A methodology for assessing driver perception-response time during unanticipated cross-centerline events.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to present a methodology that utilizes naturalistic driving data to measure the driver response to an unanticipated driving scenario, a cross-centerline event. METHODS: Forward-facing video from naturalistic driving was used to determine when the cross-centerline event occurred. Then, the recorded acceleration and yaw rate data were used to identify the start of braking and steering evasive actions, respectively. A deceleration threshold of -0.1 g was defined as the braking onset, and a yaw rate of 2 deg/s was defined as the steering onset. Perception-response times (PRTs) were derived using these inputs. RESULTS: 17 cross-centerline events were identified from the naturalistic driving database. The drivers in all analyzed events applied the brakes, and 11 of the 17 drivers performed a steering maneuver. However, the average steering PRT (0.39 s) was faster than the average braking PRT (0.84 s). CONCLUSIONS: Based naturalistic data from cross-centerline encroachment scenarios, the average driver steering PRT was faster than the average driver braking PRT. Both the driver's median braking and steering PRT was faster in these real-world scenarios than in similar test track or simulator studies. Future analyses should investigate which action is attempted first and the effect of time to contact on driver response.

Dynamic ultrasonography: a cadaveric model for evaluating aseptic loosening of total ankle arthroplasty.

Aseptic loosening is the primary method of failure in total ankle replacements. Currently, loosening is defined by morphologic changes in osseous architecture determined by plain radiography. The loss of bone noted at diagnosis presents difficulties in future ankle revisions. A method by which early aseptic loosening could be detected before bony deformation or reaction could lead to improved patient outcomes. A cadaveric fresh frozen ankle specimen (mid-tibia to include the foot) was used in the present study. An anterior approach to the ankle was performed. A total ankle prosthesis was implanted in the standard fashion (Salto Talaris, Tornier). The initial cuts were made for a size 1 ankle, and a size 1 ankle was implanted. Dynamic ultrasonography was used to evaluate the bone-implant interface. The prosthesis was removed, and sequential removal of bone was performed at the interface of the medial tibial tray until visible motion was seen with flexion and extension. The reimplanted prosthesis was then re-evaluated using dynamic ultrasonography and dynamic and static fluoroscopy. In the loose prosthesis model, dynamic ultrasonography was able to determine the motion at the bone-prosthesis interface. Dynamic ultrasonography might be a useful tool in the evaluation of early loosening in a total ankle arthroplasty model.