Study Dataset
Authors: Pesaru Vigneshwar , Du Na
Published: October 2022

Driver factors are increasingly recognized as important factors contributing to traﬃc-related morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate how driver factors, including driver-related demographics, driving-related experience, and trip-related behaviors, inﬂuenced the risk of crashes and near-crashes (CNC). Using the Second Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP2) Naturalistic Driving Study (NDS) dataset, we employed a mixed-eﬀects logistic regression model to examine the eﬀects. Results showed that male drivers, young adults, and drivers with abnormal psychological symptoms had signiﬁcantly higher probabilities of undergoingCNC.Driverswithcrashorviolationexperience, andfeweryearsofdrivingwerehighlysusceptible to CNC. Furthermore, driving impairment, alcohol consumption, distracted driving, less than one hand on the wheel, and traﬃc law violations signiﬁcantly increased the probability of having CNC. Our ﬁndings can help raise the safety awareness of major stakeholders and inform the development of countermeasures to reduce crashes.
A rapid ergonomic design intervention on a cordless stick vacuum cleaner handle to relieve discomfort
Authors: Kwon Soonyoung , Shin Gwanseob
Published: October 2022

Cordless stick vacuum cleaners have been getting popular with the slimline and portable design, serving diverse user needs and wants. However, we found users began to feel discomfort or even pain in their hand as the current design caused pressure and friction on hand and fingers constantly and repeatedly, raising the need for ergonomic improvement of current handle. In this study, we tried to solve this problem by (1) identifying the mechanisms cause discomfort in certain areas of user's hand through laboratory experiment, (2) applying a block-type jig as a solution to evaluate a rapid ergonomic design intervention solution options. We improved its structural design in less than two months, minimizing any major structural changes as the product is currently on the market and still being manufactured. This paper demonstrates how such a traditional HCD (Human-Centered Design) based product design process can benefit from ergonomic approaches, which enables us to achieve a significant time and cost-effective redesign process.
A human-robot collision avoidance method using a single camera
Authors: Xie Ziyang , Lu Lu , Wang Hanwen , Li Li , Fitts Edward P. , Xu Xu
Published: October 2022

Human-robot collaboration is a flourishing work configuration in modern plants. Yet, the potentially hazardous collision between human workers and collaborative robots raises safety concerns. In this study, we proposed a collision avoidance method in which a single camera and a computer-vision algorithm were deployed to sense the location of human workers. Two collision avoidance schemes were further developed to determine the timing for robot to retract its arm. Specifically, the static scheme continuously monitors whether a worker is in a hazard zone, while the dynamic scheme predicts worker’s position after a short time, and monitors whether the predicted worker’s position is in a hazard zone. Preliminary validation showed that our proposed method can effectively enable a collaborative robot to retract its arms when a worker is approaching.
Effects of Cognitive Loading on Pilots and Air Traffic Controller Performance: Implications for Neural Dynamics and Cognitive Flow
Authors: Holley Sam , Miller Mark
Published: October 2022

The digitized environment in aviation operations has seen marked growth and expansion as new technologies arrive and are implemented. The flight deck and air traffic control functions are two areas where growth is particularly robust. Previous work has identified the effects of compounded cognitive loading and SHELL interfaces in these work environments, and the potential consequences when relief or collaborative resource management is not employed effectively. This paper examines the relationship of cognitive loading in the context of cognitive flow to identify potential areas where neural metrics might aid in a better understanding of the dynamics to determine thresholds of overload. Application of the Triple-Network Model of neural regulation dynamics and Polyvagal Theory are explored for potential relationships to compromised situation awareness and working memory constraints. Conclusions indicate that when cognitive flow is disrupted, cognitive processing loads on working memory expand exponentially and rapidly reach a plateau that inhibits safe performance. Implications suggest a more focused effort in systems and training to address neural metrics and cognitive processing rates.
The Instability of Creativity Over Weeks Through the Lens of Distributional Models
Authors: Katrahmani Atefeh , Ansah Alberta A. , Ch Nabil , Burmeister Julia , Kun Andrew L. , Mills Caitlin , Shaer Orit , Lee John D.
Published: October 2022

Remote work presents a challenge to workers’ creativity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and the stay-at-home requirements. Individual diﬀerences in creativity, considered through the lens of distributional models, and their stability across diﬀerent conditions are unknown. We assess the between-person variability in common metrics of creativity, despite sharing similar experiences of virtual reality and mindfulness. The paper also assesses the stability of an individual’s creativity over time. We measured the creativity of 20 remote-workers daily, during a 9-week study. Creativity was measured with respect to divergent thinking and convergent thinking. Distributional models show signiﬁcant individual diﬀerences in variability of creativity. Stability analyses also revealed that individuals’ creativity is relatively unstable over time— both within and across conditions. Although one measure of divergent creativity was relatively stable, the other was not. We suggest more research should assess the extent of variability in creativity relative to individual diﬀerences and under diﬀerent conditions.
Functional Communication Training in Inclusive School Settings for Students With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Literature Review
Authors: Masud Andy B. , Walker Virginia L. , Carpenter Megan E. , Anderson Ashley
Published: October 2022

Functional communication training (FCT) is a well-established, evidence-based practice used to address challenging behavior among individuals across settings, ages, and disability categories. However, the research is limited on the implementation of FCT in inclusive school settings for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The purpose of this review was to summarize FCT intervention studies implemented in inclusive K–12 school settings for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We synthesized studies to summarize study characteristics, quality, and intervention effectiveness. Our findings suggest that FCT was most often implemented as part of a multi-component intervention package and delivered by education team members. Furthermore, the quality of most studies was either acceptable or strong. The overall effect size estimate for primary dependent measures as measured by Tau-U suggested large to very large changes in student behavior. We present implications for practice specific to educational teams that support the behavioral needs of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in inclusive settings and offer avenues for future research.
Bioinformatics-based Characterization of the Sequence Variability of Zika Virus Polyprotein and Envelope Protein (E)
Authors: Polanco Carlos , Uversky Vladimir N , Huberman Alberto , Vargas-Alarcón Gilberto , Castañón González Jorge Alberto , Buhse Thomas , Hernández Lemus Enrique , Rios Castro Martha , López Oliva Erika Jeannette , Solís Nájera Sergio Enrique
Published: October 2022

Background:

Zika virus, which is widely spread and infects humans through the bites of Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti female mosquitoes, represents a serious global health issue.

Objective:

The objective of the present study is to computationally characterize Zika virus polyproteins (UniProt Name: PRO_0000443018 [residues 1-3423], PRO_0000445659 [residues 1-3423] and PRO_0000435828 [residues 1-3419]) and their envelope proteins using their physico-chemical properties.

Methods:

To achieve this, the Polarity Index Method (PIM) profile and the Protein Intrinsic Disorder Predisposition (PIDP) profile of 3 main groups of proteins were evaluated: structural proteins extracted from specific Databases, Zika virus polyproteins, and their envelope proteins (E) extracted from UniProt Database. Once the PIM profile of the Zika virus envelope proteins (E) was obtained and since the Zika virus polyproteins were also identified with this profile, the proteins defined as “reviewed proteins” extracted from the UniProt Database were searched for the similar PIM profile. Finally, the difference between the PIM profiles of the Zika virus polyproteins and their envelope proteins (E) was tested using 2 non-parametric statistical tests.

Results:

It was found and tested that the PIM profile is an efficient discriminant that allows obtaining a “computational fingerprint” of each Zika virus polyprotein from its envelope protein (E).

Conclusion:

PIM profile represents a computational tool, which can be used to effectively discover Zika virus polyproteins from Databases, from their envelope proteins (E) sequences.
Multi-level legislative representation in an inchoate party system: Mass-elite ideological congruence in Brazil
Authors: Carroll Royce , Meireles Fernando
Published: October 2022

Research has suggested that fragmented political systems, incohesive parties, and weak programmatic links between voters and legislators can undermine the effectiveness of ideological legislative representation. Using Brazil's national and state assemblies, we examine the potential for voter-elite congruence in a legislative environment considered weak in programmatic representation and highly fragmented by a decentralized political structure. Focusing on 2005–2014, we use mass and elite survey data from the National Congress and 12 state assemblies to estimate deputies' and respondents' ideal points on a common left-right scale. Despite many potential barriers to ideological representation, we find an aggregate pattern of congruence between voters' and politicians' ideological positions during this period, with stronger voter-deputy correspondence for state deputies on average. These patterns are confirmed by a dyadic analysis of deputy and voter characteristics. However, we also find weaknesses in party-level ideological congruence for the major parties—for voters on the left and party supporters on the right. The findings suggest that, while the party system did not prevent overall ideological representation, it may have hindered important aspects of party representation.
Feasibility and acceptability of a physical activity behavioural modification tele-coaching intervention in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Hume Emily , Muse Hazel , Wallace Kirstie , Wilkinson Mick , Heslop Marshall Karen , Nair Arun , Clark Stephen , Vogiatzis Ioannis
Published: October 2022

Background

Despite improvements in pulmonary function following lung transplantation (LTx), physical activity levels remain significantly lower than the general population. To date, there is little research investigating interventions to improve daily physical activity in LTx recipients. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a novel, 12-weeks physical activity tele-coaching (TC) intervention in LTx recipients.

Methods

Lung transplant recipients within 2 months of hospital discharge were recruited and randomised (1:1) to TC or usual care (UC). TC consists of a pedometer and smartphone app, allowing transmission of activity data to a platform that provides feedback, activity goals, education, and contact with the researcher as required. Recruitment and retention, occurrence of adverse events, intervention acceptability and usage were used to assess feasibility.

Results

Key criteria for progressing to a larger study were met. Of the 15 patients eligible, 14 were recruited and randomised to TC or UC and 12 completed (67% male; mean ± SD age; 58 ± 7 years; COPD n = 4, ILD n = 6, CF n = 1, PH n = 1): TC ( n = 7) and UC ( n = 5). TC was well accepted by patients, with 86% indicating that they enjoyed taking part. Usage of the pedometer was excellent, with all patients wearing it for over 90% of days and rating the pedometer and telephone contact as the most vital aspects. There were no adverse events related to the intervention. After 12 weeks, only TC displayed improvements in accelerometry steps/day (by 3475 ± 3422; p = .036) and movement intensity (by 153 ± 166 VMU; p = .019), whereas both TC and UC groups exhibited clinically important changes in physical SF-36 scores (by 11 ± 14 and 7 ± 9 points, respectively).

Conclusion

TC appears to be a feasible, safe, and well-accepted intervention in LTx.
Investing in Community Care Is an Important Goal and Need for Eliminating Hepatitis C in the United States: An Abolitionist Perspective
Authors: Bhatnagar Prashasti , Canzater Sonia L.
Published: October 2022

Recent nationwide racial justice uprisings following ongoing police violence against Black communities juxtaposed with the COVID-19 pandemic have increased the urgency for a reckoning around the ineffectiveness and harm caused by the carceral apparatus. It is well documented that the correctional system was founded upon and continues the legacy of slavery and white supremacy. Research has shown that incarceration directly contributes to many negative health outcomes, including increased risk and spread of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, especially among people who inject drugs. This high burden of HCV disproportionately impacts low-income communities of color, who not only report higher rates of substance use due to pervasive discrimination but are also over-incarcerated as a result of structural racism and the War on Drugs. The COVID-19 pandemic further underscores that correctional facilities are fundamentally structured to promote health inequities. Minoritized communities who are overrepresented in corrections continue to be put at increased risk of COVID-19 in overcrowded facilities, are isolated from social support and medical care, and have been ignored in vaccination strategies. In this perspective, we argue that HCV interventions within the carceral apparatus will remain largely ineffective due to the negative health impacts of incarceration. Instead, we propose adopting abolitionist principles for HCV elimination—divesting from the carceral apparatus to prioritize community-based efforts on promoting HCV screening, treatment, and prevention. In doing so, the nation will have not only the capacity to meaningfully eliminate HCV but also the potential to improve overall societal outcomes.
Development and characterization of the electrospun melittin-loaded chitosan nanofibers for treatment of acne vulgaris in animal model
Authors: Rahnama Shahrbanoo , Movaffagh Jebrail , Shahroodi Azadeh , Jirofti Nafiseh , Fazly Bazzaz Bibi Sedigheh , Beyraghdari Monir , Hashemi Maryam , Kalalinia Fatemeh
Published: October 2022

Acne is an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands. Melittin (Mel) is one of the principal toxic components of bee venom that can cause antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Chitosan is a biodegradable polysaccharide has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and regenerative properties. In this study, chitosan (Ch)/Mel 0.001 and 0.003% nanofibers were fabricated for topical treatment of acne vulgaris. Physicochemical properties of Ch/Mel were evaluated using FTIR and FESEM. Furthermore, encapsulation efficiency, tensile strength, water absorption capacity, enzymatic activity, drug release, antimicrobial, and cell cytotoxicity were assayed. Animal models were exerted to study the impact of Ch/Mel nanofibers on the treatment of Propionibacterium acnes. The FESEM results showed that nanofibers were successfully prepared in nano-scale fiber diameter. The FTIR confirmed the presence of Mel in structures. The addition of melittin to the polymer solution reduced electrical conductivity, induced viscosity and tensile strength of the fibers, and decreased the percentage of the swelling. The Mel loading into Ch/Mel 0.003% was reported at 86.74±1%. This Mel releasing process (89.65%) of Ch/Mel 0.003% was slowly completed during 72 h. The Mel retained its hemolytic activity after being loaded into the polymer structure. The drug toxicity study displayed the lack of any significant toxicity from Ch/Mel nanofibers on normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts (HDF). The Ch/Mel 0.003% achieved the highest growth inhibition in P. acnes in vitro and animal studies, this group showed the greatest reduction in inflammation and redness. The Ch/Mel 0.003% structure is proposed as a suitable topical drug delivery system for treating acne vulgaris.
Discovery of a Novel Potent Antitumor Molecule, P19G1, by Erlotinib Derivative Libraries Synthesized by Modular Click-Chemistry
Authors: Cui Qianfei , Song Peng , Ma Tiancheng , Wang Zefeng , Lu Xiaojing , Shi Yongjia , Zhang Fang , Lin Guoqiang , Dong Jiajia , Zhang Jiange
Published: October 2022

Objective:Traditional chemical synthesis methods are cumbersome and inefficient. In this study, a novel antitumor molecule, 4-(4-(3-((6,7-bis(2-methoxyethoxy)quinazolin-4-yl)amino)phenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)phenyl sulfurofluoridate (P19G1), was identified by screening a library of Erlotinib derivatives synthesized by modular click chemistry, and the antitumor activity and underlying mechanism of P19G1 were further revealed. Methods: A series of Erlotinib derivatives (840 compounds) were synthesized using a modular click-chemistry method, and then the thiazolyl blue (MTT) method was used to screen and evaluate the inhibitory effect of these compounds on the growth and metastasis of A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. Among them, the compound P19G1 showed the best inhibitory activity. Furthermore, the antitumor activity and mechanism of P19G1 were investigated with in vitro cell biology and in vivo assays in an animal model. Results: In vitro pharmacological studies showed that P19G1 had inhibitory effects on a variety of tumor cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 1 to 5 μM. Moreover, P19G1 significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 and human colorectal cancer cell line RKO and promoted cell apoptosis. In vivo tumor-bearing mouse model experiments revealed that 50 mg/kg P19G1 effectively inhibited the growth and metastasis of A549 tumors without obvious toxicity to the host. Conclusions: The rapid structural modification of lead compounds using novel modular click-chemistry reactions holds great potential for use in obtaining diverse derivatives for tumor drug screening and development. P19G1 was discovered because of the application of click chemistry in this study, and it is an antitumor candidate molecule worthy of development.
Identifying the processes and characterizing the pressure zone of water jet impacting on solid surface
Authors: Zhang Jianguo , Li Xiyuan , Kou Jianxin , Zhang Di
Published: October 2022

The difficulty in understanding the flow characteristics of water jets impacting on solid surfaces made the water jet technology requiring further investigations. The Arbitrary Lagrange-Euler (ALE) method is used to develop a numerical model of the water jet impacting on a solid surface. It is also utilized in describing the flow characteristics of water and the pressure evolution in water during the impact process, understanding the formation mechanism of the pressure zone, and clarifying the influence factors of the stagnation pressure zone. The results showed that the pressure zone was characterized by the shock wave produced by the water jet impacting the solid surface. When the shock wave was contained in the water, it was the water hammer pressure stage. However, when the shock wave in water was disappeared, the stage was identified as the stagnation pressure. Besides, the water hammer pressure caused a high speed radial jet, and the stagnation pressure resulted in a low speed and stable radial jet. The stagnation pressure zone was the self-buffer zone of the water jet impacting the object, and the geometric characteristics of this zone were affected by the water jet diameter and the impact angle.
Primary results of mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke: The K-NET registry in the Japanese metropolitan area
Authors: Ueda Toshihiro , Hasegawa Yasuhiro , Takeuchi Masataka , Morimoto Masafumi , Tsuboi Yoshifumi , Yamamoto Ryoo , Kaku Shogo , Ayabe Junichi , Akiyama Takekazu , Ishima Daisuke , Mori Kentaro , Kagami Hiroshi , Ito Hidemichi , Onodera Hidetaka , Doi Hiroshi , Tsumoto Tomoyuki , Hataoka Shunsuke , Noda Masayuki , Tomura Nagatsuki , Masuo Osamu , Yoshida Yoichi , Kaga Yasuyuki , Tatsuno Kentaro , Yoshie Tomohide , Takaishi Satoshi , Yamano Yoshihisa ,   on behalf of the K-NET Registry Investigators
Published: October 2022

Background:

Endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute large vessel occlusion has proven to be effective in randomized controlled trials. We conducted a prospective cohort study to evaluate the real-world efficacy of EVT in a metropolitan area with a large number of comprehensive stroke centers and to compare it with the results of other registries and randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods:

We analyzed the Kanagawa Intravenous and Endovascular Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke registry, a prospective, multicenter observational study of patients treated by EVT and/or intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA). Of the 2488 patients enrolled from January 2018 to June 2020, 1764 patients treated with EVT were included. The primary outcome was a good outcome, which was defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of 0–2 at 90 days. Secondary analysis included predicting a good outcome using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The median age was 77 years, and the median National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 18. Pretreatment mRS score 0–2 was 87%, and direct transport was 92%. The rate of occlusion in anterior circulation was 90.3%. Successful recanalization was observed in 88.7%. The median time from onset to recanalization was 193 min. Good outcomes at 90 days were 43.3% in anterior circulation and 41.9% in posterior circulation. Overall mortality was 12.6%. Significant predictors for a good outcome were as follows: age, male, direct transfer, NIHSS score, Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score, intravenous tPA, and successful recanalization.

Conclusion:

EVT in routine clinical use in a metropolitan area showed comparable good outcomes and lower mortality compared to previous studies, despite the high proportion of patients with older age, pretreatment mRS score of >2, posterior circulation occlusion, and higher NIHSS. Those results may have been associated with more direct transport and faster onset-to-recanalization times.
Development, implementation, and evaluation of the Australian Stroke Data Tool (AuSDaT): Comprehensive data capturing for multiple uses
Authors: Ryan Olivia , Ghuliani Jot , Grabsch Brenda , Hill Kelvin , C Cloud Geoffrey , Breen Sibilah , Kilkenny Monique F , Cadilhac Dominique A
Published: October 2022

Background

Historically, national programs for collecting stroke data in Australia required the use of multiple online tools. Clinicians were required to enter overlapping variables for the same patient in the different databases. From 2013 to 2016, the Australian Stroke Data Tool (AuSDaT) was built as an integrated data management solution.

Objective

In this article, we have described the development, implementation, and evaluation phases of establishing the AuSDaT.

Method

In the development phase, a governance structure with representatives from different data collection programs was established. Harmonisation of data variables, drawn from six programs used in hospitals for monitoring stroke care, was facilitated through creating a National Stroke Data Dictionary. The implementation phase involved a staged deployment for two national programs over 12 months. The evaluation included an online survey of people who had used the AuSDaT between March 2018 and May 2018.

Results

By July 2016, data entered for an individual patient was, for the first time, shared between national programs. Overall, 119/422 users (90% female, 61% aged 30–49 years, 57% nurses) completed the online evaluation survey. The two most positive features reported about the AuSDaT were (i) accessibility of the system (including simultaneous user access), and (ii) the ability to download reports to benchmark local data against peer hospitals or national performance. More than three quarters of respondents ( n = 92, 77%) reported overall satisfaction with the data collection tool.

Conclusion

The AuSDaT reduces duplication and enables users from different national programs for stroke to enter standardised data into a single system.

Implications

This example may assist others who seek to establish a harmonised data management solution for different disease areas where multiple programs of data collection exist. The importance of undertaking continuous evaluation of end-users to identify preferences and aspects of the tool that are not meeting current requirements were illustrated. We also highlighted the opportunities to increase interoperability, utility, and facilitate the exchange of accurate and meaningful data.
Serum proteomics screening intercellular adhesion molecule-2 improves intermediate-risk stratification in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhang Nan , Liu Xiaoyan , Wu Jinxian , Li Xinqi , Wang Qian , Chen Guopeng , Ma Linlu , Wu Sanyun , Zhou Fuling
Published: October 2022

Background:

The clinical risk classification of acute myelocytic leukemia (AML) is largely based on cytogenetic and molecular genetic detection. However, the optimal treatment for intermediate-risk AML patients remains uncertain. Further refinement and improvement of prognostic stratification are therefore necessary.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to identify serum protein biomarkers to refine risk stratification in AML patients.

Design:

This study is a retrospective study.

Methods:

Label-free proteomics was used to identify the differential abundance of serum proteins in AML patients. Transcriptomic data were combined to identify key altered markers that could indicate the risk rank of AML patients. The survival status was assessed by Kaplan–Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses.

Results:

We delineated serum protein expression in a population of AML patients. Many biological processes were influenced by the identified differentially expressed proteins. Association analysis of transcriptome data showed that intercellular adhesion molecule-2 (ICAM2) had a higher survival prediction value in the intermediate-risk AML group. ICAM2 was detrimental for intermediate-risk AML, regardless of whether patients received bone marrow transplantation. ICAM2 well distinguishes the intermediate group of patients, whose probability of survival is comparable to that of patients with the ELN-2017 according to the reference classification. In addition, newly established stratified clinical features were associated with leukemia stem cell scores.

Conclusion:

The inclusion of ICAM2 expression into the AML risk classification according to ELN-2017 was a good way to transfer patients from three to two groups. Thus, providing more information for clinical decision-making to improve intermediate-risk stratification in AML patients.
Association between haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation combined with an umbilical cord blood unit and graft-versus-host disease in pediatric patients with acquired severe aplastic anemia
Authors: Yao Di , Tian Yuanyuan , Li Jie , Li Bohan , Lu Jun , Ling Jing , Zheng Defei , Yao Yanhua , Xiao Peifang , Meng Lijun , Hu Shaoyan
Published: October 2022

Background:

Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) based on granulocyte colony-stimulating factor plus anti-thymocyte regimens (‘Beijing Protocol’) provides a salvage treatment for patients of acquired severe aplastic anemia (SAA) in China. However, graft- versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major impediment of haplo-HSCT due to human leukocyte antigen disparity. Recently, haplo-HSCT combined with umbilical cord blood (UCB) (haplo-cord HSCT) is performed in clinical trials to potentially reduce the risk of severe GVHD. Nevertheless, studies comparing GVHD in pediatric patients receiving haplo and haplo-cord HSCT for SAA are limited.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of UCB co-infusion on GVHD in pediatric patients receiving haplo-HSCT for SAA.

Design:

We conducted a retrospective study of 91 consecutive SAA children undergoing haploidentical transplantation based on the ‘Beijing Protocol’ with or without co-infusion of UCB in our center.

Methods:

All patients received uniform non-myeloablative conditioning and GVHD prophylaxis. We compared baseline characteristics and transplant outcomes between the haplo ( n = 35) and haplo-cord ( n = 56) recipients.

Results:

All 91 patients achieved hematopoietic recovery from haploidentical donors, with a higher incidence of peri-engraftment syndrome observed with the haplo-cord group as compared with the haplo group (75.0% versus 48.6%, p = 0.029). Notably, the haplo-cord group showed a lower incidence of II–IV acute GVHD (aGVHD) than the haplo group (16.1% versus 42.9%, p = 0.002). Observed incidences of chronic GVHD (cGVHD) and moderate to severe cGVHD in the haplo-cord group were also lower than that in the haplo group (25.6% versus 51.3%, p = 0.019; 16.2% versus 41.3%, p = 0.016, respectively). Haplo-cord HSCT was identified as the only factor associated with a lower incidence of II–IV aGVHD and cGVHD in multivariate analysis. However, no differences were observed between the two groups for infections and survival outcomes.

Conclusion:

Our data indicated that co-infusion of UCB in ‘Beijing Protocol’-based haplo-HSCT may be effective for reducing the risk of severe GVHD in SAA children.