bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Maladaptive Schemas: Relationship With Case Complexity in Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Hawke Lisa D. , Provencher Martin D.
Published: November 2013

Background: Schema theory, developed for chronic, treatment-resistant patients, has been largely applied to personality disorders. However, many patients with other psychiatric disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders, also demonstrate elevated early maladaptive schemas (EMSs). Based on schema theory and clinical observations, individuals with greater case complexity would be expected to demonstrate higher EMS activation. Aim: This study examines EMSs as a function of case complexity in individuals with mood and anxiety disorders. Method: 69 patients consulting for mood or anxiety disorders completed the YSQ-S3 and a thorough intake assessment. The relationship between EMSs and case complexity is explored. Results: Although some EMSs are more strongly activated as a function of comorbidities and degree of functional impairment, the greatest difference is a function of multiaxial case complexity. Conclusion: Complex clinical presentations are associated with EMS activation. Case complexity should be considered when applying schema theory to mood and anxiety disorders. Schema therapy may be a useful treatment alternative particularly for the more complex cases.
Expressive Remix Therapy: Using Digital Media Art in Therapeutic Group Sessions with Children and Adolescents
Authors: Jamerson Jeffrey L.
Published: November 2013

Stories play a significant role in how we feel about and interact with the world. Narrative therapy and expressive arts therapy are major influences on the creation of expressive remix therapy, a new form of engagement with clients. This article is an exposition of this particular mental health modality. The use of digital media art in therapy in group settings will be discussed, and examples of how to use digital media art and technology in group therapy sessions are provided. The intention of this article is to promote a renewed appreciation for stories as the backdrop for all narrative work; it also seeks to inspire people to look at the practice of mental health differently, particularly the tools used to positively impact clients.
The “Silenced” Voices of Women Cancer Survivors: Bodily Experiences From an Existential Perspective
Authors: Laranjeira Carlos António , Leão Paula Ponce , Leal Isabel
Published: November 2013

This study explores women’s embodiment from an existential–phenomenological approach. Gynecological cancer was chosen as the condition of interest to understand socially formed gender via female bodies as a lived experience of socially and historically situated women. This empirical material is based on individual interviews with 10 Portuguese cancer survivors. A phenomenological–hermeneutical method, inspired by Ricoeur (1976), was used to extract the meaningful content from the women’s experiences. These narratives include life changes and recovery transitions in and through the lived body. By seeing cancer survival in terms of the lived body, this study opens the possibility of articulating a deeper and clearer understanding of people’s experience of cancer trauma with gender-sensitive health services.
Awareness, adoption and implementation of the water safety plan methodology: insights from five Latin American and Caribbean experiences
Authors: Hubbard Brian , Gelting Richard , Portillo Maria del Carmen , Williams Tom , Torres Ricardo
Published: November 2013

Considerable effort has been made worldwide to disseminate information and provide technical assistance to encourage the adoption and implementation of the water safety plan (WSP) methodology. Described since the third edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality, a WSP provides guidance for water utilities to ensure the delivery of safe drinking water and protect health. Attention is now being given to understand the success of efforts to advance adoption of the WSP methodology in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region. More specifically, there is interest in knowing how early adopters developed strategies to implement the WSP methodology and what challenges exist for further implementation. To better understand adoption and implementation trends, key informants from five LAC countries were interviewed and case studies were developed to reveal the diversity of WSP approaches applied in the region. Results indicate that WSP implementation is more widespread than previously reported. Respondents affirmed that the WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality are routinely used as a model for country-level drinking-water regulations, which has led to uptake of the WSP methodology. Interview respondents also revealed innovative national strategic approaches for WSP implementation.
A cluster-randomized trial assessing the impact of school water, sanitation and hygiene improvements on pupil enrolment and gender parity in enrolment
Authors: Garn Joshua V. , Greene Leslie E. , Dreibelbis Robert , Saboori Shadi , Rheingans Richard D. , Freeman Matthew C.
Published: November 2013

We employed a cluster-randomized trial design to measure the impact of a school-based water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) improvement on pupil enrolment and on gender parity in enrolment, in primary schools in Nyanza Province, Kenya (2007–2009). Among schools with poor water access during the dry season, those that received a water supply, hygiene promotion and water treatment (HP&WT) and sanitation improvement demonstrated increased enrolment (β = 0.091 [0.009, 0.173] p = 0.03), which translates to 26 additional pupils per school on average. The proportion of girls enrolled in school also increased by 4% (prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.04 [1.00, 1.07] p = 0.02). Among schools with better baseline water access during the dry season (schools that did not receive a water source), we found no evidence of increased enrolment in schools that received a HP&WT intervention (β = 0.016 [–0.039, 0.072] p = 0.56) or the HP&WT and sanitation intervention (β = 0.027 [–0.028, 0.082] p = 0.34), and there was no evidence of improved gender parity (PR = 0.99 [0.96, 1.02] p = 0.59, PR = 1.00 [0.97, 1.02] p = 0.75, respectively). Our findings suggest that increased school enrolment and improved gender parity may be influenced by a comprehensive WASH programme that includes an improved water source; schools with poor water access during the dry season may benefit most from these interventions.
Novel Therapies for Hemodialysis Vascular Access Dysfunction
Authors: Terry Christi M. , Dember Laura M.
Published: November 2013

Hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction is a major source of morbidity for patients with ESRD. Development of effective approaches to prevent and treat vascular access failure requires an understanding of the underlying mechanisms, suitable models for preclinical testing, systems for targeted delivery of interventions to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity, and rigorous clinical trials that use appropriate outcome measures. This article reviews the substantial progress and ongoing challenges in developing novel treatments for arteriovenous vascular access failure and focuses on localized rather than systemic interventions.
Impact of Conversation Map™ Education Tools Versus Regular Care on Diabetes-Related Knowledge of People With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Reaney Matthew , Zorzo Esther Gil , Golay Alain , Hermanns Norbert , Cleall Simon , Petzinger Ute , Koivisto Veikko
Published: November 2013

Objective. This study compared the effectiveness of Conversation Map™ (CM) education tools versus regular care of adults with type 2 diabetes.

Methods. Participants from Spain and Germany were randomized to either four CM education sessions or regular care. Data were collected at baseline (visit 1), immediately post-education (visit 2), and 6 months later (visit 3). The primary objective was to compare diabetes knowledge between education groups at visit 3, using the Audit of Diabetes Knowledge (ADKnowl) questionnaire (score range 0–100).

Results. Of 681 participants randomized (CM 330, regular care 351), 91.8% completed visit 3. Median ADKnowl scores increased significantly (P < 0.001) in both groups (CM visit 1, 60.3; visit 2, 73.5; and visit 3, 72.5; regular care visit 1, 63.3; visit 2, 73.5; and visit 3, 73.6). At visit 3, scores were not ranked significantly differently between education groups (P = 0.284). In Spain (n = 310), visit 3 scores were ranked higher for CM than for regular care (P < 0.001); in Germany (n = 371), the opposite was true (P < 0.001). Of participants receiving regular care, 78.3% of those in Germany and 13.5% of those in Spain had non-CM structured education between visits 1 and 2. In Spain, CM patients had higher satisfaction with care and goal attainment than regular-care patients at visit 2 (visit 2 P < 0.001, visit 3 P = 0.055). In Germany, CM patients had less emotional distress than regular-care patients (visit 2 P = 0.025, visit 3 P = 0.003). Median A1C decreased similarly in both groups and countries.

Conclusion. Diabetes knowledge and clinical outcomes improved in both education groups. At visit 3, diabetes knowledge in the CM group was not ranked higher than in the regular-care group. In Germany, where regular care frequently involves structured education programs, diabetes knowledge was ranked higher with regular care than with CM. In Spain, where no structured national diabetes education and awareness programs are in place, scores were ranked higher with CM than with regular care.
Statistical Process Control in Automotive Industry
Authors: Korenko Maroš , Kaplik Pavol , Bujna Marian , Pristavka Miroslav
Published: November 2013

Organisations active in the market, regardless of the sphere of action, must constantly face pressures from an uncompromising competition. Therefore, if organisations wish to be successful in the market and constantly move forward, they must draw attention to the quality of products in the market. Statistical process control is the implementation of such statistical methods through which the production process is regulated and controlled to ensure the production of the highest possible amount of products that comply with requirements imposed on them.
Psychometric Properties of 3 Functional Mobility Tests for People With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Verheyden Geert , Kampshoff Caroline S. , Burnett Malcolm E. , Cashell Jessica , Martinelli Louis , Nicholas Alice , Stack Emma L. , Ashburn Ann
Published: November 2013

Background

Standardized outcome measures with high clinical utility are of paramount importance for clinical practice.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine interrater and intrarater reliability, construct validity, discriminant ability, and smallest detectable differences of the sit-to-stand test (STS), Timed “Up & Go” Test (TUG), and bed mobility test for people with Parkinson disease (PD).

Design

A cross-sectional, psychometric evaluation study was conducted.

Methods

A group of individuals with PD (PD group) and a group of individuals who were healthy (control group) were recruited through local PD groups and assessed in a movement laboratory in their “on” phase. Measurements of time to perform one STS, TUG, and bed mobility test were collected based on video recordings of that single performance.

Results

Thirty-eight individuals with PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages I–IV) and 19 age-matched control participants were recruited. Intraclass correlation coefficients for interrater and intrarater reliability for the PD group ranged from .95 to .99. Bland-Altman plots showed mean differences close to zero and narrow confidence intervals. Construct validity was established by means of moderate to good Spearman rho correlation coefficients with part III of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale and the Hoehn and Yahr stage (range=.51–.63). Timings of all tests discriminated participants in the PD group from those in the control group and participants in the PD group in Hoehn and Yahr stages I and II from those in Hoehn and Yahr stages III and IV but did not discriminate “nonfallers” or those with single falls from repeat “fallers” or “nonfreezers” from “freezers.” Applicable smallest detectable differences were established.

Limitations

The results are not generalizable to people in the late stage of PD (Hoehn and Yahr stage IV: n=3).

Conclusions

Timings of video recordings of 3 functional mobility tests with high clinical utility showed good psychometric properties for community-dwelling, ambulatory people with PD.
Conservative Treatment of a Proximal Full-Thickness Biceps Brachii Muscle Tear in a Special Operations Soldier
Authors: Helton Matthew S.
Published: November 2013

Background

A transection of the short head of the biceps brachii muscle is an uncommon injury seen among outpatient sports physical therapy clinics. The highest rate of occurrence and the majority of literature that discusses this specific injury are related to US military parachuting. The purpose of this case report is to outline the episode of care from 2 days after the injury through 6 months of conservative treatment, which consisted of therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and cryotherapy, within an outpatient sports physical therapy clinic in a military setting.

Case Description

This case report outlines the initial evaluation, diagnostic imaging, treatment, and 6-month follow-up measures for a 23-year-old male patient who sustained a static line injury resulting in a full-thickness tear of his biceps brachii muscle and a partial tear of the coracobrachialis muscle.

Outcomes

The individual described in this case report reported having no functional limitations in regard to his job and leisure activities or any pain at his 6-month follow-up, with a score of 0% noted on his Shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (QuickDASH). Isokinetic testing revealed a 39.1% decrease in elbow flexion peak torque and a 60.8% decrease in elbow flexion total work output at this same follow-up interval.

Discussion

In determining the appropriate course of treatment for this injury type, conservative physical therapy intervention should be considered as a viable treatment option, as there have been no decisive studies to suggest superior outcomes with other methods such as surgical correction. It is further recommended that research be conducted in an effort to prevent such injuries from occurring, as this mechanism of injury has proven to be much higher among the US military population compared with other military populations.
Association of cerebellopontine angle atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors with acute facial nerve palsy in infants
Authors: Siu Alan , Lee Michaela , Rice Robert , Myseros John S.
Published: November 2013

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RTs) are highly malignant CNS tumors found almost exclusively in childhood. Although essentially universally fatal when incompletely resected, prompt diagnosis followed by early chemoradiation can improve outcomes. An AT/RT can occur extraaxially at the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) and cause acute cranial nerve deficits as the presenting sign. The authors report a series of 3 children who presented with isolated acute facial nerve palsies and in whom subsequent diagnosis of a CPA AT/RT was made. The authors propose that in young children whose presenting symptom is an acute facial nerve palsy with a CPA tumor, AT/RT should be highly suspected.
Prospective review of a single center's general pediatric neurosurgical intraoperative and postoperative complication rates
Authors: van Lindert Erik J. , Delye Hans , Leonardo Jody
Published: November 2013

Object

The authors conducted a study to compare the complication rate (CR) of pediatric neurosurgical procedures in a general neurosurgery department to the CRs that are reported in the literature and to establish a baseline of CR for further targeted improvement of quality neurosurgical care.

Methods

The authors analyzed the prospectively collected data from a complication registration of 1000 consecutive pediatric neurosurgical procedures in 581 patients from the beginning of the registration in January 2004 through August 2008. A pediatric neurosurgeon was involved in 50.5% of the procedures. All adverse events (AEs) from induction of anesthesia until 30 days postoperatively were recorded.

Results

Overall, 229 complications were counted in 202 procedures. The overall CR was 20.2%, with a 2.7% intraoperative CR and a 17.5% postoperative CR. Tumor surgery was associated with the highest CR (32.7%), followed by CSF disorders (21.8%). The mortality rate was 0.3%. An unplanned return to the operating room in relation to an AE happened in 10.5% of all procedures and in 52% of procedures associated with AEs, the majority of which were related to CSF disorders.

Conclusions

The CR in pediatric neurosurgical procedures was significant, and more than half of the patients with an AE required a repeat surgical procedure. Analysis of CRs should be a prerequisite for the prevention of complications and for the development of targeted interventions to reduce the CR (for example, infection rates).
Unilateral pedicle screw fixation through a tubular retractor via the Wiltse approach compared with conventional bilateral pedicle screw fixation for single-segment degenerative lumbar instability: a prospective randomized study
Authors: Dong Jianwen , Rong Limin , Feng Feng , Liu Bin , Xu Yichun , Wang Qiyou , Chen Ruiqiang , Xie Peigen
Published: November 2013

Object

Treatment of patients with single-segment degenerative lumbar instability using unilateral pedicle screw fixation can achieve stability and fusion rates similar to those of bilateral pedicle screw fixation. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical outcome of using unilateral pedicle screw fixation through a tubular retractor via the Wiltse approach to treat single-segment degenerative lumbar instability.

Methods

Thirty-nine consecutive patients with single-segment, low-grade, degenerative lumbar instability were randomly assigned to treatment with either unilateral (n = 20) or bilateral (n = 19) pedicle screw fixation. In the unilateral group, patients underwent unilateral posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and ipsilateral pedicle screw fixation through a tubular retractor via the Wiltse approach. In the bilateral group, patients underwent modified bilateral PLIF with bilateral pedicle screw fixation via the posterior midline approach. During follow-up, patients were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS), the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and the Oswestry Disability Index.

Results

The unilateral group had a shorter operative duration (p < 0.05) and less blood loss (p < 0.001). All patients completed more than 2 years of follow-up (mean 36 months). In general, the time trends in improvement on the VAS and JOA differed slightly between the groups through 2 years, but no significant difference in back pain VAS score or leg pain VAS score was found between these 2 groups at the 2-year follow-up. Complete bone fusion was shown on CT in all patients at the 2-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Unilateral pedicle screw fixation through a tubular retractor via the Wiltse approach appears to be as safe and effective as bilateral pedicle screw fixation for the treatment of single-segment degenerative lumbar instability.
Psalm 44 and the Pictish king
Authors: Grigg Julianna
Published: November 2013

Adomnán's Vita S. Columbae narrates a series of miracles relating to Columba's visit to the Pictish king. One such tale describes Columba's psalmody outside the Pictish king's fort, where the saint's thundering oration reduces the Picts to terror. An anomalous aspect of this miracle-tale is Columba's selection of Psalm 44; a psalm of laudation to a king on his marriage. It is proposed that the inclusion of this psalm points to an exegetical interpretation that argues against a simple reading of Pictish conversion and, instead, reveals the operation of Adomnán's diplomacy and clerical notions of ‘just’ kingship.
An Adaptive Learning Model in Coordination Games
Authors: Funai Naoki
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we provide a theoretical prediction of the way in which adaptive players behave in the long run in normal form games with strict Nash equilibria. In the model, each player assigns subjective payoff assessments to his own actions, where the assessment of each action is a weighted average of its past payoffs, and chooses the action which has the highest assessment. After receiving a payoff, each player updates the assessment of his chosen action in an adaptive manner. We show almost sure convergence to a Nash equilibrium under one of the following conditions: (i) that, at any non-Nash equilibrium action profile, there exists a player who receives a payoff, which is less than his maximin payoff; (ii) that all non-Nash equilibrium action profiles give the same payoff. In particular, the convergence is shown in the following games: the battle of the sexes game, the stag hunt game and the first order statistic game. In the game of chicken and market entry games, players may end up playing the action profile, which consists of each player’s unique maximin action.
Titanium Corrosion Mechanisms in the Oral Environment: A Retrieval Study
Authors: Rodrigues Danieli , Valderrama Pilar , Wilson Thomas , Palmer Kelli , Thomas Anie , Sridhar Sathyanarayanan , Adapalli Arvind , Burbano Maria , Wadhwani Chandur
Published: November 2013

Corrosion of titanium dental implants has been associated with implant failure and is considered one of the triggering factors for peri-implantitis. This corrosion is concerning, because a large amount of metal ions and debris are generated in this process, the accumulation of which may lead to adverse tissue reactions in vivo. The goal of this study is to investigate the mechanisms for implant degradation by evaluating the surface of five titanium dental implants retrieved due to peri-implantitis. The results demonstrated that all the implants were subjected to very acidic environments, which, in combination with normal implant loading, led to cases of severe implant discoloration, pitting attack, cracking and fretting-crevice corrosion. The results suggest that acidic environments induced by bacterial biofilms and/or inflammatory processes may trigger oxidation of the surface of titanium dental implants. The corrosive process can lead to permanent breakdown of the oxide film, which, besides releasing metal ions and debris in vivo, may also hinder re-integration of the implant surface with surrounding bone.
Investigating the Role of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Bone Development Using Animal Models
Authors: Lau Beatrice , Cohen Daniel , Ward Wendy , Ma David
Published: November 2013

Incorporating n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the diet may promote the development of a healthy skeleton and thereby reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis in later life. Studies using developing animal models suggest lowering dietary n-6 PUFA and increasing n-3 PUFA intakes, especially long chain n-3 PUFA, may be beneficial for achieving higher bone mineral content, density and stronger bones. To date, the evidence regarding the effects of α-linolenic acid (ALA) remain equivocal, in contrast to evidence from the longer chain products, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This review reports the results of investigations into n-3 PUFA supplementation on bone fatty acid composition, strength and mineral content in developing animal models as well as the mechanistic relationships of PUFA and bone, and identifies critical areas for future research. Overall, this review supports a probable role for essential (ALA) and long chain (EPA and DHA) n-3 PUFA for bone health. Understanding the role of PUFA in optimizing bone health may lead to dietary strategies that promote bone development and maintenance of a healthy skeleton.
Active Tracking of Maja Squinado in the Mediterranean Sea with Wireless Acoustic Sensors: Method, Results and Prospectives
Authors: Gualtieri Jean-Sebastien , Aiello Antoine , Antoine-Santoni Thierry , Poggi Bastien , DeGentili Emmanuelle
Published: November 2013

The Sustainable TEchnologies for LittoraL Aquaculture and MArine REsearch (STELLA MARE) platform has as an objective to provide data for the management of the sea in relation with the fishing industry. In this paper, we introduce the first experiment on the active tracking of a crab species, Maja squinado, symbolic of the deregulation of fishing activity. This paper introduces the method used for monitoring Maja squinado and the first collected data on the behavior of this little-known species.
Enfants attendus et enfants accueillis dans le cadre de l’adoption
Authors: Frechon  Isabelle , Villeneuve-Gokalp Catherine
Published: November 2013

Parmi les principaux facteurs qui interviennent dans le déroulement d’une procédure d’adoption, puis dans l’adaptation de l’enfant à sa famille, figurent la composition de la famille, la motivation des parents et les préférences pour l’enfant attendu. Une étude de l’Institut national d’études démographiques réalisée à partir de dossiers de candidats à l’adoption souligne les relations entre les caractéristiques des candidats, celles qu’ils souhaitent pour les enfants et leurs probabilités de réaliser leur projet. Dans la mesure où l’intégration d’un enfant à sa famille dépend en partie de l’adéquation entre l’enfant attendu et l’enfant accueilli, l’adoption d’un enfant différent comporte parfois un risque. Or, parmi les adoptants, au moins un sur quatre adopte un nombre d’enfants ou un enfant différent par l’âge, le sexe ou l’origine du projet avec lequel il avait obtenu un agrément.
Gérer la famille pluripaternelle : le beau-père comme allié du père
Authors: Marsiglio William , Hinojosa Ramon
Published: November 2013

En s’appuyant sur des entretiens qualitatifs approfondis conduits auprès de quarante-six beaux-pères, cet article s’intéresse plus spécifiquement aux cas dans lesquels ceux-ci se comportent, directement et indirectement, comme des alliés du père, à savoir lorsqu’ils l’aident à maintenir ou renforcer sa relation avec son enfant. L’analyse apporte un éclairage théorique sur le concept d’« allié du père » et sur les conditions qui facilitent ou pourraient promouvoir sa concrétisation. Il examine comment les beaux-pères conceptualisent et mettent en oeuvre une coopération interactive qui témoigne d’une identité masculine moins traditionnelle. L’étude illustre ainsi certaines des difficultés interpersonnelles associées à la paternité au sein de familles recomposées aux États-Unis.
La diversité des trajectoires de recomposition familiale [Une perspective québécoise ]
Authors: Saint-Jacques Marie-Christine , Gherghel Ana , Drapeau Sylvie , Gagné Marie-Hélène , Parent Claudine , Robitaille Caroline , Godbout Élisabeth
Published: November 2013

Cet article présente les résultats d’une étude qualitative utilisant la théorie du cours de la vie visant à témoigner de la diversité des parcours menant à la recomposition familiale. Trois critères ont été retenus afin d’élaborer une typologie des trajectoires des individus interrogés : le statut du répondant au sein de la famille, le nombre d’unions et la position de la parentalité par rapport aux autres épisodes familiaux vécus. Cinq trajectoires sont ainsi dégagées : des parents qui rencontrent d’autres parents, devenir parent au sein d’une famille recomposée, des individus faisant un passage éphémère dans une famille recomposée, des trajectoires familiales sérielles et, enfin, des personnes commençant leur vie en famille recomposée. Les résultats obtenus montrent une variation importante dans la nature et l’enchaînement des épisodes qui composent chacune de ces trajectoires, et soulignent que certaines d’entre elles sont davantage caractéristiques de certains types de répondants. L’article s’attache également à illustrer comment le déroulement des trajectoires influence ou est influencé par la manière dont les rôles conjugaux et familiaux sont assumés et par la nature des relations unissant les différents membres de la famille recomposée.
Hommes, femmes et comptes familiaux [Appropriations, partages et transmissions dans les nouvelles trajectoires conjugales en France, Belgique, Québec et Suisse]
Authors: Dauphin Sandrine
Published: November 2013

FRE: Conjugalité, Divorce, Rapports sociaux de genre.
Universal Design for Learning in Today’s Diverse Educational Environments
Authors: Bastedo Kathleen , Vargas Jessica
Published: November 2013

Learning can be difficult for a myriad of reasons and not just for those with disabilities and for those dedicated to teaching in its many forms. It can be next to impossible to accommodate the variety of students encountered in today’s diverse learning environments. This is where the principle of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can be successfully applied. This chapter explores the strides made in creating content that brain-based research supports as a way for not only motivating students to learn, but also for allowing those with disabilities a way to learn that meets their specific needs. Although there is no one surefire way to design learning that teaches everyone, UDL is a stepping-stone to that pursuit. If implemented to its fullest potential, it can be a panacea to reducing many barriers to access and learning.
Universal Design for Learning and Assistive Technology
Authors: Bryant Brian R. , Rao Kavita , Ok Min Wook
Published: November 2013

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has become a popular and effective way to help all students access what is taught in the classroom. Modeled after universal design, which enabled people with disabilities to access multiple physical environments, UDL provides access to the curriculum via three guiding principles: (a) multiple means of representation, (b) multiple means of expression, and (c) multiple means of engagement. This chapter looks at UDL and Assistive Technology (AT) for students who have specific Learning Disabilities (LD). Further, the authors examine AT research that has been conducted with students who have LD in reading, writing, and mathematics, and they provide case studies wherein UDL and AT are used to enhance accessibility in U.S. schools, specifically Grades 1 and 6 as well as high school.
Ecological Perspectives Surrounding the Design of Self-Determination-Enhanced Problem-Based Learning as a Formative Intervention for Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings
Authors: Seok Soohnwa , DaCosta Boaventura , Kim Woo
Published: November 2013

This transdisciplinary chapter focuses on ecological perspectives surrounding the design of self-determination-enhanced Problem-Based Learning (PBL). The chapter presents a PBL conceptual framework that can be leveraged in implementation of the skills needed for the 21st-century, specifically self-determination for students with disabilities in inclusive settings. The framework is built upon an extensive research synthesis of the principles behind PBL instructional design with an emphasis on special education. The research synthesis revealed the relationships between self-determination learning and PBL. A collaborative learning model—SHARE: Structure, Hypothesis, Analysis, Research, and Evaluation—was subsequently designed as a positive intervention in implementing PBL. In brief, technology and teacher education constitute the essence of quality self-determination-enhanced PBL practices. Educators, educational policymakers, and researchers involved in inclusive education practices will find this chapter of particular interest as 21st-century learning skills are becoming increasingly vital in today’s society.
From Barriers to Beginnings
Authors: Threlkeld Aubry
Published: November 2013

The ubiquity of new media in the lives of young people with high-incidence disabilities raises two important questions: how can new media be used as Assistive Technology (AT) and what can new media offer that other technologies may not? This chapter attempts to answer these questions by discussing the shifting and dynamic barriers to making this transition while also illuminating convergences between the goals of new media and AT. While this chapter explicitly concentrates on opportunities within the classroom, educators can also employ the guidelines provided herein generally in out-of-school contexts. Barriers to be discussed include electronic curb cuts and aggressive Internet filters. After discussing such barriers, solutions, including some classroom protocols and a list of resources, are shared to help educators evaluate new media as well as in the integration of new and old media as AT.
Teacher Education and Principles of Effective Assistive Technology Implementation
Authors: Courduff Jennifer , Duncan Amy , Gilbreath Joanne
Published: November 2013

The effective implementation of Assistive Technology (AT) is transformative for teacher practice and student learning outcomes. Educators who embrace this effort are faced with a set of challenges that are not found in typical technology integration efforts. In order to deeply integrate technology into instruction and learning, a change in pedagogy is required. In this chapter, the focus is to identify the unaddressed perspectives that impede technology implementation in diverse learning environments. When this unique set of perspectives is addressed, strategies for effective practice can emerge. First, there is a discussion on special education law and AT. Next, foundations of AT and effective implementation strategies at the classroom level are discussed. The process by which teachers can be supported in integrating technology tools into learning tasks is reviewed. A matrix that connects student-learning tasks with technology tools common to every classroom is presented. The importance of making emotional connections and providing time to practice and share in an environment where failure is seen as an opportunity for growth is provided. Finally, systemic implementation issues and strategies for success are shared.
Instructional Dynamic and Flexible Strategy
Authors: Railean Elena
Published: November 2013

Globalization, Anthropology, and Existentialism (GAE) is a philosophical paradigm of PreK–12 education that adds value to a new educational ideal: professionalism, planetary thinking, and cultural pluralism. Critical pedagogy constitutes a part of this philosophy, which describes the interdependencies between teaching, learning, and environmental assessment. By comparing the Freirean approach to the affordance of new educational technologies in everyday classrooms, the authors propose an instructional dynamic and a flexible strategy. Such a strategy proves the changing roles of teacher and learner during the learning process. This chapter aims to describe the instructional dynamic and flexible strategy as integral to teaching and learning and to evaluation methods that engage learners in classroom cognitive activity. The objective of the chapter is to investigate the transition from algorithmic to empirical methods, encouraged by the increasing role of self-regulation techniques. This presents insights into the perceived significance of the new learning strategy.
Critical Pedagogy and Children's Musical Flow
Authors: Akutsu Taichi , Gordon Richard K. , Noguchi Keiko
Published: November 2013

This study investigates the authors’ application of critical pedagogy constructs during Japanese children’s violin learning. Designing and implementing the Instructional Organizer (IO) for critical practice and adapting Custodero’s (1998, 2005) flow studies in children’s musical activities forms the conceptual framework of the study. A Japanese violin teacher, one of the researchers of this study, applied the IO in a Japanese public school’s afterschool program to construct community violin classes. In contrast, the same teacher taught group violin classes in a traditional manner at another public school. Lesson videos and field notes enabled the authors to narratively describe children’s flow experiences. Findings suggest that multiple flow experiences were identified in the community classes. In contrast, the flow was often stifled in the traditional group classes. The IO template was very useful in aiding the teacher in creating rich pedagogical spaces where community group students were able to exhibit hallmarks of “flow.”
Motivations to Adopt Green ICT
Authors: Banerjee Snehasish , Sing Tan Yu , Chowdhury Anisur Reza , Anwar Haris
Published: November 2013

Though green information and communication technology (ICT) is gradually becoming a buzzword, not much scholarly attention has delved into the motivations that can entice organizations to adopt it. To address this issue, this paper serves a three-fold purpose. First, it investigates the motivations for adopting green ICT from organizations’ perspectives. Second, it explores cases of two organizations (Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft Corporation) known for their green ICT strategies and unearths the extent to which such motivations are applicable to them. Third, through the two cases, the paper gives valuable insights to non-green organizations into the potential benefits of green ICT. The paper proposes a three-tier theoretical framework consisting of management, technological, marketing, financial and regulatory motivations, and acts as an eye-opener for non-green organizations by suggesting that it is their inability to identify these motivations that prevent them from adopting green ICT.
Architecting Enterprises for IT-Enabled Value Creation (Part 3)
Authors: SenGupta Siddhartha
Published: November 2013

In spite of rapid strides in evolving Architecture processes that can help Enterprises leverage IT for creating Value, shortcomings are widely perceived. Parts 1 and 2 of this paper suggested four improvements in the processes for structuring enterprises, defining and measuring business value, ensuring maximal returns from IT assets and architecting them for value-oriented improvements, IT enabled. After summarizing the suggestions, this paper describes how those framework and processes elements were used to create, largely through IT, explicit above average value in an enterprise. The processes are elaborated, with special emphasis on how the initiatives were prioritized. The results indicate that the enterprise gained particularly from its extensive use of computers to apply science to its business beyond common transactional purposes. Finally, the authors analyze the business environment for the ‘emerging mega-vendors’ for IT services, examine relevant elements of their SWOT and make a few recommendations for new business models of a higher scientific intensity that leverage the ORMS-based servitizing of successful IT products and offer services that create measurable business value with reliability.
Shift in Speech Quality and Acceptability Level between 2008-2012
Authors: Souček Pavel , Holub Jan
Published: November 2013

This paper presents results of quality and acceptability level tests, performed on similar groups of listeners with two years span in years 2008, 2010 and 2012. It shows shift in both quality and acceptability level and compares them. The tests were conducted according to P.800.
Effect of EGCG Application on Collagen Degradation in Dentine Caries
Authors: Chen Huang Qin , Huang Bin
Published: November 2013

Caries progress might be controlled when collagen matrix could be preserved after demineralization. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of EGCG, a major polyphenol of green tea, on changes in loss of dry weight or solubilization of collagen from demineralized dentin sections. Dentin sections (1mm×5mm×5mm) were completely exposed to the acetic acid solution to form dentine caries. After baseline measurements of dry mass, the samples were divided into 2 groups and incubated at 37°C in either media containing EGCG or artificial saliva only for 24h, 3 days, 1 week, 2 week and 3 weeks. Following hydrolyzed with HCl, hydroxyproline (HOP) as an index of solubilization of collagen was analysed quantitatively. Both the storage medium and the storage time showed significant effects on mass loss and HOP release (p < 0.05). The incubation in EGCG resulted in relatively rapid and significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the amounts of mass loss. The HOP content of the experimental media also increased with incubation time but was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than in the control artificial saliva medium. It can be concluded that EGCG can inhibit collagen degradation and affects the further demineralization in dentin matrix, which consequently inhibits the advanced dentine caries.
Researching of the Active and the Passive Damping of Syntactic Foam and Piezoelectric Composite
Authors: Wan Guang Bing , Huang Zhi Xiong , Shi Min Xian , Huang Kun , Chen Zhao Rui
Published: November 2013

This paper mainly states that under the PID program control, syntactic foam cantilever beam and piezoelectric composite cantilever beam which are studied with the momentary force and the alternating force signal, in the effective of active damping. The vibration stopping time changes under the momentary force and the amplitude changes under the alternating force signal. Comparing under the same initial amplitude, the amplitude changes of syntactic foam cantilever beam and piezoelectric composite cantilever beam under the active damping.
The Aluminum Brazing Pieces of Mechanical Performance Based on GRNN Neural Network
Authors: Liang Xing Hua , Shi Lin , Liu Yu Si , Hua Xiao Ming
Published: November 2013

Aluminum and aluminum alloy were widely used in various industrial fields,the key to application is the reliable welding. In this thesis,LF21 aluminum alloy brazing materials were designed and prepared by Orthogonal experiment,and mechanical properties of the brazing specimen was tested. Based on the GRNN(Generalized Regression Neural Network),Nonlinear relationship modle of brazing material preparation parameters and mechanical properties of the weldment was established.The results show that the model has better stability.When smooth factor value is 0.1,the network approximation error and prediction error absolute value is 0.01%.It can be realized that an nonliner mapping between the aluminum alloy brazing preparation parameters and solder joint tensil strenth based on the Orthogonal test and can do better prediction of the weld mechanical properties,according to brazing material preparation parameters.
Serrated Flow in 316LN Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Xu Zhi Qiang , Shen Yin Zhong
Published: November 2013

Serrated flow behavior of the 316LN austenitic stainless steel was investigated through tensile tests at initial strain rates of 2×10-5 to 10-4 s-1 at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 1048 K. Serrated flow occurred at room temperature and 6981048K at the strain rate of 2×10-4 s-1, as well as at temperatures of 623673 K at the strain rate of 2×10-5 s-1. Type A, A+B, C and E serrations appeared. The activation energy for the occurrence of serrated flow at high temperatures was about 327 kJ/mol. The dynamic strain aging caused by the interaction between substitutional solute Cr atoms and moving dislocations is considered as the mechanism of serrated flow at the temperatures higher than 973 K.
The Numerical Simulation of Transverse Tensile of High Temperature on Ti-6Al-4V Laser Butt Weld Joint
Authors: Chen Yi Ping , Fan Zhao , Cheng Dong Hai , Hu Dean
Published: November 2013

Forming process of TC4 titanium alloy laser weld joint during superplastic deformation is simulated. The stress and strain curve, which is obtained in the simulation, is compared with that obtained by hot tensile experiments. The simulation results provides a basis for subsequent laser welding / superplastic forming technology, and proposes outlook to the analyze problems for laser welding / superplastic forming (LBW / SPF) technology.
Finite Element Analysis on Frame of Rice Transplanting Mechanism at Different Operation Conditions
Authors: Mo Chun Lan , Guan Wei , Huang Guan Yan , Lu Yong Juan , Zhong Wen
Published: November 2013

Frame is the basic component of rice transplanting mechanism, which needs sufficient strength and stiffness because the frame often endures heavy loads and hits on poor working conditions. The UG geometric model of design frame was imported into the ANSYS for meshing. Reasonable constraint conditions and load were imposed, and the most significant four operating conditions of the frame were analyzed though static method. The stress-strain contours of the frame were obtained. The analyzed result provides design theory for the new type frame of rice transplanting mechanism and reference for the rebuilding and optimizing of the frame structure.
The Study on Thermal Interaction of the Underground Water Source Heat Pump’s Different Pumping/Injecting Well Groups’ Arranged Modes
Authors: Zhang Shu Mi , Gao Qing
Published: November 2013

The coupled model of groundwater flow and temperature is established, the thermal interaction of different pumping/injecting well groups arranged modes is simulated and analyzed, and the changing trend of groundwater temperature is predicted, which is to propose reasonable arranged wells programs. The thermal interaction of groundwater is compared and analyzed according to different arranged wells scheme, the pumping/injecting wells distance affect the thermal interaction significantly, the similar wells distance didnt affect significantly. The more number of pumping/injecting wells the thermal interaction is weaker, in order to delay the time of heat through, solve the problem of poor water recharge, we should increase appropriately the injecting wells number under keeping the pumping wells number constant.
Analysis of Concrete Water Cellar Structure in Qingshuihe County, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Zhou Fan , Li Shi Rao , Huo Jin Dong , Peng Hong Tao , Li Zhi Hong , Zhang Xin Ping
Published: November 2013

Concrete water cellar is an important facility to collect rainfall in Qingshuihe County of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. The numerical simulation was carried out for the typical concrete water cellar structure using ABAQUS. Simulation results show that the maximum tensile stress and strain of cellar decrease with the cellar wall thickness increasing, and the strength of concrete C15 can meet the structural requirements of cellars with 10cm, 15cm, 20cm or 25cm wall respectively under the most unfavorable condition. The wall of cellar is thinner, its construction is more difficult in quality assurance. The wall of cellar is thicker, and its construction cost will increase. The construction of concrete cellar with 10cm wall is more difficult than those with thicker walls. It is suggested that the concrete water cellar with 15cm wall thickness is more suitable for being built in Qingshuihe County of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China.
Improved Seismic Checking for Pier Based on Seismic Energy Response Method
Authors: Li Yu , Che Yan Yang , Wang Sen
Published: November 2013

Based on prophase research work, seismic checking for pier based on energy method is improved. The seismic input energy demand of pier is determined by using the seismic input energy response spectra and hysteretic energy dissipation spectra of sing-degree-of-freedom. Meanwhile, the Pushover Method is used to determine the hysteretic deformation capacity of pier. Then, based on the equilibrium principal between hysteretic deformation capacity and seismic input energy demand of pier, seismic checking for pier is carried on. Then, this improved seismic checking for pier based on energy method is applied in the design examples of piers. Comparing with the calculation of nonlinear time history analyses, it is known that improved seismic checking for pier based on energy method can evaluate the seismic performance of pier effectively. So, these valuable results can provide the meaningful reference for the seismic design of bridge engineering.