bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competitive Reactions to Market Entry: Explaining Interfirm Differences
Authors: Gatignon Hubert , Anderson Erin , Helsen Kristiaan
Published: December 2018

Competitive reactions are recognized as a driving force influencing marketing decisions. The authors seek to explain how established competitors in an oligopoly react to a significant new entry in their market. It has been suggested that at least some established competitors will react to a market entry positively and at least some competitors will react negatively or not at all. Both theory and evidence suggest that not all firms will react to an entry in the same way. The authors posit that interfirm differences in competitive reactions to entry can be predicted by observing, for each competitor, the elasticity of each marketing mix variable. Competitors will retaliate with their effective marketing mix “weapons” and retreat with their ineffective marketing instruments. These predictions are tested by estimating the parameters of an econometric model of demand response functions and reaction functions with data from the market for an over-the-counter gynecological product and from the airline industry. Results, replicated in the two markets, are substantially consistent with predictions.
The Effects of Concurrent Verbalization on Choice Processing
Authors: Biehal Gabriel , Chakravarti Dipankar
Published: December 2018

Subjects made an initial choice using external product information. Some concurrently verbalized this choice, whereas others did not. Next, they received more information on new brands and a new attribute for all brands. Both verbalizers and nonverbalizers then made a second choice using some of the first choice information incidentally acquired in memory. All subjects verbalized this second choice. The effects of the first choice verbalization manipulation were examined by analyzing the second choice protocols along with the choice outcome and task perception measures. In comparison with verbalizers, nonverbalizers did more problem framing and brand processing during earlier phases of the second choice. However, choice outcomes did not differ. The findings suggest that the verbalization manipulation may have altered the first choice, creating memory differences that affected some subsequent tasks. Retrieval measures corroborate this conclusion. The concurrent verbal protocol method is evaluated on the basis of these findings.
Mood Manipulation in Marketing Research: An Examination of Potential Confounding Effects
Authors: Hill Ronald Paul , Ward James C.
Published: December 2018

Recently marketing researchers have begun to direct attention to the influence of “mood” on consumer behavior. Researchers generally assume that commonly used mood manipulations produce “converging effects” and do not create confounds with other explanatory variables. The authors question this assumption and show that two different versions of the same mood manipulation are capable of producing comparable mood states that have significantly different effects on subjects’ perceived self-efficacy and subsequent decision-making effort. The results suggest that future studies of mood should be designed to better differentiate mood effects from potential confounds.
Reliability of Nominal Data Based on Qualitative Judgments
Authors: Perreault William D. , Leigh Laurence E.
Published: December 2018

Most research related to the reliability and validity of marketing measures has focused on multi-item quantitative scales. In contrast, little attention has been given to the quality of nominal scale data developed from qualitative judgments. Judgment-based (“coded”) nominal scale data are important and frequently used in marketing research-for example, in analysis of consumer responses to open-ended survey questions, in cognitive response research, in meta-analysis, and in content analysis. The authors address opportunities and challenges involved in evaluating and improving the quality of judgment-based nominal scale data, with specific emphasis on the use of multiple judges. They review approaches commonly used in other disciplines, then develop a new index of reliability that is more appropriate for the type of interjudge data typically found in marketing studies. Data from a cognitive response experiment are used to illustrate the new index and compare it with other common measures. The authors conclude with suggestions on how to improve the design of studies that rely on judgment-coded data.
An Approach for Tracking Within-Segment Shifts in Market Shares
Authors: Grover Rajiv , Srinivasan V.
Published: December 2018

Most approaches to examining the effects of marketing variables on market shares treat the market as a single aggregate. Examining the marketing effects at the segment level would be more useful managerially. Recently, Grover and Srinivasan proposed that a market segment be defined as a group of consumers homogeneous in terms of the probabilities of choosing the different brands in a product class. The market is thereby segmented into brand loyal segments and multiple switching segments. The authors extend this approach to allow the within-switching-segment market shares to vary across periods. The changes over time in within-segment market shares are related to marketing variables such as price and promotion through a logit model. Application of the model to data from a scanner panel shows that the proposed approach produces a modest improvement in predictive validity in comparison with the traditional approach of treating the market as a single aggregate.
Commentary on Biasing Effects of Pilot Samples and Gillett's Observations on the Stein Confidence Interval
Authors: Adams Arthur J. , Shiffler Ronald E.
Published: December 2018

A previous note demonstrated that correctable bias is present when pilot sample information is used to establish sample size. Though Gillett claims that the Stein approach is a superior method for establishing sample size, we argue that it pursues an artificial goal, is impractical, and is subject to the underachievement effect that prompted our original note.
Measuring the Dynamic Effects of Promotions on Brand Choice
Authors: Papatla Purushottam , Krishnamurthi Lakshman
Published: December 2018

Promotions are being used with increasing frequency by manufacturers facing highly competitive markets, which is causing concern among some marketers who feel that frequent promotions can hurt a brand. Nevertheless, there is little empirical evidence to either support or dispel such fears. To fill this gap in the literature, the authors propose a brand choice model that provides an estimate of the dynamic effects of promotions on loyalty to the brand and customers’ sensitivity to the price of the brand, and measures whether promotional purchases reinforce or reduce subsequent response to similar promotions. They estimate a random effects heteroskedastic covariance probit time-varying parameter model on household scanner panel data from the liquid detergent category. Their results indicate that increased purchases using coupons erode brand loyalty and increase price sensitivity. In addition, the authors find that the effect of features and displays on brand choice is reinforced by prior feature and display purchases, respectivly, as well as by feature and display purchases associated with price cuts. Future research directions are also discussed.
Market Intelligence Dissemination across Functional Boundaries
Authors: Maltz Elliot , Kohli Ajay K.
Published: December 2018

The authors extend previous research by examining antecedents and consequences of the market intelligence dissemination process across functional boundaries. Their study, involving 788 nonmarketing managers in high-tech equipment manufacturing companies, suggests that both dissemination frequency and formality have nonlinear effects on perceived intelligence quality. In addition, they find evidence of a mere formality effect; that is, intelligence received through formal channels appears to be used more than that obtained through informal channels. The authors also find that the frequency with which market intelligence is disseminated is related to interfunctional distance, joint customer visits, senders’ positional power, a receiver's organizational commitment, and trust in a sender. Additionally they find the formality of the dissemination process is shaped by interfunctional distance, receivers’ trust in senders, and structural flux. Interestingly, the effects of internal environmental volatility (i.e., structural flux) appear to be different from those of external environmental volatility (i.e., market dynamism). For example, structural flux is found to affect dissemination formality, but not frequency, whereas the opposite is true for market dynamism.
Metric Conjoint Segmentation Methods: A Monte Carlo Comparison
Authors: Vriens Marco , Wedel Michel , Wilms Tom
Published: December 2018

The authors compare nine metric conjoint segmentation methods. Four methods concern two-stage procedures in which the estimation of conjoint models and the partitioning of the sample are performed separately; in five, the estimation and segmentation stages are integrated. The methods are compared conceptually and empirically in a Monte Carlo study. The empirical comparison pertains to measures that assess parameter recovery, goodness-of-fit, and predictive accuracy. Most of the integrated conjoint segmentation methods outperform the two-stage clustering procedures under the conditions specified, in which a latent class procedure performs best. However, differences in predictive accuracy were small. The effects of degrees of freedom for error and the number of respondents were considerably smaller than those of number of segments, error variance, and within-segment heterogeneity.
Controlling Supplier Opportunism in Industrial Relationships
Authors: Stump Rodney L. , Heide Jan B.
Published: December 2018

The recent marketing literature reflects a growing interest in relationship management issues. In particular, several recent studies have drawn on transaction cost and agency theory to examine how interfirm relationships are organized. The general premise is that explicit control mechanisms must be deployed in a relationship to manage a partner's potential opportunism. Although previous research has shown that different mechanisms can be used, the tendency has been to examine individual mechanisms in isolation. The authors develop hypotheses about interdependences between different control mechanisms. They also identify some of the contextual factors that influence their use. The framework is tested empirically by examining how chemical manufacturers organize their supplier relationships. The results generally support the hypothesis that firms’ choices among control mechanisms are influenced by contextual factors. Only limited support is found for the hypothesis that interdependencies exist between different mechanisms.
Using Market-Level Data to Understand Promotion Effects in a Nonlinear Model
Authors: Christen Markus , Gupta Sachin , Porter John C. , Staelin Richard , Wittink Dick R.
Published: December 2018

The authors show analytically, empirically, and numerically through simulation that the estimated effects from linearly aggregated market-level data differ substantially from comparable effects that are obtained from store-level data. The magnitude of this difference renders market-level data largely unsuitable for econometric modeling, unless the marketing manager compensates for the bias that results from the incompatible aggregation. The authors introduce a new approach, a relatively simple debiasing procedure derived from simulated data. They show that this debiasing approach results in substantially improved parameter estimates. They illustrate the value of the procedure by applying it to scanner data for powdered detergents and comparing the debiased parameter estimates to results obtained from store-level data and an alternative aggregation method that maintains homogeneity for selected promotional activities.
Dimensions of Brand Personality
Authors: Aaker Jennifer L.
Published: December 2018

Although a considerable amount of research in personality psychology has been done to conceptualize human personality, identify the “Big Five” dimensions, and explore the meaning of each dimension, no parallel research has been conducted in consumer behavior on brand personality. Consequently, an understanding of the symbolic use of brands has been limited in the consumer behavior literature. In this research, the author develops a theoretical framework of the brand personality construct by determining the number and nature of dimensions of brand personality (Sincerity, Excitement, Competence, Sophistication, and Ruggedness). To measure the five brand personality dimensions, a reliable, valid, and generalizable measurement scale is created. Finally, theoretical and practical implications regarding the symbolic use of brands are discussed.
A Feature-Based Approach to Market Segmentation via Overlapping K-Centroids Clustering
Authors: Chaturvedi Anil , Carroll J. Douglas , Green Paul E. , Rotondo John A.
Published: December 2018

Nonhierarchical partitioning techniques are used widely in many marketing applications, particularly in the clustering of consumers, as opposed to brands. These techniques can be extremely sensitive to the presence of outliers, which might result in misinterpretations of the segments, and subsequently to inferring incorrect relationships of segments to independently defined, actionable variables. The authors propose a general approach to market segmentation based on the concept of overlapping clusters (Shepard and Arabie 1979), wherein each pattern of overlap can be interpreted as a distinct partition. Both K-means and K-medians clustering procedures are special cases of the proposed approach. The suggested procedure can handle relatively large data sets (e.g., 2000 entities), is easily programmable, and hence can be gainfully employed in marketing research.
Estimating Price Elasticities with Theory-Based Priors
Authors: Montgomery Alan L. , Rossi Peter E.
Published: December 2018

The authors show how price elasticity estimates can be improved in demand systems that involve multiple brands and stores. They treat these demand models in a hierarchical Bayesian framework. Unlike in more standard Bayesian hierarchical treatments, the authors use prior information based on the restrictions imposed by additive utility models. In an additive utility model approach, price elasticities are driven by a general substitution parameter as well as brand-specific expenditure elasticities. The authors employ a differential shrinkage approach in which price elasticities are held closely to the restrictions of the additive utility theory and store-to-store variation is accommodated through differences in expenditure elasticities. Application of these new methods to simulated and real store scanner data shows significant improvements over existing Bayesian and non–Bayesian methods.
Visual Attention to Repeated Print Advertising: A Test of Scanpath Theory
Authors: Pieters Rik , Rosbergen Edward , Wedel Michel
Published: December 2018

The authors examine consumers’ visual attention during repeated exposures to print advertisements using eye-tracking methodology. The authors propose a statistical model comprising submodels for two key measures of visual attention to elements of the advertisement: attention duration and inter- and intraelement saccades. These measures are vital to understanding attention wear-out and the impact of repetition on advertising effectiveness but have not been considered in previous research. The results of two studies show that (1) attention duration decreases significantly across advertising repetitions and (2) attentional scanpaths, as measured through saccades, remain constant across advertising repetitions and across experimentally induced and naturally occurring conditions. Scanpaths obey a stationary, reversible, first-order Markov process. The authors offer implications for attention theory and advertising processing.
The Impact of Brand Extensions on Parent Brand Memory Structures and Retrieval Processes
Authors: Morrin Maureen
Published: December 2018

In this research, the author examines the impact of brand extensions on consumer memory for parent brand information. The author proposes that such exposure will strengthen parent brand memory structures and facilitate retrieval processes. The author hypothesizes that the impact of extensions will be moderated by parent brand dominance, extension fit, extension number, and product category crowdedness. Two experiments are conducted. The first demonstrates that (1) exposure to brand extensions facilitates the speed with which subjects can categorize parent brands correctly, (2) this result is moderated by parent brand dominance such that nondominant brands benefit more from such exposure, and (3) extension fit moderates this effect for nondominant but not for dominant parent brands. The second study demonstrates that (1) longitudinal exposure to brand extension advertising facilitates parent brand recall but that (2) both recall and recognition are facilitated to a lesser degree than that resulting from exposure to parent brand advertising.
Haptic Cues Used for Outdoor Wayfinding by Individuals with Visual Impairments
Authors: Koutsoklenis Athanasios , Papadopoulos Konstantinos
Published: December 2018

Introduction

The study presented here examines which haptic cues individuals with visual impairments use more frequently and determines which of these cues are deemed by these individuals to be the most important for way-finding in urban environments. It also investigates the ways in which these haptic cues are used by individuals with visual impairments.

Methods

To answer the research questions, both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. The data collection procedure consisted of three parts: a focus-group interview, questionnaires, and fully structured interviews.

Results

A list of 37 haptic cues used for outdoor wayfinding emerged from the focus-group interview. The following haptic cues were calculated to be the most significant for outdoor wayfinding by individuals with visual impairments: changes in the texture of walking surface, sidewalks, bus stops, slopes, curb ramps, walls, parking posts, traffic lights, flower beds, and potholes. Participants use these haptic cues as points of reference, to determine their position in an environment, and to collect information about other objects in the environment. Haptic cues also function as warnings of possible hazards and help individuals with visual impairments to avoid colliding with objects while walking.

Discussion

The participants reported that they use haptic cues that can be perceived through different means and that they use their sense of touch to gain different types of spatial information. A discrepancy was revealed for several cues between their scores in frequency and usefulness.

Implications for practitioners

Findings from this study could be used to inform training in orientation and mobility, to enhance route descriptions, and to inform the design of commercial tactile maps.
Using Constant Time Delay to Teach Braille Word Recognition
Authors: Hooper Jonathan , Ivy Sarah , Hatton Deborah
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Constant time delay has been identified as an evidence-based practice to teach print sight words and picture recognition (Browder, Ahlbrim-Delzell, Spooner, Mims, & Baker, 2009). For the study presented here, we tested the effectiveness of constant time delay to teach new braille words.

Methods

A single-subject multiple baseline across behaviors design was used to investigate the use of constant time delay to teach recognition of highly motivating braille words to four students with visual impairments and intellectual disabilities.

Results

Each participant learned all words taught (9–12 words each). A functional relation was demonstrated for all four participants by immediate changes in trend from baseline to intervention.

Discussion

This is the first published report of the successful use of constant time delay to teach braille word recognition to students with visual impairments and intellectual disabilities. An attending cue was introduced into the procedures for students with a low number of unprompted correct responses, and results were positive. Possible sources of variability in word retention are discussed.

Implications for practitioners

Results suggest constant time delay can be adapted and implemented with braille readers in typical teaching environments.
Conditions that Influence Drivers’ Yielding Behavior in Turning Vehicles at Intersections with Traffic Signal Controls
Authors: Bourquin Eugene A. , Emerson Robert Wall , Sauerburger Dona , Barlow Janet M.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

This study evaluated drivers’ delays and yields in response to pedestrian behaviors when making right turns at the onset of a green traffic signal.

Methods

Researchers conducted trials at seven sites in the United States. Data were collected ( n = 445) in six conditions: no pedestrian present (control); and a pedestrian: standing with no cane (control), displaying a cane, flagging a cane, putting a hand up toward the driver, or taking a reversible step into the street. Driver delays were recorded in seconds from the onset of the green traffic signal to when the vehicle first moved and when the front bumper crossed the middle of the pedestrian's crosswalk.

Results

Regarding driver responses when the vehicle crossed the crosswalk: a cane display was not significantly different from no cane display; the cane-flagging, reversible-step, and hand-up conditions were all significantly better than a cane display; a reversible step was significantly better than both cane flagging and hand up. Analysis of yields found that: a cane display was not significantly different from not displaying a cane; cane flagging, reversible step, and hand up were all significantly better than the cane display; a reversible step was significantly better than both hand up and cane flagging. The greatest effect was the reversible step, which increased drivers’ yielding 205% more often than a pedestrian displaying a cane.

Implications for practitioners

For drivers to behave appropriately, they must notice the pedestrian and understand the intent to initiate a crossing. The standard practices taught by O&M specialists may not result in substantial yielding by drivers. O&M specialists could develop new and more effective practices based on these results in order to change risks for pedestrians who are blind or visually impaired when crossing many streets.
Haptic Tests for Use with Children and Adults with Visual Impairments: A Literature Review
Authors: Mazella Anaïs , Albaret Jean-Michel , Picard Delphine
Published: December 2018

We sought to provide a quantitative overview of haptic tests, so as to identify what has been done in this area so far and discuss possible avenues for the future design of haptic tests for use with persons with visual impairments. We reviewed 24 haptic psychometric tests, that is, tests performed in the haptic modality, with no reliance on vision. We found that haptics (that is, tactilokinesthetic perception or the sense of active touch) has been used in two different ways: first, to assess nonverbal or practical intelligence, replacing vision in haptic analogs of mainstream tests (for example, tactile adaptations of Wechsler performance scales); second, to assess, per se, the quality of haptic functioning in specialized tests (for example, Tactual Profile, Haptic Test Battery). In both cases, we found that only a limited number of tests had been standardized for children or were developmental tests or both. We also noticed an overwhelming use of 3-D material in the tests, and a general lack of a comparison group (blindfolded sighted participants) during the standardization process. We discuss the usefulness of designing developmental haptic test batteries to assess 2-D haptic functioning in visually impaired and sighted children.
Print to Braille: Preparation and Accuracy of Mathematics Materials in K-12 Education
Authors: Herzberg Tina S. , Rosenblum L. Penny
Published: December 2018

Introduction

This study analyzed the accuracy of 107 mathematics worksheets prepared for tactile learners. The mean number of errors was calculated, and we examined whether there was a significant difference in the level of accuracy based on National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) certification or job role of participants.

Methods

The authors selected five work sheets representative of mathematics materials transcribed for K-12 students. After completing an online demographic survey, participants prepared at least one of the worksheets and completed an online transcription survey about how they prepared each worksheet.

Results

The majority of the 59 participants spent less than 30 minutes transcribing each worksheet, and the predominant method for production was the use of braille translation software. Overall, participants had a high level of accuracy on the literary braille portions of the worksheets. There was variability in the accuracy of the Nemeth elements, formatting, and tactile graphic labels across the transcriptions. Significant differences existed between the means of errors in formatting and literary braille according to NLS certification status and, to a lesser extent, job role. There was not a significant difference in the accuracy of Nemeth elements in the majority of the worksheets according to certification status or job role. There were no significant differences in the preparation of the worksheets based on primary production method.

Discussion

There was variability in how materials were prepared for tactile readers and in the quality of the transcriptions.

Implications for practitioners

Variation in how materials are presented to tactile readers, including the formatting of headings and directions, can affect the ease of scanning and reading of materials. Inconsistencies, omissions, and errors have the potential to impact the ability of readers to understand and access information.
Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments and Their Use of Assistive Technology: Measuring the Proficiency of Teachers and Their Identification with a Community of Practice
Authors: Siu Yue-Ting , Morash Valerie S.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

This article presents an instrument that measures the assistive technology proficiency of teachers of students with visual impairments and their identification with a community of practice that values assistive technology. Teachers’ deficits in assistive technology proficiency negatively impact students who are visually impaired by stunting the development of assistive technology skills, ultimately resulting in poorer postsecondary education and employment outcomes. Identification with a community of practice that values assistive technology may be supportive of the technological proficiency of teachers of students with visual impairments.

Method

Assistive technology proficiency and community of practice identification dimensions were defined and outlined in rubric-like “construct maps.” A survey that was created to place teachers of students with visual impairments within each construct map was completed by 33 Californian teachers. Survey performance was evaluated by estimating Rasch models, which provided information on relative question difficulty and question performance.

Results

Estimated question difficulties revealed expected patterns. Only two survey questions performed irregularly (infit > 1.33). Internal reliability was good (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.80) for assistive technology proficiency, and acceptable (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.70) for community of practice identification.

Discussion

The findings suggest the survey reliably measured the assistive technology proficiency and identification with a community of practice that values technology in this sample of teachers. Utilization of this tool may enable the objective evaluation of assistive technology proficiency of teachers pre- and post-training.

Implications for practitioners

Creation of a reliable instrument that measures these constructs will support investigations in how one relates to the other, and will consider how professional development may be designed to better support the use of assistive technology by teachers.
Applying the Intervention Model for Fostering Affective Involvement with Persons who Are Congenitally Deafblind: An Effect Study
Authors: Martens Marga A. W. , Janssen Marleen J. , Ruijssenaars Wied A. J. J. M. , Huisman Mark , Riksen-Walraven J. Marianne
Published: December 2018

Introduction

In this study, we applied the Intervention Model for Affective Involvement (IMAI) to four participants who are congenitally deafblind and their 16 communication partners in 3 different settings (school, a daytime activities center, and a group home). We examined whether the intervention increased affective involvement between the participants and their communication partners and whether it increased positive emotions and reduced negative emotions in the participants.

Methods

We used video observations in a multiple-baseline design across subjects to assess the effects of the 20-week intervention on the communication partners’ interactions with the participants.

Results

After onset of the intervention, affective involvement increased for three participants, while all four participants showed an increase in positive emotions and a decrease in negative emotions. During follow-up, the positive effect on the participants’ behaviors decreased in most cases, but remained visible as compared to the baseline level.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate that the IMAI can be successfully applied to persons who are congenitally deafblind. Given the small number of participants, replication of the intervention is recommended.

Implications for practitioners

Affective involvement can be increased by training, but it is difficult to maintain this effect over time. Coaching of communication partners on a more permanent basis is recommended to maintain the sharing of emotions between persons who are congenitally deafblind and their communication partners.
The Recreation and Leisure Pursuits of Employed Adults with Visual Impairments in Nigeria: Part 2
Authors: Ajuwon Paul M. , Kelly Stacy M. , Wolffe Karen E.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Indoor and outdoor activities play an important role in enhancing the health and well-being of people with and without disabilities in developed countries. The status of recreational activities, however, is not a priority in many developing countries—those in which people struggle daily to eke out a living. This study investigates the recreation and leisure experiences of employed adults with visual impairments (those who are blind or have low vision) who live and work in Nigeria—one of the world's most populous developing nations.

Methods

We developed a questionnaire that assessed recreation and leisure among a sample of 172 adults with visual impairments living and working in Nigeria. Statistical analysis procedures included descriptive and nonparametric methods. The Mann-Whitney U-test compared the difference between the mean ranks of five recreational experience measures (dependent variables) within the independent groups.

Results

Gender, degree of visual impairment, age at onset of visual impairment, educational attainment, annual income, and postsecondary education were all characteristics that evidenced significant differences ( p < .05) in the participants’ recreation and leisure experiences that were evaluated.

Discussion

Male respondents with visual impairments and those with higher earning power were engaged more often in recreation and leisure than were female respondents or those with less robust financial situations. Furthermore, recreational activities were most important to quality of life for respondents who had at least one postsecondary degree. Individuals with low vision reported higher levels of satisfaction than those who are blind.

Implications for practitioners

It is imperative for stakeholders to explore opportunities that will increase the level of participation in recreation of people with visual impairments of both genders and all degrees of financial earning power in developing nations. The value of postsecondary education is underscored.
The Role of Visual Experience in Changing the Size of Objects in Imagery Processing
Authors: Szubielska Magdalena , Marek Bogusław
Published: December 2018

Introduction

This paper investigates the question of whether or not subjects who are congenitally blind experience greater difficulties mentally in resizing images of objects than those who have low vision or are adventitiously blind.

Methods

Two experiments were conducted: one in which subjects were asked to mentally enlarge objects they previously explored manually, and one in which subjects were tested for the ability to demonstrate the change in the size of an object imagined to be moving away. Three groups of high school students with visual impairments took part in the experiment: congenitally blind, “late blind,” and those with low vision.

Results

When showing the linear size of an object enlarged in their imagination, congenitally blind participants overestimated its size more frequently than those who were late blind. The degree of mental reduction of the size of an object imagined to be moving away was comparable for all groups.

Discussion

The results suggest that the difficulties experienced by congenitally blind participants with the mental resizing of objects may be related to problems with performing mental scaling transformations. In the low vision group, the etiology of the subjects’ visual impairment was not taken into consideration. The group turned out to be heterogeneous with respect to imagery processes.

Implications for practitioners

When using models for explaining new concepts, it is important to ensure that congenitally blind learners understand the change of scale.
Assessment of Physical Activity of People with Visual Impairments and Individuals who Are Sighted Using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Actigraph
Authors: Sadowska Dorota , Krzepota Justyna
Published: December 2018

Introduction

The aim of this study was to analyze the results of walking assessments and total energy expenditure based on a questionnaire and accelerometer measurements among people with visual impairments and those who are sighted.

Methods

The study included 25 persons with visual impairments and 25 individuals who are sighted, age 32.3 ± 5.3 years. A weekly measurement of physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire long form (IPAQ-LF) and accelerometer GTX3 ActiGraph was conducted.

Results

It was demonstrated that visual impairment affects walking ability, insofar as it reduces the number of steps taken in a day ( p ≤ .05) (ActiGraph); it does not, however, differentiate physical activity level (IPAQ-LF). Moreover, there has been observed a lower energy expenditure in people with visual impairments in relation to intensive ( p ≤ .01) and moderate-level ( p ≤ .001) physical activity. In the group of people with visual impairments, a correlation ( p ≤ .05) was observed between the energy expenditure associated with walking (IPAQ-LF) and the total weekly energy expenditure associated with physical activity (ActiGraph). Also, a correlation ( p ≤ .05) was observed between the total weekly energy expenditure associated with physical activity in the IPAQ-LF and ActiGraph.

Discussion

Regardless of the method used to measure physical activity, on average, participants with visual impairments took a smaller number of steps than participants who were sighted. However, the average number of steps taken by participants with visual impairments was much higher than the 3,500–5,000 steps recommended as healthy for a person with disabilities.

Implications for practitioners

IPAQ-LF and ActiGraph are effective methods of monitoring physical activity in persons with visual impairments, and may be used in supporting activities that promote taking up physical activity.
Rapid Assessment of Refractive Error, Presbyopia, and Visual Impairment and Associated Quality of Life in Nampula, Mozambique
Authors: Loughman James , Nxele Lindelwa L. , Faria Cesar , Thompson Stephen , Ramson Prasidh , Chinanayi Farai , Naidoo Kovin S.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Uncorrected refractive error is the leading cause of visual impairment worldwide and leads to an impaired quality of life. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of uncorrected refractive error and presbyopia, to assess spectacle coverage, and to evaluate visual health-related quality of life among persons aged 15–50 years old in Nampula, Mozambique.

Methods

Participants were assessed using a validated rapid assessment of refractive error protocol, comprised of a demographic questionnaire, a standardized ophthalmic assessment to determine refractive status and spectacle coverage, and a modified vision-related quality of life questionnaire to assess the impact of uncorrected refractive error on participants’ visual health status.

Results

Among the 3,453 respondents, visual impairment prevalence was 3.5% (95%, CI 2.7%–4.2%), with 65.8% of those visually impaired being 35 years of age and older. Uncorrected refractive error prevalence was 2.6% (95%, CI 2.1–3.2%), and was the primary cause of visual impairment among 64.5% of cases. The spectacle coverage for uncorrected refractive error was 0%. Presbyopia prevalence was higher, at 25.8% (95%, CI 12.0–30.5%), with only 2.2% spectacle coverage. Respondents with visual impairment demonstrated statistically significantly lower quality of life scores compared to those without visual problems ( p < 0.01).

Implications for practitioners

The uncorrected refractive error problem and a distinct lack of spectacle coverage for refractive error and presbyopia indicate an urgent need for the development and delivery of a comprehensive refractive error service in the Nampula region of Mozambique.
Executive Function and Behavioral Problems in Students with Visual Impairments at Mainstream and Special Schools
Authors: Heyl Vera , Hintermair Manfred
Published: December 2018

Introduction

In this study, executive function of school-aged children with visual impairments (that is, those who are blind or have low vision) is examined in the context of behavioral problems and communicative competence.

Methods

Teachers assessed the executive function of a sample of 226 visually impaired students from mainstream schools and schools for students who are visually impaired, using a German version of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-D) and a questionnaire measuring communicative competence and behavioral problems (German version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire; SDQ-D).

Results

The results showed highly significant differences in all domains of executive function: the visually impaired students consistently scored more poorly compared to a normative sample of sighted children, even when visually impaired students with additional disabilities were not taken into account. A regression analysis revealed the significance of executive function for behavioral problems among students with visual impairments.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate that a wide range of executive function domains that are significant for socioemotional development are not sufficiently developed in many visually impaired students. This lack of development seems to be particularly true for students who attend special schools.

Implications for practitioners

In educational concepts for visually impaired students, a specific and early focus on competencies such as attention shifting and emotional understanding seems to be necessary, especially in the context of inclusion. Moreover, reinforcing communicative competence might also enhance the development of executive function and help to reduce behavioral problems.
The Effect of Container Shape on Prescription Drug Label Readability for Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Connors Elyse , Lee Helen , Curtis Amy B. , Kim Dae Shik , Freeland Amy
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Adults with vision loss often have difficulties reading prescription drug labels. An aspect of label readability that has not been well explored is the effect of container shape on the readability of the label. The research question addressed is: Does container shape affect the readability of prescription drug labels for persons with reduced visual acuity?

Methods

A repeated-measure, single-factor design with within-subject control was used with 23 adults with visual acuity of 20/60 or less. Individuals were recruited from southwest Michigan. Participants read 3 unique prescription drug labels on 4 differently shaped containers (flat, box, small cylinder, large cylinder) in block randomized order, for a total of 12 trials. The amount of time needed to locate and read aloud 6 pieces of label information and number of errors made in reading were measured, as well as each participant's preference in container shapes.

Results

A statistically significant difference was found between the mean number of seconds required to read flat container labels (flat and box shape, M = 54.62 seconds, SD = 23.8) and round containers (small and large cylinder shape, M = 64.46 seconds, SD = 36.3). No statistically significant effect of container type was found on the number of mistakes made in reading the label information, Wald χ2(3) = .71, p = 0.871. Seventy-eight percent of the participants chose the flat container as their preferred shape. Only 1 participant selected the box as his or her top choice.

Discussion

Containers with flat surfaces (flat and box) were easier to read, measured by speed, compared to containers with round surfaces (small and large cylinders). Although the study participants overwhelmingly preferred flat containers to the boxes, little difference was found between the two shapes in the amount of time that was needed to read labels affixed to them.

Implications for practitioners

Individuals with vision loss may need more time to read prescription drug labels affixed to the more typical cylindrical containers compared to flat ones.
Use of an Accessible iPad App and Supplemental Graphics to Build Mathematics Skills: Feasibility Study Results
Authors: Beal Carole R. , Rosenblum L. Penny
Published: December 2018

Introduction

The present study evaluated the feasibility of using an iPad application or “app” for algebra-readiness mathematics, with accompanying braille materials and accessible graphics, when used in authentic educational settings.

Methods

Twenty-nine students with visual impairments in grades 4–11 used the materials under the direction of their teachers of students with visual impairments ( N = 19). Twenty percent of the mathematics problems included graphics such as maps, line graphs, and bar graphs. Students and teachers of students with visual impairments provided feedback about the feasibility of using the app with supplemental materials, and made suggestions for additional features to improve the instructional package.

Results

Students completed 984 word problems and solved 80% of them correctly within three attempts. The use of some features such as hints and “worked-example” videos was low. Participants provided suggestions for improvement of the app features and accessible graphics.

Discussion

Students and teachers of students with visual impairments were able to use the materials successfully, and comments were generally positive. Participants’ comments and suggestions were used to revise the app and materials.

Implications for practitioners

The study results contribute to the growing body of knowledge about the potential value of tablet-type devices for use by visually impaired students.
The Relationship between Loneliness and Perceived Quality of Life among Older Persons with Visual Impairments
Authors: Grow Steven J. La , Towers Andy , Yeung Polly , Alpass Fiona , Stephens Christine
Published: December 2018

Introduction

This article explores the rate and degree of loneliness in community-dwelling older visually impaired people, and is the first study to investigate the unique contribution that social and emotional loneliness makes to perceived quality of life (PQOL) in this population.

Methods

The study constituted a secondary analysis of postal survey data from the second wave (2012) of the nationally representative New Zealand Longitudinal Study of Ageing, a longitudinal study of older New Zealanders. A total of 2,683 participants completed both the visual status screening question and all 11 loneliness items to meet the criteria for inclusion in this study.

Results

Those designated as being visually impaired ( n = 315) were found to be more likely to experience loneliness (53% vs. 36%) than their sighted peers ( n = 2,368). Increased loneliness among those who are visually impaired was found to be associated with decreased economic well-being, mental health, satisfaction with activities of daily living, satisfaction with life, and PQOL. Social loneliness, but not emotional loneliness, was found to make a unique contribution to the prediction of variance in the PQOL of older visually impaired people over and above the impact of other predictors.

Discussion

Loneliness is much more prevalent in, and occurs with greater severity among, people who are visually impaired than with those who are not. Social loneliness made a unique contribution to PQOL over and above the contribution of variables that previous research has shown are central to PQOL in this population.

Implications for practitioners

Loneliness is not often addressed in vision rehabilitation programs designed for older adults, yet it is apparent from these findings that rates of loneliness may be high in this population. Its effect, even at moderate levels, is detrimental to the PQOL of older people with visual impairments.
Development and Evaluation of the Walk for Health Program: A Physical Activity Intervention for Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Ackley-Holbrook Elizabeth , Kang Minsoo , Morgan Don W.
Published: December 2018

Background

Although the pervasive comorbidity documented in adults with visual impairments may be linked to physical inactivity, little is known regarding the extent to which mobility and health status can be improved in this population. The aim of this preliminary study was to develop and implement an adaptive, community-based walking program for adults with visual impairments and to evaluate its impact on daily step activity, cardiovascular health, body composition, and lipid function.

Methods

During an 8-week period, 17 adults (age = 47.3 ± 12.3 years) with visual impairments were prompted at biweekly intervals (weeks 1, 3, 5) to increase their daily step activity by 1,000 steps per day and maintain these gains during weeks 2, 4, and 6. Participants were asked to sustain walking levels achieved by week 6 during the final 2 weeks of the program.

Results

Following the walking intervention, participants displayed a 78% increase in daily step activity (p < .01), but no improvements in cardiovascular health, body composition, or lipid function were observed.

Conclusion

Daily step activity was improved after completion of the walking program, but markers of health-related fitness remained unchanged. Future studies should be conducted to quantify the volume of physical activity required to improve the health status of persons with visual impairments.