bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ion irradiation on polymer electrolyte films
Authors: Singh Divya , Singh Pramod K , Bhattacharya Bhaskar
Published: November 2015

Two polymer (poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(vinylpyrrolidone))-based sodium ion conducting systems have been studied. The conductivity and related parameters has been compared after irradiation with that before irradiation. The complex impedance spectroscopic tools have been used to determine the ionic conductivity, dielectric constant, number of charge carriers, and its corresponding mobility of the two systems. Modulation in conductivity of the systems has been correlated and attributed to change in crystallinity of the matrix. Suggestive principles have also been proposed for preparation of optimum polymer electrolyte films using ion beam treatment.
Thermal properties of diacetylene–containing polymer prepared from propargyl-terminated monomer with pyridine
Authors: Yang Guang , Jiang Zhichao , Li Bo , Xu Junjie , Yuan Zehong
Published: November 2015

A novel diacetylene–containing main chain-type polymer, poly[2,6-bis(4-propargyl-oxy-benzoyl)pyridine] (P1), was synthesized via oxidative coupling reaction with a new propargyl-terminated monomer, 2,6-bis(4-propargyl-oxy-benzoyl)pyridine (M1), which was incorporated a substituted pyridine into the molecular chain of model monomer, 4,4′-bis(propargyl-oxy)benzophenone (M0). The structures of the new monomer and the resulting polymer were verified by Fourier transform infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to investigate the curing behaviors of M1 and P1. The onset curing temperature of M1 was 199.0°C, and the exothermic enthalpy of M1 was 973.4 J g−1, while the initial curing temperature for polymer P1 reduced by 48°C and the exothermic enthalpy was almost half. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed the excellent thermal stabilities of M1 and its polymer in argon atmosphere (the decomposition temperatures at 5% weight loss were 446°C for M1 and 370°C for P1 and their char yields at 800°C exceeded 71%). The above TGA data were superior to that of the model monomer (M0) and its polymer (P0) under the same conditions.
Effect of monomer chemical structures on the cell structures and properties of cyanate ester foams
Authors: Chang Pianpian , Tian Chunrong , Chen Keping , Liang Shuen , Qing Jingqi , Zhu Yalin , Jia Xiaorong , Wang Jianhua
Published: November 2015

Cyanate ester (CE) foams with different chemical structures were prepared using bisphenol A dicyanate ester (BADCy), bisphenol E dicyanate ester (BECy), and tetramethyl bisphenol F dicyanate ester (TBFDCy) as monomers, through a two-step process. Rheological tests were performed to investigate the optimal conditions for the preparation of these foams. The results of morphology by scanning electron microscopy showed that cells are in the form of nearly spherical shape in foams from TBFDCy and BADCy and oval in foam from BECy. The thermal properties of the three CE foams were studied by methods of dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetry/differential thermogravimetry analysis. The glass transition temperature ( Tg) obtained from DMA tests are 274, 264, and 241°C for the foams from TBFDCy, BADCy, and BECy, respectively, which are apparently higher than that tested by DSC method. The Tg, compressive properties, and thermal stabilities of the foams are improved after the introduction of the alkyl-substituent groups to the same aromatic ring of –OCN functionality, and the chemical structure–properties relationships are explained according to the monomer chemical structures.
Adaptive robust disturbance compensating control for a servo system in the presence of both friction and deadzone
Authors: Jung Jinho , Lee Donghyuk , Kim Jong Shik , Han Seong Ik
Published: November 2015

An adaptive robust control that does not need sophisticated plant modeling work is proposed for precise output positioning of a servo system in the presence of both friction and deadzone nonlinearities. It is difficult to achieve effective motion control by traditional linear control methodology for these types of nonlinearities, without the aid of a proper compensation scheme for nonlinearity. In this study, dynamic friction is modeled by a Tustin friction model, and inverse deadzone method is adopted to compensate deadzone effect. The adaptive laws of the unknown system dynamic parameters, friction and deadzone, are derived. Furthermore, a robust control method with funnel control is proposed to compensate for unmodeled and estimation errors. The boundedness and convergence of the closed-loop system are ensured by a Lyapunov stability analysis. The performance of the proposed control scheme is verified through experiments on the XY table servo system and the robotic manipulator.
Influence of rail flexibility in a wheel/rail wear prediction model
Authors: Aceituno Javier F , Wang Pu , Wang Liang , Shabana Ahmed A
Published: November 2015

The aim of this paper is to study the influence of rail flexibility when a wheel/rail wear prediction model that computes the material loss based on an energy approach is used. The wheel/rail wear model used in this investigation is a simplified combined wear hypothesis that is based on the frictional energy loss in the contact patch. In order to account for wear and its distribution in a profiled wheel surface, the contact forces, creepages and location of the wheel/rail contact points are first calculated using a fully nonlinear multibody system (MBS) and three-dimensional contact formulations that account for the rail flexibility. The contact forces, creepages and contact point locations are defined as nonlinear functions of the rail deformations. These nonlinear expressions are used in the wear calculations. The wear distribution is considered to be proportional to the normal force in the contact area. Numerical simulations are first performed in order to compare between the results obtained using the simplified wheel/rail wear model and the results obtained using Archard’s wear model with a focus on sliding when the track is modeled as a rigid body. This simplified wear model is then used in the simulation of the MBS vehicle model in the case of a flexible body track, in which the rails are modeled using the finite element floating frame of reference approach and modal reduction techniques. The effect of the rail deformation on the wear results are examined by comparing these results with those obtained using the rigid-body track model.
The Evolutionary Basis of Honor Cultures
Authors: Nowak Andrzej , Gelfand Michele J. , Borkowski Wojciech , Cohen Dov , Hernandez Ivan
Published: November 2015

Around the globe, people fight for their honor, even if it means sacrificing their lives. This is puzzling from an evolutionary perspective, and little is known about the conditions under which honor cultures evolve. We implemented an agent-based model of honor, and our simulations showed that the reliability of institutions and toughness of the environment are crucial conditions for the evolution of honor cultures. Honor cultures survive when the effectiveness of the authorities is low, even in very tough environments. Moreover, the results show that honor cultures and aggressive cultures are mutually dependent in what resembles a predator-prey relationship described in the renowned Lotka-Volterra model. Both cultures are eliminated when institutions are reliable. These results have implications for understanding conflict throughout the world, where Western-based strategies are exported, often unsuccessfully, to contexts of weak institutional authority wherein honor-based strategies have been critical for survival.
Can We Talk About Stay-At-Home Moms? Empirical Findings and Implications for Counseling
Authors: Bean Heather , Softas-Nall Lia , Eberle Kiersten M. , Paul Jeffrey A.
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to add to feminist research by asking women themselves to articulate the experiences of stay-at-home motherhood when their children became “fully involved” in school (i.e., 3rd or 4th grade) and to recognize mental health concerns these women may have. Seven themes emerged: expectations of mothering role impacts mothering experience; mother’s perception of children further separating; relationship with spouse; identity confusion, exploration, and expansion; responsibility for household; negotiating self-care; and finding support beyond the family system. These themes are discussed in full and implications for marriage and family counselors and future research are presented.
Fa-MI-ly
Authors: Lloyd-Hazlett Jessica , Honderich Eleni Maria , Heyward Karena J.
Published: November 2015

Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based, client-centered approach that provides a framework for the change process. Careful attention is given within MI to understand and meet clients across a continuum of readiness for change. While less readily applied to family counseling, MI facilitates therapeutic alliance, evokes motivation for change, and provides useful guidelines for conceptualizing and implementing family counseling services. This article (a) provides a brief overview of MI’s major tenets, (b) examines systems-level applications of MI principles, and (c) describes five counseling interventions developed by the authors that illustrate how MI may be integrated into family counseling practice.
Going the Distance
Authors: Du Bois Steve N. , Sher Tamara G. , Grotkowski Karolina , Aizenman Talia , Slesinger Noel , Cohen Mariana
Published: November 2015

Healthy romantic relationships are beneficial to an individual's physical and mental health. The prevalence of long-distance relationships (LDRs) is increasing; yet, no research has assessed whether the marriage–health association applies to individuals in LDRs. The present study investigated the marriage–health association in LDRs by comparing PR and LDR individuals on various health and relationship indices. Using both Qualtrics and Amazon's Mechanical Turk, we designed an online survey ( N = 296 married, 21 years or older, English speakers). Health measures included the patient-reported outcomes measurement information system (PROMIS-29); Perceived Stress Scale; and substance use, diet, and exercise surveys. Relationship variables assessed included satisfaction, maintenance, relationship stress, and sex. Overall, results were mixed, with no clear relationship arrangement relating to better health or relationship variable ratings. Relationship satisfaction did not differ across groups; however, individuals in PRs reported better maintenance, higher sexual frequency, and lower relationship stress. In terms of health, LDR individuals reported better health on several indices: overall scores; lower anxiety, depression, and fatigue subscale scores; and better diet/exercise behaviors. PR individuals reported lower individual stress levels, better medication adherence, and higher physical functioning scores than their LDR counterparts. Regression analyses indicated being in a LDR predicted more individual and relationship stress but simultaneously better diet and exercise behaviors. This study challenges the popular notion that health and happiness in a relationship stem from partner proximity and provides potential points of intervention to improve relationship satisfaction and health for individuals in both PRs and LDRs.
Personality Disorder and Perceived Parenting in Chinese Students of Divorced and Intact Families
Authors: Xu You , Lin Lianghua , Yang Lan , Zhou Lina , Tao Yi , Chen Wanzhen , Chai Hao , Wang Wei
Published: November 2015

Background:

Nurturing environment contributes to the personality development of young people, but how inappropriate parental bonding from biological parents influences the personality disorder functioning styles of their offspring in divorced families remains unclear.

Objective:

We aimed to find out the relationship between parenting styles and students’ disordered personality in divorced families.

Methods:

The Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI) and the Parker Personality Measure (PERM) were administered to 60 Chinese students from divorced family (Divorced group) and 120 controls (matched in age and gender) from intact family (Intact group). The depressive tendency of the participants was measured with the Plutchik–van Praag Depression Inventory (PVP). Results: PERM borderline style was more prominent when father was perceived as secondary carer than primary carer in Divorced group. When father was perceived as secondary carer, PERM borderline style was more obvious in Divorced group than in Intact group. Maternal autonomy denial and care predicted PERM narcissistic and dependent styles in Divorced group, when mother was perceived as primary carer. In the Intact group, when mother was perceived as secondary carer, maternal care was lower than when mother was perceived as primary carer. Some parental PBI scales predicted certain PERM scales regardless of the carer order.

Conclusions:

The results imply that in divorced family, biological father should be more involved in young people’s daily life, and biological mother should show more care and less autonomy denial. In intact family, more care, less freedom control, and less autonomy denial from both parents are important in the personality development of their offspring.
Reduction of Venous Thromboembolism in Surgical Patients Using a Mandatory Risk-Scoring System: 5-Year Follow-Up of an American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Nimeri Abdelrahman A. , Gamaleldin Maysoon M. , McKenna Karen L. , Turrin Nicolas P. , Mustafa Bisher O.
Published: November 2015

Background:

Sheikh Khalifa Medical City’s (SKMC) surgery institute was identified as a high outlier in the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE; deep vein thrombosis [DVT] and pulmonary embolism [PE]) based on the semiannual report of the American College of Surgeon’s National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) in June 2010.

Aim:

To report our rates of VTE at SKMC, the results, and 5-year follow-up after an ACS NSQIP quality improvement program.

Methods:

A multidisciplinary VTE task force was established in June 2010. We instituted a compulsory risk assessment for VTE and utilized the ACS NSQIP best practice guidelines to review cases of VTE. We prospectively evaluated the observed/expected (O/E) ratio for DVT/PE after implementing the action plan.

Results:

The O/E ratio for PE/DVT in general and general/vascular (GV) surgery was 6.00 and 4.86 in June 2010. Our compliance with ordering antithrombotic prophylactic measures was as low and it improved to 100% and our O/E ratio decreased to 1.18 and 1.5 in July 2011 and stabilized for the next 4 years. Currently, our compliance with ordering antithrombotic prophylactic measures is 100%, and our last 2 O/E ratio for DVT/PE are 0.74 and 0.75 in GV surgery and 0.82 and 0.78 in the entire surgery institute, respectively, and we are considered an exemplary site of the ACS NSQIP in GV surgery.

Conclusion:

A compulsory risk assessment for VTE has led to an overall improvement in DVT/PE rates in the surgery institute and for GV surgery to become an exemplary site for the ACS NSQIP.
The Relationship Between Serum Endocan Levels With the Presence of Slow Coronary Flow: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kundi Harun , Gok Murat , Kiziltunc Emrullah , Topcuoglu Canan , Cetin Mustafa , Cicekcioglu Hulya , Ugurlu Burcu , Ulusoy Feridun Vasfi
Published: November 2015

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between endocan levels with the presence of slow coronary flow (SCF).

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 88 patients, who admitted to our hospital, were included in this study. Of these, 53 patients with SCF and 35 patients with normal coronary flow were included in the final analysis. Coronary flow rates of all patients were determined by the Timi Frame Count (TFC) method.

Results:

In correlation analysis, endocan levels revealed a significantly positive correlation with high sensitive C-reactive protein and corrected TFC. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the endocan levels were found as independently associated with the presence of SCF. Finally, using a cutoff level of 2.3, endocan level predicted the presence of SCF with a sensitivity of 77.2% and specificity of 75.2%.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our study showed that higher endocan levels were significantly and independently related to the presence of SCF.
Comparing Churn Prediction Techniques and Assessing Their Performance
Authors: Tamaddoni Ali , Stakhovych Stanislav , Ewing Michael
Published: November 2015

Customer retention has become a focal priority. However, the process of implementing an effective retention campaign is complex and dependent on firms’ ability to accurately identify both at-risk customers and those worth retaining. Drawing on empirical and simulated data from two online retailers, we evaluate the performance of several parametric and nonparametric churn prediction techniques, in order to identify the optimal modeling approach, dependent on context. Results show that under most circumstances (i.e., varying sample sizes, purchase frequencies, and churn ratios), the boosting technique, a nonparametric method, delivers superior predictability. Furthermore, in cases/contexts where churn is more rare, logistic regression prevails. Finally, where the size of the customer base is very small, parametric probability models outperform other techniques.
The ILO, social partners and the G20: New prospects for social dialogue at the global level?
Authors: Louis Marieke
Published: November 2015

Since 2011, new fora have emerged such as the Labour 20 (L20) and the Business 20 (B20) which claim to represent social partners at the G20 level. This article shows that these new fora actually derive from three older institutions: the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the International Organization of Employers (IOE) which aim at reaffirming their role in the framing of contemporary global social policies as well as reactivating a century-old tradition of social dialogue at the global level. Challenging conventional wisdom on the unity of business interests, the article also insists upon the competition between the IOE, the International Chamber of Commerce and the Davos Forum to represent the voice of Business at the G20. The article ends with an assessment of the representative and democratic character of the G20, B20 and L20 meetings in comparison to the existing structures of social dialogue such as the ILO.
Intercultural observer preference for perceived illumination chromaticity for different coloured object scenes
Authors: Bodrogi P , Lin Y , Xiao X , Stojanovic D , Khanh TQ
Published: November 2015

The preference for the chromaticity of high illuminance, high colour rendering LED illumination of different scenes was investigated for Chinese and European observers. An experiment about the preference for perceived illumination chromaticity was conducted with the same multi-LED light engine, same viewing booth and same coloured objects transported between Germany and China. Observer preference for perceived illumination chromaticity was significantly influenced by correlated colour temperature (2700 K–6500 K), object scene colour (red, blue or mixed), cultural background (Chinese or European origin, living in Germany or in China) and gender (men, women). The results can be used to choose an appropriate correlated colour temperature (e.g. warm white or cool white) for a high-quality lighting product to illuminate different object scenes (e.g. red or blue objects) so as to achieve good user acceptance in the global market.
Nutrition of Children with Severely Handicapping Conditions
Authors: Sobsey Richard J.
Published: November 2015

This article discusses special considerations in the diet and nutrition of severely handicapped children. Nutritional needs are examined as they are affected by (1) specific handicapping conditions, (2) medications commonly used with severely handicapped children, (3) special diets, and (4) behavioral influences. The potential for interaction among these factors is discussed, and six guidelines are provided to help ensure improved nutrition for children with severely handicapping conditions.
A Longitudinal Analysis of Language Generalization among Adolescents with Severely Handicapping Conditions
Authors: Warren Steven F. , Rogers-Warren Ann K.
Published: November 2015

This study investigated the generalized effects of the Guess, Sailor, and Baer (1976) language training program on the structural aspects of six severely retarded institutionalized adolescents' productive language. The subjects were studied longitudinally for periods ranging from 16 to 31 months, during which time each progressed through part of the training program. In all, a total of 73 two-, three-, and four-word syntactic forms were trained to criterion. Verbatim language samples were concurrently collected in the subjects' classrooms, dining rooms, and living units. Forty-one (56%) of the trained forms were shown to generalize the subjects' actual usage repertoires. There was a strong relationship between the length of the trained forms and generalization. This effect was shown to be related to the subjects' MLUs. Almost no change occurred in the subjects' general language abilities. Strong relationships between number of training sessions and subjects' rate of verbalization, subjects' MLUs and rate of verbalization, and diversity of speech and rate of verbalization were found. Implications of these and other results are discussed.
The Role of Congress in Decisions Relating to the Withholding of Medical Treatment from Seriously Ill Newborns
Authors: Hardman Michael L.
Published: November 2015

In the past year several bills and resolutions have been introduced into the United States Congress that contain provisions for the protection of seriously ill newborns in our nation's hospitals. This paper examines the role that Congress has played during the past decade in medical decisions affecting the lives of seriously ill newborns. Alternatives for future Congressional involvement in the newborn nursery are also presented. These alternatives include a general statement of national intent regarding the rights of handicapped newborns, substantive civil rights legislation prohibiting discriminatory practices against handicapped infants, the establishment of a Congressional commission, and expanded funding for research in the field of bioethics.
Issues Related to Professional Involvement with Families of Individuals with Autism and other Severe Handicaps
Authors: Donnellan Anne M. , Mirenda Patricia L.
Published: November 2015

The combination of social, cognitive and communicative deficits associated with autism has contributed to a unique and complex relationship between parents and professionals who serve these individuals. This relationship has changed over time from one in which parents were blamed for their children's autism to the present situation in which the emphasis is on a parent-professional partnership. This paper addresses some of the roots of non-productive parent-professional interactions related to individuals with autism and suggests some standards which might lead to more fruitful and positive relationships.
Establishing Pragmatic Discriminations among the Communicative Functions of Requesting, Rejecting, and Commenting in an Adolescent
Authors: Reichle Joe , Rogers Nancy , Barrett Coleen
Published: November 2015

A 15-year-old learner with severe handicaps who exhibited minimal intentional communicative behavior was taught to discriminately encode three classes of communicative functions, including requesting, rejecting, and commenting. A single symbol (want) represented the requesting function, and another symbol (no) represented the rejecting function. Four signs from American Sign Language represented each of four object labels taught in the commenting function. Communicative functions were taught in a mixed sequential paradigm (requesting, requesting/rejecting, and requesting/rejecting/commenting). Elicited probes were administered after each acquisition criterion was reached to assess generalization across communicative situations. Results suggest that a series of pragmatic discriminations can be established early in a sequence of communicative intervention. Further, the learner used requesting and rejecting spontaneously in other classroom environments. Results are discussed in terms of content, selection, and sequencing in communication intervention programs designed for learners with severe handicaps.
A Survey of Perceived Competence among Psychologists Who Evaluate Students with Severe Handicaps
Authors: Irons Donna , Irons Tom , Maddux Cleborne D.
Published: November 2015

Since the passage of P.L. 94–142, a primary concern in the provision of services for students with severe handicaps is the assessment of these individuals. Whether or not requirements mandated by P.L. 94–142 are met depends on the knowledge and skills of assessment personnel. The authors surveyed assessment personnel in the state of Texas. The results indicated that most assessment personnel do not believe themselves to be adequately prepared to conduct assessments of students with severe handicaps. Findings revealed that assessment personnel desire additional training in needed competencies for assessing these students. Further, a higher percentage of those assessment personnel with training perceived themselves to have the competency than those who had no training. Implications for preservice and inservice training programs are discussed.
The Effect of Functional vs. Non-Functional Activities on Attitudes/Expectations of Non-Handicapped College Students: What They See is What We Get
Authors: Bates Paul , Morrow Sue Ann , Pancsofar Ernie , Sedlak Robert
Published: November 2015

Six sections of a general education class for prospective teacher trainees were randomly assigned to one of two groups (N = 162). Each group was exposed to an identical audiotaped/slide presentation of a special education program involving a young woman with Down's Syndrome. However, the slides accompanying one group's taped presentation consisted of functional, integrated, and age appropriate curriculum activities and the slides accompanying the other group's presentation included non-functional, segregated, and age inappropriate activities. Prior to viewing the slide/tape presentation, all persons completed the Attitudes Toward Disabled Persons Questionnaire (ATDP) (Yuker, Block & Younng, 1966). After viewing the slides, the participants completed a teacher-made questionnaire regarding their attitudes and expectations toward a young woman with Down's Syndrome. The multivariate analysis of variance resulted in no statistically significant differences between the two groups on the ATDP, but did result in statistically significant differences on the eight non-demographic items of the teacher-made questionnaire. Subsequent comparisons of individual questionnaire items revealed significant differences on those items which estimated IQ, future earning capacity, label of retardation, “best” residential environment, appropriate classroom placement, and most likely employment setting. These differences were in the direction of predicting higher levels of competence for the student when depicted as being involved in functional, integrated, and age appropriate activities.
Trends in Residential Services for People Who are Mentally Retarded: 1977–1982
Authors: Hill Bradley K. , Lakin K. Charlie , Bruininks Robert H.
Published: November 2015

This paper summarizes and compares the results of two national surveys of residential facilities for people who are mentally retarded. The results from 1977 and 1982 national surveys of all state-licensed, state-contracted, or state-operated facilities demonstrate a residential population of static total size but changing characteristics. Most notable were a decreasing number of children in out-of-home residential care and an increasing proportion of persons who are severely/profoundly handicapped in community-based residences. The number of smaller facilities increased substantially.
An Alternative to the Institution for Young People with Severely Handicapping Conditions in a Rural Community
Authors: Singer George H. S. , Close Daniel W. , Irvin Larry K. , Gersten Russell , Sailor Wayne
Published: November 2015

A rural deinstitutionalization project for young people who experience multiple handicaps and exhibit maladaptive behavior is described. The problems associated with rural service delivery and residential services for young people with problem behaviors are discussed. Measures of adaptive behavior change, maladaptive behavior, daily activities, and consumer satisfaction indicate that young people can be successfully deinstitutionalized regardless of their skill level, their behavior problems, or the geographic nature of their receiving region.
Quality and Equality in Employment Services for Adults with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Bellamy G. Thomas , Rhodes Larry E. , Wilcox Barbara , Albin Joyce M. , Mank David M. , Boles Shawn M. , Horner Robert H. , Collins Michael , Turner Joe
Published: November 2015

This paper responds to Brown et al. (1984), who propose an extended training program involving work without pay in integrated settings for adults with severe intellectual handicaps. While agreeing about the capability of persons with disabilities, the importance of integration, and the failings of typical services, we believe that their extended training proposal represents an unnecessary retreat from values that have guided development of exemplary school and community services for persons with severe handicaps. As an extended outcome of services, the proposed program needlessly sacrifices wages and other employment benefits, distorts the benefits of integration by looking only at the workplace, and tolerates unequal treatment of citizens with severe handicaps. Relying on unpaid work as a strategy for time-limited employment preparation creates the risk of overuse and of perpetual readiness programming, suggesting that professional effort could be better spent in development of supported employment opportunities. Current federally supported employment initiatives provide a framework for combining wages and integration and offer support for local program development.
Generalization of an Adolescent's Social Interaction Behavior via Multiple Peers in a Classroom Setting
Authors: Brady Michael P. , Shores Richard E. , Gunter Phil , McEvoy Mary A. , Fox James J. , White Caryn
Published: November 2015

This study examined the effects of training an adolescent with autism to initiate to nonhandicapped children who were sequentially introduced to training. Using a multiple baseline design across nonhandicapped training peers, the subject's rate of social initiations and percentage of time spent in continuous, spontaneous interactions with both training and nontraining peers were examined. Results indicated that spontaneous initiations to and interactions with nonhandicapped peers increased with the introduction of the second training peer. Results also indicated that across-peer generalization was more evident after training with the third peer and continued even after cessation of the training tactics. The findings contribute to an emerging data base indicating that sequential training across nonhandicapped peers is an effective means of promoting generalization of newly acquired social behavior.
Responding in the Presence of Nontrained Stimuli: Implications of Generalization Error Patterns
Authors: Horner Robert H. , Bellamy G. Thomas , Colvin Geoffrey T.
Published: November 2015

The technology of applied behavior analysis has documented impressive advances in procedures for changing behavior. Behavior change is often functional, however, only if it endures over time and is performed in nontrained situations. One approach to building a technology that meets these standards has been systematic analysis of generalization “successes.” The present paper extends this approach through an analysis of generalization failures (i.e., the patterns of generalization errors). A format is provided for categorizing the errors made in generalization situations, and linking these errors back to stimulus characteristics present during training. Stimulus control serves as the pivotal concept that directs this error analysis, and provides the bridge between infrahuman research on generalization and the broader applied issue of obtaining performance across nontrained situations. Implications of the error analysis are defined for building a technology of generalization, and for developing an effective research methodology for studying generalized responding in applied settings.
Methodological Considerations in Qualitative Research
Authors: Stainback Susan , Stainback William
Published: November 2015

There has been a growing interest in the potential contributions qualitative research could make to “scientific”/scholarly inquiry in special education (Edgerton, 1984; Stainback & Stainback, 1984; Taylor & Bogdan, 1984). The purpose of this paper is to provide an impetus for more widespread familiarity with and use of qualitative research methodology among educators concerned with the education of persons with severe handicaps by drawing together and attempting to clarify the present state of the art in qualitative research methodology.
An Analysis of Response-Contingent Learning Experiences for Young Children
Authors: Hanson Marci J. , Hanline Mary Frances
Published: November 2015

The effects of contingent feedback on the learning and affective behavior of young children with severe and multiple handicaps was examined. Three children, ranging in age from 8 months to 25 months, were provided contingent learning experiences via electromechanical apparatus. The study addressed three questions: (a) Could these young children be taught to increase the frequency of a low incidence behavior through the use of contingent feedback?, (b) Could electromechanical devices operated by parents be utilized for this training?, (c) Did these response-contingent learning experiences facilitate development of an awareness of the contingent feedback as measured by increased positive affective responses and attention? Results indicated that all three children increased the frequency of the target behavior. The data are equivocal as to whether or not children showed an awareness of the response-contingent feedback. These findings are discussed in light of developmental and learning theories. Implications for intervention are also discussed.
The Training and Generalization of Social Interaction during Breaktime at Two Job Sites in the Natural Environment
Authors: Breen Catherine , Haring Thomas , Pitts-Conway Valerie , Gaylord-Ross Robert
Published: November 2015

Four high-school age students with autism and severe handicaps were trained to initiate and sustain social interactions with nonhandicapped peers in a commonly shared breakroom at two community job sites. The generalization of social behavior to nontrained coworkers was probed in the same setting during natural breaktimes. A multiple-baseline across subjects design was used to assess the effectiveness of a training package based on concurrent training of chains of responses using systematic prompting and reinforcement of correct behavior. Generalization was promoted using a multiple exemplar strategy. The results showed that all participants acquired a chain of social break behaviors using one peer trainer. Two participants displayed generalization of social responses prior to the acquisition of the complete chain. Two participants required training with multiple peers prior to the occurrence of generalization.
Concepts and Issues Related to Choice-Making and Autonomy among Persons with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Guess Doug , Benson Holly Anne , Siegel-Causey Ellin
Published: November 2015

This paper discusses issues related to concepts of preferences and choice-making among persons with severe disabilities. Included are suggestions for acknowledging preferences, teaching choice as a decision-making process, and the broader implications of choice-making among persons with severe handicaps as an expression of personal autonomy and dignity. Directions for future research are discussed.
Transition from School to Work for Individuals with Severe Handicaps: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Wehman Paul , Kregel John , Seyfarth John
Published: November 2015

The present study assessed the employment status of 117 transition age young adults with moderate, severe, or profound mental retardation in Virginia. Data were collected by trained interviewers on variables related to employment level, wages earned, types of jobs, assistance available in job identification, and so forth. The findings of this study indicated high unemployment rates of almost 88%, with only 14 of the 117 persons holding competitive jobs in nonsheltered work environments. Wage accumulation was very limited. Implications of these results and other similar studies for future programming are then discussed.
Young Children with Severe Handicaps in Community Residential Facilities
Authors: Salisbury Christine L.
Published: November 2015

For a variety of reasons, many families decide to place their handicapped son or daughter in a community residential facility. Child-related characteristics may play an important role in that decision. A retrospective research methodology was employed to examine selected characteristics of an intact sample of 56 young children with severe handicaps who resided in community residential facilities. Biological risk status was used as a blocking variable, along with sex, type of facility, and reason for placement. Children were compared for age at time of placement in the community. Results of analysis of variance (ANOVA), analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and chi-square analyses revealed that (a) risk status, facility, and reason were significantly related to early placement in the community; (b) sex of the child did not appear to influence time of placement; and (c) children with greater caretaking/medical involvement did not appear to be placed in the community earlier than other children with severe handicaps in this sample. Limitations of this study and directions for future research are discussed.
An Effective and Benign Treatment of Rumination
Authors: Barton Lyle E. , Barton Carolyn L.
Published: November 2015

This study reports a simple and effective program for the reduction or elimination of ruminative behavior in school-aged students with multiple handicaps. Four students were treated using a combination of peanut butter, reduced fluid consumption at meals, and fading. In each of the cases, the ruminative behavior was significantly reduced or eliminated. The program is discussed in light of its effects on the student, the staff, and its relation to other treatments for rumination.
The Effect of “Opportunity to Perform” on the Maintenance of Skills Learned by High School Students with Severe Handicaps
Authors: Horner Robert H. , Williams Julie A. , Knobbe Carole A.
Published: November 2015

The likelihood that learned skills will be maintained in natural performance settings may be affected by the number of opportunities to perform the skills following acquisition. To examine this hypothesis, 17 high school students with moderate to severe mental retardation were selected from three public school classrooms. Each student had learned one adaptive skill that he or she had performed at least twice per month without additional training for 5 months prior to this study (high opportunity). Each student had also learned one adaptive skill that he or she had not performed more often than once per month over the 5 months immediately preceding the study (low opportunity). Performance of both behaviors was probed under conditions as similar as possible to those experienced during training. Twelve of the 17 high opportunity skills were performed successfully while only 4 of the 17 low opportunity skills were completed. A sign test indicated these differences to be statistically significant. Implications of the results for selection of IEP goals and the inclusion of “opportunity” objectives are discussed.
Applications of Self-Management to Individuals with Severe Handicaps: A Review
Authors: Browder Diane M. , Shapiro Edward S.
Published: November 2015

Self-management procedures involve an individual in implementing strategies which may enhance his or her behavior change. These strategies may be applied as antecedents or consequences to the target behavior. A review of selected self-management literature, with a focus on individuals with severe handicaps, is presented to identify potential replications and adaptations for practice and future research with this population.
The Differences in Inappropriate Behavior and Instructional Interactions in Sheltered and Nonsheltered Work Environments
Authors: Nisbet Jan , Vincent Lisbeth
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the nature and frequency of the instructional interactions and work-related behavior of 15 workers in nonsheltered vocational environments to 15 workers in sheltered environments. Workers in nonsheltered and sheltered environments were observed using a discontinuous time sampling procedure for approximately three 1-hour sessions. Data were collected during work and break times on instructional interactions between the workers with disabilities and their co-workers and supervisors. Additionally, data were collected on the frequency of eight categories of behavior labeled as inappropriate by observers. The results revealed that the workers in nonsheltered environments engaged in significantly more instructional interactions with supervisors and exhibited significantly fewer occurrences of inappropriate behavior.
Reported Factors Contributing to Job Terminations of Individuals with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Hanley-Maxwell Cheryl , Rusch Frank R. , Chadsey-Rusch Janis , Renzaglia Adelle
Published: November 2015

This study examined factors reported to contribute to job terminations of adults with disabilities. Fifty-one terminations were investigated utilizing three job termination categories. The most frequently reported causes for job loss were problems in the areas of character and/or production. Social awareness, character, and/or production accounted for more than 80% of all terminations. Results indicated that the majority of job terminations were due to reasons classified as social reasons, and when production problems were reported, the presence of social problems was associated with a greater likelihood of job termination.
Philadelphia's Urban Model Project: A System-Wide Effort to Integrate Students with Severe Handicaps
Authors: McGregor Gail , Janssen Cynthia M. , Larsen Lawrence A. , Tillery Winifred L.
Published: November 2015

School systems across the country are at different stages in the integration of students with severe handicaps into regular schools. As part of a settlement agreement arising from a lawsuit filed against the School District of Philadelphia, placement of students with severe handicaps was among a list of conditions ordered to improve the services provided to this population. This report describes the activities and accomplishments of Philadelphia's Urban Model Project, a federally funded model demonstration program designed to effect changes in services for students with severe disabilities. As a result of this project, a majority of these students are currently attending regular schools along with their chronological age peers.
Assessing the Goodness-of-Fit between Persons and Their Environments
Authors: Schalock Robert L. , Jensen C. Mark
Published: November 2015

This article outlines the assessment and quantification procedures involved in determining the goodness-of-fit (congruence) between persons and their environments. A three-step procedure is outlined that includes (a) assessing a person's behavioral capabilities on a series of either community living or vocational skills, (b) determining the performance requirements within the person's respective living or work environments, and (c) computing a Goodness-of-Fit Index (GOFI) that quantifies the congruence. Concurrent validity and correlational data are presented that summarize the relationship among criterion groups, GOFIs, and a number of outcome measures. This article concludes with a discussion of potential uses of the GOFI procedure for completing discrepancy analyses, person- and setting-intervention strategies, and formulating program development and evaluation strategies.
Maximizing Social Contact for Secondary Students with Severe Handicaps
Authors: Chin-Perez Gregg , Hartman Dan , Park Hyun Sook , Sacks Sharon , Wershing Alice , Gaylord-Ross Robert
Published: November 2015

This article describes a secondary program for students with severe handicaps which attempts to maximize the social contact between handicapped and nonhandicapped persons. The program selectively integrates students into academic and other regular education courses. Nonhandicapped peers are used for tutoring purposes as well as research assistants in a social skills training project. A survey completed by a variety of important others indicated substantial improvements in the behavioral repertoires of the students with severe disabilities, particularly in the area of social skills.
The Quality of IEP Objectives Associated with Placement on Integrated versus Segregated School Sites
Authors: Hunt Pam , Goetz Lori , Anderson Jacki
Published: November 2015

Individualized education programs (IEPs) written for students with severe disabilities who attended either integrated or segregated educational sites were evaluated on the basis of the degree to which they included seven components identified as indicators of best practices. These seven indicators fall into three categories: age-appropriateness, functionality, and potential for generalization to a variety of environments. Teacher training and expertise were held constant. A difference was found between the groups on the overall quality of IEP objectives, with higher scores on those IEPs written for students who were integrated into regular school campuses. Opportunities available in integrated programs that may enhance IEP quality are discussed.
The Match between Reinforcer Class and Response Class: Its Influence on Communication Intervention Strategies
Authors: Reichle Joe , Lindamood Linda , Sigafoos Jeff
Published: November 2015

Reinforcement principles applied to language intervention have attended primarily to the “power” of the reinforcer selected rather than the match between the reinforcer and topography of the behavior being taught. Stokes and Baer (1977) emphasized the use of natural maintaining contingencies. This emphasis has resulted in a number of investigations that have attempted to discern the effect(s) that the functional relationship between stimulus and reinforcer might have upon the acquisition of language comprehension and production skills. This article reviews this literature, offers methodological considerations in the selection of reinforcer/response relations, and discusses the possible effect that such reinforcement strategies have on learning to comprehend language as well as learning to produce language to both request and provide information.