bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychrometric limits and critical evaporative coefficients for exercising older women
Authors: Kenney W. Larry
Published: June 2020

This study is the first to describe, graphically and quantitatively, critical environmental limits for women between the ages of 62 and 80 yr based on the biophysics of heat exchange. These psychrometric limit lines define combinations of ambient temperature and humidity above which human heat balance cannot be maintained for a given metabolic heat production. These limits, and associated critical evaporative coefficients ( Ke′), can be used to model low- to moderate-intensity exercise responses in hot environments and have directly translatable data that can be used for evidence-based policy decisions, to prepare for impending heat events, and for implementation of other safety interventions.
All Solutions of the Yang–Baxter-Like Matrix Equation for Nilpotent Matrices of Index Two
Authors: Zhou Duanmei , Ding Jiawen
Published: June 2020

Let A be a nilpotent matrix of index two, and consider the Yang–Baxter-like matrix equation AXA=XAX. We first obtain a system of matrix equations of smaller sizes to find all the solutions of the original matrix equation. When A is a nilpotent matrix with rank 1 and rank 2, we get all solutions of the Yang–Baxter-like matrix equation.
Identification, Expression, and Roles of the Cystine/Glutamate Antiporter in Ocular Tissues
Authors: Martis Renita M. , Knight Luis J. , Donaldson Paul J. , Lim Julie C.
Published: June 2020

The cystine/glutamate antiporter (systemxc-) is composed of a heavy chain subunit 4F2hc linked by a disulphide bond to a light chain xCT, which exchanges extracellular cystine, the disulphide form of the amino acid cysteine, for intracellular glutamate.In vitroresearch in the brain, kidney, and liver have shown this antiporter to play a role in minimising oxidative stress by providing a source of intracellular cysteine for the synthesis of the antioxidant glutathione.In vivostudies using the xCT knockout mouse revealed that the plasma cystine/cysteine redox couple was tilted to a more oxidative state demonstrating system xc-to also play a role in maintaining extracellular redox balance by driving a cystine/cysteine redox cycle. In addition, through import of cystine, system xc-also serves to export glutamate into the extracellular space which may influence neurotransmission and glutamate signalling in neural tissues. While changes to system xc-function has been linked to cancer and neurodegenerative disease, there is limited research on the roles of system xc-in the different tissues of the eye, and links between the antiporter, aging, and ocular disease. Hence, this review seeks to consolidate research on system xc-in the cornea, lens, retina, and ocular humours conducted across several species to shed light on thein vitroandin vivoroles of xCT in the eye and highlight the utility of the xCT knockout mouse as a tool to investigate the contribution of xCT to age-related ocular diseases.
Pathophysiological Changes in Female Rats with Estrous Cycle Disorder Induced by Long‐Term Heat Stress
Authors: An GaiHong , Chen XueWei , Li Chao , Zhang Li , Wei MengFan , Chen JiaJun , Ma Qiang , Yang DanFeng , Wang Jing
Published: June 2020

High‐temperature exposure is detrimental to women’s reproductive health; however, the impact caused by long‐term high temperature is not comprehensive, and a stable model of estrous cycle disorder induced by a high temperature is yet lacking. Herein, we aimed to establish a stable and effective model of estrous cycle disorder in female rats induced by long‐term heat stress to study its physiological and pathological characteristics and explore the underlying mechanism. In the present study, female Sprague‐Dawley rats with normal estrous cycles were exposed to the temperature of 38 ± 0.5°C, relative humidity (RH) of 55 ± 5% (2 h/d, 1 time/d) hot cabin at more than 90 days. Consequently, after long‐term heat stress, no difference was detected in body weight and rectal temperature, but the estrus cycle was prolonged, the uterine organ index was increased, pathological changes occurred, the increase latitude of stress hormones heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and corticosterone (CORT) decreased, estradiol (E2) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels decreased, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (Prl) levels increased, gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and thyroid hormone (T4) showed no difference, and insulin (INS) decreased significantly. Moreover, the mRNA expression of the sex hormone receptor in the uterus and ovary was altered. Therefore, the estrous cycle disorder in female rats can be induced by regular heat stress for 90 days, which can be considered the pioneer method. Subsequently, prominent physiological and pathological characteristics and disruption in the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal (HPG) axis were noted.
Prediction of High-Risk Types of Human Papillomaviruses Using Reduced Amino Acid Modes
Authors: Xu Xinnan , Kong Rui , Liu Xiaoqing , He Pingan , Dai Qi
Published: June 2020

A human papillomavirus type plays an important role in the early diagnosis of cervical cancer. Most of the prediction methods use protein sequence and structure information, but the reduced amino acid modes have not been used until now. In this paper, we introduced the modes of reduced amino acids to predict high-risk HPV. We first reduced 20 amino acids into several nonoverlapping groups and calculated their structure and physicochemical modes for high-risk HPV prediction, which was tested and compared with the existing methods on 68 samples of known HPV types. The experiment result indicates that the proposed method achieved better performance with an accuracy of 96.49%, indicating that the reduced amino acid modes might be used to improve the prediction of high-risk HPV types.
Removal of the Tumor Thrombus from the Right Atrium without Extracorporeal Circulation: Emphasis on the Displacement of the Tumor Apex
Authors: Shchukin D. V. , Lesovoy V. N. , Khareba G. G. , Harahatyi A. I. , Maltsev A. V. , Polyakov M. M. , Stetsyshyn R. V. , Kopytsya M. P. , Mozzhakov P. V. , Makovozov O. O.
Published: June 2020

Objectives. To assess the outcomes of cavoatrial tumor thrombus removal using the liver transplantation technique for thrombectomy, a retrospective study was conducted. Materials and Methods. Five patients with atrial tumor thrombi who underwent piggy-back mobilization of the liver, surgical access to the right atrium from the abdominal cavity, and external manual repositioning of the thrombus apex below the diaphragm (milking maneuver) were included into the study. Extracorporeal circulation was used in none of the cases. The average length of the atrial component of the tumor was 20.0 ± 11.7 mm (10 to 35 mm), and the width was 14.8 ± 8.5 mm (10 to 30 mm). In this work, the features of patients and surgical interventions as well as perioperative complications and mortality were analyzed. Results. External manual repositioning of the tumor thrombus apex below the diaphragm was successfully performed in all patients. Tumor thrombi with the length of the atrial part up to 1.5 cm were removed through the extrapericardial approach. For evacuation of the thrombi with the large atrial part (3.0 cm or more), a transpericardial surgical approach was required. Specific complications associated with the access to the right atrium from the abdominal cavity (paresis of the right phrenic nerve, pneumothorax, and mediastinitis) were not detected in any case. The average clamping time of the supradiaphragmatic inferior vena cava (IVC) was 6.3 ± 4.6 min. The volume of intraoperative blood loss varied from 2500 to 5600 ml (an average of 3675 ± 1398.5 ml). Conclusion. Our work represents the initial experience in the liver transplantation technique for thrombectomy in distinct and well-selected patients with atrial tumor thrombi. The effectiveness of this approach needs further study. The video presentation of our research took place in March 2019 at the 34th Annual EAU Congress in Barcelona.
Attention Optimization Method for EEG via the TGAM
Authors: Wu Yu , Xie Ning
Published: June 2020

Since the 21st century, noninvasive brain-computer interface (BCI) has developed rapidly, and brain-computer devices have gradually moved from the laboratory to the mass market. Among them, the TGAM (ThinkGear Asic Module) and its encapsulate algorithm have been adopted by many research teams and faculty members around the world. However, due to the limited development cost, the effectiveness of the algorithm to calculate data is not satisfactory. This paper proposes an attention optimization algorithm based on the TGAM for EEG data feedback. Considering that the data output of the TGAM encapsulate algorithm fluctuates greatly, the delay is high and the accuracy is low. The experimental results demonstrated that our algorithm can optimize EEG data, so that with the same or even lower delay and without changing the encapsulate algorithm of the module itself, it can significantly improve the performance of attention data, greatly improve the stability and accuracy of data, and achieve better results in practical applications.
An Intelligent SDN Framework Based on QoE Predictions for Load Balancing in C-RAN
Authors: Medeiros Gleison O. , Costa João C. W. A. , Cardoso Diego L. , Santos Adam D. F.
Published: June 2020

The rapid growth of the Internet and technological advances are forcing mobile operators to increasingly invest in network infrastructures. C-RAN and SDN are regarded as enabling technologies that can overcome the limitations faced by operators, by reducing costs, increasing scalability, and paving the way for the next generation of 5G cellular networks. In this paper, an architectural solution based on SDN and computational intelligence is proposed for C-RAN, which can adjust BBU-RRH mapping through network load balancing rules by predicting subjective and objective QoE metrics for UHD video streaming. The simulation results achieved gains between 59% and 129%, in scenarios without activating a new BBU and scenarios that involve activating a new BBU, respectively.
Extensive Characterization of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Marker Expression on Freshly Isolated and In Vitro Expanded Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells from Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Thitilertdecha Premrutai , Lohsiriwat Visnu , Poungpairoj Poonsin , Tantithavorn Varangkana , Onlamoon Nattawat
Published: June 2020

Variation in numbers and functions of cells in fat tissues may affect therapeutic outcomes and adverse events after autologous fat tissue grafting in postmastectomy breast cancer patients; however, the relevant information regarding cellular components is still incomplete. Phenotypic characterization of heterogeneous cell subsets in stromal vascular fraction (SVF) isolated from fat tissues by flow cytometry was also limited to a combination of few molecules. This study, therefore, developed a polychromatic staining panel for an in-depth characterization of freshly isolated SVF and expanded adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) from the patients. ADSC were found predominant in SVF (~65% of CD45- cells) with a homogenous phenotype of CD13+CD31-CD34+CD45-CD73+CD90+CD105-CD146- (~94% of total ADSC). Endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) and pericytes were minor (~18% and ~11% of CD45- cells, respectively) with large heterogeneity. Downregulation of CD34 and upregulation of CD105 in ADSC were profound at passage 3, showing a phenotype similar to the classical mesenchymal stem cells from the bone marrow. Results from this study demonstrated that fat tissue collected from patients contains ADSC with a highly homogenous phenotype. The in vitro culture of these cells maintained their homogeneity with modified CD34 and CD105 expression, suggesting the expansion from a single population of ADSC.
Investigation of a Modified Novel Technique in Bilateral Sagittal Splitting Osteotomy Fixation: Finite Element Analysis and In Vitro Biomechanical Test
Authors: Chang Li-Ren , Chen Chien-Chung , Jeng Seng Feng , Chen Yu-Ray , Hwang Lain-Chyr , Lin Ting-Sheng
Published: June 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the biomechanical properties of the modified novel 2‐hole monocortical plate fixation (2HMCPf) and traditional 4‐hole monocortical plate fixation (4HMCPf) techniques in bilateral sagittal splitting osteotomy (BSSO) synthesis using a finite element analysis (FEA) and an in vitro biomechanical test with the application of a shearing loading force on a sawbone mandible model. Materials and Methods. A three‐dimensional mandible models were generated using the geometry obtained from the computerized tomography image of a sawbone mandible. Plates and screws were generated and combined with the mandible in a CAD environment. The 2HMCPf and traditional 4HMCPf techniques for BSSO osteosynthesis were then analyzed under the occlusal load using the FEA. An in vitro biomechanical test was executed to verify the result of FEA. The force on fixation failure and pattern of failure were recorded. Results. The results revealed that the von Mises Stress on the mandible cortical bone (75.98 MPa) and the screw/plate (457.19 MPa) of the 2HMCPf group was lower than that of the 4HMCPf group (987.68 MPa, 1781.59 MPa). The stress concentrated on the central region of the 4HMCPf group and the distal set of the 2HMCPf group. In vitro study using the sawbone mandible model showed mechanical failure at the region of the proximal segment near the osteotomy site with the 4HMCPf group (average 32.198 N) but no failure on the fixation sites with the 2HMCPf group. Instead, the mandible sawbone fractured on the condyle neck region (average 44.953 N). Conclusion. From the biomechanical perspective, we proved that the 2HMCPf method was able to withstand a higher shearing loading force than the 4HMCPf fixation method in BSSO osteosynthesis.
Representations and Deformations of Hom-Lie-Yamaguti Superalgebras
Authors: Guo Shuangjian , Zhang Xiaohui , Wang Shengxiang
Published: June 2020

Let L,α be a Hom-Lie-Yamaguti superalgebra. We first introduce the representation and cohomology theory of Hom-Lie-Yamaguti superalgebras. Also, we introduce the notions of generalized derivations and representations of L,α and present some properties. Finally, we investigate the deformations of L,α by choosing some suitable cohomology.
A Bispecific DLL3/CD3 IgG-Like T-Cell Engaging Antibody Induces Antitumor Responses in Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hipp Susanne , Voynov Vladimir , Drobits-Handl Barbara , Giragossian Craig , Trapani Francesca , Nixon Andrew E. , Scheer Justin M. , Adam Paul J.
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most lethal and aggressive subtype of lung carcinoma characterized by highly chemotherapy-resistant recurrence in the majority of patients. To effectively treat SCLC, we have developed a unique and novel IgG-like T-cell engaging bispecific antibody (ITE) that potently redirects T-cells to specifically lyse SCLC cells expressing Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3), an antigen that is frequently expressed on the cell surface of SCLC cells, with no to very little detectable expression in normal tissues.

Experimental Design:

The antitumor activity and mode of action of DLL3/CD3 ITE was evaluated in vitro using SCLC cell lines and primary human effector cells and in vivo in an SCLC xenograft model reconstituted with human CD3+ T-cells.

Results:

Selective binding of DLL3/CD3 ITE to DLL3-positive tumor cells and T-cells induces formation of an immunological synapse resulting in tumor cell lysis and activation of T-cells. In a human T-cell engrafted xenograft model, the DLL3/CD3 ITE leads to an increase in infiltration of T-cells into the tumor tissue resulting in apoptosis of the tumor cells and tumor regression. Consistent with the mode of action, the DLL3/CD3 ITE treatment led to upregulation of PD-1, PD-L1, and LAG-3.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the ability of the DLL3/CD3 ITE to induce strictly DLL3-dependent T-cell redirected lysis of tumor cells and recruitment of T-cells into noninflamed tumor tissues leading to tumor regression in a preclinical in vivo model. These data support clinical testing of the DLL3/CD3 ITE in patients with SCLC.
A Critical Reappraisal of Off-Label Use of Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Non-Neoplastic Skin Conditions
Authors: Monfrecola Giuseppe , Megna Matteo , Rovati Chiara , Arisi Mariachiara , Rossi Mariateresa , Calzavara-Pinton Irene , Fabbrocini Gabriella , Calzavara-Pinton Piergiacomo
Published: June 2020

Background: In the past 30 years, topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been investigated for the treatment of a broad spectrum of cosmetic, inflammatory, and infectious skin conditions with variable, and often contrasting, results. However, the non-expert clinician may be in difficulty evaluating these results because different sensitizers, concentrations, formulations, light sources, and irradiation protocols have been used. In addition, many of these studies have poor quality design being case reports and uncontrolled studies of few cases. Summary: With the aim to clarify the potential usefulness of PDT for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory skin diseases as well as selected cosmetic indications, we searched for randomized controlled clinical trials, non-randomized comparative studies, retrospective studies, and case series studies with a number of at least 10 patients, published since 1990. Later, we reappraised the results in order to give a simple critical overview. Key Messages: Evidence from the literature seems to strongly support the use of ALA- and MAL-PDT for the treatment of common skin diseases such as acne, warts, condylomata, and Leishmania skin infection and for photorejuvenation, i.e., the correction of selected cosmetic changes of aging and photoaging. For other disorders, the level of evidence and strength of recommendation are lower, and controlled randomized studies with prolonged follow-ups are necessary in order to assess the clinical usefulness and other potential advantages over current treatment options.
teoria desenvolvimentista do "super-regionalismo" em Antonio Candido e o caso Arguedas
Authors: Lima Gabriel dos Santos
Published: June 2020

O presente artigo se propõe a repensar a categoria literária de “super-regionalismo”, elaborada por Antonio Candido em seu ensaio “Literatura e Subdesenvolvimento” (1970). Para isso, em primeiro lugar, recordaremos a linha argumentativa de tal texto, segundo a qual as obras de escritores latino-americanos dos anos 1960 – notadamente Augusto Roa Bastos, Gabriel García Márquez, João Guimarães Rosa e José María Arguedas - representariam pontos de síntese entre matéria regional e técnicas artísticas modernistas, constituindo uma literatura universalmente significativa. Em seguida, buscaremos demonstrar como esse projeto de modernização literária “super-regionalista” se associava, na obra candidiana, à ideologia desenvolvimentista da década de 1960 e a determinadas expectativas em relação aos rumos da revolução cubana. Por fim, sugeriremos repensar o conceito de “super-regionalismo” à luz do processo histórico dos anos 1970 em diante, que se caracterizou, em toda a América Latina, por um desenvolvimento capitalista concomitante ao massacre das esquerdas, ao aumento da desigualdade social e ao extermínio de culturas locais. Para tal, consideraremos também aspectos da obra Los Ríos Profundos (1958) de Arguedas, que já na década de 1950 parece assinalar tensões em relação à leitura sugerida por “Literatura e Subdesenvolvimento”, antecipando problemas que ficariam mais claros nos anos seguintes.
Decline in Stroke Presentations During COVID-19 Surge
Authors: Uchino Ken , Kolikonda Murali K. , Brown Dena , Kovi Shivakrishna , Collins Dana , Khawaja Zeshaun , Buletko A. Blake , Russman Andrew N. , Hussain M. Shazam
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose:

We aimed to investigate the acute stroke presentations during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods:

The data were obtained from a health system with 19 emergency departments in northeast Ohio in the United States. Baseline period from January 1 to March 8, 2020, was compared with the COVID period from March 9, to April 2, 2020. The variables included were total daily stroke alerts across the hospital emergency departments, thrombolysis, time to presentation, stroke severity, time from door-to-imaging, time from door-to-needle in thrombolysis, and time from door-to-puncture in thrombectomy. The 2 time periods were compared using nonparametric statistics and Poisson regression.

Results:

Nine hundred two stroke alerts during the period across the emergency departments were analyzed. Total daily stroke alerts decreased from median, 10 (interquartile range, 8–13) during baseline period to median, 8 (interquartile range, 4–10,
P
=0.001) during COVID period. Time to presentation, stroke severity, and time to treatment were unchanged. COVID period was associated with decrease in stroke alerts with rate ratio of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.60–0.28). Thrombolysis also decreased with rate ratio, 0.52 (95% CI, 0.28–0.97) but thrombectomy remained unchanged rate ratio, 0.93 (95% CI, 0.52–1.62)

Conclusions:

We observed a significant decrease in acute stroke presentations by ≈30% across emergency departments at the time of surge of COVID-19 cases. This observation could be attributed to true decline in stroke incidence or patients not seeking medical attention for emergencies during the pandemic.
Understanding African Americans’ Attitudes toward Nonhuman Animals: Historical and Psychological Perspectives
Authors: Richardson Kaitlynn S. , Burke Kelly C. , Brazley Kairra N. , Jones Tayler M. , Bottoms Bette L.
Published: June 2020

Historical and current literature is reviewed and social psychological theory is applied to support novel theories about African Americans’ attitudes toward nonhuman animals. Due to psychological reactions stemming from their brutal U.S. history, involving shared suffering with animals, African Americans are theorized to have either negative or positive beliefs about animals. Two studies revealed the latter: that African Americans have positive attitudes toward animals overall, as measured by a new, statistically reliable Attitudes toward Animals Scale. In Study 1, African American university students’ attitudes were somewhat less positive than White students’ attitudes, but in Study 2, older African American community members’ attitudes were more positive than Whites’. This cross-study difference, however, results from less positive White attitudes in Study 2, rather than from any important difference in African Americans’ attitudes across the two samples. The results and unique theoretical framework pave the way for future research on this important issue.
Pastoral Visitations in the First World Empires (Spain and Portugal in the 16th and 17th Centuries): A Comparative Approach
Authors: Paiva José Pedro
Published: June 2020

Using a comparative approach, attentive to the assumptions of global history, this paper undertakes a comprehensive and holistic survey of the role of pastoral visits in the Christianization of Spanish America and in the Portuguese empire. It argues that the models and practices of visits in Spain and Portugal were replicated in their extra-European territories (adapted in accordance with the particularities of the local context), though the visits realized in the Hispanic world were not absolutely identical to those carried out in the regions under Portuguese domination. It concludes that pastoral visits were an important tool of Christianization, and a way of disciplining the behavior of clerics and laity through the application of preventive and punitive forms of justice, as well as being a means of negotiation that sought to affirm the episcopal authority before other powers.
A new species of the Indonemoura fujianensis complex (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China
Authors: MO RAORAO , WANG GUOQUAN , YANG DING , LI WEIHAI
Published: June 2020

A new species of Nemouridae of the genus Indonemoura Baumann, Indonemoura maoershana sp. nov., is described from Maoershan National Natural Reserve in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, and is recognized as member of the I. fujianensis complex. This new taxon is compared with similar congeners.
First checklist of Tunisian sphecid wasps (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae) with new and additional records
Authors: KHEDHER HASSIB BEN , YILDIRIM EROL , BRAHAM MOHAMED , LJUBOMIROV TOSHKO
Published: June 2020

The first checklist of Sphecidae of Tunisia is established. It is based on literature, on examination of Tunisian specimens present in the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France), and on specimens recently collected in Tunisia. Fifty-three species and subspecies belonging to 10 genera, 3 tribes and 4 subfamilies are listed. Three species: Parapsammophila errabunda (Kohl, 1901), Eremochares luteus (Taschenberg, 1869) and Prionyx macula (Fabricius, 1804) are recorded for the first time from Tunisia.
Resurrection of Ophichthus zophistius (Actinopterygii: Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae), with a revised diagnosis of O. altipennis
Authors: HIBINO YUSUKE , MCCOSKER JOHN E.
Published: June 2020

Pisoodonophis zophistius Jordan and Snyder 1901 is redescribed as a valid species of Ophichthus Ahl 1789 based on 46 specimens including the holotype. Although this name has been synonymized under Ophichthus altipennis (Kaup 1856), the former can be distinguished from the latter by a relatively acute snout (vs. strongly acute), presence of irregular obscure bars on the body (vs. bars absent), 11–13 predorsal and 61–63 preanal vertebrae (vs. 8–9 and 52–58, respectively) and 10–14 predorsal and 59–64 preanal lateral-line pores (vs. 7–9 and 55–61, respectively), dorsal-fin origin usually above or behind the pectoral-fin insertion (vs. anterior to the insertion), and tail broad and tapered slowly (vs. becoming slender and tapered rapidly). Furthermore, Ophichthys intermedius Regan 1905 and Microdonophis fasciatus Chu, Wu and Jin 1981 are junior synonyms of O. zophistius, and Ophichthus melanochir Bleeker 1864 is that of O. altipennis.
Ipsilateral Cochlear Implantation in the Presence of Observed and Irradiated Vestibular Schwannomas
Authors: Urban Matthew J. , Moore Dennis M. , Kwarta Keri , Leonetti John , Rajasekhar Rebecca , Gluth Michael B. , Wiet R. Mark
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

Historically, eventual loss of cochlear nerve function has limited patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) to auditory brainstem implants (ABI), which in general are less effective than modern cochlear implants (CI). Our objective is to evaluate hearing outcomes following ipsilateral cochlear implantation in patients with NF2 and irradiated vestibular schwannomas (VS), and sporadic VS that have been irradiated or observed.

Methods:

Multi-center retrospective analysis of ipsilateral cochlear implantation in the presence of observed and irradiated VS. MESH search in NCBI PubMed database between 1992 and 2019 for reported cases of cochlear implantation with unresected vestibular schwannoma.

Results:

Seven patients underwent ipsilateral cochlear implantation in the presence of observed or irradiated vestibular schwannomas. Four patients had sporadic tumors with severe-profound contralateral hearing loss caused by presbycusis/hereditary sensorineural hearing loss, and three patients with NF2 lost contralateral hearing after prior surgical resection. Prior to implantation, one VS was observed without growth for a period of 7 years and the others were treated with radiotherapy. Mean post-operative sentence score was 63.9% (range 48-91) at an average of 28 (range 2-84) months follow up. All patients in this cohort obtained open set speech perception. While analysis of the literature is limited by heterogenous data reporting, 85% of implants with observed schwannomas achieved some open set perception, and 67% of patients previously radiated schwannomas. Furthermore, blending literature outcomes for post implantation sentence testing in quiet without lip-reading show 59.0 ± 35% for patients with CI and observed tumors and 55.7 ± 35% for patients with radiated tumors, with both groups ranging 0 to 100%.

Conclusion:

This retrospective series and literature review highlight that hearing outcomes with CI for VS patients are superior to those achieved with ABI. However, important considerations including imaging, delayed hearing loss, and observation time cannot be ignored in this population.
Haptic Lane-Keeping Assistance for Truck Driving: A Test Track Study
Authors: Roozendaal Jeroen , Johansson Emma , Winter Joost de , Abbink David , Petermeijer Sebastiaan
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study aims to compare the effectiveness and subjective acceptance of three designs for haptic lane-keeping assistance in truck driving.

Background

Haptic lane-keeping assistance provides steering torques toward a reference trajectory, either continuously or only when exceeding a bandwidth. These approaches have been previously investigated in driving simulators, but it is unclear how these generalize toward real-life truck driving.

Method

Three haptic lane-keeping algorithms to assist truck drivers were evaluated on a 6.3-km-long oval-shaped test track: (1) a single-bandwidth (SB) algorithm, which activated assistance torques when the predicted lateral deviation from lane center exceeded 0.4 m; (2) a double-bandwidth (DB) algorithm, which activated as SB, but deactivated after returning within 0.15 m lateral deviation; and (3) an algorithm providing assistance torques continuously (Cont) toward the lane center. Fifteen participants drove four trials each, one trial without and one for each haptic assistance design. Furthermore, participants drove with and without a concurrent visually distracting task.

Results

Compared to unsupported driving, all three assistance systems provided similar safety benefits in terms of decreased absolute lateral position and number of lane departures. Participants reported higher satisfaction and usability for Cont compared to SB.

Conclusion

The continuous assistance was better accepted than bandwidth assistance, a finding consistent with prior driving simulator research. Research is still needed to investigate the long-term effects of haptic assistance on reliance and after-effects.

Application

The present results are useful for designers of haptic lane-keeping assistance, as driver acceptance and performance are determinants of reliance and safety, respectively.
Decrease of hospitalizations and length of hospital stay in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders treated in a community mental health service in rural Greece
Authors: Peritogiannis Vaios , Gioti Panagiota , Gogou Afroditi , Samakouri Maria
Published: June 2020

Background:

The treatment of severe and chronic mental disorders, such as schizophrenia and related syndromes, is largely based on community mental health services.

Aims:

The objective of the present study was to assess hospital admissions and length of hospital stay in patients with schizophrenia and related disorders, who are engaged to treatment with a Mobile Mental Health Unit (MMHU I-T) in a defined rural catchment area in Greece.

Method:

Data were retrieved retrospectively for 76 patients with schizophrenia and related disorders. For each patient, comparison was made for the same interval prior and after engagement to treatment with the MMHU I-T.

Results:

The average age of patients was 56 years and the mean illness duration was 28 years. The mean follow-up duration was 5.3 years. There was a statistically significant decrease in the annual average of the number of voluntary and involuntary hospitalizations and on days of hospital stay after treatment engagement with the MMHU I-T.

Conclusions:

Treatment of schizophrenia spectrum disorders in rural residents by the MMHUs may contribute to the reduction of patients’ admissions and length of hospital stay. Future research should address the cost-effectiveness of such interventions.
The Vatican Opinion on Gender Theory
Authors: Tudela Julio , Burguete Enrique , Aznar Justo
Published: June 2020

This article is a reasoned response to the article by Timothy F. Murphy, recently published in the prestigious journal Bioethics, on the supposed opposition between the views of the Catholic Church and what he calls “contemporary science” in relation to certain anthropological issues linked to the gender perspective. To point to “the Vatican” as anchored in an unscientific and anachronistic position, using the term contemporary science to which he attributes a unanimous representation of current scientific thinking on the subject is, in our view, unfounded and completely unacceptable. In his reflection, he does not adequately distinguish between intersex and transgenderism, two clearly different realities with different needs. The author defends the obsolescence of the binary sex/gender model that, in his view, “betrays human sexuality.” Furthermore, he does so without providing a plausible justification or a definition of human nature that is able to support the plurality and indeterminacy of sexual conditions, without falling back on untenable dualisms or relativism devoid of scientific objectivity. In our response, we highlight how the dialogue between Faith and Reason, as developed in the recent Magisterium of the Catholic Church, is essential to explain nature, the human being and, in general, all creations. Finally, contemporary science does not provide a monolithic and unquestionable view of the nature of human beings and their sexual identity, as the author claims, with many scientists confirming evidence of a binary human sexuality genetically and phenotypically determined.

This paper is a reasoned response to the supposed opposition between the views of the Catholic Church and “contemporary science” in relation to certain anthropological issues linked to the gender perspective.The dialogue between Faith and Reason, as developed in the recent Magisterium of the Catholic Church, is essential to explain nature, the human being and, in general, all creation, against the opinion of those who defend the obsolescence of the binary sex/gender model that, in their view, “betrays human sexuality”.
Predictive Validity of Pretrial Risk Assessments: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Desmarais Sarah L. , Zottola Samantha A. , Duhart Clarke Sarah E. , Lowder Evan M.
Published: June 2020

Bail reform is sweeping the nation and many jurisdictions are looking to pretrial risk assessment as one potential strategy to support these efforts. This article summarizes the findings of a systematic review of research examining the predictive validity of pretrial risk assessments. We reviewed 11 studies (13 publications) examining the predictive validity of six pretrial risk assessment instruments reported in the gray and peer-reviewed literature as of December, 2018. Findings typically show good to excellent predictive validity. Differences in predictive validity for men and women were mixed and small. When it could be examined, predictive validity was generally comparable across racial/ethnic subgroups; however, three comparisons revealed notably lower, albeit still fair to good, predictive validity for defendants of color than White defendants. Findings suggest that pretrial risk assessments predict pretrial outcomes with acceptable accuracy, but also emphasize the need for continued investigation of predictive validity across gender and racial/ethnic subgroups.
Research in Review
Authors: Rusalem Herbert
Published: June 2020

“Patients’ Acceptance of Microlenses,” by Richard A. Westsmith, M.D. American Journal of Ophthalmology, Vol. 46, No. 6, December 1958, pp. 869–72.
Job Talk
Authors: Butler John R.
Published: June 2020

The following article on the professional preparation of special educators who work with blind children was contributed by Everett E. Wilcox, Ed.D., program specialist in education, American Foundation for the Blind.
Research in Review
Authors: Rusalem Herbert
Published: June 2020

Owing to its importance and multi-faceted approach to the problems of mobility among blind persons, this study will be presented in two parts, the first part dealing with that aspect of the total study relating to the travel adjustment of blind persons, the second review focusing upon materials concerning dog guides.
The Community Adjustment Program (Cap) for Visually Impaired Adolescents
Authors: Stewart Ian W. , Van Hasselt Vincent B. , Simon Janet , Thompson William B.
Published: June 2020

The Community Adjustment Program (CAP) was a collaborative effort between a residential school and a public school intermediate unit to instruct visually impaired mainstreamed adolescents in adaptive living and social skills. CAP was carried out in the summer over a five-week period. Curricula for this program were designed to supplement the limited daily living instruction available in the public school system. Responses of students, parents, and teachers indicated that CAP was a positive experience for all participants. Evaluation data and recommendations were provided to parents and teachers to maximize maintenance of children's newly aquired skills.
Employment of Deaf-Blind Rubella Students in a Subsidized Work Program
Authors: Busse Dennis G. , Romer Lyle T. , Fewell Rebecca R. , Vadasy Patricia F.
Published: June 2020

Recipients of training in a model vocational program for deaf-blind youth participated in a summer workshop placement. Three deaf-blind teenage students were placed for four to eight weeks in a community-subsidized work program modeled on the Specialized Training Program. All students generalized assembly and self-help skills in which they had been trained, with peer tutor assistance, prior to placement. Their rates of productivity and supervisor contacts were similar to those of other work program employees. The results demonstrate the potential of individualized programming to meet the vocational needs of the adolescent deaf-blind rubella population in existing work programs for the severely handicapped.
An Aerobic Walking Program to Promote Physical Fitness in Older Blind Adults
Authors: Weitzman Donald Mark
Published: June 2020

Both direct and indirect evidence gathered over the past 40 years strongly suggest that personal exercise can play a critical role in one's emotional and physical well-being. This article describes a unique group fitness program that combines Fast walking with safe calisthenics. The program is especially suitable for older blind adults who get very little healthful exercise and experience considerable depression.
A Study of the Effectiveness of the Wide Angle Mobility Light
Authors: Morrisette Diane L. , Goodrich Gregory L. , Marmor Michael F.
Published: June 2020

The Wide Angle Mobility Light (WAML) is a commercially available night vision aid. The present study tested the effectiveness of the device in helping night-blind subjects walk a course of residential streets at night. It was found that the WAML significantly reduced error rates ( p< .05). The results suggest that the WAML can be a useful device for most individuals who have night blindness with constricted peripheral visual fields.
Home-Grown Toys: The Learning Pillows
Authors: Kronheim Jane K.
Published: June 2020

Article describes a tactile toy for visually impaired children. The “learning pillow” combines a written text (story or poem) with a page-size pillow having tactile images related to the text. Exploration of the pillow in conjunction with hearing the text stimulates a number of learning experiences. This toy addresses need in its approach to multisensory teaching and is appropriate for other disabled populations as well.
Blind Parents Rearing Sighted Children
Authors: Arsnow George F. , Dichiera Joan , Mould Louise , Sauerburger Dona , Peaco Freddie
Published: June 2020

A panel addresses some of the concerns of blind parents. One partially sighted mother focuses on raising infants and preschoolers, a blind mother talks about raising a school-aged child with her blind husband, and a blind father discusses raising teenagers.
Diagnosis and Evaluation of Visual Dysfunction in Premature Infants with Low Birth Weight
Authors: Morse Alan R. , Trief Ellen
Published: June 2020

Visual impairment of many kinds is common in premature infants with low birth weight. The infant's visual system is quite plastic in the early stages, and early screening may help to discover treatable pathology. Clinical techniques are available that are not used in the routine examination given by the pediatrician. These include optokinetic nystagmus, preferential looking, and visually evoked potential. If such techniques were more widely employed where visual impairment is suspected, nonsurgical remedial intervention might be more successful.
Processes Involved in Braille Reading
Authors: Pring Linda
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this investigation was to consider whether the input modality and orthographic differences in braille reading produce different word recognition strategies for blind as compared with sighted persons. Blind children, blind adults, and sighted children were compared as to the extent to which they showed a pseudohomophone effect, which is held to reflect phonological coding. While in the sighted individuals there was strong evidence for such an effect, this was not so with the blind persons. The results were interpreted to indicate a differential allocation of attention to levels of word processing between the groups of readers.
Dog Guide and Blind Person: The Matching Process
Authors: Robson Howard
Published: June 2020

A discussion of the variations of temperament and physique exhibited by dog guides and potential masters that must be considered when they are paired. The author recommends keeping these considerations on a simple, factual level, noting the animal's sensitivity, its future surroundings, and the blind person's capacity for controlling the dog.
Survey of Multiply Handicapped, Visually Impaired Children in the Rocky Mountain/Great Plains Region
Authors: Gates Carmella Ficociello
Published: June 2020

In the fall of 1982, a survey of visually impaired children, from birth to age 12, was conducted in the 11-state Rocky Mountain/Great Plains region. The results indicated that within the population group survey, the majority were multiply handicapped, and that within this group itself, the greatest number were in the mild to moderate range. Data are presented on age ranges of the population, service delivery options currently utilized, vocational and alternative-living potentials, and teacher competencies necessary to effectively serve this population. The implications of the survey for teacher training and service delivery are also discussed.
Hearing Loss Associated with Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Karp Adrienne
Published: June 2020

Clients with retinitis pigmentosa and a mild, moderate, or progressive hearing loss may be unrecognized and unserved by our diagnostic and rehabilitation programs. They are often treated separately for their visual and hearing dysfunctions, with no dialogue between managing agencies. The purpose of this article is to offer professionals a description of this particular variation of Usher's syndrome, and appropriate guidelines for its identification.
Service Providers Assessment of the Career Development Needs of Blind and Visually Impaired Students and Rehabilitation Clients and the Resources Available to Meet those Needs
Authors: Bagley Martha
Published: June 2020

The following study presents an overview of career development needs of blind and visually impaired individuals and discusses results of a 1983–84 survey of school teachers (grades K, 3, 6, 9 and 12), rehabilitation counselors, management staff of rehabilitation agencies and agency administrators that assessed career development needs of severely visually impaired persons and resources available to meet those needs. Individuals surveyed felt that their students or clients need greater accessibility to career development tasks, experiences, and resources, and that none of the resources listed in the survey are readily accessible now, and many are inaccessible. Four basic conclusions are discussed.
Vocational Readiness Curriculum: Preparing Visually Multi-Handicapped Students for the World of Work
Authors: Mccarron Lawrence T. , Hurst J.R.
Published: June 2020

Discusses the need for a developmental curriculum that covers the steps toward vocational readiness for visually/multihandicapped students, and outlines a curriculum program designed for the Texas Education Agency that addresses the career development needs of special education students. The curriculum is presently being field-tested in four Texas school districts with approximately 8 teachers and 35 students. Worksheets, checklists and tables are presented to illustrate different aspects of the five-point curriculum.
World without Workshops
Authors: Winkley William M.
Published: June 2020

Looking at the history of segregation in education and the workplace for blind and handicapped persons, together with the relationship of segregation to social attitudes and to opportunity, the author poses the question of the relevance of sheltered workshops today. The El Paso Lighthouse “enclave with industry” program is presented as one model for moving toward a “natural proportion” environment.
Occupational Interests of Visually Handicapped Secondary Students
Authors: Corn Anne L. , Bishop Virginia E.
Published: June 2020

The Occupational Schedule (OASIS-IS) was administered to 117 visually handicapped 8th–12th graders. As a group they showed positive though relatively undifferentiated occupational interests. Inclinations toward and against specific job clusters were documented, and are discussed in terms of gender, skills, and training programs.
Vocational Evaluation of Blind and Visually Impaired Persons for Technical, Professional, and Managerial Positions
Authors: Peterson Michael
Published: June 2020

This survey presents a broad overview of the vocational assessment environment citing problems such as using “trait” oriented approaches rather than more specific “real-work” task techniques for the visually impaired and blind employment candidates. However, with more properly aligned technology geared to the particular needs of handicapped persons, recent trends are emerging, and suggestions are made to better evaluate the handicapped person's career plans.
Counseling to Maximize Potential: Case Study of a Disaffected Blind Worker
Authors: Warren J.D. , Gandy M.J.
Published: June 2020

A disrespectful, disruptive attitude was threatening the employment of a blind man working in a sheltered workshop. Intervention in terms of confrontational and didactic counseling based on models promulgated by Gerald Egan and William Glasser, combined with a plan of coordinated effort for creating placement opportunities, enabled the client to determine the negative impacts of his attitude on his employment history, to identify his own vocational strengths, and to obtain white-collar, semi-professional employment. This case history indicates that direct, confrontational counseling both prior to and subsequent to the taking of an application for services, and teaching of job-seeking and related skills by a rehabilitation counselor, along with coordinating opportunities for a client to use acquired skills, can result in positive vocational change in a formerly noncooperative individual.