bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Virtual Reality Scenario Method: Moving from Imagination to Immersion in Criminal Decision-making Research
Authors: van Gelder Jean-Louis , de Vries Reinout E. , Demetriou Andrew , van Sintemaartensdijk Iris , Donker Tara
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

This study proposes an alternative hypothetical scenario method capitalizing on the potential of virtual reality (VR). Rather than asking participants to imagine themselves in a specific situation, VR perceptually immerses them in it. We hypothesized that experiencing a scenario in VR would increase feelings of being “present” in the situation, and add to perceived realism compared to the written equivalent. This, in turn, was expected to trigger stronger emotional experiences influencing subsequent behavioral intentions.

Methods:

In an experiment, participants ( N = 153), visitors of a large music festival, either read a “bar fight” scenario or experienced the scenario in VR. Following the scenario, they were presented a series of questions including intention to aggress, perceived risk, anticipated shame/guilt, presence, perceived realism, and anger. Analyses were conducted using analysis of variance, stepwise regression, and mediation analysis using nonparametric bootstrapping.

Results:

In line with expectations, the results indicate significant differences between conditions with the VR scenario triggering stronger presence, higher realism, and higher intention to aggress. Importantly, presence and anger mediated the relation between condition and intention to aggress.

Conclusions:

We show that the VR scenario method may provide benefits over written scenarios for the study of criminal decision-making. Implications are discussed.
Racialized capitalism: An account of its contested origins and consolidation
Authors: Virdee Satnam
Published: January 2019

Undergirded by the perspective of historical materialism in dialogue with black Marxism and Marxist feminism, this article constructs an account demonstrating the significance of racism to the making of modernity. The analytic returns of unthinking Eurocentric sociologies in favour of a more unified historical social scientific approach include the unmasking of the intimate relationship between capitalism, class struggles and racism, particularly how capitalist rule advanced through a process of differentiation and hierarchical re-ordering of the global proletariat. From the 17th-century colonization of Virginia to Victorian Britain and beyond, racism formed an indispensable weapon in the armoury of the state elites, used to contain the class struggles waged by subaltern populations with a view to making the system safe for capital accumulation. Additionally, situating an account of racism within the unfolding story of historical capitalism as against the postcolonial tendency to locate it within the civilizational encounter between the West and the Rest helps make transparent the plurality of racisms, including the racialization of parts of the European proletariat. This explanation of the structuring force of racism and the differentiated ways in which the proletariat has been incorporated into capitalist relations of domination has important implications for emancipatory politics. A race-blind politics risks leaving untouched the injustices produced by historic and contemporaneous racisms. Instead, an alternative approach is proposed, one that invites movements to wilfully entangle demands for economic justice with anti-racism and thereby embrace and demystify the differences inscribed into the collective body of the proletariat by capitalism.
E-Examinations and the Student Experience Regarding Appropriateness of Assessment and Course Quality in Science and Medical Science
Authors: Ambikairajah Ananthan , Tisdell Christopher C.
Published: January 2019

The interest in, and use of, computers and software for assessment is reported to be increasingly popular via electronic examinations (e-exams). We deepen our understanding of the design, reception, and effectiveness of e-exams for history and philosophy of science modules, undertaken by first-year advanced science and medical science students at university. We employ a quasi-experimental research design approach to examine our implementation of e-exams on reported student satisfaction regarding the suitability of the information provided about the assessment requirements, appropriateness of the assessment methods, and overall quality of the associated courses. We report statistically significant increases in student satisfaction regarding the suitability and appropriateness of the assessment methods or requirements. The outcomes of this research highlight new avenues for educators to explore including (a) the innovative use of associated software (Maple TA™) for e-exams and (b) the implications that e-exams can have on the student experience in the context of medium-stakes testing.
The Effects of HMP and TPP on Political Participation in the Partisan Media Context
Authors: Hyun Ki Deuk , Seo Mihye
Published: January 2019

Scholars suggest that hostile media perception (HMP) and third-person perception (TPP) can motivate people to take political action to counteract the unwarranted influence of slanted media. Little research has been undertaken, however, regarding how HMP and TPP relate to political participation in partisan media settings in which news media hold specific partisan or ideological inclinations. This study explored HMP and TPP of partisan media and their associations with political participation in South Korea, which has a strongly partisan media system. Findings indicate that partisans tend to have strong HMP and TPP of antagonistic partisan media. Interestingly, progressives’ HMP and TPP of hostile conservative media were stronger than conservatives’ HMP and TPP of progressive media. Accordingly, HMP and TPP of conservative media were more strongly associated with political participation than HMP and TPP of progressive media. The political and media contexts of a specific country that might shape the relationships among HMP, TPP, and political participation are discussed.
Expanding Understanding of Emergent Literacy: Empirical Support for a New Framework
Authors: Erickson Karen A. , Hatton Deborah
Published: January 2019

Emergent literacy in young children with visual impairments is examined using a conceptual framework proposed by Sénéchal, LeFevre, Smith-Chant, and Colton (2001). The utility of this framework for young children with visual impairments is illustrated using data from a field study of preschool classes for children with visual impairments.
The Impact of the Perspectives of Teachers and Parents on the Literacy Media Selections for Independent Study of Students who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Argyropoulos Vassilios S. , Sideridis Georgios D. , Katsoulis Philippos
Published: January 2019

This study explored the choices of literacy media for independent study of students with visual impairments. The predictors that were taken into account were teachers’ use of technology, experience in teaching, and mastery of braille and the knowledge of braille of students, parents, and close friends.
Work-Related Challenges for Individuals who are Visually Impaired in Turkey
Authors: Bengisu Murat , Izbırak Gökhan , Mackieh Adham
Published: January 2019

Various aspects of the working life of people who are visually impaired were investigated in a telephone survey conducted in Turkey. Although the participants performed many types of jobs successfully, many issues need to be solved for the more efficient participation of people with visual impairments in the economy.
Driving and Low Vision: Validity of Assessments for Predicting Performance of Drivers
Authors: Strong J. Graham , Jutai Jeffrey W. , Russell-Minda Elizabeth , Evans Mal
Published: January 2019

The authors conducted a systematic review to examine whether vision-related assessments can predict the driving performance of individuals who have low vision. The results indicate that measures of visual field, contrast sensitivity, cognitive and attention-based tests, and driver screening tools have variable utility for predicting real-world driving performance.
The Digital Social Interactions of Students with Visual Impairments: Findings from Two National Surveys
Authors: Kelly Stacy M. , Smith Thomas J.
Published: January 2019

This study compared the use of computers and telephones by preadolescent and adolescent students with visual impairments and those with other disabilities using data from the Special Education Elementary Longitudinal Study and the National Longitudinal Transition Study–2. It found that both groups of students with visual impairments used computers and received telephone calls significantly less often than did students in some other disability groups. The implications of these findings for the isolation of students with visual impairments and training in assistive technology are discussed.
Successful Outcomes from a Structured Curriculum Used in the Veterans Affairs Low Vision Intervention Trial
Authors: Stelmack Joan A. , Rinne Stephen , Mancil Rickilyn M. , Dean Deborah , Moran D'Anna , Tang X. Charlene , Cummings Roger , Massof Robert W.
Published: January 2019

A low vision rehabilitation program with a structured curriculum was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial. The treatment group demonstrated large improvements in self-reported visual function (reading, mobility, visual information processing, visual motor skills, and overall). The team approach and the protocols of the treatment program are described.
Face Fields and Microperimetry for Estimating the Location of Fixation in Eyes with Macular Disease
Authors: Sunness Janet S.
Published: January 2019

Face field evaluation provides insights into the presence and location of the preferred retinal locus, as validated by comparisons with findings from microperimetry. This technique requires no special equipment and can be used in a clinic or at a person's home by clinicians and low vision rehabilitation specialists.
Detecting Approaching Vehicles at Streets with No Traffic Control
Authors: Emerson Robert Wall , Sauerburger Dona
Published: January 2019

This study assessed the ability of people with visual impairments to reliably detect oncoming traffic at crossing situations with no traffic control. In at least one condition, the participants could not hear vehicles to afford a safe crossing time when sound levels were as quiet as possible. Significant predictors of detection accounted for a third of the variation in the detection time.
Design and Usability Testing of an Audio Platform Game for Players with Visual Impairments
Authors: Oren Michael , Harding Chris , Bonebright Terri L.
Published: January 2019

This article reports on the evaluation of a novel audio platform game that creates a spatial, interactive experience via audio cues. A pilot study with players with visual impairments, and usability testing comparing the visual and audio game versions using both sighted players and players with visual impairments, revealed that all the participants played the audio platform game successfully.
Teaching Adults to Read Braille Using Phonological Methods: Single-Case Studies
Authors: Crawford Shauna , Elliott Robert T.
Published: January 2019

Four women with visual impairments were taught 13 braille letters as phonemes and another 13 braille letters as graphemes and then were taught 10 braille words as onset-rime and another 10 braille words as whole words. Phoneme and onset-rime instruction resulted in faster and more accurate performance.
Expanded Core Curriculum: 12 Years Later
Authors: Lohmeier Keri , Blankenship Karen , Hatlen Phil
Published: January 2019

This study investigated changes in teachers’ and parents’ understanding and implementation of or philosophy on the implementation of the content areas of the expanded core curriculum for students who are visually impaired. The results demonstrated some changes since the original survey results were reported in 1998 and a discrepancy between the perceptions of parents and teachers of teachers’ level of knowledge of the expanded core curriculum.
The Impact of War and Economic Sanction on the Incidence of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Serbia
Authors: Mladenovich Derek , Langeggen Irene
Published: January 2019

This study compared the distribution of various types of visual impairments among Serbian children who were born prior to the imposed economic sanctions and wars of the 1990s in the former Yugoslavia to that of children who were born during the years of economic sanctions and active war.
Drop-off Detection with the Long Cane: Effects of Different Cane Techniques on Performance
Authors: Kim Dae Shik , Emerson Robert Wall , Curtis Amy
Published: January 2019

This study compared the drop-off detection performance with the two-point touch and constant contact cane techniques using a repeated-measures design with a convenience sample of 15 cane users with visual impairments. The constant contact technique was superior to the two-point touch technique in the drop-off detection rate and the 50% detection threshold. The findings may help an orientation and mobility instructor select an appropriate technique for a particular client or training situation.
Participation of Parents in the Early Exploration of Tactile Graphics by Children who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Ryles Ruby , Bell Edward
Published: January 2019

Seventy-three children with visual impairments aged 2–10 and their parents participated in a project that examined the children's interest in and exploration of tactile graphics. The parents reported that the children's interest in and conceptual understanding of the project's tactile workbook were high and that the children explored the workbook's raised-line drawings using both hands without a consistent preference.
A Review of Research on the Literacy of Students with Visual Impairments and Additional Disabilities
Authors: Parker Amy T. , Pogrund Rona L.
Published: January 2019

Research on the development of literacy in children with visual impairments and additional disabilities is minimal even though these children make up approximately 65% of the population of children with visual impairments. This article reports on emerging themes that were explored after a review of the literature revealed nine literacy studies that included students with visual impairments and additional disabilities.
Stereotyped Movements among Children who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Gal Eynat , Dyck Murray J.
Published: January 2019

Does the severity of visual impairment affect the prevalence and severity of stereotyped movements? In this study, children who were blind or had low vision, half of whom had intellectual disabilities, were assessed. The results revealed that blindness and global delays were associated with more sensory processing dysfunction and more stereotyped movements.
Charles Bonnet Syndrome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: O'Farrell Lauren , Lewis Sandra , McKenzie Amy , Jones Lynda
Published: January 2019

Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) commonly occurs in older adults with visual impairments, particularly those with age-related macular degeneration. It is characterized by complex visual hallucinations in individuals without mental disorders. The authors explore diagnostic criteria, demographic characteristics, clinical features, theories of pathogenesis, and management options for people who are diagnosed with CBS.
The Treasure in Leisure Activities: Fostering Resilience in Young People who are Blind
Authors: Jessup Glenda M. , Cornell Elaine , Bundy Anita C.
Published: January 2019

Because leisure activities are often viewed as optional, their value to people with disabilities may not be recognized. This study explored the benefits of leisure activities for eight young people who are blind. These activities provided them with supportive relationships, a desirable identity, experiences of power and control, and experiences of social justice. They enabled the young people we studied to thrive despite adversity.
Interaction Effects of the Amount of Practice, Preferred Cane Technique, and Type of Cane Technique Used on Drop-off Detection Performance
Authors: Kim Dae Shik , Emerson Robert Wall , Curtis Amy
Published: January 2019

This study examined the interaction effects of the amount of practice and the cane technique used in drop-off detection with a sample of 32 adults who were blind. The advantage of the constant contact technique over the two-point touch technique was significantly greater for the less experienced cane users than for the more experienced ones.
U.S. National Certification in Literary Braille: History and Current Administration
Authors: Bell Edward
Published: January 2019

This article reports on a certification examination for teachers of students with visual impairments—the National Literary Braille Competency Test (NLBCT). It discusses the history, development, pilot testing, and validation of NLBCT and the creation of the National Certification in Literary Braille. Data on the current administration of the test and directions for future development are presented.
Current Practices in Instruction in the Literary Braille Code University Personnel Preparation Programs
Authors: Rosenblum L. Penny , Lewis Sandra , D'Andrea Frances Mary
Published: January 2019

University instructors were surveyed to determine the requirements for their literary braille courses. Twenty-one instructors provided information on the textbooks they used; how they determined errors; reading proficiency requirements; and other pertinent information, such as methods of assessing mastery of the production of braille using a Perkins brailler, slate and stylus, and Perky Duck.
Haptic Glove Technology: Skill Development through Video Game Play
Authors: Bargerhuff Mary Ellen , Cowan Heidi , Oliveira Francisco , Quek Francis , Fang Bing
Published: January 2019

This article introduces a recently developed haptic glove system and describes how the participants used a video game that was purposely designed to train them in skills that are needed for the efficient use of the haptic glove. Assessed skills included speed, efficiency, embodied skill, and engagement. The findings and implications for future research are discussed.
Effective Teaching Strategies: Case Studies from the Alphabetic Braille and Contracted Braille Study
Authors: Barclay Lizbeth , Herlich Stephanie A. , Sacks Sharon Zell
Published: January 2019

This article discusses some of the qualitative data that were documented during the Alphabetic Braille and Contracted Braille Study. Two case studies of students are described, highlighting many effective teaching strategies used by their teachers of students with visual impairments that resulted in the students’ successful academic progress.
Error Analysis of Brailled Instructional Materials Produced by Public School Personnel in Texas
Authors: Herzberg Tina
Published: January 2019

In this study, a detailed error analysis was performed to determine if patterns of errors existed in braille transcriptions. The most frequently occurring errors were the insertion of letters or words that were not contained in the original print material; the incorrect usage of the emphasis indicator; and the incorrect formatting of titles, exercises, and directions.
Attainment of Developmental Tasks by Adolescents with Visual Impairments and Sighted Adolescents
Authors: Pfeiffer Jens P. , Pinquart Martin
Published: January 2019

This study compared the achievement of developmental tasks by 158 adolescents with visual impairments to that of 158 sighted adolescents. The groups did not differ in the fulfillment of 9 of 11 tasks. However, those with visual impairments were less successful in peer-group integration and forming intimate relationships.
An Examination of Characteristics Related to the Social Skills of Youths with Visual Impairments
Authors: Zebehazy Kim T. , Smith Thomas J.
Published: January 2019

The study presented here investigated factors that are related to social skills measures of youths with visual impairments. It found that participation in extracurricular activities and paid work experiences, as well as the age of onset of visual impairments, were significantly related to differences in the participants’ scores on the Social Skills Rating System.
Students with Low Vision Describe Their Visual Impairments and Visual Functioning
Authors: Guerette Amy R. , Lewis Sandra , Mattingly Cameron
Published: January 2019

In the study reported here, the responses to a survey that was designed to determine the knowledge of their visual impairment of 51 students with low vision were analyzed. Although the students described their visual weaknesses and strengths, they had limited knowledge of, and difficulty communicating about, the medical aspects of their impairments.
Movement Kinematics of the Braille-reading Finger
Authors: Hughes Barry
Published: January 2019

A new means of measuring the movement properties of the braille-reading finger is described and exemplified in an experiment in which experienced readers of braille encountered sentences comprised of keywords in which word and orthographic frequencies were manipulated. These new data are considered in theoretical and practical terms.
Determinants of the Overall Quality of Life of Older Persons who have Difficulty Seeing: The Importance of the Ability to Get Around
Authors: La Grow Steven , Yeung Polly , Towers Andrew , Alpass Fiona , Stephens Christine
Published: January 2019

A model of vision rehabilitation that assumes that functional ability will affect the emotional and psychosocial adjustment of older persons with visual impairments, and ultimately their quality of life, was assessed using structured equation modeling. The proposed model was upheld. In addition, the ability to get around was found to contribute to both functional ability and quality of life.
Conditions that Influence Drivers’ Yielding Behavior for Uncontrolled Intersections
Authors: Bourquin Eugene , Emerson Robert Wall , Sauerburger Dona
Published: January 2019

Pedestrians with visual impairments need to cross streets where traffic signals and traffic signage are not present. This study examined the influences of several interventions, including a pedestrian's use of a mobility cane, on the behavior of drivers when they were expected to yield to a pedestrian crossing at an uncontrolled crossing.
Applying a Response-to-Intervention Model to Literacy Instruction for Students who are Blind or have Low Vision
Authors: Kamei-Hannan Cheryl , Holbrook M. Cay , Ricci Leila A.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Response to intervention (RTI) has become widely recognized and used in education. Propelling its significance is its systematic and schoolwide approach and emphasis on using a problem-solving approach to providing appropriate instruction for each child. Children with visual impairments (that is, blindness and low vision) are primarily included in public school classrooms and educated under the overall guidelines that apply to all children. Therefore, professionals who work with children with visual impairments must understand RTI and its implications within the context of visual impairment.

Methods

Key principles of RTI are examined, including universal screening, multitiered models, monitoring of progress, and the use of evidence-based practices.

Results

An RTI framework within the context of literacy instruction for children who are visually impaired is presented.

Discussion

The benefits of embracing RTI are discussed. First, RTI ensures that collaborative planning takes place by using a problem-solving approach in which data from ongoing assessments are collected and the results are used to plan instruction using evidence-based interventions. Second, RTI can be used to identify students who are at risk of academic failure and can assist in the identification of additional disabilities. Early identification of students who are struggling with literacy is not only essential to providing necessary instruction, but data-driven decisions should be made to ensure that specific skills are addressed by qualified individuals who are familiar with the unique needs of individuals with visual impairments.

Implications for Practitioners

The authors conclude by encouraging professionals in the field of visual impairment to become actively involved with the implementation of RTI in their local education agencies.
My Voice Heard: The Journey of a Young Man with a Cerebral Visual Impairment
Authors: Macintyre-Beon Catriona , Mitchell Kate , Gallagher Ian , Cockburn Debbie , Dutton Gordon N. , Bowman Richard
Published: January 2019

This longitudinal case study presents John's journey through childhood and adolescence, living with visual difficulties associated with a cerebral visual impairment. It highlights the day-to-day problems that John encountered, giving practical solutions and strategies that have enabled his dream of going to a university to be realized. John and his family are an inspiration.
Effect of Selected Balance Exercises on the Dynamic Balance of Children with Visual Impairments
Authors: Jazi Shirin Davarpanah , Purrajabi Fatemeh , Movahedi Ahmadreza , Jalali Shahin
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Maintaining balance while walking is of utmost importance for individuals with visual impairments because deficits in dynamic balance have been associated with a high risk of falling. Thus, the primary aim of the study presented here was to determine whether balance training effects the dynamic balance of children with visual impairments.

Methods

The study included 19 children with visual impairments (aged 8 to 14) from the school for students with visual impairments in Isfahan, Iran, who were randomly assigned to a balance-training (n = 9) or control (n = 10) group. The balance-training group was required to participate in an eight-week balance-training program, while the control group did not participate in any organized balance-training program. The Modified Bass Test of Dynamic Balance was used to measure the dynamic balance of the participants. Both groups performed a pretest prior to the experimental period and performed a posttest immediately after the experimental period.

Results

The scores on the pretest showed no significant difference between the balance-training group and the control group. However, after the balance-training group completed the balance-training program, a between-group difference was found in the participants’ task scores, t (18) = 4.095, p < .05.

Discussion

The findings indicate that involvement in a balance-training program will significantly improve the dynamic balance of individuals with visual impairments relative to a control group.

Implications for practitioners

The study showed that if instructors require individuals with visual impairments to perform balance-improving exercises, the result can be an outstanding improvement in their dynamic balance. With improved balance, individuals with visual impairments may encounter fewer falls and experience a healthier lifestyle.
The Role and Characteristics of Tactile Graphics in Secondary Mathematics and Science Textbooks in Braille
Authors: Smith Derrick W. , Smothers Sinikka M.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The purpose of the study presented here was to determine how well tactile graphics (specifically data analysis graphs) in secondary mathematics and science braille textbooks correlated with the print graphics.

Method

A content analysis was conducted on 598 separate data analysis graphics from 10 mathematics and science textbooks. The researchers (the authors) cross-validated the findings through a comparative analysis of the tactile graphics of five shared textbooks.

Results

Discrepancies were found between the print graphic and the tactile graphic in 12.5% of the sample. The most common discrepancy was differences in how data lines and data points were individualized in the print graphic compared to the tactile graphic. On the basis of the reviews of the graphics, the researchers answered a 5-point Likert-scale question (from 1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree) asking if the “tactile graphic is a valid representation of the print graphic.” The overall score for the sample was 3.71 (SD = 1.60), with a Krippendorff alpha of 0.6328 (the measure of disagreement and alpha > 0.70 are consider moderate).

Discussion

The findings demonstrate that while the majority of tactile graphics have good correlations to their print counterparts, there is still room for improvement. Some transcribers omitted a tactile graphic without providing a reason. Forty graphics (6.7%) were omitted from the braille transcription. Two textbooks were missing more than 85% of the tactile graphics of the data graphs.

Implications for Practitioners

Tactile graphics in math and science books are important for a student to understand. Although most transcribers do an excellent job of creating valid tactile graphics, problems with many graphics still exist in textbooks. Practitioners need constantly to review the tactile graphics that are used in all classrooms and be prepared to create their own if needed.
The Relationship between Perceived Computer Competence and the Employment Outcomes of Transition-aged Youths with Visual Impairments
Authors: Zhou Li , Smith Derrick W. , Parker Amy T. , Griffin-Shirley Nora
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The study reported here explored the relationship between the self-perceived computer competence and employment outcomes of transition-aged youths with visual impairments.

Methods

Data on 200 in-school youths and 190 out-of-school youths with a primary disability of visual impairment were retrieved from the database of the first three waves (2001–05) of the National Longitudinal Transition Study–2. The relationship between the youths’ self-perceived computer competence and having paid jobs was examined using binomial logistic regression, with other variables (gender, severity of vision loss, and multiple disability status) held constant.

Results

For both the in-school and out-of-school youths, those with a high self-perceived computer competence were significantly more likely to have paid jobs than were those with a low self-perceived computer competence when gender, severity of vision loss, and multiple disability status were held constant. Moreover, for the in-school youths, those with multiple disabilities were significantly less likely to have paid jobs than were those with only vision loss when the other variables were held constant.

Discussion

The findings indicate the importance of computer competence for youths with visual impairments to achieve successful transitions.

Implications for practitioners

Computer training should be a key component of the vocational preparation of transition-aged youths with visual impairments. In addition, special attention should be given to youths with multiple impairments to help them catch up in both computer use and employment.
The Conceptual Understanding of Sound by Students with Visual Impairments
Authors: Wild Tiffany A. , Hilson Margilee P. , Hobson Sally M.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The purpose of the study presented here was to understand and describe the misconceptions of students with visual impairments about sound and instructional techniques that may help them to develop a scientific understanding.

Methods

Semistructured interview-centered pre- and posttests were used to identify the students’ conceptual understanding. Responses were analyzed using a constant comparative analysis. This process allowed for qualitative data to be collected, analyzed, and coded as an ongoing process to look for gaps, omissions, and inconsistencies in the data and to describe and explore a phenomenon and has been used in prior studies on students’ scientific knowledge.

Results

The study found that the students had conceptual misconceptions of sound prior to instruction and that their understanding changed on completion of the inquiry-based curriculum. Prior to instruction, none of the students had a complete, scientifically accurate understanding of sound. However, after the study, all the students had some scientific understanding of sound, and two students had a complete scientific understanding of sound.

Discussion

The results indicate that using an inquiry-based curriculum is beneficial for students with visual impairments in helping to increase their conceptual understanding.

Implications for practitioners

The U.S. Congress has mandated that a curriculum be taught using research-based methodologies and based on standards. The study yielded a methodology to teach sound, a mandated science topic within the standards, that appears to be effective for students with visual impairments.
Comparing Fears in South African Children with and without Visual Impairments
Authors: Visagie Lisa , Loxton Helene , Ollendick Thomas H. , Steel Henry
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The aim of the study presented here was to determine whether significant differences exist between the fear profiles of South African children in middle childhood (aged 8–13) with different levels of visual impairments and those of their sighted counterparts.

Methods

A differential research design was used, and a total of 129 assenting children from three schools in the Western Cape province of South Africa participated. This convenience sample included 67 children with various degrees of visual impairments (20 with severe impairments and 47 with moderate impairments), and 62 gender- and age-matched sighted children in the control group. All the children were administered a short demographic questionnaire and the South African Fear Survey Schedule for Children (FSSC-SA).

Results

The results of the FSSC-SA indicated that the most feared item for the children with visual impairments was “Fire– getting burned” and that of the sighted children was “getting HIV.” The 10 most common fears of both groups were related mainly to situations in which the possibility of danger and harm was present, with the majority of fears loading onto Factor I (fear of danger and death) of the FSSC-SA. Consistent with previous research, gender differences were apparent across the number, level, and pattern of fears, with the girls consistently reporting more fears than the boys. In addition, the severely visually impaired group reported more fears, a greater intensity of fears, and a more complex pattern of fears than their moderately visually impaired and sighted counterparts.

Discussion

These results are discussed in terms of possible influencing factors.

Implications for practitioners

The results of the study provide teachers, parents, and others who are involved in the day-to-day lives of children with visual impairments with a glimpse into the children's emotional worlds. They also provide a foundation upon which future intervention and treatment strategies may be built.
Perceptions of a Statewide Mentor Program for New Itinerant Vision Professionals
Authors: Pogrund Rona L. , Cowan Chrissy
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Mentoring is valuable for the retention of new teachers. This article describes a model statewide mentor program for new itinerant vision professionals who work with students from birth to age 22. The results of a recent survey of satisfaction are reported, along with implications for the field.

Methods

The protégés who participated in the statewide mentor program completed an electronic satisfaction survey. Of the 76 participants who had been assigned a mentor during the 2011–12 academic year, 56 responded (74%). Both quantitative and qualitative questions were included in the survey. The quantitative questions were analyzed using percentages, and the qualitative data was analyzed and put into themes using the data analysis process of triangulation.

Results

Seventy-one percent of the participants reported having had more than 10 interactions with their mentors over the previous year. The topics most frequently addressed with their mentors were performing evaluations (89%), locating resources (84%), and writing goals and objectives (79%). The most helpful mentoring techniques that were used included guided problem-solving techniques (70%), effective listening (68%), and the provision of teaching materials (57%). The majority of the protégés (82%) thought that their mentors had definitely contributed to the quality of their teaching. The top stressors for new vision professionals were related to organization and time management, evaluations, and collaboration with others.

Discussion

The results of the survey demonstrate that the mentor program had a positive outcome for the participants as new educators. It also provided information on the stressors faced by these new vision professionals.

Implications for practitioners

This article can serve as a model for other states that are interested in developing a mentor program for new itinerant vision professionals, and can serve as a guide for personnel preparation programs to address further the areas that the protégés identified as those in which they felt the least competent.
Agency Decision-Making Control and Employment Outcomes by Vocational Rehabilitation Consumers who are Blind or Visually Impaired
Authors: Steinman Bernard A. , Kwan Ngai , Boeltzig-Brown Heike , Haines Kelly , Halliday John , Foley Susan M.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

We hypothesized that consumers who are blind or visually impaired (that is, those who have low vision) who were served by state vocational rehabilitation agencies with decision-making control over administrative functions would experience better vocational rehabilitation outcomes than consumers served by vocational rehabilitation agencies with less control in these areas.

Methods

We merged person-level RSA-911 (fiscal year 2010) data with agency-level data collected as part of the National Survey of State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies, which we conducted in 2011. We employed multilevel modeling, controlling for select person-level characteristics, and agency-level indicators of primary decision-making control by vocational rehabilitation agencies in six key administrative functions: human resources, infrastructure, management information systems, policies and procedures, program evaluation, and purchasing. Dependent variables were measures of “any employment” and “competitive employment” outcomes.

Results

We report a positive association between agency decision-making control over policies and procedures and competitive employment outcomes by consumers who were blind (odds ratio = 2.64; 95% confidence interval 1.23–5. 72). Among consumers who are visually impaired, agency decision-making control over human resources was negatively associated with any employment closures (odds ratio = 0.56; 95% confidence interval = 0.36–0.93) and competitive employment outcomes (odds ratio = 0.56; 95% confidence interval = 0.33–0.97).

Discussion

Results demonstrate the potential for factors related to agencies, in addition to factors related to individuals, to function as mediators of vocational rehabilitation outcomes for consumers who are blind or visually impaired.

Implications for practitioners

Findings highlight the importance of understanding how management control over areas such as policy and procedures have the potential to influence service delivery and subsequent employment outcomes.
Indeterminate self: Subjectivity, body and politics in Zhuangzi
Authors: Yu Peng
Published: January 2019

In this article, I re-examine political subjectivity by way of looking at the canonical text of Chinese Daoist philosophy – Zhuangzi. I trace the course of how the body is conceived in Zhuangzi and discuss its relation with the unmaking of personhood. I then look into ways in which the body–self nexus in Zhuangzi gives rise to new conceptualization of political relations. I argue that, in Zhuangzi, the body is conceived as spontaneous and dispossessed. The body as such foregrounds the condition for unsettling subjectivity. In staging ambivalent subjectivities, Zhuangzi describes a mode of politics where political relations thrive on indeterminacy and uncertainty. I submit that the authors of Zhuangzi propose a depoliticizing approach to politics whereby ‘effortless action’ replaces established processes in reinventing new relations and subjects.
Motivating Professional Student Behavior Through a Gamified Personal Branding Assignment
Authors: Robson Karen
Published: January 2019

Gamification is increasingly being implemented in higher education to engage students. This article presents a gamified pedagogical exercise intended to motivate students to consider how their in-person and digital behaviors affect their personal brands. Students receive and lose points for various behaviors and reflect on whether these behaviors support or conflict with their desired brand image. Points can be redeemed for assignment extensions or resubmissions, and can lead to exam exemptions. Challenges and limitations of the exercise, as well as recommendations for marketing educators, are discussed.
Ascorbic acid improves thrombotic function of platelets during living donor liver transplantation by modulating the function of the E3 ubiquitin ligases c-Cbl and Cbl-b
Authors: Kwon Ji Hye , Kim Doyeon , Cho Hyojin , Shin Byung Seop
Published: January 2019

Objective

To investigate the effect of ascorbic acid (AA) on hemostatic function during living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

Methods

Blood samples from 21 LDLT recipients were taken within 30 minutes after induction and at 120 minutes after reperfusion. Rotational thromboelastography (TEG) and western blot analysis were used to analyze for fibrinolysis and functional changes in c-Cbl and Cbl-b, respectively. TEG test samples were prepared as one of three groups: C group (0.36 mL of blood), N group (0.324 mL of blood + 0.036 mL of 0.9% normal saline), and A group (0.324 mL of blood + 0.036 mL of 200 µmol/L-AA dissolved in 0.9% normal saline).

Results

AA decreased fibrinolysis and increased clot rigidity at baseline and 120 minutes after reperfusion. Cbl-b expression was significantly increased at baseline and 120 minutes after reperfusion in the A group compared with the C and N groups. However, c-Cbl phosphorylation was most significantly decreased in the A group at baseline and 120 minutes after reperfusion.

Conclusion

AA can significantly decrease fibrinolysis and improve clot rigidity in LT recipients during LDLT, and functional changes in Cbl-b and c-Cbl might represent the underlying mechanism. AA may be considered for use during LDLT to decrease hyperfibrinolysis.
Combination of CDX2 expression and T stage improves prognostic prediction of colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Weimin , Zhu Yilian , Shen Wei , Ding Wenjun , Wu Tingyu , Guo Yuegui , Chen Xiaobing , Zhou Mingxia , Chen Yingwei , Cui Long , Du Peng
Published: January 2019

Objective

Prognostic prediction of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains challenging because of its heterogeneity. Aberrant expression of caudal-type homeobox transcription factor 2 (CDX2) is strongly correlated with the prognosis of CRC.

Methods

Tissue samples of patients with CRC who underwent surgery in Xinhua Hospital (Shanghai, China) from January 2010 to January 2013 were collected. CDX2 expression was semiquantitatively evaluated via immunohistochemistry.

Results

In total, 138 patients were enrolled in this study from a prospectively maintained institutional cancer database. The median follow-up duration was 57.5 months (interquartile range, 17.0–71.0 months). In the Cox proportional hazards model, low CDX2 expression combined with stage T4 CRC was significantly the worst prognostic factor for disease-free survival (hazard ratio = 7.020, 95% confidence interval = 3.922–12.564) and overall survival (hazard ratio = 5.176, 95% CI = 3.237–10.091). In the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, patients with low CDX2 expression and stage T4 CRC showed significantly worse disease-free survival and overall survival than those with low CDX2 expression alone.

Conclusion

CDX2 expression combined with the T stage was more accurate for predicting the prognosis of CRC. Determining the prognosis of CRC using more than one variable is valuable in developing appropriate treatment and follow-up strategies.
Are we closing the gaps in the management of osteoporosis following fragility fractures of the femur?
Authors: Sadat-Ali Mir , AlShammari Sulliman M , Uddin Fares Z , Alani Fawaz M , Dahduli Omar S
Published: January 2019

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify deficiencies in initiating anti-osteoporotic treatment following a fragility femoral fracture.

Methods

All patients ≥55 years of age treated for a fragility femoral fracture between June 2012 and May 2017 were enrolled. Medications at discharge and at 90 days and 1 year of follow up were analyzed. Patients were classified into 4 groups: Group I did not receive any treatment for osteoporosis; Group II received only calcium and vitamin D3; Group III received an anabolic agent, calcium, and vitamin D3; and Group IV received bisphosphonates, calcium, and vitamin D3.

Results

A total of 167 patients with an average age of 65.81±12.55 years were included. There were 88 (52.7%) males and 79 (47.3%) females. At discharge, 107 patients (64.1%) were not prescribed optimal treatment for osteoporosis, and this reduced to 55 (32.9%) at the 90-day follow up. At 1 year, the number of patients receiving suboptimal treatment was further reduced to 25.74%.

Conclusions

Although the number of patients with fragility fractures receiving insufficient treatment was lower in the present study than in previous reports, increased efforts and coordinated treatment plans initiated by a fracture liaison service should be of high priority.
Effect of neurocentral cartilage destruction on spinal growth in immature rabbits
Authors: Wen Jie , Wang Dahui , Fang Ke , Xiao Sheng , Ma Ruixue , Liu Hong
Published: January 2019

Objective

This study was performed to observe the effect of neurocentral cartilage (NCC) destruction on spinal growth in immature rabbits.

Methods

The NCC of the lumbar vertebrae of 24 4-week-old female rabbits was destroyed through posterolateral and anterior approaches, and three-dimensional computed tomography examinations were performed 3 months after the procedure.

Results

Scoliosis was successfully induced in all rabbits of both the anterior and posterolateral approach groups. The scoliosis exceeded 10 degrees in three rabbits, which exhibited coronal scoliosis of the spine, unequal length and thickness of the bilateral pedicles, and rotation of the vertebrae. Scoliosis was not observed in the control group.

Conclusions

Destruction of the unilateral NCC in immature rabbits can induce structural scoliosis, similar to the pathological features of human scoliosis. The Cobb angles are similar after NCC destruction by a posterolateral approach and under direct vision via the anterior approach.
“You cannot contradict the engineer”: Disencounters of modern technology, climate change, and power in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Stensrud Astrid B
Published: January 2019

In the World Bank funded development program PSI Sierra, which aims to modernize irrigation technologies in the Peruvian highlands, the complexity of climate change is reduced to the manageable issues of water scarcity and lack of modern technology. By focusing on the encounters between farmers in Colca Valley and PSI engineers, the author argues that most of these encounters can best be analyzed as failed encounters or “disencounters”, which confirm diverging interests and exacerbate differences. The article discusses three modes of disencounters: (a) diverging definitions of problems; (b) different technological practices in terms of flexibility, and (c) distrust emerging from an embodied history of structural inequality. The author argues that instead of supporting farmers to deal with their own-defined problems, the program—through these disencounters—produces other effects: (a) increased uncertainty; (b) the reproduction of hierarchies, and (c) the de-politicization of climate change, inequality, and poverty.