bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational Placement of Children who are Blind or have low Vision in Residential and Public Schools: A National Study of Parents’ Perspectives
Authors: Ajuwon Paul M. , Oyinlade A. Olu
Published: January 2019

This study analyzed parents’ perceived reasons for placing their children with visual impairments in residential or public schools. It found that children were more likely to be placed in residential schools for reasons related to their education and well-being and in public schools for reasons related to the parents’ needs.
Driving and Low Vision: An Evidence-based Review of Rehabilitation
Authors: Strong J. Graham , Jutai Jeffrey W. , Russell-Minda Elizabeth , Evans Mal
Published: January 2019

This systematic review of the effectiveness of driver rehabilitation interventions found that driver training programs enhance driving skills and awareness, but further research is needed to determine their effectiveness in improving driving performance of drivers with low vision. More research is also needed to determine the effectiveness of low vision devices for driving.
Depression in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Casten Robin , Rovner Barry
Published: January 2019

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of disability in the elderly, substantially degrades the quality of their lives, and is a risk factor for depression. Rates of depression in AMD are substantially greater than those found in the general population of older people, and are on par with those of other chronic and disabling diseases. This article discusses the effect of depression on vision-related disability in patients with AMD, suggests methods for screening for depression, and summarizes interventions for preventing depression in this high-risk group.
Foveal-Sparing Scotomas in Advanced Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Sunness Janet S. , Rubin Gary S. , Zuckerbrod Abraham , Applegate Carol A.
Published: January 2019

Foveal-sparing scotomas are common in advanced dry macular degeneration (geographic atrophy). Foveal preservation may be present for a number of years. Despite good visual acuity, these patients have reduced reading rates. Magnification may not be effective if the text becomes too large to “fit” within the central spared area.
Experiences of Parents with Visual Impairments who are Raising Children
Authors: Rosenblum L. Penny , Hong Sunggye , Harris Beth
Published: January 2019

Sixty-seven parents who are visually impaired revealed strategies for their children's safety, transportation, homework, and other parenting tasks and provided information about the emotional impact on their children and others’ reactions to them as parents. Recommendations for current and future parents who are visually impaired and professionals are discussed.
Emergent Literacy Supports for Students who are Deaf-Blind or Have Visual and Multiple Impairments: A Multiple-case Study
Authors: McKenzie Amy R.
Published: January 2019

Seven classrooms of students with deaf-blindness or visual and multiple impairments were observed to document the emergent literacy supports that were present, including environmental characteristics, strategies, or activities. The findings revealed that the majority of classrooms used emergent literacy supports that were previously documented for students without disabilities. Implications for practice and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Social Support in the Workplace for Working-Age Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Papakonstantinou Doxa , Papadopoulos Konstantinos
Published: January 2019

The research presented in this article investigated the social support provided in the workplace for persons with visual impairments. The results reveal the more frequently demonstrated forms of positive and negative social support, the range of social support, and the level of satisfaction with this support.
Perception of Synthetic and Natural Speech by Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Papadopoulos Konstantinos , Koutsoklenis Athanasios , Katemidou Evangelia , Okalidou Areti
Published: January 2019

This study investigated the intelligibility and comprehensibility of natural speech in comparison to synthetic speech. The results demonstrate the type of errors; the relationship between intelligibility and comprehensibility; and the correlation between intelligibility and comprehensibility and key factors, such as the frequency of use of text-to-speech systems.
Prevalence of Visual Impairments in Adults with Cognitive and Developmental Disabilities in a Sheltered Workshop in Germany
Authors: Henriksen Anne , Degenhardt Sven
Published: January 2019

Individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities have a high probability of visual impairment. This study revealed the effects of deficits in the appropriate diagnosis of vision and medical treatment, as well as the lack of necessary refraction correction and support, specifically for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The Effect of Consistent Structured Reading Instruction on High and Low Literacy Achievement in Young Children who are Blind
Authors: Emerson Robert Wall , Sitar Debbie , Erin Jane N. , Wormsley Diane P. , Herlich Stephanie Leigh
Published: January 2019

The Alphabetic Braille and Contracted Braille Study found no difference between high and low achievers in the development of literacy skills on such measures as age, etiology of visual impairment, family attitudes and behaviors regarding literacy activities, class size, and time spent with a teacher of students with visual impairments. Some differences between the groups were seen on measures of social interactions, the introduction of contractions, and time spent with paraeducators, but the most demonstrated difference was the provision of consistent structured reading instruction.
The Quality of Brailled Instructional Materials Produced in Texas Public Schools
Authors: Herzberg Tina S. , Stough Laura M.
Published: January 2019

This study analyzed the quality of brailled instructional materials transcribed by 40 public school personnel. The authors calculated the correlation of the certification status of the personnel and the average amount of time spent transcribing per week with the total number of transcription errors. The findings suggest that students who read braille may receive instructional materials that are not equal in quality to those received by their sighted peers.
The Impact of Electronic Mobility Devices for Persons who are Visually Impaired: A Systematic Review of Effects and Effectiveness
Authors: Roentgen Uta R. , Gelderblom Gert Jan , Soede Mathijs , De Witte Luc P.
Published: January 2019

A systematic review of the international literature was conducted to investigate the effects and effectiveness of electronic mobility devices. Of the 13 studies that were reviewed, all but one demonstrated effects of the use of these devices, and generally, users evaluated the devices’ functionality as beneficial.
The Expanded Core Curriculum: Where we have been, Where we are Going, and how we Can Get There
Authors: Sapp Wendy , Hatlen Phil
Published: January 2019

Although teachers consider the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) critical for students’ success, they do not provide their students adequate instruction based on principles of the ECC. A minimum level of competence for assessment and instruction in the ECC should be established for novice teachers. Personnel preparation programs should evaluate how to prepare teachers better to implement the ECC, and professionals should commit themselves to teaching the ECC in a way that ensures their students’ success.
Cognitive Ability as a Resource for Everyday Functioning among older Adults who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Heyl Vera , Wahl Hans-Werner
Published: January 2019

This article reports on a study that investigated the role of cognitive resources in the everyday functioning of 121 older adults who were visually impaired and 150 sighted older adults, with a mean age of 82 years. Cognitive performance and everyday functioning were most strongly related in the group who were visually impaired. The authors conclude that cognitive training enhances independent living skills.
Phonological Awareness of Young Children with Visual Impairments
Authors: Hatton Deborah D. , Erickson Karen A. , Lee Donna Brostek
Published: January 2019

The findings from a sample of 22 young children with visual impairments and no additional disabilities suggest that potential readers of braille or dual media had better syllable-segmentation, sound-isolation, and sound-segmentation skills than potential readers of print. Potential readers of print seemed to have slightly better letter-identification and letter-sound identification skills than potential readers of braille or dual media.
The Societal Impact of Age-related Macular Degeneration: Use of Social Support Resources Differs by the Severity of the Impairment
Authors: Brennan Mark , Horowitz Amy , Reinhardt Joann P. , Stuen Cynthia , Rubio Roman , Oestreicher Nina
Published: January 2019

Objective and subjective severity of visual impairment were examined in relation to the receipt of social support over time among 384 adults with age-related macular degeneration. Both types of impairment were related to greater family support, with those with discrepant subjective and objective impairment (high and low, respectively) reporting the most instrumental support.
The Relationship of Perceived Social Support with Well-Being in Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Guerette Amy R. , Smedema Susan Miller
Published: January 2019

The relationship between perceived social support and multiple indicators of well-being in adults with visual impairments was investigated. The results included significant correlation of social support and depressive symptoms, satisfaction with life, as well as with physical, psychological, economic, family, and social well-being. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Walking between the Lines: Nonvisual Cues for Maintaining Headings during Street Crossings
Authors: Scott Alan C. , Barlow Janet M. , Guth David A. , Bentzen Billie Louise , Cunningham Christopher M. , Long Richard
Published: January 2019

Five cues were evaluated with respect to their usefulness in directing the headings of pedestrians who were blind during street crossings. The study was conducted at a simulated crosswalk, with the angle of the crosswalk varied relative to the approach and direction of the slope of the ramp. Three cues worked well over the distance equivalent to the width of a six-lane road.
Olfactory Cues Used for Wayfinding in Urban Environments by Individuals with Visual Impairments
Authors: Koutsoklenis Athanasios , Papadopoulos Konstantinos
Published: January 2019

This study examined which olfactory cues individuals with visual impairments use most often and determined which of these cues these individuals deemed to be the most important for wayfinding in urban environments. It also investigated the ways in which the individuals use these olfactory cues.
Characteristics of Early Work Experiences and Their Association with Future Employment
Authors: McDonnall Michele Capella , O'Mally Jamie
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Early work experiences are a key predictor of future employment for transition-age youths with visual impairments. We investigated how specific characteristics of early work experiences influence future employment and whether the receipt of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is associated with early work experiences among this population.

Method

Secondary data analyses were conducted using four waves of data from the second National Longitudinal Transition Study, which included a nationally representative sample of high school students with visual impairments who were receiving special education services.

Results

Future employment outcomes were positively associated with the characteristics of early work experiences, including finding a job independently, holding multiple jobs, and holding jobs for longer periods of time. Participating in school-sponsored work was not associated with future employment. Youths who received SSI benefits were significantly less likely to engage in productive activities, including employment, in Wave 3 than were those who did not receive benefits; however, this was not the case for youths who received SSI benefits in Wave 2.

Discussion

Not all early work experiences were found to be equally predictive of future employment for youths with visual impairments. The results indicate that it may not be sufficient for youths simply to be employed during high school without consideration of the types of work, how the jobs were obtained, or how long the jobs lasted. These characteristics of early work experiences are important to future employment and should be considered when helping youths prepare for the transition from school to work.

Implications for Practitioners

Professionals and parents should emphasize the benefits of early employment to youths with visual impairments. Youths should be encouraged to obtain multiple work experiences during high school while keeping in mind that longer job tenure is also positively associated with future employment. Professionals should particularly encourage youths who receive SSI benefits to obtain early work experiences and should inform them and their families about incentives that allow them to retain benefits while working.
LiveDescribe: Can Amateur Describers Create High-Quality Audio Description?
Authors: Branje Carmen J. , Fels Deborah I.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The study presented here evaluated the usability of the audio description software LiveDescribe and explored the acceptance rates of audio description created by amateur describers who used LiveDescribe to facilitate the creation of their descriptions.

Methods

Twelve amateur describers with little or no previous experience with audio description used the software LiveDescribe to describe a single episode of a 20-minute comedy show. Seventy-five reviewers who were blind, had low vision, or were sighted then rated the descriptions using a number of criteria, including overall quality and entertainment value.

Results

LiveDescribe was found to be easy to use and useful. Three of the 12 describers produced descriptions that were rated as of good overall quality, 6 produced descriptions that were rated as of medium quality, and 3 produced descriptions that were rated as of poor quality.

Discussion

These findings indicate that amateur description is feasible even with minimal training in either description itself or LiveDescribe. Audiences’ preferences for description seem to be based on various characteristics of describers, such as the describers’ vernacular and tone of voice and the length and timing of the descriptions.

Implications for practitioners

If amateur description is indeed feasible, the quantity of audio descriptions that are available to the general public could be increased significantly. A great deal of informal description is already created by families and friends of individuals who are visually impaired through the “whisper method.” If this description process could be captured and formalized through a tool such as LiveDescribe and shared through the Internet, many more descriptions could be made available.
The use of Spatialized Speech in Auditory Interfaces for Computer users who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Sodnik Jaka , Jakus Grega , Tomažič Sašo
Published: January 2019

Introduction

This article reports on a study that explored the benefits and drawbacks of using spatially positioned synthesized speech in auditory interfaces for computer users who are visually impaired (that is, are blind or have low vision). The study was a practical application of such systems—an enhanced word processing application compared to conventional screen-reading software with a braille display.

Methods

Two types of user interfaces were compared in two experimental conditions: a JAWS screen reader equipped with an ALVA 544 Satellite braille display and a custom auditory interface based on spatialized speech. Twelve participants were asked to read and process three different text files with each interface and to collect the information about their form and structure. Task-completion times and the correctness of the perceived information on text decorations, text alignment, and table structures were measured.

Results

The spatial auditory interface proved to be significantly faster (3 minutes, 12 seconds) than the JAWS screen reader with ALVA braille display (8 minutes, 38 seconds), F(1,70) = 391.523, p < .001, and 15% more accurate when gathering information on text alignment, F(1,70) = 28.220, p < .001. No significant difference between the interfaces could be established when comparing questions on text decorations, F(1,70) = 0.912, p = .343, or table structures, F(1,70) = 1.045, p = .310).

Discussion

The findings show that the auditory interface with spatialized speech is more than 160% faster than the tactile interface while remaining equally accurate and effective for gathering information on various properties of text and tables.

Implications for practitioners

The spatial location of synthesized speech can be used for the fast presentation of the physical position of texts in a file, their alignment, the dimensions of tables, and the position of specific texts within tables. The quality of spatial sound reproduction can play an important role in the overall performance of such systems.
Perceptions of Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments regarding Assistive Technology: A Follow-up Study to a University Course
Authors: Kamei-Hannan Cheryl , Howe Jon , Herrera Robyn Rene , Erin Jane N.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The study presented here examined the learning outcomes of graduate students in visual impairment who were enrolled in an assistive technology course in three university programs.

Methods

The students’ perceptions of learning were evaluated using pre-and posttests administered during the course. A follow-up questionnaire was e-mailed to the participants in 2011. Information gathered in the questionnaire included the participants’ demographic characteristics, perceived level of skill, training since completion of the course, frequency of use of the devices with students, and perceptions of the importance of specific devices. Variables were coded using a Likert scale, and correlations were coded using Spearman's correlation for nonparametric data.

Results

Pre–posttest data (n = 97) showed the participants’ improvement in the use of devices introduced during the class, with a greater increase in devices specific to visual impairment. Data from the follow-up questionnaires (n = 60) revealed a relationship between the perceived importance of the devices, frequency of use, and the participants’ skills. The participants were more likely to seek additional training if they perceived that a technology was frequently used and important.

Discussion

The results suggest that a formal assistive technology course can contribute to the development of skills and that the participants’ initiatives in setting priorities and seeking additional training were important for their continued acquisition of technology skills.

Implications for practice

Teachers can benefit from university-based training in the use of assistive technology. Also, continued development of such skills is necessary to allow the teachers to gain expertise in the use of frequently used devices and in devices that they perceive as important in educational settings.
Technology for Early Braille Literacy: Comparison of Traditional Braille Instruction and Instruction with an Electronic Notetaker
Authors: Bickford James O. , Falco Ruth A.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The study reported here evaluated whether there was a difference in students’ outcomes for braille fluency when instruction was provided with traditional braille media or refreshable braille. Students’ and teachers’ perceptions of the efficacy of the use of the different instructional media were analyzed.

Methods

Nine students from public and residential schools, using the Patterns reading series, participated in the study. In an alternating-treatments design, weekly curriculum-based measures that were developed to measure oral reading fluency and word-writing fluency were used to monitor the students’ progress with each instructional medium. Semistructured interviews at the conclusion of the study gathered information about the benefits and challenges of each medium.

Results

Throughout the 18 weeks of instruction, there were no consistent differences between students’ use of the refreshable braille display and their use of paper and the Perkins Brailler. All students achieved gains in their knowledge of braille letters and contractions, and many achieved an increase in fluency, although the increase was not tied to one instructional medium. The participants identified both the advantages and disadvantages of each medium.

Discussion

The study did not reveal consistent differences among the students between the outcomes of instruction with the traditional Perkins Brailler and paper or the electronic braille notetaker with a refreshable braille display. The teachers were concerned about the inability of students to obtain spatial relationships using refreshable braille.

Implications for practitioners

This study did not provide a clear answer to questions regarding differences in outcomes. The findings suggest that following some instruction with the technology, students can quickly learn to use an electronic braille device, are motivated to use these devices, and may demonstrate enhanced outcomes.
A Scale to Measure Teachers’ Self-Efficacy in Deaf-Blindness Education
Authors: Hartmann Elizabeth
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The Teacher Efficacy in Deafblindness Education Scale (TEDE) was developed to expand the construct of self-efficacy to teach children with deaf-blindness.

Methods

Eighty-seven special educators in the United States were asked to rate their confidence to perform a variety of tasks that are associated with teaching children who are deaf-blind on 36 Likert-type items and to respond to open-ended questions on teaching children who are deaf-blind.

Results

Analyses based on item response modeling indicated strong internal consistency and split-half reliability coefficients. Construct modeling indicated good respondent and item fit.

Discussion

The study provides evidence of the validity of a construct of teacher self-efficacy to teach children with deaf-blindness. Suggestions for future iterations of the TEDE were offered in addition to suggestions for future research on self-efficacy in teaching children with deaf-blindness.

Implications for practitioners

The development of the TEDE and the analysis of its scores can help educators to understand self-efficacy and its importance in supporting students with deaf-blindness. Practitioners who provide technical service to teachers of students with deaf-blindness may find value in the construct of self-efficacy and the TEDE as a tool to measure it.
The Development of Accepted Performance Items to Demonstrate Braille Competence in the Nemeth Code for Mathematics and Science Notation
Authors: Smith Derrick , Rosenblum L. Penny
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The purpose of the study presented here was the initial validation of a comprehensive set of competencies focused solely on the Nemeth code.

Methods

Using the Delphi method, 20 expert panelists were recruited to participate in the study on the basis of their past experience in teaching a university-level course in the Nemeth code. The Delphi method uses multiple iterations or “rounds” to develop a consensus. The panelists were given the list of competencies developed by a focus group and were asked to rank their importance and the level of resources they would expect a beginning teacher of students with visual impairments to use. With each round, the panelists were provided with the statistical results and comments on the previous round, so they could make an informed decision on their next rating.

Results

Only three rounds were necessary for the panelists to reach a consensus. For writing, the panelists reached a consensus on 12 (41%) statements for importance and 17 (59%) for reference. For reading, they reached a consensus on 19 statements (66%) for importance and 23 (79%) for references. Comments from the panelists focused primarily on the fact that teachers of students with visual impairments need to use resources more often for writing to ensure the quality of their transcriptions, but that they should be able to read without resources. This difference may be due to the panelists’ perception that teachers of students with visual impairments need to be more equipped to back-translate from the Nemeth code into print than to transcribe from print into the Nemeth code.

Discussion

On the basis of the scoring and the comments, the panelists had different expectations for their students. These differences may have been due to their own level of understanding of the Nemeth code or mathematics in general.

Implications for practitioners

This study is the first step in developing a comprehensive set of Nemeth code competencies for the field of special education for students with visual impairments. These competencies will become the benchmark for all university programs as they develop their courses on the Nemeth code. They may also be used for the framework for professional development for in-service teachers of students with visual impairments.
Windows into the Visual Brain: New Discoveries about the Visual System, Its Functions, and Implications for Practitioners
Authors: Jan James E. , Heaven Roberta K. B. , Matsuba Carey , Langley M. Beth , Roman-Lantzy Christine , Anthony Tanni L.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

In recent years, major progress has been made in understanding the human visual system because of new investigative techniques. These developments often contradict older concepts about visual function.

Methods

A detailed literature search and interprofessional discussions.

Results

Recent innovative neurological tests are described that are able to show much more accurately the visual pathways, the process of vision, and the close relationships among sensory modalities. These tests also reveal the remarkable neuroplasticity of the human brain and disorders of connectivity that frequently involve visual function.

Discussion

How these recent neurological advances may benefit service providers is discussed.

Implications for practitioners

It is important that from time to time new neurological and ophthalmic developments are summarized for professionals who are involved in the clinical management of individuals with visual disorders and how the newly acquired knowledge affects the diagnosis and intervention strategies. Visual rehabilitation must be based on up-to-date science, which continually changes and grows with research.
Identity Development in German Adolescents with and without Visual Impairments
Authors: Pinquart Martin , Pfeiffer Jens P.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The study reported here assessed the exploration of identity and commitment to an identity in German adolescents with and without visual impairments.

Methods

In total, 178 adolescents with visual impairments (blindness or low vision) and 526 sighted adolescents completed the Ego Identity Process Questionnaire.

Results

The levels of identity exploration and making commitments, as well as the distribution of identity statuses, did not differ between the two groups. However, adolescents with congenital visual impairments showed lower levels of identity exploration than their peers with acquired visual impairments. In addition, more severe disability was associated with less exploration of identity. Furthermore, levels of identity exploration and commitment varied by age, parental education, levels of social support, and levels of problem behavior.

Discussion

The findings indicate that adolescents with visual impairments do not fall behind sighted adolescents in developing a sense of identity.

Implications for practitioners

Adolescents who are congenitally blind or have a high level of disability may need support in exploring and accessing information on future opportunities.
A Quantitative Analysis of the Work Experiences of Adults with Visual Impairments in Nigeria
Authors: Wolffe Karen E. , Ajuwon Paul M. , Kelly Stacy M.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Worldwide, people with visual impairments often struggle to gain employment. This study attempts to closely evaluate the work experiences of employed individuals with visual impairments living in one of the world's most populous developing nations, Nigeria.

Methods

The researchers developed a questionnaire that assessed personal and professional experiences among a sample of 172 adults with visual impairments living and working in Nigeria. Statistical analysis procedures included descriptive and nonparametric methods. The Mann-Whitney U test compared the difference between the mean ranks of 12 work-experience measures (dependent variables) within the independent groups.

Results

Gender, degree of visual impairment (total blindness or low vision), age at onset of visual impairment (childhood or adulthood), educational attainment, and marital status were all characteristics that evidenced significant differences (p <.05) in the participants’ work experiences evaluated by the present study. However, there were also instances where there were no significant differences in the independent groups among several of the 12 work-experience measures (p > .05).

Discussion

Annual income, hours worked per week, confidence level performing current work, and future job opportunities were found to be significant based on participants’ gender, education, or marital status. There was overall consistency among participants in the sample (regardless of degree of visual impairment or age at onset of visual impairment).

Implications for practitioners

In this sample, advanced education equated to higher salaries and greater confidence in performing work. The importance of postsecondary education was affirmed in terms of future earnings and confidence.
Disability Insurance Beneficiaries with Visual Impairments in Vocational Rehabilitation: Socio-demographic Influences on Employment
Authors: Giesen J. Martin , Cavenaugh Brenda S.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Given mutual concerns of vocational rehabilitation and the Social Security Administration, our purpose was to evaluate the effect of current individual and economic factors on competitive employment for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries with visual impairments in vocational rehabilitation.

Methods

Using fiscal year 2010 RSA-911 data on 4,478 SSDI beneficiaries whose vocational rehabilitation services had concluded, we conducted descriptive and multilevel analyses to determine which client and state or agency factors predicted competitive employment.

Results

Unemployment rate, gender, age, race, disability, severity of visual impairment, education, prior earnings, SSDI amount, and interactive effects of agency structure were significantly related to competitive employment.

Discussion

This research provided new knowledge of state or agency influences, risk factors, advantages, and compensatory effects of services in blind agencies, and underscored the importance of prior work experience in achieving competitive employment for SSDI-beneficiary consumers.

Implications for practitioners

Recommendations related to vocational rehabilitation services to SSDI beneficiaries, policy regarding agency structure, and future research are made.
Sex Hormones in Women With Elevated Breast Cancer Risk Undergoing Weight Loss
Authors: Stone Sophia A. , Han Claire J. , Senn Taurence , Korde Larissa A. , Allott Kristen , Reding Scott , Whittington Dale , Reding Kerryn W.
Published: January 2019

Sedentary lifestyles and obesity are known risk factors for breast cancer. Elevated estrogen levels correlate with obesity and, independently, with increased breast cancer risk. Lifestyle interventions that reduce obesity may mitigate this risk, potentially via estrogen pathways. In a 6-month lifestyle intervention, overweight/obese women with high breast cancer risk were randomized to control ( n = 7) or intervention ( n = 6) and analyzed for sex hormone levels. Serum and urine hormones were evaluated by ultra performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) were reduced by 12.1% and 50.8%, respectively, at 9 months in the intervention group, which differed from controls ( p = .043 and .020). This contrasted with a 73.3% increase in urine E1 at 6 months in the intervention group ( p = .035). These results suggest that a lifestyle intervention led to a favorable estrogen profile in relation to breast cancer risk.
Evaluation of endothelial function and arterial stiffness in obese individuals with insulin resistance
Authors: Menezes VP , Cohen C , Del-Rei J , Oigman W , Neves MF , Medeiros Fernanda Jurema
Published: January 2019

Background:

Obesity is associated with metabolic imbalance, including insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction.

Aim:

We aimed to evaluate clinical and vascular parameters in obese with or without insulin resistance.

Methods:

Participants ( n=39) were divided into two groups according to Homeostasis Model Assessment – Insulin Resistance lower (group 1) or higher (group 2) than 2.7. All patients were submitted to clinical, anthropometric, biochemical, vascular structure and endothelial function assessment.

Results:

The mean age (53±9 vs. 52±7 years, p=0.784) and body mass index (34.3±4.1 vs. 35.2±3.9 kg/m2, p=0.464) were similar in both groups, and 74.4% were treated hypertensive subjects. Fasting glucose (84±7 vs. 97±18 mg/dl, p=0.004) and insulin (9.32±2.48 vs. 22.74±7.49 μU/ml, p<0.001) were higher in group 2. Group 2 presented lower HDL-cholesterol (59±14 vs. 42±12 mg/dl, p<0.001) and higher triglycerides (122±87 vs. 191±112 mg/dl, p=0.042) levels compared with group 1. HOMA-IR was correlated with abdominal circumference ( r=0.51, p=0.001), abdominal/hip ratio ( r=0.57, p<0.001) and triglycerides/HDL ratio ( r=0.53, p=0.001). Differences in brachial flow-mediated dilation did not reach statistical significance (10.2±6.2 vs. 7.9±4.7%, p=0.245). Carotid intima–media thickness, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (8.5±1.9 vs. 9.1±1.5 m/s, p=0.334) and central hemodynamic parameters were also similar between groups.

Conclusion:

Obese individuals with insulin resistance have higher visceral adiposity associated with impaired glucose and lipid metabolism. Endothelial function and arterial stiffness were similar between the groups, perhaps because of antihypertensive treatment in most of these subjects.
Ghosting in Emerging Adults’ Romantic Relationships: The Digital Dissolution Disappearance Strategy
Authors: LeFebvre Leah E. , Allen Mike , Rasner Ryan D. , Garstad Shelby , Wilms Aleksander , Parrish Callie
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study is to examine relational dissolution using the technique of ghosting. This qualitative study explores the emerging adults’ dissolution strategies leading up to and through enactment of disengagement through mediated contexts. Participants ( N = 99) completed questionnaires about their ghosting familiarity and participation as initiators or noninitiators. The majority of participants reported participating in both roles. Five themes described why initiators chose to enact ghosting, and three themes chronicled their ghosting decision-making processes. Noninitiators illustrated how they realized ghosting occurred through three themes. This exploratory investigation offers a definitive definition of ghosting and a modern discussion of its contents to dissolution, communication, and romantic relationship development.
The effect of orthodontic clinical use on the mechanical characteristics of nickel-titanium closed-coil springs
Authors: Geng Haixia , Su Hongli , Whitley John , Lin Feng-Chang , Xu Xin , Ko Ching-Chang
Published: January 2019

Objective

To examine the effect of clinical use on both force retention and the deactivation of closed-coil nickel-titanium (NiTi) springs in a 16-week trial.

Methods

The force-activation curves for NiTi springs were determined before and after clinical use. The rate of tooth movement and maximum force (MF), hysteresis between activation and deactivation, and mean force of the deactivation plateau (MDF) were examined and correlated as a function of 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks of clinical use. To recover the force properties, the springs were heat treated at 100°C and the results were compared with the preceding data.

Results

A total of 36 springs were analysed. The MF loss after use was 60, 74, 55, and 48 g for the 4-, 8-, 12- and 16-week springs, respectively. Heat treating had little effect on the MF. Clinical use lowered hysteresis by a mean of 180 g*mm compared with the pre-clinical use data, and heat treating increased the hysteresis by a mean of 59 g*mm above the post clinic testing data. The MDF was nominally 100 g less than the MF. Teeth moved approximately 1 mm/month, independent of the force loss.

Conclusions

The loss of MF and the lowering of the MDF was not time dependent. Heat treating can partially recover the mechanical properties of the used springs.
Non-traditional risk factors for coronary calcification and its progression in patients with type 2 diabetes: The impact of postprandial glycemia and fetuin-A
Authors: Krajnc Mitja , Pečovnik Balon Breda , Krajnc Ivan
Published: January 2019

Objective

This study was performed to assess the impact of risk factors on the presence and progression of coronary calcification in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 45 patients without cardiovascular or kidney disease. Coronary calcification was measured with multidetector computed tomography at baseline and 18 months. We also measured blood pressure; body mass index; serum levels of calcium, phosphate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D; mineral bone density; and levels of alkaline phosphatase, parathormone, fetuin-A, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, albumin, homocysteine, lipids, HbA1c, and average preprandial and postprandial blood glucose at 18 months. Information about severe hypoglycemia and smoking was recorded. Spearman’s correlation coefficients were calculated. Multiple linear regression was used for the multivariate analysis.

Results

The median baseline calcium score was 63, and that at 18 months was 100. In the univariate analysis, albumin was significantly correlated with the baseline calcium score. Fetuin-A and postprandial glycemia were correlated with calcium score progression. In the multivariate model, postprandial glycemia and fetuin-A were independently associated with calcium score progression.

Conclusions

Fetuin-A and postprandial glycemia influence coronary calcification progression in patients with type 2 diabetes. The absence of some correlations could be due to pharmacological treatments for cardiovascular risk reduction.
Remote ischemic preconditioning ameliorates indirect acute lung injury by modulating phosphorylation of IκBα in mice
Authors: Kim Yun-Hee , Kim Young-Sung , Kim Byung-Hwa , Lee Kuen-Su , Park Hyung-Sun , Lim Choon-Hak
Published: January 2019

Objective

Acute lung injury is responsible for mortality in seriously ill patients. Previous studies have shown that systemic inflammation is attenuated by remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) via reducing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Therefore, we investigated whether lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced indirect acute lung injury (ALI) can be protected by RIPC.

Methods

RIPC was accomplished by 10 minutes of occlusion using a tourniquet on the right hind limb of mice, followed by 10 minutes of reperfusion. This process was repeated three times. Intraperitoneal LPS (20 mg/kg) was administered to induce indirect ALI. Inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pulmonary tissue was excised for histological examination, and for examining NF-κB activity and phosphorylation of inhibitor of κBα (IκBα).

Results

NF-κB activation and LPS-induced histopathological changes in the lungs were significantly alleviated in the RIPC group. RIPC reduced phosphorylation of IκBα in lung tissue of ALI mice.

Conclusions

RIPC attenuates endotoxin-induced indirect ALI. This attenuation might occur through modification of NF-κB mediation of cytokines by modulating phosphorylation of IκBα.
Possible biomarkers for predicting lymph node metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a review
Authors: Li Juan , Qi Zhan , Hu Yuan-Ping , Wang Yu-Xiang
Published: January 2019

Esophageal cancer is the eighth most common form of cancer worldwide, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a major type of esophageal cancer that arises from epithelial cells of the esophagus. Local lymph node metastasis (LNM) is a typical sign of failure for ESCC clinical treatments, and a link has been established between LNM and the aberrant expression of specific biomarkers. In this review, we summarize what is known about nine factors significantly associated with LNM in ESCC patients: phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), mucin 1, vascular endothelial growth factor-C, tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 8 (TNFAIP8), Raf-1 kinase inhibitory protein, stathmin (STMN1), metastasis-associated protein 1, caveolin-1, and interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3. The function of these nine proteins involves four major mechanisms: tumor cell proliferation, tumor cell migration and invasion, epithelium–mesenchymal transition, and chemosensitivity. The roles of PTEN, STMN1, and TNFAIP8 involve at least two of these mechanisms, and we suggest that they are possible biomarkers for predicting LNM in ESCC. However, further retrospective research into PTEN, STMN1, and TNFAIP8 is needed to test their possibilities as indicators.
First successful hemoadsorption using CytoSorb® in a septic pediatric patient in Kazakhstan: A case report
Authors: Saparov Askhat , Sazonov Vitaliy , Tobylbaeva Zaure , Isakov Samat , Bekpan Almat , Autalipov Darkhan , Muratbekova Bakhyt , Manaybekova Zhazira , Anikin Vitaliy
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

For the first time in Kazakhstan, we have used a combined extracorporeal support, by including the CytoSorb system in a continuous veno-venous hemofiltration system in an 8-month-old patient with a body weight of 5600 g.

Results:

The CytoSorb therapy session resulted in a reduction of inflammation markers IL-6, S100, procalcitonin, and C-reactive protein. Simultaneously, the level of transaminases, creatine kinase, and troponin were normalized, by the end of the session patient hemodynamics were stable and there was no need for vasopressors, acid–base balance was maintained, and the patient was weaned from mechanical ventilation to spontaneous breathing.

Conclusion:

Treatment using the CytoSorb device was safe and well-tolerated in a pediatric patient and has proven its practical value as an adjuvant therapy for sepsis in pediatric patient populations.
The Impact of the Juntos Program: A Qualitative Evaluation
Authors: Behnke Andrew O. , Bodenhamer Aysha , McDonald Taylor , Robledo Mayra
Published: January 2019

The Juntos Program empowers Latina/o students and their families to gain the knowledge and resources necessary for academic success in high school and college. This is made possible via four interlinking components: Family Engagement; 4-H Clubs; Success Coaching and Mentoring; and a Juntos Summer Academy. Nineteen focus groups with participants in the Juntos Program (61 parent and 24 youth) revealed improvement in five core areas: aspirations, interpersonal communication, leadership skills, technical skills, and family engagement. Seven ripple maps were created by groups of participating parents demonstrating that parents understand the various components of the program and the ways it helps their youth. Various programmatic and research-related implications emerged that can be used to impact work with Latina/o parents and youth.
Millennial Motivation Issues Related to Compensation and Benefits: Suggestions for Improved Retention
Authors: Morrell Daniel L. , Abston Kristie A.
Published: January 2019

Millennials are currently the largest generation at work and will reach an estimated 75% of the labor force by 2025. Studies have shown that millennials hold slightly different attitudes toward work when compared with previous generations. They more readily change jobs and are generally less committed to their organizations, with an estimated 66% of millennial employees planning to leave their current company within 5 years. These differences in work values necessitate changes in current approaches to compensation and benefit packages that would better align with these changing values. The goal of this article is to review recent empirical data on Millennials as compared with previous generations and then offer suggestions for what changes might improve retention.
The 401(k) Student Loan Repayment Benefit Program
Authors: Kilgour John G.
Published: January 2019

In recent years, student loan repayment programs have emerged as the hot new employee benefit. However, their growth has been restricted by their lack of favored tax status. On August 17, 2018, the Internal Revenue Service issued a private letter ruling approving a proposal to create such a program within a 401(k) plan. In a deft piece of reasoning, the private letter ruling provides relief from the so-called “contingent benefit prohibition.” This article examines student loan borrowing, the private letter ruling and its likely consequences and limitations.
Retrieval-Based Learning in Children
Authors: Fazio Lisa K. , Marsh Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2019

Testing oneself with flash cards, using a clicker to respond to a teacher’s questions, and teaching another student are all effective ways to learn information. These learning strategies work, in part, because they require the retrieval of information from memory, a process known to enhance later memory. However, little research has directly examined retrieval-based learning in children. We review the emerging literature on the benefits of retrieval-based learning for preschool and elementary school students and draw on other literatures for further insights. We reveal clear evidence for the benefits of retrieval-based learning in children (starting in infancy). However, we know little about the developmental trajectory. Overall, the benefits are largest when the initial retrieval practice is effortful but successful.