bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Backtalk: A call for systemic change for personalized learning
Authors: Cirasuolo Joseph J.
Published: April 2019

Advocates of personalized learning sometimes send the message that educators who are not part of their movement are not interested in meeting individual students’ needs. Joseph Cirasuolo argues that this is not the case. In reality, educators are part of a system that makes individualized learning difficult, if not impossible. The age-graded structure and lack of multiple pathways to tackle content fail to take into account the variations in how people learn. Proponents of personalized learning should see their colleagues as members of the same team as they work together to change the system.
Staffing Composition, Offender Profiles, and Supervision in China’s Community Corrections
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Irwin Darrell D. , Jiang Shanhe , Zhang Haoyue , Huang Shuaining
Published: April 2019

In 2003, the Chinese government began the use of community corrections to guide the reeducation and reform of offenders. Scholarly research within the field of community corrections has since begun, but the development of Chinese community corrections research is still in its infancy. There is little information about offenders and community corrections’ institutional organization and staffing. There is a dearth of comprehensive studies on the administrative process of community corrections, particularly pretrial investigation, transition of offenders, supervision, and a reward and punishment system. Thus, this study explored these flaws and omissions through research on offender profiles and the supervisors responsible for the development of Chinese community corrections.
Black Cat Bias: Prevalence and Predictors
Authors: Jones Haylie D. , Hart Christian L.
Published: April 2019

There is anecdotal and empirical evidence for black cat bias, the phenomenon where cats ( Felis silvestris catus) with black coats are viewed more negatively, adopted less often, and euthanized more often than lighter colored cats. Despite the anecdotal claims, there is scarce empirical evidence for black cat bias. Using evaluations of cat photos, the researchers examined differences in people’s attitudes toward black and non-black cats of various colorations on measures of perceived aggression, perceived friendliness, and willingness to adopt. The researchers also explored whether participants’ levels of religiosity, superstitious beliefs, and prejudicial racial attitudes were related to black cat bias. Finally, the researchers explored whether black cat bias was related to difficulties people had in reading the emotions of black cats compared to non-black cats. This study provided evidence of black cat bias in the sample. People exhibiting higher degrees of black cat bias had higher levels of superstition, but not religiosity or racial prejudice. Additionally, people who had difficulty reading the emotions of black cats tended to exhibit a stronger bias against adopting black cats.
Do I Need to Be Positive to Be Happy? Considering the Role of Self-Esteem, Life Satisfaction, and Psychological Distress in Portuguese Adolescents’ Subjective Happiness
Authors: Freire Teresa , Ferreira Gabriela
Published: April 2019

This study aims to analyze the relationships between gender, age, positive (self-esteem, life satisfaction) and negative/distress psychological variables (anxiety, depression, stress), and subjective happiness. A total of 910 adolescents (51.0% girls, mean age of 13.89 years) answered measures of subjective happiness, life satisfaction, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and stress. Girls showed lower life satisfaction and self-esteem and greater distress symptoms than boys. Older age was associated with lower subjective happiness, life satisfaction, and self-esteem and greater distress symptoms. Being girl, younger, having lower levels of depressive symptoms, and higher levels of life satisfaction and self-esteem were associated with greater subjective happiness. Self-esteem was a moderator between depressive symptoms and subjective happiness, and stress and subjective happiness. Life satisfaction was a moderator between depression and subjective happiness. Results highlight the role of life satisfaction and self-esteem as a positive functioning dimension for adolescents to manage, regulate, or minimize their psychological distress and to build higher levels of subjective happiness as a source of positive mental health.
An insight on the process–property relationships of melt spun polylactic acid fibers
Authors: Ali AM , El-Dessouky HM
Published: April 2019

Polylactic acid (PLA) fibers are receiving growing interest as one of the recent innovative materials being developed for various applications. The inherent biodegradability of PLA makes it highly attractive for the biomedical and health care sectors. PLA fibers need to be partially and/or highly oriented to allow high performance and readiness for a wide range of manufacturability. In this study, the structure and properties of PLA fibers, manufactured at different spinning speeds, were studied. Laser diffractometry, polarized light microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to determine the diameter, birefringence, molecular orientation, enthalpy and degree of crystallinity of as-spun and drawn PLA fibers. The results of DSC and XRD showed that the degree of crystallinity of the PLA fibers is significantly improved for the drawn PLA fibers compared to the as-spun fibers and leveled off in the case of changing the take-up speeds of drawn fibers.
Sodré and the Dialectics of Brazil’s Social Formation
Authors: Del Roio Marcos
Published: April 2019

In the early 1960s, Nelson Werneck Sodré developed a complex and sophisticated theory of Brazilian reality and its historical dynamics. In the light of the criticism and distortion of his views of the intervening years, a clarifying summary of his most important work is in order. Such a summary suggests that the new absolute truths of Brazilian historiography and political sciences have elements that can be questioned and that in interpretations of Brazil one can never forget that science is also expressed as ideology and political practice.

No início dos anos 1960, Nelson Werneck Sodré desenvolveu uma teoria complexa e sofisticada da realidade brasileira e sua dinâmica histórica. À luz das críticas e distorções de suas visões nos anos intermediários, um resumo esclarecedor de sua obra mais importante está em ordem. Tal resumo sugere que as novas verdades absolutas da historiografia brasileira e das ciências políticas têm elementos que podem ser questionados e que nas interpretações do Brasil nunca se pode esquecer que a ciência também se expressa como ideologia e prática política.
In the Darkness there can be Light: A Family's Adaptation to a Child's Blindness
Authors: Ulster Alissa A. , Antle Beverley J.
Published: April 2019

Blindness or significant visual impairment can be very difficult for families to cope with. In this article, the authors present an in-depth case study of a family's journey through diagnosis and treatment for retinoblastoma (RB), a rare form of childhood eye cancer affecting the retina. As a part of the analysis of this family's experience, the authors examine assumptions about children's abilities to cope and predominant notions of quality of life through the experiences of one child, Alex, and his family. In spite of signs of psychological trauma, Alex demonstrated a remarkable adaptive ability and had more insights about his experiences than anticipated. Similarly, following a period of considerable worry for their child's health and his ability to adjust to blindness, the parents, too, feel their family has a good quality of life.
Perceptions of Effective Leadership in Schools for Students with Visual Impairments: A National Study
Authors: Oyinlade A. Olu , Gellhaus Marva
Published: April 2019

This study investigated the effectiveness of the leadership of principals and superintendents of schools for students who are visually impaired from their teachers’ perspectives. The findings indicated that these school leaders fell short of the teachers’ expectations on various aspects of leadership.
Predictors of Competitive Employment for Blind and Visually Impaired Consumers of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Authors: Capella-McDonnall Michele E.
Published: April 2019

In this study, four variables were found to have a significant association with competitive employment outcomes for blind and visually impaired consumers of vocational rehabilitation services. These variables were the receipt of education as a rehabilitation service that resulted in an educational certificate or degree, having worked since the onset of the disability, reason for applying to vocational rehabilitation related to obtaining a job, and the relationship between the counselor and the consumer being rated as high quality.
The Ticket to Work Program: Employment Networks’ Views on Serving Beneficiaries who are Blind or Visually Impaired
Authors: Capella-McDonnall Michele E.
Published: April 2019

This article reports on a survey of the opinions of employment networks (ENs) about serving social security beneficiaries who are blind or visually impaired under the Ticket to Work program. Although most of the 267 ENs who participated in the survey expressed concerns about working with those who are blind or visually impaired, they did not seem to be biased against working with this population based solely on their disability type.
The Copying of Complex Geometric Drawings by Sighted and Visually Impaired Children
Authors: Bouaziz Serge , Russier Sandrine , Magnan Annie
Published: April 2019

This study examined the role of visual imagery in the centripetal execution principle (CEP), a graphic rule that is related to the drawing of complex figures that are composed of embedded geometric shapes. Sighted blindfolded children and children with early-onset low vision and early-onset blindness copied raised-line drawings (using only the haptic modality). The results revealed the dominance of the CEP in the sighted and blind groups, but not in the group with low vision. They suggest that the CEP is not determined by visual imagery, but by a more general mechanism that is based on children's perceptual experience.
Toward International Comparability of Survey Statistics on Visual Impairment: The DISTAB Project
Authors: Hendershot Gerry E. , Crews John E.
Published: April 2019

Using data from recent national disability surveys in Australia, Canada, France, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the United States, an international team of researchers coded indicators of several types of disability using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. This article discusses the Disability Tabulations (DISTAB) project and presents and evaluates the estimates of the prevalence of visual impairments.
The Debate Within: Authority and the Discourse of Blindness
Authors: Lunsford Scott
Published: April 2019

This article reviews three articles that add to the debate on the terminology that is used to represent people who are blind. It argues that authority is not limited to just one person or one organization, but is shared through an intertextuality, or utterance, of other authorities, and that conflict within blind discourse communities does not dissolve the notion of community—as exemplified by the attempts by several organizations for people who are blind to express individual and competing desires for “appropriate” terminology.
Applying the Diagnostic Intervention Model for Fostering Harmonious Interactions between Deaf-Blind Children and their Educators: A Case Study
Authors: Janssen Marleen J. , Riksen-Walraven J. Marianne , van Dijk Jan P. M.
Published: April 2019

This article demonstrates the use of the Diagnostic Intervention Model in everyday practice and the effects of its application in a case study of Kris and his educator using individual coaching. The implications of the case for everyday practice are discussed.
Adolescents with Low Vision: Perceptions of Driving and Nondriving
Authors: Sacks Sharon Zell , Rosenblum L. Penny
Published: April 2019

Two studies examined how adolescents with low vision perceive their ability to drive. The results of both studies indicated similarities in the participants’ responses with respect to knowledge of visual impairment, information about options for driving with low vision, frustrations and obstacles imposed by not being able to drive, and independent travel skills.
Beliefs about Physical Activity among Children who are Visually Impaired and their Parents
Authors: Stuart Moira E. , Lieberman Lauren , Hand Karen E.
Published: April 2019

This survey of 25 visually impaired children aged 10–12 and their parents investigated the value the parents placed on their children's physical activity and the barriers to physical activity that the children faced. The results revealed that as vision loss increased, parents’ expectations for their children's ability to be physically active decreased, as did the children's views that physical activity is important or useful.
Orientation and Mobility Content for Children and Youths: A Delphi Approach Pilot Study
Authors: Emerson Robert S. Wall , Corn Anne L.
Published: April 2019

A panel of 20 experts in orientation and mobility (O&M) reached consensus on concepts and skills that O&M specialists should teach to students who are blind or have low vision. Panelists also agreed on visual, environmental, and behavioral conditions that would require a formal O&M assessment.
The Effect of a Summarization-Based Cumulative Retelling Strategy on Listening Comprehension of College Students with Visual Impairments
Authors: Tuncer A. Tuba , Altunay Banu
Published: April 2019

Because students with visual impairments need auditory materials in order to access information, listening comprehension skills are important to their academic success. The present study investigated the effectiveness of summarization-based cumulative retelling strategy on the listening comprehension of four visually impaired college students. An adapted multiple-investigation design across subjects was used. Findings suggest that the instructional procedures led to increased listening comprehension among participants, and that these gains were maintained at follow-up 30 days later.
Contextual Effects of Race or Ethnicity on Acceptance for Vocational Rehabilitation of Consumers who are Legally Blind
Authors: Cavenaugh Brenda S. , Giesen J. Martin , Steinman Bernard A.
Published: April 2019

Race or ethnicity, demographic, and disability factors were investigated as predictors of vocational rehabilitation acceptance. Severity of disability was the strongest predictor, followed by education, a secondary disability, race or ethnicity, and age at the time of application; gender was not significant. Acceptance rates differed with specific race or ethnicity and influence of control variables. Implications for policy and research are discussed.
Psychosocial Intervention for Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Pilot Project
Authors: Wahl Hans-Werner , Kämmerer Annette , Holz Frank , Miller Daniel , Becker Stefanie , Kaspar Roman , Himmelsbach Ines
Published: April 2019

This study evaluated an emotion-focused and a problem-focused intervention designed for patients with age-related macular degeneration. It found a limited decrease in depression in the emotion-focused group and an increase in active problem orientation and in adaptation to vision loss in the problem-focused group.
Learning and Using Print and Braille: A Study of Dual-Media Learners, Part 2
Authors: Lusk Kelly E. , Corn Anne L.
Published: April 2019

This is the second part of a two-part report of a study about the instruction of children who are learning or using both braille and print simultaneously (dual media). It explores the instructional methods and curricular decisions of teaching dual media to students with low vision and reports the students’ current literacy levels and reading rates and their teachers’ expectations for future levels of literacy.
Academic Achievement and Personality in University Students who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Klinkosz Waldemar , Sekowski Andrzej , Brambring Michael
Published: April 2019

This study compared academic achievement by sighted versus visually impaired students at Polish universities and analyzed potential between-group differences on various personality traits and their impact on academic grades. Although there was no main effect of visual status on academic achievement, there were some significant differences between the personality traits of the visually impaired and sighted groups.
Braille Literacy Skills: An Analysis of the Concept of Spelling
Authors: Argyropoulos Vassilios S. , Martos Aineias C.
Published: April 2019

This article analyzes the braille spelling errors of 16 Greek students who are blind. More specifically, it explores the types of spelling errors, the students’ attitudes toward spelling, and the relationship between spelling and reading strategies.
A Model of Successful Work Experience for Employees who are Visually Impaired: The Results of a Study
Authors: Golub Dawn B.
Published: April 2019

This study explored the factors that contribute to a successful work experience for employees who are visually impaired from the perspective of employers. The employers who were interviewed emphasized the dual responsibility that employees have to empower their own success and that employers have to enable the employees’ success. In addition, an integrative model of successful employment was developed from the interviews with the employers.
Seize the Moment! Establishing Vision-Related Rehabilitation and Access in the Nation's Public Health Policy Agenda
Authors: Kirchner Corinne
Published: April 2019

The potential benefits to the vision rehabilitation field and the people it serves of an ongoing collaboration with public health are highlighted. This article focuses on the current phase of the long-term federal Healthy People initiative, and suggests that the inclusion in Healthy People 2010 of a section devoted to people with disabilities and another that specifically targets vision and hearing loss make this an especially propitious time for an alliance between fields that have historically operated on separate tracks. Formation of such an alliance faces a number of obstacles, however, and action on the part of those working in vision rehabilitation and special education is called for, lest they lose a significant opportunity to enlist professionals in public health in the cause of people with visual impairments.
Taming the Beast: Measuring Vision-Related Disability Using the International Classification of Functioning
Authors: Hendershot Gerry E. , Placek Paul J. , Goodman Nanette
Published: April 2019

This article reviews the way in which the complex phenomenon of vision-related disability is captured by an authoritative classification system: the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. Data from several major national surveys are used to illustrate how the classification system's codes referring to body function and structure, personal activities, social participation, and environmental factors relate to the surveys. Survey items specific to vision-related disability are considered in terms of codes in the International Classification of Functioning to show how the underlying conceptualization of survey questions maps to the classification system's domains. It is suggested that an understanding of the International Classification of Functioning can clarify the purposes and uses of survey questions dealing with vision-related disability. Efforts to develop standardized questions to improve comparability across surveys are encouraged.
The Low Visibility of Low Vision: Increasing Awareness through Public Health Education
Authors: Janiszewski Rosemary , Heath-Watson Shelly L. , Semidey Adrienne Y. , Rosenthal Arlen M. , Do Quynh
Published: April 2019

The importance of an informational outreach program focused on eye health and visual impairment is underscored by surveys showing that the vast majority of Americans have misperceptions about or have never heard of low vision. This article uses the National Eye Institute's Low Vision Education Program as a model for the development, implementation, and evaluation of a public health education initiative. The components of an effective public education program are outlined in the context of what people know, don't know, and want to know about vision loss.
The Effects of Different Types of Nasal Packing on Odor Function and Mucociliary Function After Septum Surgery
Authors: Caglar Ozge , Guclu Oguz , Oymak Sibel , Derekoy Sefa
Published: April 2019

Background:

In this study, we evaluated how the Merocel and nasal splint packing placed in the nose after septoplasty surgery affects the olfactory and mucociliary functions of the nose in the early period, and compared the 2 packing with each other.

Material and Method:

The study included 60 patients with isolated septal deviation and 30 patients in the control group. The patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. Nasal splint was inserted after septoplasty in group A (n = 30). Merocel was inserted in group B (n = 30). The Sniffin sticks test and saccharin test were applied to the patients before surgery and 15 days after the surgery. The same tests were applied to the control group consisting of 30 patients and the results were compared.

Results:

No complications, such as postoperative bleeding, submucoperichondrial hematoma, or abscess formation, were found in both groups. Mucociliary function was improved after septoplasty, and it was statistically significant, but there was no statistically significant difference between both packing groups. A statistically significant difference was found for the odor test in patients who used nasal splint packing in comparison with patients who used Merocel in the early period.

Conclusion:

The odor test showed significant differences between the 2 groups and this was statistically significant in the early period. Mucociliary function was better after surgery, but there was no statistical difference in the different nasal packing groups.
The Utility of a Positive Body Image Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults Who Perceive Death to Be Near and Fear It
Authors: Bodner Ehud , Bergman Yoav S.
Published: April 2019

Physical changes are an inevitable part of the aging process. However, research has demonstrated inconclusive findings with regard to body image among older adults. This study attempts to clarify the utility of body image among this age-group, by adopting the framework of terror management theory. It is suggested that a positive body image may moderate the connection between two types of death concerns and psychological distress: subjective nearness-to-death and death anxiety. A convenience sample of 386 community-dwelling older adults, aged 60–97, filled scales measuring subjective nearness-to-death, positive body image, psychological distress, and death anxiety. A significant negative association was found between a positive body image and distress. Moreover, positive body image moderated the connection between distress and both subjective nearness-to-death and death anxiety. Thus, holding a positive image of the body seems to be an important resource for older adults when death is perceived to be near.
Repair of tricuspid valve regurgitation due to a tricuspid valve cleft
Authors: Saku Kosuke , Inoue Hironori , Yamamoto Keisuke , Ueno Masahiro
Published: April 2019

A cleft in the tricuspid valve, classified as congenital dysplasia, is a rare disease. Here, we report the case of a 79-year-old man with tricuspid regurgitation due to a cleft in the anterior leaflet. The patient underwent successful tricuspid valve repair with cleft closure, chordal reconstruction, and tricuspid annuloplasty.
A comparison between Caucasian and Asian superficial venous anatomy and reflux patterns – Implications for potential precision endovenous ablation therapy
Authors: Lee QWS , Gibson K , Chan SL , Rathnaweera HP , Chong TT , Tang TY
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study is to investigate whether there are differences between predominantly Caucasians and Asians from two disparate cohorts around the globe, with regard to their pre-operative venous reflux patterns and truncal vein characteristics, which could potentially help clinicians tailor venous treatment for chronic venous insufficiency on a more individualised basis in different parts of the world.

Methods

A total of 200 lower limb chronic venous insufficiency duplex studies (127 Singaporean (predominantly Asian) patients) and 200 lower limb chronic venous insufficiency duplex scans (137 Americans predominantly Caucasians) were analysed and compared for differences in venous anatomy and reflux characteristics.

Results

Asian patients from Singapore presented with higher CEAP scores compared to the predominantly Caucasian cohort from the US (30% CEAP 4a or greater vs. 17.5%; p < 0.01). Singaporeans had more great saphenous vein reflux starting at the sapheno-femoral junction (86% vs. 73%; p < 0.01) and ending at the ankle (93% vs. 46%; p < 0.01). Vein diameters were generally larger in the US cohort of patients (median 5.7 mm vs. 2.9 mm; p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The predominantly Asian cohort from Singapore had smaller diameter truncal veins, longer segments of truncal vein reflux and present later with more advanced chronic venous insufficiency compared to their American counterparts. This information could help tailor endovenous ablation on a more individualised basis in the future.
Pericardial malignant solitary fibrous tumour with right atrial invasion – a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Li-Ping , Zhang Lu , Wang Guanqun , Adhikari Binay Kumar , Liu Quan , Zhang Weihua
Published: April 2019

Solitary fibrous tumours are unusual neoplasms that develop from mesenchymal cells, usually originating from the pleura. A pericardial solitary fibrous tumour is an extremely rare occurrence. We report a 64-year-old woman who presented to the hospital with chief complaints of dyspnoea and abdominal distension. Echocardiography and enhanced computed tomography revealed an intrapericardial tumour with local invasion to the right atrium. Histopathological examination of a biopsy specimen showed a patternless distribution of spindle-shaped cells in a collagen stroma, with a high mitosis rate. Immunohistochemistry was positive for vimentin, CD34, and Bcl-2. The final diagnosis was a pericardial malignant solitary fibrous tumour with right atrial invasion. Surgical resection of the tumour was not performed because of its invasion into the myocardium. We systematically reviewed the literature on cardiac solitary fibrous tumours up to 2019.
Effect of hippotherapy on physiological cost index and walking speed of adolescents with diplegia
Authors: du Plessis Ninette , Buys Tania Lee , de Bruyn Jodie Tamarin
Published: April 2019

Introduction

This research describes the therapeutic impact of hippotherapy on adolescents with cerebral palsy diplegia using the Physiological Cost Index and walking speed as outcome measures.

Method

A single-system multiple-baseline design across subjects was implemented. Ten adolescents with diplegia were included. Participants had to be able to walk independently or with an assistive device. Adolescents were classified using the gross motor functional classification system levels I to III, and were 12 to 17 years old. Physiological Cost Index and walking speed were measured. Hippotherapy sessions took place once a week over a 12-week period. Each hippotherapy session (conducted by an occupational therapist) lasted 30 minutes. Average baseline measurements were compared with measurements taken before each intervention session and with post-intervention measurements.

Results

One participant’s Physiological Cost Index values decreased significantly ( p = 0.014). Walking speed increased significantly over the course of treatment from the sixth intervention session (Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, p = 0.024 post-intervention). The greatest improvement in walking speed was seen at intervention session 12 ( p = 0.018).

Conclusion

One participant’s Physiological Cost Index decreased and 10 participants showed increased walking speeds. Adolescents with diplegia need to adjust to increased growth and their walking ability may regress if therapy is not provided. Hippotherapy supports gross motor functioning and simulates the pelvic movement of normal walking.
Ambivalent cartographies: Exploring the legacies of indigenous land titling through participatory mapping
Authors: Anthias Penelope
Published: April 2019

This paper reflects on the possibilities and limits of participatory mapping as a tool for interrogating the power–knowledge inequalities that structure indigenous peoples’ engagements with postcolonial state cartography and bureaucracy. I describe mapping activities conducted in a remote Guaraní community in the Bolivian Chaco as part of a research project exploring the dynamics and legacies of Native Community Lands, a national indigenous land titling programme. While these exercises were designed to explore the disjunctures between state and indigenous knowledges of territory, they generated unexpected power dynamics that led me to reflect more deeply on the power of maps, the pitfalls of ‘countermapping’ as an activist practice and my own imbrication in a bureaucratic field of power. The paper concludes that participatory mapping can be a fruitful if ambivalent method for studying state bureaucracy, which demonstrates the value of examining the legal-cartographic knowledges of the state ‘from the margins’ – including from the perspective of the people and places they claim to represent.
Status of secondary school libraries and librarians in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Zakir
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study is to explore the current environment of secondary school libraries and librarians in Bangladesh. To achieve this objective, an exploratory mixed method study was conducted to ensure the best possible outcomes. In the qualitative phase, besides literature review, five school librarians were interviewed. Based on the output in the qualitative phase, a questionnaire was designed for quantitative phase and collected 87 responses using an online survey. In general, it is found that the development of libraries and creating qualified school library professionals have been slow due to a lack of governmental and non-governmental initiatives. School libraries, where they exist, offer minimal services and facilities; school librarians are not integrated with the teaching and learning process. Finally, the school library is identified as being of lesser significance to other priorities in the country’s education system and annual budget, and the resulting issues and challenges are, therefore, an important topic and issue of significance.
“You Are Really at Their Mercy”: Examining the Relationship between Transportation Disadvantage and Social Exclusion among Older Adults through the Use of Innovative Technology
Authors: Fields Noelle , Cronley Courtney , Mattingly Stephen P. , Murphy Erin R. , Miller Vivian J.
Published: April 2019

This study investigates transportation disadvantage (TD) and its impact on social exclusion among lower-income older adults ( n = 10) through the use of a custom-designed daily transportation diary app, MyAmble. The study utilized an ecological momentary assessment design using the Travel Buddy, which was the qualitative feature of MyAmble. The Travel Buddy allowed study participants to share their transportation experiences as they relate to the following domains of social exclusion: quality of life, participation, and resources. Conventional content analysis revealed five primary themes related to TD and social exclusion: constrained autononmy and flexibility, safety concerns, dimished emotional well-being, barriers to community engagement, and burdensome. The Travel Buddy produced qualitative data that contextualize lost opportunities and how characteristics of economic justice exacerbate the risk of TD, as well as how individuals manage within these intersections of disadvantage. Study findings provide insight for expanded conversations about how to transform transportation planning from mobility to equity. Finally, the use of ecological momentary assessment through digital platforms such as the Travel Buddy offer an innovative way to collect holistic data related to TD that will lead to better opportunities for transportation planners, engineers, and social service providers to work together to address the needs of environmental justice populations, including lower-income older adults.
Influence of Travel Behavior, Personal Preferences, and Lifestyle on Perceived Convenience to Amenities among Calgary Residents
Authors: Onderwater Mark , Boisjoly Geneviève , El-Geneidy Ahmed
Published: April 2019

The presence of essential amenities, such as grocery stores, parks, and employment, within convenient distances impacts individuals’ travel behavior and quality of life. Whereas what is perceived as a convenient distance varies among individuals, the goal of this research is to better understand perceived convenience in the context of differing lifestyles, sociodemographic characteristics, and personal preferences. Using an online travel behavior survey with a sample of 711 residents from Calgary, Canada, we segmented individuals into eight distinct groups based on travel behavior and personal characteristics. We then examined their perceived convenience to reach various amenities among each group, and the actual distances to these amenities. Our results reveal eight distinct typologies that differ according to mode choice, lifestyle, neighborhood characteristics, and trip satisfaction. We observe that distance negatively affects reported convenience to work, grocery stores, and parks, but reported convenience is also closely related to modes available as well as to transport and home location options that meet individuals’ preferences. Typologies in which individuals are able to select their preferred transport options or home location typically report a higher convenience of access to various destinations, and this is especially true for typologies with high cycling, walking, and public transport mode shares. This study demonstrates the importance of providing individuals with a variety of affordable options in relation to transport mode and home locations, which can be of interest to researchers and planners concerned with improving convenience of access to local amenities by sustainable modes.
Knee Pathology in Young Adults After Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: A Prospective Case Series of 47 Patients With a Mean 9.5-Year Follow-up
Authors: Ekås Guri Ranum , Laane Marit Mjelde , Larmo Arne , Moksnes Håvard , Grindem Hege , Risberg May Arna , Engebretsen Lars
Published: April 2019

Background:

The rate of secondary knee injuries after pediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is uncertain, and previous studies are limited because of poor methodology.

Purpose:

To evaluate the incidence of new meniscal injuries since the initial diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of young adults who sustained a pediatric ACL injury. In addition, to evaluate meniscal and cartilage injuries in the index knee and contralateral knee injuries on MRI at final follow-up (9.5 years). Furthermore, to assess leg length and alignment based on long-leg radiographs.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Study population at final follow-up included 47 young adults who sustained a pediatric ACL injury before age 13 years. They were followed prospectively since the time of injury for a mean 9.5 years at final follow-up. Imaging included diagnostic MRI of the index knee and 3.0-T MRI of both knees at 1-, 2-, and 9.5-year follow-up, in addition to long-leg radiographs at final follow-up. Forty-three patients underwent active rehabilitation without ACL reconstruction initially; 4 were treated with initial ACL reconstruction. At final follow-up, 27 (57%) had undergone ACL reconstruction.

Results:

Fourteen patients had meniscal tears in the index knee at final follow-up (prevalence, 30%). The majority of these were in the same location as previously repaired tears (n = 9). Between diagnostic MRI and final follow-up, 16 patients had sustained new meniscal tears to a healthy meniscus (incidence, 34%). At final follow-up, meniscal injuries recorded at baseline or during follow-up were no longer visible and appeared healed in 17 patients (20 tears). MRI at final follow-up showed cartilage injuries in the index knee of 13 patients (28%) and contralateral injuries in 8 patients (meniscus, n = 2; cartilage, n = 5; subchondral fracture, n = 1). Two patients had a leg-length difference >15 mm, and 3 had side-to-side difference in knee alignment >5°.

Conclusion:

The incidence of new meniscal tears after pediatric ACL injury was 34% during a mean follow-up period of 9.5 years. At final follow-up, 27 patients (57%) had normal menisci, and none had developed knee osteoarthritis. Primary active rehabilitation, close follow-up, and delayed surgery if needed may be a viable and safe treatment option for some pediatric ACL injuries.
Modeling the effect of damage on diffusive behavior in a polymeric matrix composite material
Authors: Bourennane Hocine , Gueribiz Djelloul , Fréour Silvain , Jacquemin Frédéric
Published: April 2019

In this work we investigate the effect induced by a cavity on the moisture diffusion behavior of a polymer matrix. Diffusion at the interface between the matrix and cavity is modeled owing to a thermodynamic approach. In this study, the effects related to crack shape and volume fraction on the overall diffusive behavior are accounted for. Two cases were treated: the case where the cavity is closed and located within the bulk of the matrix volume and another one where the cavity corresponds to an open crack. Two parameters were chosen for modeling the cavity: its geometric configuration and its volume fraction. In the case of a crack contained in the bulk of the material, several numerical examples have been performed for either a single cavity or for several cavities. In this second case, the effects related to the spatial dispersion of these cavities were investigated. The identification results for the diffusion coefficient show an increased sensitivity to the presence of damage in the form of cracks, especially when these cracks tend towards a flattened shape. In addition, a remarkable diffusion anisotropy takes place.
Hispanic Male Cancer Survivors’ Coping Strategies
Authors: Sommariva Silvia , Vázquez-Otero Coralia , Medina-Ramirez Patricia , Aguado Loi Claudia , Fross Marshara , Dias Emanuelle , Martinez Tyson Dinorah
Published: April 2019

Cancer survivors manage their new status using a multitude of coping mechanisms. Coping strategies vary by individual, but are also socioculturally mediated. Scarce evidence on coping strategies adopted by Hispanic male cancer survivors (HMCS) is available to date. The purpose of this study was to explore the reaction to diagnosis and subsequent coping strategies employed by HMCS. Data were gathered through focus groups ( n = 18), cognitive interviews ( n = 12), and phone interviews ( n = 84). Coping strategies included positive attitudes, humor, optimism and social support, use of home remedies, lifestyle changes, and faith. Findings are consistent with research on non-cancer-related coping showing that HMCS use active coping strategies, such as religion and support from family and friends. The analysis of existing strategies and needs points to the need to develop evidence-based psychosocial services that build on strengths and coping behaviors already employed by HMCS.
“Anger Detracts From Beauty”: Gender Differences in Adolescents’ Narratives About Anger
Authors: Budziszewska Magdalena , Hansen Karolina
Published: April 2019

In a mixed-design narrative study, we explore how adolescent boys and girls represent experiences of anger and how their narrations are linked to self-esteem and anxiety. Polish teens from three nonurban public schools ( N = 101, 55% female, Mage = 15.5) wrote narrative accounts of their typical anger experience. We use a thematic analysis framework to analyze the patterns in these narratives. Boys and girls told stories within school, family, and relationship contexts. However, boys provided more stories that focused on the theme of everyday incidental instances of anger, whereas girls provided more stories focused on the theme of negative inner experiences. In-depth analysis resulted in the emergence of two complex narrative patterns: Anger as Outburst and Anger as Burden. Anger as Outburst described heated anger related to difficulties in self-control and aggression and was more characteristic of boys. Anger as Burden contained stories of prolonged anger related to negative self-evaluation and was more characteristic of girls. Anger as Burden was also related to higher anxiety and lower self-esteem. We conclude that in the given cultural context, adolescents lack positive narratives to frame their anger adaptively.
Oxytocin, Vasopressin and Prolactin in New Breastfeeding Mothers: Relationship to Clinical Characteristics and Infant Weight Loss
Authors: Erickson Elise N. , Carter C. Sue , Emeis Cathy L.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Maternal milk production requires the neuropeptide oxytocin. Individual variation in oxytocin function is a compelling target for understanding low milk production, a leading cause of breastfeeding attrition. Complicating the understanding of oxytocin pathways is that vasopressin may interact with oxytocin receptors, yet little is known about the role of vasopressin in lactation.

Research aims:

The aims of this study were (1) to describe maternal plasma oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin patterns during breastfeeding following low-risk spontaneous labor and birth in healthy first-time mothers and (2) to relate hormone patterns to maternal characteristics and breastfeeding measures.

Methods:

Eligible women were recruited before hospital discharge. Forty-six participants enrolled and 35 attended the study visit. Participants kept a journal of breastfeeding frequency, symptoms of lactogenesis, and infant weight. Plasma samples were obtained at breastfeeding onset on Day 4–5 postpartum, and repeated after 20 min. Hormones were measured with immunoassays. Infant weight change, milk transfer, and onset of lactogenesis were also measured.

Results:

Baseline oxytocin and vasopressin were inversely related to one another. Oxytocin and prolactin increased significantly across the 20-min sampling period while vasopressin decreased. Higher oxytocin was associated with higher maternal age, lower BMI, shorter active labor, physiologic labor progression, and less weight loss in the newborn. Higher vasopressin correlated with younger maternal age, higher BMI, and greater newborn weight loss.

Conclusions:

Oxytocin and vasopressin have contrasting relationships with maternal clinical characteristics and newborn weight gain in early breastfeeding infants. Further study is needed to understand how oxytocin and vasopressin influence lactation outcomes.
Study of physical and mechanical properties of PE/CNC nanocomposite for food packaging applications
Authors: Heidarbeigi J , Afshari H , Borghei AM
Published: April 2019

Polyethylene (PE) nanocomposites containing cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) were prepared via melt blending in a twin screw extruder. The evaluation of PE/CNC nanocomposites was studied for food packaging applications. The nanocomposites were investigated by thermal and mechanical analyses. Addition of CNC particle while having no effect on melting and crystallization temperature had intensive effect on the degree of crystallinity of the PE. It is shown that due to the weak interfacial bonding between CNC and PE matrix, a decrease in yield stress and modulus of elasticity was observed for PE/CNC nanocomposites. According to the X-ray diffraction analyses, incorporation of the CNC into PE matrix induced a preferred crystalline orientation for PE crystallite. In contradiction to other researches, existence of CNC particle in PE matrix increases the gas permeability of the nanocomposite films which can be employed for selective permeability concepts for shelf-life extension of the foods and fresh produces.
I May Not Agree With You, but I Trust You: Caring About Social Issues Signals Integrity
Authors: Zlatev Julian J.
Published: April 2019

What characteristics of an individual signal trustworthiness to other people? I propose that individuals who care about contentious social issues signal to observers that they have integrity and thus can be trusted. Critically, this signal conveys trustworthiness whether or not the target and the observer hold the same view on the issue. Five studies ( N = 3,817) demonstrated the predicted effect of caring on integrity-based trust (Studies 1, 2, 3a, 3b, and 4)—even in cases of strong disagreement—across a variety of issues (Study 1) and when behavioral outcomes with real stakes were used (Studies 3a and 3b). This effect largely results from a perception of low-caring targets as particularly untrustworthy (Study 2). Additionally, participants trusted targets with staunchly opposing views about an issue even though they simultaneously disliked them (Study 4). These findings have important implications for how people form impressions of others and speak to potential interventions to help mitigate the growing ideological divide.
Developing a moral compass: Themes from the Clinical Ethics Residency for Nurses’ final essays
Authors: Lee Susan , Robinson Ellen M , Grace Pamela J , Zollfrank Angelika , Jurchak Martha
Published: April 2019

Background:

The Clinical Ethics Residency for Nurses was offered selectively to nurses affiliated with two academic medical centers to increase confidence in ethical decision-making.

Research Question/Aim:

To discover how effective the participants perceived the program and if their goals of participation had been met.

Research design:

A total of 65 end-of-course essays (from three cohorts) were analyzed using modified directed content analysis. In-depth and recursive readings of the essays by faculty were guided by six questions that had been posed to graduates.

Ethical considerations:

Institutional review board approval was granted for the duration of the program and its reporting period. Confidentiality was maintained via the use of codes for all evaluations including the essays and potentially identifying content redacted.

Findings:

An umbrella theme emerged: participants had developed ethical knowledge and skills that provided a “moral compass to navigate the many gray areas of decision-making that confront them in daily practice.” Six major themes corresponding to questions posed to the participants included the ability to advocate for good patient care; to support and empower colleagues, patients, and families; they experienced personal and professional transformation; they valued the multimodal nature of the program; and were using their new knowledge and skills in practice. However, they also recognized that their development as moral agents was an ongoing process.

Discussion:

Findings support that enhancing nurse confidence in their moral agency with a multimodal educational approach that includes mentored practice in ethical decision-making, enhancing communication skills and role-play can mitigate moral distress. A majority found the program personally and professionally transformative. However, they recognized that ongoing ethics discussion involvement and supportive environments would be important in their continued development of ethical agency.

Conclusion:

Multimodal ethics education programs have potential to be transformative and enhance nurse confidence in their ethical decision-making.