bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Mechanical Properties in Organofluorosilica Thin Films
Authors: Pagliaro Mario , Palmisano Giovanni , Le Bourhis Eric , Ciriminna Rosaria , Ilharco Laura M. , Fidalgo Alexandra
Published: December 2008

Fluorinated hybrid organic‐inorganic silicates (ORMOSIL) thin films display exceptional mechanical properties in terms of both hardness and elastic modulus that can be finely tuned by varying the angular velocity of the spin coating process. Hence, as traditional alkyl‐modified silica xerogels generally show poor mechanical behavior, these materials offer a solution to a major limitation to applicability of ORMOSIL‐based films.
Pragmatic Management of Hyperglycaemia in Acute Ischaemic Stroke: Safety and Feasibility of Intensive Intravenous Insulin Treatment
Authors: Kreisel Stefan H. , Berschin Undine M. , Hammes Hans-Peter , Leweling Hans , Bertsch Thomas , Hennerici Michael G. , Schwarz Stefan
Published: December 2008

Background: In patients with acute ischaemic stroke, hyperglycaemia has been retrospectively associated with negative outcome. There is an ongoing discussion as to which treatment algorithm, if any, provides the most effective prospective intervention. Here we test the safety and feasibility of an intravenous insulin-only infusion protocol designed for pragmatic routine clinical use. Methods: 40 ischaemic stroke patients with onset <24 h ago, admitted to our stroke unit, were randomized either to the study regimen (50 IU insulin in 50 ml 0.9% saline solution applied intravenously via a perfusor pump), with the aim of reaching and maintaining blood glucose levels between 4.44 mmol/l (80 mg/dl) and 6.11 mmol/l (110 mg/dl), or were treated with insulin subcutaneously if concentrations were above 11.10 mmol/l (200 mg/dl). Treatment was continued for 5 days. Primary outcome was the number of hypoglycaemic (<3.33 mmol/l; <60 mg/dl) and severe hyperglycaemic (>16.65 mmol/l; >300 mg/dl) events. Results: Hypoglycaemic events were significantly more common in patients treated intensively (total n = 25; incidence rate ratio, IRR = 5.3; 95% CI = 1.2–22.4; p < 0.05). Symptomatic events were rare (total n = 5). Severe hyperglycaemia was associated with conventional treatment (IRR = 4.9; 95% CI = 1.5–15.9; p < 0.05). Though those treated intensively attained near-normoglycaemic levels quicker and had significantly lower blood glucose levels over the study period (6.49 ± 2.19 mmol/l vs. 8.01 ± 3.06 mmol/l; 95% CI = –1.78 to –1.28, p < 0.0005), treatment imposes considerable strain on both patients and caregivers. Conclusions: The intensive intravenous insulin infusion protocol effectively lowers blood glucose levels with an increased risk of manageable hypoglycaemic events. However, a highly motivated and trained staff seems essential, limiting feasibility outside of specialty care settings.
Antioxidant Activity of Bisabolol: Inhibitory Effects on Chemiluminescence of Human Neutrophil Bursts and Cell-Free Systems
Authors: Braga Pier Carlo , Dal Sasso Monica , Fonti Elena , Culici Maria
Published: December 2008

Human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory reactions are closely interrelated, and increasing attention is being given to the search for new synthetic or natural antioxidant agents, capable of reducing ROS and consequent inflammation. It has been claimed that bisabolol (a monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol) has an antioxidant/anti-inflammatory activity, but this has almost exclusively been investigated using chemical or biochemical tests. We studied the ability of bisabolol to interfere with ROS production (luminol-amplified chemiluminescence, LACL) during human PMN respiratory bursts induced by both corpusculate(Candida albicans)and soluble stimulants (N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, fMLP). LACL was also used to test cell-free systems (SIN-1 and H2O2/HOCl– systems) in order to investigate the presence of scavenging activity. After C. albicans stimulation, significant concentration-dependent LACL inhibition was observed at bisabolol concentrations ranging from 7.7 to 31 μg/ml; after the fMLP stimulus, significant LACL inhibition was observed at bisabolol concentrations ranging from 3.8 to 31 μg/ml. A similar effect was observed in the SIN-1 and H2O2/HOCl– systems. These findings draw the attention to the possible medical use of bisabolol as a means of improving the antioxidant network and restoring the redox balance by antagonising oxidative stress.
The Effect of Acute Hypoxemia on Coronary Arterial Dimensions in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Arbab-Zadeh Armin , Levine Benjamin D. , Trost Jeffrey C. , Lange Richard A. , Keeley Ellen C. , Hillis L. David , Cigarroa Joaquin E.
Published: December 2008

Objectives: To assess the influence of acute hypoxemia on the dimensions of diseased and nondiseased coronary arterial segments in humans. Methods: In 18 subjects (age 53 ± 8 years) with known or suspected coronary artery disease, quantitative coronary angiography was performed before and after being randomly assigned to breathing (1) an inspired oxygen concentration (fraction of inspired oxygen, FIO2) of 21% (room air, RA) for 20 min (n = 4, controls) or (2) an FIO2 of 15 and 10% for 10 min each (corresponding to altitudes of 2,500 and 5,500 m, respectively; n = 14). Results: In the control subjects, no hemodynamic, oximetric or angiographic variable changed. In the 14 study subjects, the arterial partial pressure of oxygen averaged 85 ± 13 mm Hg on RA, 65 ± 15 mm Hg on 15% FIO2 and 44 ± 13 mm Hg on 10% FIO2. Average arterial segment diameter was 2.52 ± 0.63 mm on RA, 2.55 ± 0.62 mm on 15% FIO2 (not significant vs. RA) and 2.66 ± 0.66 mm on 10% FIO2 (p < 0.001 vs. RA). The increase in coronary arterial diameter with 10% FIO2 occurred only in normal segments (2.74 ± 0.64 vs. 2.97 ± 0.64 mm; p < 0.001), but not in diseased segments (2.34 ± 0.57 vs. 2.38 ± 0.55 mm; not significant). Conclusions: In humans, severe hypoxemia induces vasodilation of angiographically normal coronary arterial segments, whereas it causes no change in diseased segments.
Sacrococcygeal Teratomas: Prenatal Surveillance, Growth and Pregnancy Outcome
Authors: Wilson R. Douglas , Hedrick Holly , Flake Alan W. , Johnson Mark P. , Bebbington Michael W. , Mann Stephanie , Rychik Jack , Liechty Kenneth , Adzick N. Scott
Published: December 2008

Objective: Prenatal surveillance and growth characteristics are evaluated in a cohort of fetuses with sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCT) as part of risk assessment. Methods: Retrospective review of 23 fetuses with SCT: prenatal diagnosis, surveillance, delivery, and early postnatal outcome are reported. Results: Cardiac output failure physiology requires serial evaluation. The size of the SCT determines obstetrical risks and mode of delivery. An SCT growth rate approaching >150 cm3 per week may be associated with increased perinatal mortality risks. Maternal morbidity is related mainly to polyhydramnios and preterm labor. Conclusions: Perinatal mortality is approximately 43%. Maternal-fetal surgery for fetal physiologic deterioration is not frequent, but serial surveillance is required to minimize fetal morbidity/mortality and maternal morbidity. Rapid SCT growth rates may be associated with increased risk of perinatal mortality.
Stress-Induced Hypertension and Increased Sympathetic Activity in Mice Overexpressing Neuropeptide Y in Noradrenergic Neurons
Authors: Ruohonen Suvi T. , Savontaus Eriika , Rinne Petteri , Rosmaninho-Salgado Joana , Cavadas Claudia , Ruskoaho Heikki , Koulu Markku , Pesonen Ullamari
Published: December 2008

Background and Aims: Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a sympathetic neurotransmitter co-stored and co-released with noradrenaline and adrenaline. We have constructed a novel NPY transgenic mouse model (OE-NPYDBH mouse) where targeted overexpression results in increased levels of NPY in the brainstem and adrenal glands. The present study was aimed to understand the role of NPY released from sympathetic nerves and brain noradrenergic neurons in regulation of blood pressure, and behavioral responses to stress. Methods: Blood pressure was measured by radiotelemetry in conscious male OE-NPYDBH and wild-type mice during surgical stress and in baseline conditions. Plasma and adrenal gland catecholamine levels were measured at baseline. Acute immobilization and cold exposure were used to study the plasma levels of NPY and corticosterone in stress, and brown adipose tissue thermogenic activity was measured with [3H]GDP binding after cold. Results: Here, we demonstrate that sympathoadrenal activity is enhanced in the OE-NPYDBH mice. Blood pressure during surgical stress was significantly increased in comparison with wild-type controls. Furthermore, OE-NPYDBH mice showed sexually dimorphic NPY responses to stress, and an anxiolytic-like behavior in elevated plus-maze and light-dark tests. Conclusion: This study shows that the overactive noradrenergic NPY system plays a role in regulation of blood pressure and adaptive responses to stress, and may be a link between chronic stress and adiposity-associated disturbances in metabolism.
Clonality of Basal Cell Carcinoma Arising in an Epidermal Nevus
Authors: Hafner Christian , Klein Annette , Landthaler Michael , Vogt Thomas
Published: December 2008

Non-organoid non-epidermolytic (keratinocytic) epidermal nevi are benign congenital skin lesions following the lines of Blaschko. The occurrence of epithelial tumors in epidermal nevi of this type is very rare, and it remains elusive whether these lesions are clonally related or represent a simple collision of independent tumors. We report a case of a patient who developed 2 basal cell carcinomas in an extensive epidermal nevus on the trunk. Molecular analysis of a biopsy containing both basal cell carcinoma and epidermal nevus revealed a PIK3CA mutation. Further analysis suggested that this mutation is present in the basal cell carcinoma rather than in the epidermal nevus. The results favour an independent origin of the basal cell carcinoma, although a possible clonal relationship between both lesions cannot be completely excluded on the basis of the molecular genetic findings.
Oxidized Low-Density Lipoproteins Trigger Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Vascular Cells
Authors: Sanson Marie , Augé Nathalie , Vindis Cécile , Muller Carole , Bando Yoshio , Thiers Jean-Claude , Marachet Marie-Agnès , Zarkovic Kamelija , Sawa Yoshiki , Salvayre Robert , Nègre-Salvayre Anne
Published: December 2008

Oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDLs) trigger various biological responses potentially involved in atherogenesis. Disturbing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function results in ER stress and unfolded protein response, which tends to restore ER homeostasis but switches to apoptosis when ER stress is prolonged. We aimed to investigate whether ER stress is induced by oxLDLs and can be prevented by the ER-associated chaperone ORP150 (150-kDa oxygen-regulated protein). oxLDLs and the lipid oxidation products 7-ketocholesterol and 4-hydroxynonenal induce ER stress in human endothelial cells (HMEC-1), characterized by the activation of ER stress sensors (phosphorylation of Ire1α and PERK, nuclear translocation of ATF6) and of their subsequent pathways (eukaryotic initiation factor 2α phosphorylation, expression of XBP1/spliced XBP1, CHOP, and KDEL chaperones GRP78, GRP94, ORP150). ER stress was inhibited by the antioxidant
N
-acetylcysteine. In advanced atherosclerotic lesions, phospho-Ire1α, KDEL, and ORP150 staining were localized in lipid-rich areas with 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and CD68-positive macrophagic cells. By comparison, staining for 4-hydroxynonenal, phospho-Ire1α, KDEL, and ORP were faint and more diffuse in intimal hyperplasia. ER stress takes part in the apoptotic effect of oxLDLs, through the Ire1α/c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway, as assessed by the protective effect of specific small interfering RNAs and c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor. Forced expression of the chaperone ORP150 reduced both oxLDL-induced ER stress and apoptosis. ER stress markers and ORP150 chaperone are expressed in areas containing oxLDLs in atherosclerotic lesions and are induced by oxLDLs and oxidized lipids in cultured cells. The forced expression of ORP150 highlights its new protective role against oxLDL-induced ER stress and subsequent apoptosis.
Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control of Hypertension in China
Authors: Wu Yangfeng , Huxley Rachel , Li Liming , Anna Vibeke , Xie Gaoqiang , Yao Chonghua , Woodward Mark , Li Xian , Chalmers John , Gao Runlin , Kong Lingzhi , Yang Xiaoguang
Published: December 2008

Background—

The present article aims to provide accurate estimates of the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in adults in China.

Methods and Results—

Data were obtained from sphygmomanometer measurements and an administered questionnaire from 141 892 Chinese adults ≥18 years of age who participated in the 2002 China National Nutrition and Health Survey. In 2002, ≈153 million Chinese adults were hypertensive. The prevalence was higher among men than women (20% versus 17%;
P
<0.001) and was higher in successive age groups. Overall, the prevalence of hypertension was higher in urban compared with rural areas in men (23% versus 18%;
P
<0.01) and women (18% versus 16%;
P
<0.001). Of the 24% affected individuals who were aware of their condition, 78% were treated and 19% were adequately controlled. Despite evidence to suggest improved levels of treatment in individuals with hypertension over the past decade, compared with estimates from 1991, the ratio of controlled to treated hypertension has remained largely unchanged at 1:4.

Conclusions—

One in 6 Chinese adults is hypertensive, but only one quarter are aware of their condition. Despite increased rates of blood pressure–lowering treatment, few have their hypertension effectively controlled. National hypertension programs must focus on improving awareness in the wider community, as well as treatment and control, to prevent many tens of thousands of cardiovascular-related deaths.
An Intercultural Dialogue between the Muslim Taifa of Denia and the Christian County of Barcelona in the Eleventh Century
Authors: Bruce Travis
Published: December 2008

Points of dialogue increased across the Muslim–Christian Iberian frontier over the course of the eleventh century. Rulers on both sides pursued policies of active communication, through violent and pacific means. This is especially evident in the relations between Denia and Barcelona. The growing Mediterranean interests of both polities brought them into frequent contact through trade, diplomacy and conflict. In fact, the intercultural entente established between the rulers of Denia and Barcelona allows for a much broader view of Iberian Muslim–Christian relations within the context of the eleventh-century Western Mediterranean.
Scent of a Mystic Woman: Teresa de Jesús and the Interior Castle
Authors: Carrión María
Published: December 2008

In 1577 Teresa de Jesús composed the Interior Castle, an account of her spiritual experiences that deployed architectural images designed to incite readers to piety and devotion. Critical readings have identified the castle as a spiritual and aesthetic emblem of Christian hegemony, emplotting de Jesús's works in the rhetorical frame of Reconquista narratives. But the Castle, like the houses in the 1562 Book of Life and the palaces in the 1562-1564 Way of Perfection, moves readers to remember landscapes that differ from a monocultural event, as it narrates the ultimate spiritual encounter in frank dissidence with the hegemonic politics and aesthetics of Catholicism that became the law of the land in Spain after 1492. In line with a diversity of medieval mystical traditions from Europe and the Middle East, the choice of a castle—a key architectural sign of the Middle Ages—as the place of paradox, memory, and experience of the sublime offers clues that de Jesús figured out a way to communicate what seemed to be an unaccountable event in Counter-Reformation Spain: being in the presence of divinity and living to tell such story in cross-confessional terms. This essay analyzes the polysemic traces of the castle built by this mystic woman with the figurative fragrance of multicultural medieval Iberia, a space where she carefully negotiated war, crusades, and other kingdoms of heaven with contemplation, survival (pervivencia), and adaptation.
Remote Ischemic Preconditioning Stimulus Does Not Reduce Microvascular Resistance or Improve Myocardial Blood Flow in Patients Undergoing Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Hoole Stephen P. , Heck Patrick M. , White Paul A. , Khan Sadia N. , O'Sullivan Michael , Clarke Sarah C. , Dutka David P.
Published: December 2008

Introduction

Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) may limit myocardial infarction by improving microvascular function and maintaining myocardial blood flow. We hypothesized that a RIPC stimulus would reduce coronary microvascular resistance and improve coronary blood flow during elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Method

We prospectively recruited 54 patients with multi-vessel disease (MVD = 32) or single vessel disease awaiting elective PCI. Patients with MVD had non-target vessel (NTV) index of micro-circulatory resistance (IMR) determined, before and after target vessel (TV) PCI (cardiac RIPC). The effect of arm RIPC on serial microvascular resistance (Rp) was assessed in patients with single vessel disease.

Results

TV balloon occlusion did not alter the NTV IMR: 16.5 (12.4) baseline vs. 17.6 (11.6) post cardiac RIPC, P = 0.65 or hyperaemic transit time. Arm RIPC did not alter Rp in patients with single vessel disease: Rp, mmHg.cm-1.s-1: 3.5 (1.9) baseline vs. 4.1 (3.0) post arm RIPC, P = 0.19 and coronary flow velocity remained constant.

Conclusion

RIPC stimuli during elective PCI do not affect coronary microvascular resistance or coronary flow in humans.
Explanatory Factors of the Black Achievement Gap in Montréal's Public and Private Schools
Authors: Caldas Stephen J. , Bernier Sylvain , Marceau Richard
Published: December 2008

This exploratory analysis uses multiple regression modeling to help shed light on the correlates of the Black achievement gap in Montréal's public and private secondary schools. Using school-level testing data from Québec's Ministry of Education, the authors show that there is a Black achievement gap, and that this gap is highly associated with school socio-economic status, peer family structure, and average age of the student body's parents. An important secondary finding is that there remains a significant positive association of private schooling on academic achievement, even after controlling for race and all other central independent variables.
Social Coping Among Academically Gifted Adolescents in a Residential Setting: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Cross Tracy L. , Swiatek Mary Ann
Published: December 2008

Much of the research on the social coping of students with gifts and talents has relied on a single administration of an instrument while the participants were attending a summer program. This study attempts to understand how attendance at a residential high school (academy) may affect academically gifted students over time. Students in two graduating classes at the academy completed the Social Coping Questionnaire on two (class of 2006) or three (class of 2005) occasions during their 2 years at the academy. Significant differences across approximately the first year at the academy are found for the items denying giftedness (more common after a year at the academy), social interaction (less common after a year at the academy), and peer acceptance (higher after a year at the academy).

Putting the Research to Use: Schools are inherently sccial enterprises. Research has demonstrated that students with gifts and talents often learn coping behaviors to navigate the social milieus of their schools. Because students have agency, they have the capability to modify their social coping strategies based on their perceptions and social goals. This paper sheds light on both the soical coping behaviors of 300 academically gifted students upon entering a residental school for gifted adolescents and how they adapted to the new community over a two-period. The results of this study allow the reader to understand the complexities of school environments as social contexts and how students with gifts and talents cope with them.
State-Wide Planning for Special Education in California
Authors: Mayer C. Lamar , Scheffelin Margaret
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the California Master Plan for Special Education, a conceptual document designed to guide the development of special education in the state. The paper is divided into four main parts: (1) The historical and contemporary context within which the Master Plan was developed; (2) Development of the Master Plan; (3) The major provisions of the Master Plan; (4) Implementation.
The Z-Score Discrepancy Method for Identifying Reading Disabled Children
Authors: Erickson Marilyn T.
Published: December 2008

Scores on the Slosson Intelligence Test (SIT) and the Slosson Oral Reading Test (SORT) were compared for reading disabled children from two samples of third grade children selected by three objective methods. The Years Below and the Bond and Tinker methods selected children whose SIT and SORT scores were below the means for the entire samples. The third method, the Z-score method, identified children with SIT scores above the sample means and SORT scores below the sample means. The Z-score method was discussed as a useful additional technique for identifying reading disabled children in the early elementary grades.
Naturalistic Assessment of Neurological Diagnoses and Pharmacological Intervention
Authors: Neisworth John T. , Kurtz P. David , Ross April , Madle Ronald A.
Published: December 2008

There is sufficient reason to believe that drugs are inappropriately prescribed for and used by children who demonstrate learning and behavioral problems. The shortcomings of an exclusively medical or clinical approach to the administration and supervision of drug therapy are discussed. To insure precautions in the prescription and surveillance of drug treatment, certain minimal standards are proposed: (1) translation of the clinical diagnosis into measurable naturalistic behaviors; (2) collection of data by parents and teachers on behaviors to determine severity of the syndrome; (3) situational validation or disconfirmation of the clinical diagnosis; and (4) when indicated, formative assessment of drug treatment. The use of these four standards is illustrated with a preschooler who was scheduled for drug treatment. Resulting data permitted reconsideration of the clinical diagnosis and preempting of drug treatment.
Amphetamine's Paradoxical Effects May Be Predictable
Authors: Zentall Sydney S. , Zentall Thomas R.
Published: December 2008

It is suggested that the so-called paradoxical calming or depressant effects of amphetamine on both normal adults and hyperactive children can be accounted for by the proposition that amphetamines will increase arousal when the initial level of arousal is low but will decrease arousal when the initial level of arousal is high. Such a model is consistent with recent evidence that hyperactive children suffer from under-arousal rather than overarousal.
Round One — Placing the Child in the Right Reader
Authors: Lovitt Thomas C. , Hansen Cheryl L.
Published: December 2008

A method for placing children in appropriate readers was devised and implemented; it combines aspects of the Informal Reading Inventory with techniques developed by applied behavior analysts. Using this method, three different reading behaviors of pupils were measured directly and frequently: correct oral reading rate, incorrect oral reading rate, and correct comprehension percentage. Subjects were seven intermediate age boys with reading problems. Each pupil was placed in a reader based on his three performance scores. The effectiveness of the placement method was judged in terms of how well it predicted subsequent reading performance in the instructional readers. There were two major findings: First, although oral reading rates and comprehension scores generally worsened as the grade level of the material increased, the performance differences between adjacent books were minimal. Correct rate was more sensitive to changes in grade level than either incorrect rate or comprehension percentage. Second, after placement in the readers, all pupils progressed satisfactorily throughout the remainder of the year.
Learning Disabilities and the Vestibular System
Authors: Ayres A. Jean
Published: December 2008

Though "learning disabilities" is recognized to be an umbrella term for a collection of diverse disorders, research studies too frequently treat the LD group as homogeneous, comparing its functioning with that of a normal control group. This study examines a subpopulation of LD youngsters, those with disorders in the vestibular system which responds to gravity and changes in one's rate of movement. While the outcomes themselves are interesting, the structure of the research approach has distinct advantages over the "LD versus normal comparison" approach. - G.M.S.
Measuring Perceptual Skills That Are Related to the Learning Task
Authors: Taylor Nancy E.
Published: December 2008

A brief review of the literature related to perceptual skills required in reading acquisition and the literature on the validity of current perceptual measures to tap these task-related perceptual abilities is presented. An informal task-related measure is proposed to overcome the drawbacks of more formal measures of visual perception.
Repetition of Time-Altered Sentences by Normal and Learning Disabled Children
Authors: McNutt James C. , Li Janice Chia-Yen
Published: December 2008

The present study was designed to assess the effect of various rates of compressed and expanded sentences on the performance of 10 learning disabled children and 10 normal children to determine whether the auditory difficulties of the children were characterized by deficiencies in processing especially rapid or especially slow speech. Children repeated sentences composed of five to 17 morphemes presented at normal rates, at 60% and 30% compression, and at 30% and 60% expansion. The normal children repeated the sentences equally well at all rates and were more accurate than the learning disabled children at each rate. In the learning disabled group performance was less accurate at the fastest rate but equally accurate at all other rates. These findings suggest a semantic or syntactic deficit in the processing of rapidly presented auditory material rather than a deficit in short-term memory.
Biasing of Hyperkinetic Behavior Ratings by Diagnostic Reports: Effects of Observer Training and Assessment Method
Authors: Madle Ronald A. , Neisworth John T. , Kurtz P. David
Published: December 2008

Videotapes of two preschool children were observed by 24 raters. Raters were given diagnostic reports suggesting hyperkinesis for one of the children but not for the other. Twelve raters used a rating scale to assess hyperkinesis, while the remainder used a time-sampling method. Within each of these groups, half of the raters received training on the instrument they used. The results indicate that training had the effect of reducing the biasing effect of the diagnostic label when the rating scale was employed. No biasing effect was noted for the time-sampling results. Discussion centered on the use of observational training and time sampling as methods of obtaining minimally biased data on labeled populations.
Spelling Patterns of Normal Readers
Authors: Whiting Sally Anita , Jarrico Sylvia
Published: December 2008

In this issue the PMT column will focus on writing and spelling process-based instruction with learning disabled students. Weiner describes in great detail an individualized assessment instrument that employs the students' written production as a means of identifying and remediating learner skill deficits. Gerard and Junkala demonstrate the validity of a process teaching approach using student handwriting problems as a vehicle for determining process components related to pupil failure. Whiting and Jarrico contrast the spelling performance at grade level of students without learning disorders with those of dyslexics. - D.A.S.
Teaching Approach for Developing Nonverbal Communication Skills in Students with Social Perception Deficits
Authors: Minskoff Esther H.
Published: December 2008

In Part 1 of this two-part article a basic approach to training social perception skills involving discrimination of specific social cues, understanding of the social meanings of such cues, appropriate usage of such cues, and application of such cues to social problems were described. This approach was then applied to the development of social skills involving body language, or kinesic cues. In Part 2 this same teaching approach is applied to nonverbal communication areas as follows:proxemics, or the use of distance, spatial arrangements, and territories ; vocalics, or the use of prosodic, paralinguistic, or nonlinguistic features; and artifactual cues involving clothing and cosmetics. Although these nonverbal communication areas are less familiar to educators than the area of body language, they are of equal importance for the development of social competence.
Remediating Letter Reversals: Cost Considerations
Authors: Nolan William , Siegel Paul
Published: December 2008

This article addresses the question of costs associated with the remediation of learning disabilities. It is argued that whenever such practical considerations as teacher- or student-time prevail, the question of whether or not the training procedure is economical should be addressed. To accomplish such a cost analysis, the design must specify a meaningful scale along which costs may be gauged. The argument is illustrated with an experiment that utilized a fading technique to teach preschool children to correctly label p' s and q' s.
Learning Set Acquisition: Problem Solving Strategies Employed by Reading Disabled and Normal Children
Authors: McLeskey James
Published: December 2008

A number of characteristics have been attributed to reading disabled children, primarily through the use of correlational statistical techniques. This investigation looked directly at the learning process of reading disabled children, by comparison of reading disabled and normal children's responses to a conditional discrimination learning set (LS) task. Errors made by both groups were analyzed to determine if different problem -solving strategies were employed by reading disabled and normal children when attempting to solve the learning task. The results of this investigation indicate that normal children are more adept at solving the LS task than the reading disabled children. Children comprisirtg the two groups also used different strategies for solving the learning task, as the reading disabled children tended to be more rigid in their approach, while normal children were more willing to try varying responses and take chances. The results of this study offer a direction for future research leading to possible reading remediation strcrtegies. Investigation of strategies used in the learning-to-learn process, as well as methods for facilitating (or programming) generalization, offers a perspective on reading problems which is as yet unexplored.
McCarthy Scales as a Learning Disability Diagnostic Aid: A Closer Look
Authors: Bracken Bruce A.
Published: December 2008

It has been suggested that the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA) is an instrument especially suited for the identification of children with serious learning difficulties. A closer inspection of the relevant research, however, offers evidence which refutes the suggestion of MSCA uniqueness. A question over the appropriateness of the MSCA for classification purposes is also raised.
The Role of a Modulator: A Strategy for Treatment of Learning Disabilities
Authors: Pihl R.O.
Published: December 2008

Meeting the diagnostic and treatment needs of the learning disabled child is a task as varied as the number of children involved. Individualization and ongoing evaluation are therefore essential aspects of intervention strategy. Implementation of these aspects is greatly aided by the involvement of a modulator. This paper discusses the history, job description, funding base, and effectiveness, as determined from a preliminary study of these new professionals.
Visual Search in Learning Disabled and Hyperactive Boys
Authors: Mclntyre Curtis W. , Murray Michael E. , Blackwell Scott L.
Published: December 2008

Ross (1976) has suggested that a deficit in selective attention is characteristic of learning disabled children but not hyperactive children. In the present study, this suggestion was tested using a visual search paradigm that required LD, LDH, H, and normal control boys to search for a target letter embedded within an array of noise letters. Two variations of this basic paradigm were included-one involving a simultaneous search for four possible target letters; the other involving a physical dissimilarity between the target and noise letters. The time required for the subject to find the target letter was the dependent variable. Results indicated the latencies of the LD and LDH boys were significantly longer than those of their controls; the latencies of the hyperactive boys were not longer than those of their controls. Thus, Ross' suggestion was supported.
Resource and Regular Classroom Behavior of Learning Disabled Students
Authors: Richey D. Dean , Miller Maurice , Lessman June
Published: December 2008

Following up on findings of classroom behavioral styles of learning disabled students (Richey & McKinney 1978), these studies further evaluated the relationship of the learning disabled students' behavior to achievement. Comparisons showed that the LD student differed in behaviors between resource and classroom settings. In the resource room, attention was positively correlated with achievement, but teacher interaction was negatively correlated. In the regular classroom, distractibility and dependency were negatively correlated with achievement, but passive responding was positively correlated. A second study found that, in the regular classroom, the LD student was more frequently positively reinforced for interactions than negatively reinforced, but was not socially accepted. Comparison of data from the two studies indicates that while in the regular classroom the LD student may be getting mixed messages about what is or is not accepted. Thus, the LD student may be unsure of what is the most appropriate learning style within the regular classroom.
Toward Developing a Philosophy of Education: A Re-examination of Competition, Fairness and the Work Ethic
Authors: Lavoie Richard D. , Lieberman Laurence M.
Published: December 2008

Among the difficulties confronting the field of special education is the perceived paucity of intensive, philosophical belief systems on the part of many practitioners. This essay is aimed at those professionals in the early stages of their careers and is designed to present some basic tenets that can be the foundation for a professional philosophy.
Cognitive Patterns of Learning Disability Subtypes As Measured by the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery
Authors: Breen Michael J.
Published: December 2008

The cognitive patterns of three learning disability subtypes were studied by means of the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Education Battery. The groups consisted of: 1) students with higher math than reading skills, 2) students with higher reading than math skills, and 3) students with equally low math and reading skills. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, multiple regression, and discriminant function procedures. Results indicated that although the three groups were characterized by a number of discrete or unique patterns, some overlap occurred. The implications of and factors that could have accounted for the overlap were discussed. Previous LD subtype research was also discussed in relation to current results.
How Learning Disabled Adolescent Boys Make Moral Judgments
Authors: Derr Alice M.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate how learning disabled adolescents formulate moral judgments as compared to average achieving adolescents. Students were administered Kohlberg's Moral Judgment Interview. Compared to the average achieving adolescents, the learning disabled group showed less evidence of being able to view moral dilemmas from a community or societal perspective. Further, the LD group exhibited a substantial amount of reasoning from an egocentric perspective which focused on the needs and desires of the self. It is suggested that teachers implement strategies to facilitate the development of social perception and moral reasoning.
Learner-centered Software: A Survey of Microcomputer Use with Special Needs Students
Authors: Mokros Janice R. , Russell Susan Jo
Published: December 2008

This study reports the results of a survey of fifty school districts. It assesses the extent to which special educators are moving beyond drill and practice software with learning disabled and emotionally disturbed students. It also describes factors that are preventing or discouraging applications beyond drill and practice. It was briefly described in a previous Computers in the Schools article by Hummel (1985).-J.W.H., Associate Editor.
Arithmetic Automatization Failure in Children with Attention and Reading Disorders: Associations and Sequela
Authors: Ackerman Peggy T. , Anhalt Jean M. , Dykman Roscoe A.
Published: December 2008

Evidence is presented that both Reading Disabled (RD) and normal reading Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) children are at high risk to become numerically incompetent adults. It is theorized that this incompetence is in many instances rooted in a failure to automatize (memorize) basic number combinations. Yet standardized arithmetic tests may fail to reveal automatization failure in younger school children because of overly generous time limits. While mathematical excellence appears to require superior spatial reasoning ability in addition to the memory and attentive abilities thought to underpin automatization, it is argued that a pubertal spurt in spatial ability is more felicitous than early exceptional spatial competence.
Action Psychology
Authors: van Erp J. W. , Heshusius L.
Published: December 2008

The article describes a teaching-learning procedure in early instruction in mathematics that has evolved over a 10 year period of intensive development, clinical teaching, and field testing. The procedure is anchored in theory (Piagetian and Russian psychology) and traces internalization processes that occur between material and mental actions, namely perceptual actions of visualization and imagination, verbal action, symbolization, and generalization. This approach makes a critical contribution to the search for a theoretically based and process oriented approach to instruction and assessment.
The Use of the Peabody Individual Achievement Test and the Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests in the Diagnosis of a Learning Disability in Reading: A Caveat
Authors: Caskey William E.
Published: December 2008

The Peabody Individual Achievement Test (PIAT, Dunn & Markwardt, 1970) and the Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests (Woodcock, 1973) are two tests widely used for the purpose of:

a) The diagnosis of learning disabilities. For example, in Tennessee there must be a discrepancy of more than one standard deviation between expected and actual reading level, while in Ohio the difference must be two standard deviations.

b) The demonstration of gain scores to assess the efficacy of instructional strategies or teaching effectiveness.
Cohesion: Inter and intra Sentence Errors
Authors: Gregg Noel
Published: December 2008

Cohesion implies that a written text is more than a mere collection of statements no matter how syntactically mature or grammatically correct such sentences appear. A cohesive scale was developed to aid teachers in identifying specific types of textual cohesions difficult for a student in order that appropriate instructional objectives can be established.
Materials for Teaching Sexuality, Love and Maturity to High School Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Haight Sherrel Lee , Fachting Daniel D.
Published: December 2008

A review of available curricula and materials on human sexuality led to the conclusion that an appropriate instructional program in love, sexuality and maturity is not available for high school students with learning disabilities. A unit was developed to meet this need. Unit preparation included an investigation of philosophy, content, need and materials design. The unit was taught to a group of 6 high school students with learning disabilities. They improved their scores from a range of 58%-84% to a range of 90%-100% on the criterion referenced pre-post-test, meeting the criteria the authors established for success.
Styles of Exploration in Control, Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity and Learning Disabled Children
Authors: Allen Terry W.
Published: December 2008

Previous research has reported that learning disabled (LD) and attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADD-H) children habituate more rapidly to a stimulus than do control children. The information that was encoded in the habituation task was assessed in the present study. Although the results indicated that LD and ADD-H children habituate more rapidly, they also encode fewer aspects of the stimulus field. The limited encoding skills of these children were attributed to the attention difficulties associated with these disorders.
A Note on Post Hoc Analysis of Mastery Test Data
Authors: Green Kathy , Weisenstein Gregory
Published: December 2008

This note suggests a post hoc analysis procedure for use with the type of data likely in mastery testing-skewed, non-normal in distribution with a truncated range. It is suggested that various characteristics of the data be examined if analysis using parametric multivariate techniques is conducted.
DataBase
Authors: Chandler Harry N.
Published: December 2008

In November 1984, l told why l bought a floppy disk drive for my classroom PET and refused a second Apple. By fitting the PET with a disk drive (it had a cassette), I increased its speed and program versatility. Teachers do not need new computers for drill and practice, although in five years innovations in voice control and simulation may make all models obsolete. I have discovered, however, that the Commodore floppy disk drives have problems: they tend to "burn out" more often than drives from other companies. (At this point readers can say "I told you so.") In spite of its ads, Commodore seems to ignore the needs of the educational marketplace. Dealers tell me that Commodore is unresponsive when they try to get replacement parts. My letters to Commodore offices and to the company president got no responses. After five months of trying to get a new disk drive, my PET is operating again. I still have more programs for it than are available for my Apple or IBM, but I have no idea if I can ever find another part for it should I need one.
The Future of the LD Field
Authors: Algozzine Bob , Ysseldyke James E.
Published: December 2008

Respondents to the future survey expressed the view that improvements in screening and differential diagnosis are essential if the field is to make meaningful progress. Specific concern was cited about problems of definition and about the degree to which current assessment procedures and criteria produce false positives. For this article on the field's future, we asked Bob Algozzine and Jim Ysseldyke to review the history and current status of such practices and to share their views about subsequent directions. After reviewing the state of the art, they conclude that because LD screening and diagnostic activity are so flawed and limited, it is time to redirect resources toward corrective and preventive educational interventions. That is, they see no reason to believe current trends in screening and diagnosis will improve programs for individuals experiencing learning problems, and thus they recommend the resources used for screening, diagnosis, and classification be diverted to efforts to make all education more special. Although this is a position others in the field have advocated, it remains a radical, minority view, and we anticipate it will be a good stimulus for discussion of basic issues related to future research and practice.—Howard S. Adelman & Linda Taylor, Guest Editors.
HSPQ in Learning Disability Assessment
Authors: Anderson Julie , Murphy Norman C.
Published: December 2008

One current need at the secondary level is identification and evaluation of those students who are termed learning disabled. This study of 215 students, 117 classified as "regular" and 98 classified as “learning disabled,” was devised to provide additional information in regard to an effective differentiating measurement for making the distinction between regular and learning disabled. The High School Personality Questionnaire (HSPQ) appears, from the results of the study, to have a valuable contribution to make as a differentiating diagnostic instrument, as a screening device, and as a measure of progress once a student is included in classes for the learning disabled.
Sociometric Status and After-School Social Activity of Children with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Ackerman David , Howes Carollee
Published: December 2008

The relationship between sociometric status in school and participation in after-school activities was examined in a sample of 28 elementary-school age boys with learning disabilities. A sociometric questionnaire measured both popularity and acceptance in school. A 21-item parent questionnaire measured after-school activity. Both popularity and acceptance in school were related to getting together informally with friends. Popularity, though, was not related to participating in structured programs, while acceptance was inversely related.
Sequential—Simultaneous Processing and Reading Skills in Primary Grade Children
Authors: McRae Sandra G.
Published: December 2008

This study was designed to investigate relationships between two modes of information processing, simultaneous and sequential, and two sets of reading skills, word recognition and comprehension. Forty second and third graders were administered the Peabody Individual Achievement Test (PIAT). Median splits were performed on the PIAT Reading Recognition and Reading Comprehension scores separately and four groups of 10 were formed: high recognition/high comprehension, high recognition/low comprehension, low recognition/high comprehension, and low recognition/low comprehension. These groups were equated on sex, race, IQ, and age to the greatest degree possible. Then the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) was administered to the 40 children. Results of this study added support to the body of literature finding a relationship between simultaneous processing and reading comprehension.