bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward Accurate Sensing with Knitted Fabric: Applications and Technical Considerations
Authors: Vallett Richard , McDonald Denisa Qori , Dion Genevieve , Kim Youngmoo , Shokoufandeh Ali
Published: June 2020

Fabric sensors have been introduced to enable flexible touch-based interaction. We advance the technical capabilities of a scalable and low-profile knitted capacitive touch sensing system by introducing methods to improve its touch localization accuracy. The sensor hardware design tends toward minimalism by using a single conductive yarn and two external connections located at each endpoint. Fewer connectors simplify the textile system integration, but this comes at the expense of reduced signal information output from the system. The electrical continuity of the sensing element, essential to the process of knitting, also increases the uncertainty of localizing touch. We propose using Bode analysis to measure changes in signal due to capacitive touch, as well as design a new algorithm, MSD, which retains the most significant aspects of the signal in terms of touch location identification. We do not classify location of touch, but focus on an invariant signal representation. To evaluate our methods, we introduce ELD, a distance metric to compute the similarity of pairs of key-presses, generalizable to computing distances of tensors of varying lengths. Our experiments show that the proposed sensing method results in high-fidelity signals. Furthermore, the sparse representation of key-presses produced by MSD significantly increases separability between different touch locations. Possible applications based on these sensors are also illustrated through prototypes and use case descriptions.
Model-based Testing of Interactive Systems using Interaction Sequences
Authors: Turner Jessica , Bowen Judy , Reeves Steve
Published: June 2020

Testing is an important part of the software engineering process to help ensure that systems will behave as expected. In this paper we investigate interactive system testing, taking into consideration the different components of the system. Interactive systems have three different components, the interactive, functional and overlap. The interactive component is the interface of the interactive system, the functional the underlying instructions of the interactive system, and the overlap component the point at which the interactive and functional components intersect. The interactive and functional components are often tested separately, however, problems can occur where these components overlap. Therefore, in this paper we present a model-based testing approach specifically designed to inspect the overlap component behaviour and to ensure that it behaves as expected.
The quantum threat
Authors: Mone Gregory
Published: June 2020

Cryptographers are developing algorithms to ensure security in a world of quantum computing.
Anthocyanin Colorimetric Strip for Volatile Amine Determination
Authors: Agunos Ricarl Irish F. , Mendoza Danilet Vi M. , Rivera Michael Angelo S.
Published: June 2020

Food freshness is one of the main concerns of consumers. Food spoilage is mainly caused by contamination and microbial growth in which the latter produces volatile amines in the process. Several methods have been used to determine volatile amines to indicate food freshness, and indicator films are deemed as the most time-efficient and economical. In this study, anthocyanin was extracted from mangosteen rind as a natural dye indicator and was incorporated in a chitosan/PVA polymer matrix. The film with different concentrations of anthocyanin extract (5%, 15%, and 25%) was prepared and tested for their sensitivity to 136 ppm ammonia vapor followed by colorimetric analysis using ImageJ software. The film with 25% anthocyanin yielded the most visible color change upon exposure to ammonia vapor. The color changed from pink to yellowish-brown within 14 minutes of exposure. The RGB-converted images of the film with 25% anthocyanin extract showed gradual loss of red coloration being replaced by cyan spots. FTIR spectra showed incorporation of anthocyanin to the chitosan/PVA matrix with the decrease in the intensity of the C-N stretching peak. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the film has high thermal stability with onset temperature of 310.43°C. Thus, the film developed is an excellent candidate for optimization and production of a thermally stable amine detector for food products.
Autologous Deciduous Tooth-Derived Material for Alveolar Ridge Preservation: A Clinical and Histological Case Report
Authors: Minetti Elio , Taschieri Silvio , Corbella Stefano
Published: June 2020

The management of the alveolar socket is fundamental to create conditions that would allow the positioning of dental implants in the same site, when required. A number of biomaterials were described in scientific literature to be used for alveolar socket preservation immediately after tooth extraction: autogenous grafts, allograft (of various origin), and synthetic products. Among the autogenous biomaterials, some authors proposed the use of autogenous dentin and/or enamel, retrieved from teeth, adequately managed, and purified. The present case report with two-year follow-up shows one case of alveolar socket preservation by using tooth graft material that was subsequently treated with one implant-supported rehabilitation in the same site. The paper presents clinical and histological outcomes and confirms the feasibility of adopting such autogenous biomaterial in standard procedures.
[Retracted] Association between Rosacea and Cardiovascular Diseases and Related Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Li Yanmei , Guo Linghong , Hao Dan , Li Xiaoxue , Wang Yujia , Jiang Xian
Published: June 2020

Background. Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin disorder. Several studies, but not all, have suggested a high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in rosacea patients. This study is aimed at investigating the association between rosacea and CVDs and related risk factors. Methods. We performed a literature search through PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, from their respective inception to December 21, 2019. Two reviewers independently screened the articles, extracted data, and performed analysis, following the PRISMA guidelines. Odds ratios (OR) or standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for outcomes. The included studies’ quality was evaluated using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results. The final meta‐analysis included ten studies. The pooled analysis found no association between rosacea prevalence and the incidence of CVDs (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.86‐1.10). Rosacea was found to be significantly associated with several risk factors for CVDs (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.05‐1.31), including hypertension (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.02‐1.35), dyslipidemia (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.00‐1.79), and metabolic syndrome (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.09‐2.72). However, no association was found between rosacea and diabetes mellitus (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.82‐1.16). Among the biological parameters, a significant association was found between rosacea and total cholesterol (SMD = 0.40; 95% CI = −0.00, 0.81; p < 0.05), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (SMD = 0.28; 95% CI = 0.01, 0.56; p < 0.05), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (SMD = 0.25; 95% CI = 0.10, 0.41; p < 0.05). We found no association between rosacea and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (SMD = 0.00; 95% CI = −0.18, 0.18; p = 0.968) or triglycerides (SMD = 0.10; 95% CI = −0.04, 0.24; p = 0.171). Conclusions. Although no significant association was found between rosacea and CVDs, rosacea was found to be associated with several of related risk factors. Patients with rosacea should pay more attention to identifiable CVD risk factors, especially those related to inflammatory and metabolic disorders.
Differentiating the Differentiation Syndrome Associated with IDH Inhibitors in AML
Authors: Zeidner Joshua F.
Published: June 2020

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) inhibitors have clinical activity in acute myeloid leukemia, in part, by differentiating blasts to mature myeloid cells. In the largest systematic analysis to date, differentiation syndrome was seen in 19% of patients treated with IDH inhibitors. Early recognition with uniform diagnostic criteria, as utilized in acute promyelocytic leukemia, may reduce subsequent complications.

See related article by Norsworthy et al., p. 4280
Disparate Effect of Antioxidant Supplements on the Basal Tone and Vascular Remodeling of the Aorta in Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Marañón Rodrigo O. , Joo Turoni Claudio M. , Peral de Bruno María
Published: June 2020

Background: Oxidative stress plays an essential role in the vascular tone in hypertension; however, the mechanisms remain unclear. Aim: This study aimed to determine the antioxidant effect of tempol and vitamin C (Vit-C) on the basal tone and vascular remodeling of the aorta in nitric oxide (NO) deficiency-induced hypertensive rats. Method: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were induced to hypertension by Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Animals were randomized as follows: vehicle (Control: CR), CR-tempol, CR-Vit-C, L-NAME, L-NAME-tempol, and L-NAME-Vit-C. After 6 weeks of treatment, the basal aortic tone was evaluated by sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and calcium-free medium. Endothelial function, NO, reduced-to-oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio, resting membrane potential (mP), and vascular remodeling were also measured. Results: L-NAME rats showed an increased basal tone that was blunted by both SNP (−547 ± 69; n = 7 vs. CR: −7.5 ± 6.7 mg; n = 7; p < 0.001) and calcium-free medium. Tempol or Vit-C did not reverse hypertension, and the high basal tone was decreased only with tempol. In L-NAME rats, only tempol partially improved endothelial function, GSH-to-GSSG ratio, mP values, and vascular remodeling. Conclusions: Tempol decreased calcium-dependent basal aortic tone and improved vascular homeostasis in L-NAME rats. Vit-C did not lead to a similar effect, suggesting that alterations in the superoxide dismutase pathway may play a role in the basal aortic tone.
Diagnostic Performance of Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy for the Detection of Bladder Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Jie , Wang Yu-Chen , Luo Wen-Jie , Dai Bo , Ye Ding-Wei , Zhu Yi-Ping
Published: June 2020

Objective: To systematically evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) in detection of bladder cancer. Methods: A systematic literature search on CLE in diagnosing bladder cancer in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases was performed. A bivariate meta-regression model was used for meta-analysis to evaluate the pooled diagnostic value of CLE. Results: A total of 5 eligible studies involving 302 lesions were available for this meta-analysis. In a per-lesion analysis, pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and summary receiver-operating curve (SROC) area under the curve (AUC) of CLE for malignant lesions were 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–0.94), 0.72 (95% CI: 0.59–0.82), 3.20 (95% CI: 2.14–4.79), 0.14 (95% CI: 0.09–0.21), 23.27 (95% CI: 11.71–46.25), and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.89–0.94), respectively. For low-grade urothelial carcinomas, pooled sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, and AUC for CLE were 0.72 (95% CI: 0.57–0.84), 0.87 (95% CI: 0.77–0.93), 5.48 (95% CI: 3.12–9.62), 0.32 (95% CI: 0.20–0.50), 17.19 (95% CI: 8.01–36.89), and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.82–0.88), respectively. For high-grade urothelial carcinomas, pooled sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, and AUC for CLE were 0.82 (95% CI: 0.62–0.92), 0.84 (95% CI: 0.73–0.91), 4.96 (95% CI: 2.58–9.54), 0.22 (95% CI: 0.09–0.52), 22.49 (95% CI: 5.33–94.85), and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.86–0.91), respectively. Conclusion: CLE is a promising endoscopy technique for real-time tumor grading of bladder cancer.
Modified Anesthesia Protocol for Electroconvulsive Therapy Permits Reduction in Aerosol-Generating Bag-Mask Ventilation during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Luccarelli James , Fernandez-Robles Claudia , Fernandez-Robles Carlos , Horvath Ryan J. , Berg Sheri , McCoy Thomas H. , Seiner Stephen J. , Henry Michael E.
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a critical procedure in psychiatric treatment, but as typically delivered involves the use of bag-mask ventilation (BMV), which during the COVID-19 pandemic exposes patients and treatment staff to potentially infectious aerosols. Objective: To demonstrate the utility of a modified anesthesia protocol for ECT utilizing preoxygenation by facemask and withholding the use of BMV for only those patients who desaturate during the apneic period. Methods: This chart review study analyzes patients who were treated with ECT using both the traditional and modified anesthesia protocols. Results: A total of 106 patients were analyzed, of whom 51 (48.1%) required BMV using the new protocol. Of clinical factors, only patient BMI was significantly associated with the requirement for BMV. Mean seizure duration reduced from 52.0 ± 22.4 to 46.6 ± 17.1 s, but seizure duration was adequate in all cases. No acute physical, respiratory, or psychiatric complications occurred during treatment. Conclusions: A modified anesthesia protocol reduces the use of BMV by more than 50%, while retaining adequate seizure duration.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Community- and Hospital-Acquired Acute Kidney Injury with COVID-19 in a US Inner City Hospital System
Authors: Pelayo Jerald , Lo Kevin Bryan , Bhargav Ruchika , Gul Fahad , Peterson Eric , DeJoy III Robert , Salacup Grace Faith , Albano Jeri , Gopalakrishnan Akshaya , Azmaiparashvili Zurab , Patarroyo-Aponte Gabriel , Rangaswami Janani
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Emerging data have described poor clinical outcomes from infection with the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV 2) among African American patients and those from underserved socioeconomic groups. We sought to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in this special population. Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted in an underserved area with a predominance of African American patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample population. The onset of AKI and relation to clinical outcomes were determined. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with AKI. Results: Nearly half (49.3%) of the patients with COVID-19 had AKI. Patients with AKI had a significantly lower baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and higher FiO2 requirement and D-dimer levels on admission. More subnephrotic proteinuria and microhematuria was seen in these patients, and the majority had a pre-renal urine electrolyte profile. Patients with hospital-acquired AKI (HA-AKI) as opposed to those with community-acquired AKI (CA-AKI) had higher rates of in-hospital death (52 vs. 23%, p = 0.005), need for vasopressors (42 vs. 25%, p = 0.024), and need for intubation (55 vs. 25%, p = 0.006). A history of heart failure was significantly associated with AKI after adjusting for baseline eGFR (OR 3.382, 95% CI 1.121–13.231, p = 0.032). Conclusion: We report a high burden of AKI among underserved COVID-19 patients with multiple comorbidities. Those who had HA-AKI had worse clinical outcomes compared to those who with CA-AKI. A history of heart failure is an independent predictor of AKI in patients with COVID-19.
Real power loss reduction by tundra wolf algorithm
Authors: Lenin Kanagasabai
Published: June 2020

In this work Tundra wolf algorithm (TWA) is proposed to solve the optimal reactive power problem. In the projected Tundra wolf algorithm (TWA) in order to avoid the searching agents from trapping into the local optimal the converging towards global optimal is divided based on two different conditions. In the proposed Tundra wolf algorithm (TWA) omega tundra wolf has been taken as searching agent as an alternative of indebted to pursue the first three most excellent candidates. Escalating the searching agents numbers will perk up the exploration capability of the Tundra wolf wolves in an extensive range.  Proposed Tundra wolf algorithm (TWA) has been tested in standard IEEE 14, 30 bus test systems and simulation results show the proposed algorithm reduced the real power loss effectively.
Emerging Technologies for Identifying Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Ding Eric Y. , Marcus Gregory M. , McManus David D.
Published: June 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and much of this is driven by challenges in its timely diagnosis and treatment. Existing and emerging mobile technologies have been used to successfully identify AF in a variety of clinical and community settings, and while these technologies offer great promise for revolutionizing AF detection and screening, several major barriers may impede their effectiveness. The unclear clinical significance of device-detected AF, potential challenges in integrating patient-generated data into existing healthcare systems and clinical workflows, harm resulting from potential false positives, and identifying the appropriate scope of population-based screening efforts are all potential concerns that warrant further investigation. It is crucial for stakeholders such as healthcare providers, researchers, funding agencies, insurers, and engineers to actively work together in fulfilling the tremendous potential of mobile technologies to improve AF identification and management on a population level.
Epidemiology of Atrial Fibrillation in the 21st Century
Authors: Kornej Jelena , Börschel Christin S. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Schnabel Renate B.
Published: June 2020

Accompanying the aging of populations worldwide, and increased survival with chronic diseases, the incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) are rising, justifying the term global epidemic. This multifactorial arrhythmia is intertwined with common concomitant cardiovascular diseases, which share classical cardiovascular risk factors. Targeted prevention programs are largely missing. Prevention needs to start at an early age with primordial interventions at the population level. The public health dimension of AF motivates research in modifiable AF risk factors and improved precision in AF prediction and management. In this review, we summarize current knowledge in an attempt to untangle these multifaceted associations from an epidemiological perspective. We discuss disease trends, preventive opportunities offered by underlying risk factors and concomitant disorders, current developments in diagnosis and risk prediction, and prognostic implications of AF and its complications. Finally, we review current technological (eg, eHealth) and methodological (artificial intelligence) advances and their relevance for future prevention and disease management.
Population-Based Screening for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Khurshid Shaan , Healey Jeffrey S. , McIntyre William F. , Lubitz Steven A.
Published: June 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common and morbid arrhythmia. Stroke is a major hazard of AF and may be preventable with oral anticoagulation. Yet since AF is often asymptomatic, many individuals with AF may be unaware and do not receive treatment that could prevent a stroke. Screening for AF has gained substantial attention in recent years as several studies have demonstrated that screening is feasible. Advances in technology have enabled a variety of approaches to facilitate screening for AF using both medical-prescribed devices as well as consumer electronic devices capable of detecting AF. Yet controversy about the utility of AF screening remains owing to concerns about potential harms resulting from screening in the absence of randomized data demonstrating effectiveness of screening on outcomes such as stroke and bleeding. In this review, we summarize current literature, present technology, population-based screening considerations, and consensus guidelines addressing the role of AF screening in practice.
How Will Machine Learning Inform the Clinical Care of Atrial Fibrillation?
Authors: Siontis Konstantinos C. , Yao Xiaoxi , Pirruccello James P. , Philippakis Anthony A. , Noseworthy Peter A.
Published: June 2020

Machine learning applications in cardiology have rapidly evolved in the past decade. With the availability of machine learning tools coupled with vast data sources, the management of atrial fibrillation (AF), a common chronic disease with significant associated morbidity and socioeconomic impact, is undergoing a knowledge and practice transformation in the increasingly complex healthcare environment. Among other advances, deep-learning machine learning methods, including convolutional neural networks, have enabled the development of AF screening pathways using the ubiquitous 12-lead ECG to detect asymptomatic paroxysmal AF in at-risk populations (such as those with cryptogenic stroke), the refinement of AF and stroke prediction schemes through comprehensive digital phenotyping using structured and unstructured data abstraction from the electronic health record or wearable monitoring technologies, and the optimization of treatment strategies, ranging from stroke prophylaxis to monitoring of antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy. Although the clinical and population-wide impact of these tools continues to be elucidated, such transformative progress does not come without challenges, such as the concerns about adopting black box technologies, assessing input data quality for training such models, and the risk of perpetuating rather than alleviating health disparities. This review critically appraises the advances of machine learning related to the care of AF thus far, their potential future directions, and its potential limitations and challenges.
The types of skippers described by Shu-Iti Murayama (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae)
Authors: CHIBA HIDEYUKI , TSUKIYAMA HIROSHI , LIANG JIA-YUAN , WANG SHOU-MING , SHEN ZONG-YU , HSU YU-FENG
Published: June 2020

Fifteen holotypes of Asian Hesperiidae taxa described by Shu-iti Murayama were examined, and their taxonomic status is discussed. We confirm that five are valid names while the rest are synonyms as indicated partially by previous authors. Valid species-level names are Aeromachus matudai (Murayama), Aeromachus bandaishanus Murayama & Shimonoya, Coladenia pinsbukana (Shimonoya & Murayama), and Sebastonyma suthepiana Murayama & Kimura. Valid subspecies-level name is Ochlodes yuchingkina Murayama & Shimonoya. In order to settle the taxonomic status of Pedesta masuriensis cuneomaculata Murayama, masuriensis and tali were studied morphologically and molecularly. As a result, we consider that masuriensis and tali are two different species and treat cuneomaculata as a junior subjective synonym of tali.
Implementation and use of a mobile lab bench for a first course in power electronics
Authors: Karayaka Bora , Adams Robert , Yanik Paul
Published: June 2020

Although practice by doing is typically regarded to be an effective method to facilitate student learning in a laboratory setting, stretched resources may require alternative approaches to accommodate students and to promote student retention. A portable multipurpose lab bench is presented that facilitates student learning by incorporating demonstration and discussion in a lab environment. In a first course for power electronics, improved student engagement and learning enhancement were targeted through the use of this single bench cohesively with classroom presentations and relevant theory. Laboratory assessments and end of course surveys for two consecutive years were collected to assess the learning experience as well as the effectiveness of the established mobile lab bench concept.
The Nineteenth Biennial Convention of the American Association of Instructors of the Blind
Authors: Burritt O. H. , Shotwell A. M.
Published: June 2020

Editor's Note.—Mr. Burritt and Mr. Shotwell wish our readers to understand that the following report has been written entirely from notations made in longhand during the sessions of the convention; and that, while they have made a special effort to reflect the speakers’ ideas as accurately as possible, they do not anticipate that they have been able to do so in every instance. They, therefore, ask the indulgence of any speaker who may be unintentionally misquoted, for they have made a conscientious effort to give a correct report of the ideas advanced by each speaker.
Use of the Canterbury Child's Aid in Infancy and Early Childhood: A Case Study
Authors: Harris Leonard , Humphrey G. Keith , Muir Darwin M. , Dodwell Peter C. , Humphrey G. K.
Published: June 2020

This study reports on auditory-motor and sonar aid training in a child from age 6 months to 4 years. As an infant, the child used the aid for a variety of purposes, including reaching, feeding, and walking, after she had received auditory-motor training. As a preschooler, she used the aid to explore novel environments and avoid objects in her path. The relation between the child's use of the aid as an infant and as a preschooler is discussed, and the importance of training in the use of such a device is stressed.
Correlations of Scores of Low Vision Children on the Perkins–Binet Tests of Intelligence for the Blind, the Wisc–R and the Wrat
Authors: Gutterman Jo Ellin , Ward Marjorie , Genshaft Judy
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation of the Perkins–Binet Tests of Intelligence for the Blind, Form U; the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Revised (WISC–R), Verbal Scale; and the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT). These three tests were administered to 52 low vision children in the third, fifth, seventh, and ninth grades in residential and day school programs in Ohio. Means and standard deviations were computed for scores at each grade level and for the total group. Results indicated that the mean ten scores on the two tests of intelligence were significantly different. In addition, there was a moderate correlation of the WISC–R with the WRAT but only a low correlation of the Perkins–Binet with the WRAT. Implications of these results are discussed and recommendations are made for further research.
Low Vision Enhancement: The Use of Figure–Ground Reversals with Visually Impaired Children
Authors: Gardner Laurence R.
Published: June 2020

Describes an investigation of how different figure-ground contrast combinations affect the visual functioning of visually impaired children. The study employed the use of field reversals—printing white and yellow foregrounds on a black background—to decrease the amount of light reflected from printed materials to the eye. Eighteen visually impaired children ranging in age from nine years, four months to 14 years, six months participated in this study. The findings indicated that neither reversals in contrast nor chromaticity differences were effective measures for increasing visual functioning.
Visual Impairment among Developmentally Disabled Clients in California Regional Centers
Authors: Sadowsky Alan D.
Published: June 2020

California serves its developmentally disabled population in 21 regional centers throughout the state. More than 3,700 of the 63,000 clients of these centers have a serious visual impairment. This article describes the extent of impairment as well as other characteristics of the visually impaired clients.
The Use of Capsule Paper in Producing Tactual Maps
Authors: Andrews Sona Karentz
Published: June 2020

Many processes are currently used to produce tactual maps for visually impaired persons. Although each process has certain assets and liabilities, the variety gives tactual map researchers and makers tremendous flexiblity in selecting a process appropriate for their specific needs. Capsule paper is one recently developed process that lends itself to many tactual map applications. More than 60 different tactual maps were created on capsule paper to examine the effectiveness of this process. The medium's composition, steps necessary for map compilation and processing, equipment costs and operations, appropriate symbolization, and advantages and disadvantages of the process are discussed.
Increasing Visually Handicapped Students’ Awareness about Jobs
Authors: Howze Yvonne Simmons
Published: June 2020

Many visually handicapped students’ misconceptions and misinformation about jobs may result in disappointment when their idealized career images cannot be actualized. Professionals in the field, then, must seek to provide these youth with opportunities for examining a variety of occupations in an effective, but non-threatening manner. The project described in this article was one teacher's innovative attempt to involve ten visually impaired youth, enrolled in a public day school, in an activity which would assist them in making realistic career choices.
Positive Reinforcement Interventions in the Classroom
Authors: Luiselli J.K.
Published: June 2020

Positive reinforcement procedures represent a non-aversive treatment strategy for the management of behavior disorders of developmentally handicapped persons. However, very few studies describe the way reinforcement methods can be applied to the management problems of individuals with vision impairments. This article presents two studies in which positive reinforcement programs were utilized to treat the aggressive and noncompliant behavior of visually impaired, multiply handicapped students within special education classrooms. The reinforcement interventions were extremely effective with both groups of students and, in one case, produced substantial generalization to a non-treated problem behavior.
A New Method of Stair Markings for Visually Impaired People
Authors: Sakamoto L. , Mehr E.B.
Published: June 2020

Falls on stairs are a major hazard for elderly persons who are visually impaired. Stair marking is critical in making travel on stairs safe. Two groups of subjects with distinctly different visual impairments—group 1 having cataracts with healthy maculas; group 2 having age-related maculopathy with very little or no cataract development—were assessed to determine preference between two methods of marking stairways. Subjects were exposed to two identical stairways, one marked with traditional horizontal contrasting stripes, the other with a new method of three vertical stripes. Findings show that the newer method was preferred, with group 2 having a higher preference rate than group 1.
Independent Glucose Monitoring by Functionally Blind Diabetics
Authors: Ponchillia S.V. , LaGrow S.
Published: June 2020

Self-monitoring of blood glucose levels is the preferred practice for diabetics who wish to control the disease through diet and medication. However, some persons are not able to perform this task independently because of severe vision loss. Glucometers (devices to measure blood glucose levels) with an auditory output may prove to be a viable alternative for these persons. The purpose of this study was to determine if functionally blind diabetics could indeed monitor their glucose levels independently using a talking glucometer. Although results indicate that this is possible, some individualized instruction is needed to ensure adequate coverage of the test strip and, therefore, accurate glucose readings.
Understanding Low Vision Reading
Authors: Legge G.E. , Rubin G.S. , Pelli D.G. , Schleske M.M. , Luebker A. , Ross J.A.
Published: June 2020

Reading difficulties usually accompany low vision. This article presents an overview of a series of psychophysical studies dealing with visual factors that influence normal and low vision reading. Despite fears that the heterogeneity of low vision conditions might be too great to yield general principles, this research has uncovered distinctions, such as the presence or absence of central vision, that predict reading performance. Moreover, the findings indicate that the visual requirements of reading are modest and within the capacity of most low vision subjects. This research establishes optimal stimulus conditions for low vision reading, the best reading performance that low vision individuals may hope to achieve, new methods of visual assessment, and principles for the design of new low vision reading devices.
Blind Children's Concepts of how People See
Authors: Bigelow A.
Published: June 2020

Two totally blind children, ages 4 and 5, were asked to show objects to sighted people and to each other. The children's performance indicated that they were aware that blind people see differently than sighted people; blind persons need to feel objects in order to gain a sense of them but sighted persons do not. The younger child conceded that sighted persons could see at a distance yet he did not orient objects correctly to consider another's perspective. The older child oriented objects correctly for others but responded as if sighted persons could see objects only if the objects were within 5 feet of them.
Access to Transition Services: Integral Part of Curriculum
Authors: Irwin J. , Macdonell P.
Published: June 2020

Services to assist youth in the transition from school to work have become a priority for both rehabilitation agencies and school programs. However, a close and cooperative working relationship between agencies and schools is needed to facilitate successful transitions. This article describes an innovative course developed by the Oregon Commission for the Blind to encourage this positive working relationship between agency staff and teachers.
Stress and the Mobility Training Process: A Literature Review
Authors: O'Donnell B.A.
Published: June 2020

Stress is considered to be a major problem in the mobility training process. The effects of stress, potential stress reduction techniques, factors which impact independent mobility, and suggested areas of future research are discussed in this literature review. Practitioners should consider implementing some of these strategies to alleviate the anxiety of their visually impaired students and clients during mobility training. Hopefully, a greater number of professionals will become more involved in conducting formalized research projects in this area.
Ease of Learning the Braille and Fishburne Alphabets
Authors: Newman S.E. , Hall A.D.
Published: June 2020

Subjects ( N=72) studied the braille or Fishburne alphabet for eight minutes and were then tested for recall. More of the Fishburne than of the braille items were recalled, independent of the arrangement of the items. An implication for instructing visually impaired people is discussed.
To Blindfold or Not to Blindfold? Is that the Question for O&M Instructors?
Authors: Lauren H.
Published: June 2020

This report demonstrates how partial occlusion can be used as an integral technique of O&M training for partially sighted individuals. It can encourage integration of good cane skills with better, and more appropriate, use of remaining vision. Partial occlusion can even be used as an assessment tool.
Bioptic Telescopic Spectacles and Driving Performance: A Study in Texas
Authors: Lippmann O. , Corn A.L. , Lewis M.C.
Published: June 2020

The safety of driving an automobile with Bioptic Telescopic Spectacles (BTS) is controversial, yet statistical analysis of driving performance may help resolve questions. All 64 persons licensed to drive in Texas with BTS and who had driven at least one year were compared to a random control group. BTS drivers had 1.34 times more accidents than controls ( p< 0.05). Although telescope users do not have a significantly higher chance of having a first accident, BTS drivers who were involved in one accident are likely to have more accidents than control subjects. The telescope-using drivers were at fault in 82 percent of their 22 accidents, while 40 percent of the controls were faulted in their 15 accidents. Visual field losses with bilaterally fitted telescopes are profound. A direct correlation between any specific ocular defect and a particular accident is difficult to determine.
Parents as Screeners for Strabismus in Their Children
Authors: Rosner J. , Rosner J.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of the study described in this article was to determine the accuracy of parents in identifying strabismus (disorder of eye in which optic axis cannot be directed to same object) in their young children. Data are presented on 536 children (84 strabismics and 452 non-strabismics), aged 3–71 months, that show parents to be remarkably good detectors of strabismus. The predictive value of their positive tests was 93 percent; sensitivity, 65 percent; and specificity, 99 percent.
A New Approach to Recreational Rehabilitation
Authors: Cory D. , Neustadt-Noy N.
Published: June 2020

This paper explores the importance of recreation in rehabilitation programs for visually impaired adults. After a brief survey of the developments leading to this importance, a pilot model which gives equal emphasis to rehabilitation and recreation activities is described.
Using An Integrated Literacy Curriculum with Beginning Braille Readers
Authors: Swenson A.M.
Published: June 2020

Beginning braille readers may benefit from the integrated-literacy curriculum now used as the basis for academic instruction in many regular kindergartens. This approach reflects the interrelationships of oral language, reading, and writing, and stresses the pleasurable and purposeful aspects of literacy and skill development. Careful selection and adaptation of materials and techniques by the vision teacher will enable young blind children to participate in many meaningful literacy experiences.
An Alternative to Braille
Authors: Thurlow W.R.
Published: June 2020

The standard braille code symbols are very difficult to discriminate tactually, and the braille alphabet code is difficult to learn. It is possible to design alphabet code symbols which are significantly easier to discriminate and learn. Tests of an improved code called C5 are described, which show that its symbols can be perceived accurately when formed by a braille printer.
Evaluation of a Community Living Program in New Zealand
Authors: Sims M.
Published: June 2020

The author analyzes a community living program for disabled people in New Zealand by assessing effects of the environment on the quality of life of the participants. Of the 16 members of the community living program, 9 participated in the self-evaluative process by keeping journals. The author reports on the findings and notes that caution should be used when interpreting the results.
Returning to Work after the Onset of Visual Impairment
Authors: Jeppsson-Grassman E.
Published: June 2020

This article presents a research program which examined the employment conditions of Swedish visually impaired persons, aged 25–45 at the onset of their visual impairment, who were employed at that time. A conceptual framework, through which the adaptive process necessary for the visually impaired individual to make, is addressed. The return to work did not necessarily mean that the person had been truly rehabilitated, since many of these workers were underemployed. Major qualitative changes of job characteristics also impacted dramatically on the workers.
Writing, Computers, and Visual Impairment
Authors: Ely R.
Published: June 2020

This article reviews studies on how both blind and sighted individuals write, elements of the writing process, and books that describe programs to help writers. These studies show that writing, for the blind individual, places an enormous burden on short-term memory, since it must be utilized to retrieve information from long-term memory and to monitor text transcriptions, grammar, the mechanics of composition, and spelling. Tools to help the blind writer are discussed in detail. Text access, a major hurdle, is met head-on. Yet computers that facilitate access with alternate outputs, braille translation programs, and other adaptive devices will help the visually impaired or blind individual only if schools can acquire them and only if they are priced to allow individuals to buy them for home use. In conclusion, solutions to problems are offered to stimulate the reader to think about the cognitive and curricular implications of computer technology for visually impaired individuals now and in the future.
Treating Sex Offenders: Effects on Male and Female Therapists
Authors: Shrim Elad , Baum Nehami
Published: June 2020

The aim of the present study, based on in-depth semistructured interviews conducted in Israel with 18 social workers (nine women and nine men), working as probation officers who diagnose and treat sex offenders, was twofold: The first goal was to examine how treating sex offenders affects the male and female practitioners’ daily lives and specifically, their parenting. Second, in light of the claim that support of colleagues and family members is very important for coping with secondary traumatization, the study investigated how working with sex offenders influenced the practitioners’ ability to share their experiences with their colleagues in the workplace and with their partners at home. The study findings, based on a phenomenological analysis, revealed that male and female probation officers working with sex offenders experienced anxiety, suspicion, and concern for their children’s safety. Their spousal and collegial relationships were also affected by their work. In addition to not receiving support from their colleagues and partners, they experienced loneliness and attacks “from the inside and from the outside,” expressed in criticism, loathing, and disgust in relation to their work. The findings reveal, for the first time, the common and the distinct effects of male and female practitioners’ experiences on their spousal and parental relationships. It also expands the understanding of the connection between exclusion and loneliness experienced by them, due to their limited ability of sharing their experience with colleagues and family members. The discussion offers theoretical explanations for these implications and recommends how to provide relief for male and female practitioners, who work with sex offenders.
Where is an Organization? How Workspaces Are Appropriated to Become (Partial and Temporary) Organizational Spaces
Authors: Wilhoit Larson Elizabeth
Published: June 2020

One question not addressed in communicative constitution of organizations (CCO) literature is where an organization is located. As more workers work on the road, at coffee shops, from home, and in coworking spaces, it is important to consider the relationship of these spaces to the organization. In this study, I argue that when someone appropriates features of a space to do work, that space becomes organizational. This process allows spaces like coffee shops and homes to become at least partially and temporarily organizational, rendering these workspaces as organizational contributors (to a certain extent). Using photo-elicitation interviews with workers in a variety of fields and organizations, I demonstrate gradients of spatial organizationality and show how, through appropriation, some spaces are more clearly organizational than others.
An experimental study & analysis of effects of different parameters of microwave in production of bio-diesel
Authors: Kumar Garg Naveen , Pal Amit
Published: June 2020

A novel and rapid method for transesterifying cottonseed oil into bio-diesel using a domestic microwave oven (MW) has been developed in the present study. Five parameters were investigated to see their effect on bio-diesel yield output. These were input power, reaction time, oil-to-methanol molar ratio, turntable speed, and fan cooling speed. The respective values used for experimentation were 200 W to 500 W, 4 to 11 minutes, 1:4.5 to 1:12, 10 to 40 rpm, and 800 to 1500 rpm and the volume of the catalyst was kept constant at 1%. The experimental results of microwave study were compared to the traditional magnetic stirrer (MS) approach for the same molar ratio and catalyst amount. The optimum parameters for the transesterification process assisted by the domestic microwave oven were obtained such as methanol to oil molar ratio (1:4.5), potassium hydroxide catalyst concentration (1% (w/w)), reaction time (11 minutes), turntable speed (40 rpm) and cooling fan speed (1500 rpm). The corresponding yield of cottonseed bio-diesel (CBD (MW)) was 99.5 percent. Compared with the contemporary MS approach for the same molar ratio and catalyst number, the yield of CBD (MS) was recorded in 25 minutes as 61.23 percent. It was also found that the turntable speed and cooling fan rpm of the improved microwave oven greatly, influenced the yield of bio-diesel and facilitated better utilization of microwave energy in mixing and avoid overheating of the sample mixture. A drastic reduction in microwave input power consumption was observed as compared to the pragmatic MS approach. The findings of this study have established the utility of energy-efficient, updated domestic microwave oven in the generation of bio-diesel on a small scale.
What We Could Learn About Holistic Face Processing Only From Nonface Objects
Authors: Gauthier Isabel
Published: June 2020

Holistic processing is inferred from a number of effects, many of which suggest that people generally find it difficult to process face parts independently. The study of holistic processing using faces has revealed many failures of convergence across different measures, as well as very poor reliability. New tasks designed for individual-differences measurement of holistic processing are more reliable. But other challenges to the study of individual differences in holistic processing require a different approach, in particular the use of nonface objects. Observers’ experiences with faces may be so extensive that it cannot be quantified. In addition, it is difficult to manipulate experience with faces to study causes and mechanisms underlying holistic effects. Recent work has combined an individual-differences approach with a parametric manipulation of experience to reveal that holistic processing arises from domain-specific experience. Other work has revealed that learned attention to parts is sufficient to result in holistic processing, consistent with a mechanism rooted in category-specific learned attention.
Using Salivary Cortisol as an Objective Measure of Physiological Stress in People With Dementia and Chronic Pain: A Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: Pu Lihui , Todorovic Michael , Moyle Wendy , Jones Cindy
Published: June 2020

Background:

Pain can elevate stress in people with dementia. Although salivary cortisol is used as a biomarker of stress in people with dementia, few studies have reported the feasibility of collection methods to assess salivary cortisol in nursing home residents with both dementia and chronic pain.

Objective:

To explore the feasibility of collecting cortisol via salivary swab as an indicator of stress in people with dementia and chronic pain.

Methods:

Participants ( N = 43) aged ≥ 65 years and living with dementia and chronic pain were randomly assigned to the PARO (individual, nonfacilitated, 30-min sessions with the robotic seal PARO, 5 days per week for 6 weeks) or usual-care group using computer-generated random numbers. Salivary cortisol was collected in the early morning before the intervention (Week 0) and at the completion of the intervention (Week 6) for comparison.

Results:

There were multiple challenges associated with saliva collection and analysis, including cognitive impairment of participants, ability to obtain repeated samples with saliva volume adequate for assay, and overall cost. Ultimately, adequate saliva was collected from only 8 participants (both pre- and post-intervention) for assay and quantitative analysis.

Conclusion:

Considering the multiple challenges involved in obtaining valid saliva samples in this population, salivary cortisol may not be a feasible biomarker of physiological stress in people with dementia and chronic pain.