bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion and multiple daily insulin injections in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yang Honghong , Heng Xueyuan , Liang Cuige , Liu Xiaomeng , Du Wenhua , Li Shoujie , Wang Yueli , Dong Qingyu , Li Wenxia , Pan Zhenyu , Gong Qian , Gao Guanqi
Published: June 2014

Objective

To investigate prospectively the insulin dose requirements of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with either multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy during a 2-week therapeutic intervention.

Methods

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomly assigned to MDI or CSII therapy. The effects of the two treatment methods were determined based on blood glucose parameters, total daily insulin dose and rates of hypoglycaemia.

Results

A total of 609 patients were enrolled in the study. Glycaemic goals were achieved after a mean ± SD of 6.90 ± 2.10 and 5.44 ± 2.22 days’ treatment in the MDI and CSII groups, respectively. Once stabilized, the mean ± SD total daily insulin doses were 37.12 ± 10.19 IU and 32.58 ± 8.78 IU for the MDI and CSII groups, respectively. Once stabilized, the mean ± SD total basal and bolus doses were 19.46 ± 7.95 IU/day and 17.66 ± 3.53 IU/day for the MDI group, and 22.79 ± 7.55 IU/day and 9.81 ± 2.64 IU/day for the CSII group, respectively. There were significant differences in the total, basal and bolus insulin doses between the two groups.

Conclusion

CSII therapy may be considered as an effective method to achieve good glycaemic control in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Swords without covenants do not lead to self-governance
Authors: Cason Timothy N , Gangadharan Lata
Published: June 2014

This paper presents an experimental study of two mechanisms for managing common pool resources. Decentralized peer punishment (swords) has been shown to increase cooperation in related social dilemmas, but only with linear private benefits and costs of public goods provision. We investigate the effectiveness of this mechanism for a more realistic nonlinear public goods environment, in isolation and in combination with nonbinding communication and informal agreements (covenants). The results show that swords do not increase cooperation or yield from the public resource, regardless of whether covenants are also possible. Covenants are significantly more effective in solving the social dilemma, and importantly peer punishment is unnecessary if communication is possible.
The multi-point constraint ensuring convergence of surface models for warpage analysis of injection-molded plastics
Authors: Zhang Shi , Liang Junjie , Huang Zhigao , Zhang Yun , Zhou Huamin
Published: June 2014

The surface models have been widely used to predict warpage of plastics for several years, but very less attention has been paid to the convergence of this kind of models. In this article, the multi-point constraint ensuring convergence of surface models is deduced based on the theoretical basis of domain decomposition method. And a new corresponding surface model is developed to verify its effectiveness in practice. Three numerical tests are used to evaluate the performances of the new surface model. In the former two cases, the proposed surface model can rapidly converge to the exact solutions, as same as the mid-plane model. And in the last case, the results from the proposed models are much closer to the experiment data than the existing models. It proves that the proposed multi-point constraint is sufficient to ensuring convergence of surface models.
Observer design for exhaust gas recirculation rate estimation in a variable-geometry turbocharger diesel engine using a model reference identification scheme
Authors: Lee Hyunjun , Park Yeongseop , Sunwoo Myoungho
Published: June 2014

Exhaust gas recirculation systems are used in diesel engines to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Since excessive recirculation in the cylinders may lead to an increase in generation of particulate matter and to unstable combustion, the exhaust gas recirculation rate should be measured correctly and should be controlled precisely. Unfortunately, the harsh conditions of the exhaust gas recirculation path make it difficult to measure the exhaust gas recirculation mass flow rate directly by using the relevant sensors. Therefore, precise control of the exhaust gas recirculation system depends on accurate estimation of the exhaust gas recirculation rate. To estimate accurately the exhaust gas recirculation rate in a turbocharged diesel engine, we propose an observer based on a model reference identification scheme. A linear parameter-varying model of the intake manifold pressure was derived to serve as the observer’s reference model. An update rule of the observer was designed with the model reference identification scheme. The intake and exhaust temperature models were developed through an empirical approach. Convergence of the proposed observer was proven in terms of the Lyapunov stability criterion. The proposed observer was implemented on a real-time embedded system and validated successfully through experiments on the engine.
Approximate analytical solution of nonlinear systems using homotopy perturbation method
Authors: Bayat Mahmoud , Pakar Iman , Bayat Mahdi
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we present a new approximate method called homotopy perturbation method to achieve an accurate analytical solution for strong nonlinear problems. Two different examples are studied to show the application of the proposed method. The results are compared with the numerical solution using Runge–Kutta algorithm and also another analytical method, namely energy balance method for these certain examples. It has been shown that only one iteration of the method prepares high accurate solutions for large amplitude of the vibrations. The homotopy perturbation method does not require any linearization or small perturbation and overcomes the limitations of the traditional methods. The obtained results show that the homotopy perturbation method could be easily extended to nonlinear problems as indicated in the following examples.
Neurodevelopmental disorders in children born to mothers with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Vinet É , Pineau CA , Clarke AE , Fombonne É , Platt RW , Bernatsky S
Published: June 2014

Children born to women with systemic lupus erythematosus seem to have a potentially increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders compared to children born to healthy women. Recent experimental data suggest in utero exposure to maternal antibodies and cytokines as important risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders. Interestingly, women with systemic lupus erythematosus display high levels of autoantibodies and cytokines, which have been shown, in animal models, to alter fetal brain development and induce behavioral anomalies in offspring. Furthermore, subjects with systemic lupus erythematosus and neurodevelopmental disorders share a common genetic predisposition, which could impair the fetal immune response to in utero immunologic insults. Moreover, systemic lupus erythematosus pregnancies are at increased risk of adverse obstetrical outcomes and medication exposures, which have been implicated as potential risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders. In this article, we review the current state of knowledge on neurodevelopmental disorders and their potential determinants in systemic lupus erythematosus offspring.
Conversion and Autobiography
Authors: Epurescu-Pascovici Ionuţ
Published: June 2014

This article focuses on an autobiographical episode from the chronicle of the Franciscan friar, Salimbene de Adam of Parma (c. 1221–90). His entrance into the Order of the Brothers Minor, against the express wishes of his father who saw his last heir abandon the secular world, is depicted in the text as the crucial event of his life: in effect, a religious conversion. This article brings to the fore Salimbene’s ideal of individual agency and autonomy, which represents the central aspect of the autobiographical account of his conversion. It investigates the narrative strategies on which the author relied to navigate the thin line between self-assertion and the traditional monastic ideal of humility. In particular, the article highlights Salimbene’s potential for self-fashioning and his narrative departure from the influential model of St Francis’s conversion. It assesses the relation between human and divine agency in Salimbene’s self-narrative, and draws attention to the relevance of his case as part of the affirmation of the individual in late-medieval society.
Regionalising National History
Authors: Tuấn Hoàng Anh
Published: June 2014

In contrast to their emphasis on political and agricultural history, the twentieth-century Vietnamese historians have paid surprisingly little attention to maritime history despite the fact that Vietnam is a maritime country with over 3000 kilometres of shoreline along the Indo-Chinese coast. More critical is their tendency either to refuse or downplay the role of maritime trade in overall economic development and state-building in pre-modern Vietnam, even though contemporary non-Vietnamese scholars tend to take the opposite view. Applying a regional perspective, this article underlines the process by which Vietnam became integrated into the East Asian maritime trade during ancient and medieval times.
Silk and Weavers of Silk in Medieval Peninsular India
Authors: Ramaswamy Vijaya
Published: June 2014

This article proposes to review the culture of silk in medieval Peninsular India through the prism of the everyday lives of the silk weaving communities. It looks at silk in the medieval Indian imagination, the traditional weaving castes and their historical location as well as aspects of migration. Beginning with the humble weavers, the article will seek to encompass the broader issues of production and trade in silks. The survey stops at the threshold of the coming of the East India Companies and carries a post-script referring briefly to the colonial dominance over silk production and the weavers of silk, many of whom became a part of the colonial Black Towns.
A Response to Jane Sahi’s ‘Dialogue as Education
Authors: Baniwal Vikas
Published: June 2014

This article is inspired by Jane Sahi’s commentary, ‘Dialogue as Education: Martin Buber’, published under the feature ‘Classics with Commentary’ in the Monsoon 2005 issue of Contemporary Education Dialogue. I seek to further the discussion of the contributions of Martin Buber to the discourse of education through an elaboration and clarification of the ideas, concerns and critiques exposited by Jane Sahi.

These concerns can perhaps be understood under the following themes: (i) reflections on educational practice in the light of Buber’s ideas; (ii) the role of language in dialogue; (iii) the idea of learning; (iv) attitudes towards the ‘other’; (v) the teacher–pupil relationship and (vi) the role of the teacher.

Although ideas on these themes in the writings on Martin Buber’s have helped me in articulating this response, Jane Sahi’s commentary forms the basis of my reflections.
Binge drinking and sports participation in college: Patterns among athletes and former athletes
Authors: Green Kyle , Nelson Toben F , Hartmann Douglas
Published: June 2014

This study draws on a nationally representative sample to examine the relationship between participation in organized sport and alcohol use. We build on prior studies by re-examining the relationship between participation in organized sport and binge drinking and how this varies by both race and gender. We expand upon previous research by analyzing the long-term effects of involvement in organized athletics among both current and former sport participants and how this compares to patterns of binge drinking among the general college student population. To do so, our analysis compares rates of binge drinking among current college athletes, former athletes, and college students who were never involved in interscholastic sport. We find that: (1) organized sports participation is associated with binge drinking; (2) that this relationship holds across racial and gendered lines; (3) that the effects of exposure extend beyond time of involvement. The paper concludes with a discussion of possible explanations for the relationship between binge drinking and athletics, and the long-lasting effect of participation in organized sport.
Introduction to special issue on sport and alcohol: On the contemporary agenda of research on alcohol within the sociology of sport
Authors: Palmer Catherine
Published: June 2014

This introductory essay by Special Issue Editor, Catherine Palmer, introduces a double issue of the International Review for the Sociology of Sport focused on the contemporary agenda of research on alcohol within the field of sociology of sport. In introducing the articles in the special issue, Palmer considers the diverse intersectional concerns relevant to understanding sport and alcohol in a larger socio-cultural dynamic. Noted are the needs to move beyond assumptions of hegemonic masculinity and ‘problems-focused approaches’ to more nuanced understandings of place and consequence about the roles of alcohol in sporting subcultures.
The Potential Use of Micropolitics in Examining Personal and Professional Experiences of Music Teachers
Authors: Conway Colleen , Hibbard Shannan , Rawlings Jared R.
Published: June 2014

This literature review defines the field of micropolitics in education, presents empirical studies of micropolitics from both general education and teacher education research, and connects micropolitics research to music teacher education research. Suggestions for music teacher education include: (a) introducing policy in preservice education; (b) future studies of the micropolitical landscape of schools; (c) future studies on the attainment of micropolitcal literacy for new teachers; and (d) continued investigations of school reform, school climate, and school change as they relate to music teacher education.
Remains of the Progressive City? First Source Hiring in Portland and Chicago
Authors: Schrock Greg
Published: June 2014

Within urban scholarship, there is an ongoing interest in the potential for progressive alternatives to growth-oriented economic development. This article examines the experience of two U.S. cities, Portland (Oregon) and Chicago, in the use of “First Source Hiring” policies from the late 1970s through the 1990s. Although Portland’s policy endured over a long period of time, it has fallen into obscurity, while Chicago’s program was short lived but stimulated a period of significant innovation within the workforce development field in its wake. I conclude that their respective experiences illustrate why and when history matters, calling attention to the importance of institutionalization of progressive policies and practices.
Targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway with everolimus: Implications for the management of metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Ng Vin Cci , Johnson Jeremy J , Cuellar Sandra
Published: June 2014

The inhibitors of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) have documented antitumor activity via disruption of various signaling pathways leading to impaired cellular growth, proliferation, and survival. In preclinical studies, mTOR inhibitors use in combination with hormonal therapy has shown promising results in overcoming endocrine resistance in breast cancer cells. The role of everolimus in breast cancer was established in the Breast Cancer Trial of Oral Everolimus-2 (BOLERO-2) trial in combination with exemestane for patients with advanced metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer, who relapsed after initial hormonal manipulation. The study met its primary endpoint of significant improvement in progression free survival (PFS) with a median time to progression of 6.9 months in the combination group versus 2.8 months in exemestane group. Favorable improvements in PFS were reported across all patient subgroups regardless of age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, number of prior therapies, and presence of visceral metastases. Adverse events were mostly mild to moderate in severity and consistent with the known safety profile of everolimus. Major toxicities reported include stomatitis, non-infectious pneumonitis, and hyperglycemia. The purpose of this review is to discuss the role of everolimus as a valuable component in advanced metastatic breast cancer and delineate current strategies to prevent and manage the most common toxicities associated with this combination regimen.
A Replication of “Millionaire Migration and State Taxation of Top Incomes
Authors: Cohen Roger S. , Lai Andrew E. , Steindel Charles
Published: June 2014

We reevaluate Young and Varner’s (YV) study of the effect of New Jersey’s 2004 income tax increase on migration. The 2004 “millionaires’ tax” raised New Jersey’s marginal income tax rate from 6.37 percent to 8.97 percent on incomes over US$500,000. YV reported that the tax change apparently had no effect on net out-migration of affected taxpayers (relative to other affluent taxpayers); however, this result appears to be due to their modeling New Jersey out-migration and in-migration simultaneously to determine net migration effects. Correcting for this, we find a statistically significant increase in the out-migration of taxpayers making over US$500,000 of roughly eighty per year in the years following the tax change. Given that the increase likely spurred out-migration in groups not directly taxed and discouraged in-migration, our estimates may understate the actual impact of the tax on New Jersey net out-migration.
Utility of feline coronavirus antibody tests
Authors: Addie Diane D , le Poder Sophie , Burr Paul , Decaro Nicola , Graham Elizabeth , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Jarrett Oswald , McDonald Michael , Meli Marina L
Published: June 2014

Eight different tests for antibodies to feline coronavirus (FCoV) were evaluated for attributes that are important in situations in veterinary practice. We compared four indirect immunofluorescent antibody tests (IFAT), one enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (FCoV Immunocomb; Biogal) and three rapid immunochromatographic (RIM) tests against a panel of samples designated by consensus as positive or negative. Specificity was 100% for all but the two IFATs based on transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), at 83.3% and 97.5%. The IFAT and ELISA tests were best for obtaining an antibody titre and for working in the presence of virus. The RIM tests were the best for obtaining a result quickly (10–15 mins); of these, the Speed F-Corona was the most sensitive, at 92.4%, followed by FASTest feline infectious peritonitis (FIP; 84.6%) and Anigen Rapid FCoV antibody test (64.1%). Sensitivity was 100% for the ELISA, one FCoV IFAT and one TGEV IFAT; and 98.2% for a second TGEV IFA and 96.1% for a second FCoV IFAT. All tests worked with effusions, even when only blood products were stipulated in the instruction manual. The ELISA and Anigen RIM tests were best for small quantities of sample. The most appropriate FCoV antibody test to use depends on the reason for testing: in excluding a diagnosis of FIP, sensitivity, specificity, small sample quantity, rapidity and ability to work in the presence of virus all matter. For FCoV screening, speed and sensitivity are important, and for FCoV elimination antibody titre is essential.
Pericardial cyst in a 2-year-old Maine Coon cat following peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia repair
Authors: Hodgkiss-Geere Hannah M , Palermo Valentina , Liuti Tiziana , Philbey Adrian W , Marques Ana
Published: June 2014

A pericardial cyst developed in a 2-year-old male neutered Maine Coon cat following surgery for an incidentally diagnosed congenital peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia. The cyst caused no clinical signs in the cat, although clinical findings included positional right-sided cardiac tamponade and compression of thoracic structures, associated with a cardiac arrhythmia and axis deviation on electrocardiography. Extensive assessment of the cyst included radiography, echocardiography, computed tomography, exploratory thoracotomy, electrocardiography, histopathology and fluid analysis. Surgical removal of the cyst was curative, and the arrhythmia and axis deviation resolved. This report details case management from initial diagnosis to long-term follow-up, adding to the limited body of literature available on feline pericardial cysts. This is also the first report to associate cardiac arrhythmia with a pericardial cyst.
Tourists’ perceptions of world heritage destinations: The case of Guimarães (Portugal)
Authors: Remoaldo Paula C , Ribeiro José C , Vareiro Laurentina , Santos José F
Published: June 2014

Guimarães is a UNESCO world heritage site, deemed as such in 2001 and hosted the 2012 European Capital of Culture. This paper examines the profile, destination image, and motivations of tourists’ visiting behaviors in Guimarães before the cultural event. Based on survey responses from 276 tourists, we found that tourists arriving in Guimarães had previously visited the two most important cities in the northern part of Portugal. These respondents were relatively young and well educated compared to the average tourists that visited Portugal. The results suggest that many tourists were aware of the city status as a world heritage site that encompasses a historic center, monuments, and architectural buildings. Furthermore, these perceptions shape the image of Guimarães, as the factor analysis indicates that “historical background and functionality” was the most reliable and valid factor behind the choice of visiting the city.
Numerical investigation on ship energy efficiency by Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Coraddu Andrea , Figari Massimo , Savio Stefano
Published: June 2014

In this article, the authors present a procedure to predict the energy efficiency operational indicator by Monte Carlo simulations, estimating the total ship fuel consumption as a function of displacement and speed considered as random variables. To characterize the probability density function of displacement and speed, a complete series of operating data concerning 2 years of navigation, of a RoPax engaged in a commercial trade in the Mediterranean Sea, were collected and used.
Analysis of Differentially Expressed Genes Associated With Alzheimer’s Disease Based on Bioinformatics Methods
Authors: Feng Bo , Hu Peng , Chen Jinbo , Liu Qingxin , Li Xizhi , Du Yifeng
Published: June 2014

Objective:

To screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods:

The gene expression profile (GSE26972) of AD was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database. The DEGs were mapped to protein–protein interaction (PPI) data for acquiring the potential PPI relationship. The coexpressed significance of a gene pair in AD was determined. Then significantly enriched Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways of DEGs were analyzed based on database for annotation visualization and integrated discovery tool.

Results:

The PPI network showed 7 upregulated genes and 4 downregulated genes that might play meaningful functional roles in AD. Meanwhile, 3 significantly enriched KEGG pathways as well as several significant GO terms (included α-actinin binding, interleukin 33 receptor activity, and telethonin binding) were identified.

Conclusions:

The screened DEGs have the potential to become candidate target molecules to monitor, diagnose, and treat AD.
Policy and the Impact on Placement, Involvement, and Progress in General Education
Authors: Ryndak Diane Lea , Taub Debbie , Jorgensen Cheryl M. , Gonsier-Gerdin Jean , Arndt Katrina , Sauer Janet , Ruppar Andrea L. , Morningstar Mary E. , Allcock Heather
Published: June 2014

Students with significant disabilities continue to be among the most segregated in schools. In this article, we argue that the principles of least restrictive environment and involvement and progress in the general curriculum have been interpreted in ways that perpetuate segregation, rather than increasing students’ access to meaningful curriculum in inclusive educational contexts. We examine this issue from three broad perspectives: federal policy related to least restrictive environment, interpretations of policies related to involvement and progress in the general curriculum, and the implementation of policies related to assessment of grade-level standards. We discuss implications of each of these issues for providing and increasing involvement and progress in general education contexts and content.
Training Generalized Functional Acquisition of “Yes” and “No” in Three Retarded Children
Authors: Ramberg Joanne , Guess Doug , Sailor Wayne
Published: June 2014

A study was conducted to test a training procedure designed to establish functional expressive usage of “yes” and “no” in the language skills of three institutionalized retardates. The procedure employed a trainer and a “modeler”, who served as a second trainer, in the context of a training module which utilized a match-mismatch paradigm to facilitate acquisition of generalized “yes-no” usage. The procedure utilized a pretest-posttest, changing-criterion experimental design to evaluate acquisition and limited generalization of the two responses as a function of the contingent reinforcement training procedure. The procedure was demonstrated to be successful with the three subjects.
Behavioral Assessment Procedures for Community Reintegration
Authors: Reavis H. Kenton , Morrey James G. , Hamel Karin
Published: June 2014

Recent literature indicates that an increasing number of individuals with mental retardation problems are involved in various processes for community reintegration as defined by movement to less restrictive (more normal) programming environments. To facilitate this process, a three phase behavior assessment and prescription system is proposed. This system is designed to monitor the specific functioning levels of persons with mental retardation problems. At the screening (pre-selection) level, a skill assessment instrument has been formatively validated which provides basic data from obtaining specific levels of skill functioning in several behavioral categories. This data means individual persons can be identified as to their profiting from available institution/ community celeration programs and provides information for new programs needed to further reintegration efforts. At the programming (pre-selection) level, a detailed skill assessment instrument has been developed. This more intense behavioral observation assessment is used to determine individual entry levels into specific celeration programs and to monitor skill acquisition as a function of the teaching. At the community entry (pre-release) level, a skill assessment instrument is conceptualized which will identify those skills that translate into necessary prerequisites for various community living alternatives. At each level reliability, validity, time efficiency, and direct relevance to least restrictive environmental programming is emphasized, with the highest level of living with human dignity as the goal.
Data Dilemma: Response and Measurement Units for Teachers of the Severely Handicapped
Authors: Liberty Kathleen
Published: June 2014

Systems for data collection and analysis have been developed to help teachers systematically specialize and individualize their instruction for special children. The appearance of severely and profoundly handicapped children as regular members of the school population has led to questions concerning the applicability of traditional response and measurement units to this population. A review of units used by researchers with the severely handicapped was conducted. A discussion of the applicability of the various response units (e.g., percent) in reference to the desired effects of instruction or intervention and in regard to the specific learning stage are discussed. The author concludes that a careful application of traditional units with some reservations may prove effective for teachers of the severely handicapped.
An Analysis of the Effects of a Social Skills Training Program Using Self-Instructions on the Acquisition and Generalization of Two Social Behaviors in a Work Setting
Authors: Agran Martin , Salzberg Charles L. , Stowitschek Joseph J.
Published: June 2014

This investigation examines the effects of a social skills training program using self-instructions in facilitating the acquisition and generalization of two social behaviors in a work setting. Specifically, this study examined the effects of the training package in increasing the percentages of initiations with a supervisor when employees ran out of work materials and/or needed assistance. The results indicated that the training effectively increased the percentages of occurrence in one or both of the target behaviors for all 5 participants. Furthermore, the training resulted in generalized responding across settings for all participants and maintained for up to 13 weeks. These results suggest the feasibility of a social skills training package using self-instructions to help persons with moderate and severe handicaps acquire, maintain, and generalize social behaviors in a work setting.
Accumulating Evidence on the Benefits and Costs of Supported and Transitional Employment for Persons with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Noble John H. , Conley Ronald W.
Published: June 2014

Evidence about the benefits and costs of supported and transitional employment for persons with severe disabilities is presented along with relevant caveats in the absence of controlled studies. Some of the major forms of supported and transitional employment services are compared with adult day care and traditional sheltered workshops, including work activity centers. Despite weaknesses in the data, sufficient information exists to argue that all forms of employment—supported, transitional, and sheltered—are more productive in terms of earnings and less costly to provide than adult day care. The lack of definitive data is seen as a major impediment to the expansion of supported and transitional employment options for people with severe disabilities; hence, stricter accountability is recommended. All service providers, regardless of the vintage of their programs, should be required to show benefits and costs within a uniform framework of measurement.
Employment Outcomes for People with Moderate and Severe Disabilities: An Eight-Year Longitudinal Analysis of Supported Competitive Employment
Authors: Hill Mark L. , Wehman Paul H. , Kregel John , Banks P. David , Metzler Helen M. D.
Published: June 2014

The efforts of those advocating supported employment have resulted in expansion of the opportunities for people with moderate and severe disabilities in the past several years. Results reported previously on the benefits and costs associated with supported competitive employment have been extended in this article from the 4-year period in the previous analysis to the present 8-year analysis. This is one of the few benefit-cost analyses to be completed on people with mental retardation who have received supported competitive employment services. As in the previous analysis, these figures do not reflect theoretical projections, but direct placement data resulting from a longitudinal program. Our results show a final positive financial consequence accrued to the public of $1,057,000, of which more than $525,000 was a direct benefit of placing consumers with moderate and severe disabilities in supported competitive employment. Since this study extended over 8 years, all figures were corrected for inflation and discounting to 1986 (Quarter 1) dollars. By using individual analyses, it was shown that all consumers served benefited financially from the program. Results showed a substantial savings to taxpayers with the utilization of this model, along with significant financial benefits to all consumers, including those with moderate and severe disabilities.
Acquisition and Generalization of Unsupervised Responding: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Dunlap Glen , Plienis Anthony J. , Williams Lori
Published: June 2014

This descriptive study examined the unsupervised responding of a young man with profound handicaps and a lifelong history of dependence. Two objectives were pursued: (a) to establish independent, unsupervised task responding with a stimulus and reinforcer fading procedure; and (b) to assess generalization of unsupervised performance across tasks and settings. The data showed that, initially, the participant did not display unsupervised responding, even though a clear contingency was described prior to the work session. Following the fading procedure, high rates of independent performance were exhibited, which were then maintained with post-session contingencies. In addition, generalization occurred to three other unsupervised tasks that had not been subjected to within-session interventions. Although the design prohibits definitive conclusions, the results delineate variables and suggest directions for future research in the areas of stimulus control, generalization, and normalized contingencies.
A Functional Analysis of the Acquisition and Maintenance of Janitorial Skills in a Competitive Work Setting
Authors: Test David W. , Grossi Teresa , Keul Patricia
Published: June 2014

There is a need for empirically based studies to support public school on-the-job training programs for students with severe disabilities. This study examined the use of supported employment via the supported jobs model to provide competitive work experience for a 19-year-old student with severe disabilities. The job trained involved a complex set of janitorial skills, including emptying trash cans, detail cleaning, and daily cleaning. Training consisted of a combination of total task presentation and an individualized prompting hierarchy. A multiple baseline across behaviors design was employed across the three sets of behaviors. Results demonstrated the acquisition and maintenance of all skills at 100% accuracy. The use of supported employment as a means of providing competitive work experience for students with severe disabilities and the need for further research on effective community-based vocational training strategies are discussed.
Some Benefits Nonhandicapped Adolescents Perceive for Themselves from Their Social Relationships with Peers who Have Severe Handicaps
Authors: Peck Charles A. , Donaldson Jodi , Pezzoli Michele
Published: June 2014

The perceptions of 21 nonhandicapped high school students were investigated in regard to the benefits they had experienced as a result of developing relationships with peers who had moderate or severe disabilities. Semi-structured interviews with the nonhandicapped students indicated their experiences resulted in six types of benefits: (a) improvements in self-concept, (b) growth in social cognition, (c) increased tolerance of other people, (d) reduced fear of human differences, (e) development of personal principles, and (f) interpersonal acceptance and friendship. Students also identified areas of difficulty they had experienced in their relationships with peers having disabilities. Results are discussed in terms of implications for policy analysis and research on social integration.
Honoring Activity Preferences in Individualized Plan Development: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Newton J. Stephen , Horner Robert H. , Lund Lori
Published: June 2014

The activity preferences of 15 adults with intellectual disabilities from eight community-based residential programs were assessed by the participants themselves, residential program staff, and advocates. The study provides descriptive information concerning the degree to which participants' perceived activity preferences were subsequently included in their Individualized Habilitation Plans (IHPs). Results indicate that 78% of participants' IHP objectives were preferred activities. Further analyses revealed that preferred activities requiring a greater degree of staff support were included on the IHP as training objectives, and preferred activities that participants performed infrequently were included as participation objectives. The study indicates a need for more information about how to assess and honor the preferences of people with severe disabilities.
Functional Life Skills, Academic Skills, and Friendship/Social Relationship Development: What Do Parents of Students with Moderate/Severe/Profound Disabilities Value?
Authors: Hamre-Nietupski Susan , Nietupski John , Strathe Marlene
Published: June 2014

A pilot study was conducted to verify empirically the educational activity preferences of 68 parents of students with moderate and severe/profound mental disabilities. Parents were surveyed to determine the relative value they place on the three areas of functional life skills, academic skills, and friendship/social relationship development in the educational programs of their sons/daughters. Parents of students with moderate disabilities rated functional life skills most highly, while parents of students with severe/profound disabilities rated friendship/social relationship development most highly. Furthermore, parents of students with moderate disabilities rated each curricular area as more important than did parents of students with severe/profound disabilities.
Teaching Systematic Instruction Competencies to Special Education Student Teachers: An Applied Behavioral Supervision Model
Authors: O'Reilly Mark F. , Renzaglia Adelle , Hutchins Meg , Koterba-Buss Laura , Clayton Mark , Halle James W. , Izen Cornelia
Published: June 2014

This study compared the effectiveness of immediate and delayed feedback supervision procedures on the acquisition of systematic instruction skills by three pre-service teachers who were receiving practicum experience in classrooms for students with severe disabilities. Behaviors targeted for intervention were: (a) the appropriate use of positive consequences, and (b) the appropriate use of systems of instructional prompts. All supervision procedures were administered by university supervisors. Results indicated that immediate feedback was more effective with two student teachers and delayed feedback was more effective for the third participant. Unobtrusive observations of two participants in the practicum sites following the intervention indicated that the teaching skills maintained in the absence of the university supervisors.
LRE and the Placement of Students with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Haring Kathryn , Farron-Davis Felicia , Goetz Lori , Karasoff Patricia , Sailor Wayne , Zeph Lucille
Published: June 2014

This study addresses the issue of state variability in the placement of students with disabilities in integrated or segregated (students with disabilities only) settings. The study examines actual placement patterns of students with severe disabilities (“severely handicapped”) in a small sample of states in order to more closely identify and analyze factors that might influence national monitoring and reporting of LRE issues. Three states representing different geographical areas and including rural, suburban, and urban population bases participated in a direct survey. The survey asked respondents to identify the number of students with severe disabilities (as defined by the U.S. Department of Education) in the state and the educational placement of these students. A survey validity check was also carried out on a sample of 139 students across the three states. Students were observed and rated using a scale that reports degree of disability (moderate to profound) across nine characteristics; in addition, the placement of these students was recorded. The results of the study suggest that the means by which states collect child count data to report to the federal government under Section 618 of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act are inadequate to meet present informational needs. The collection of data by disability category, for example, rather than by estimates of the extent of disability, may make it difficult to evaluate the effects of present educational reform efforts.
Educational Support for Students with Severe Problem Behaviors in Oregon: A Descriptive Analysis from the 1987–1988 School Year
Authors: Horner Robert H. , Diemer Susan M. , Brazeau Karen C.
Published: June 2014

Oregon has been identified as a leader in maintaining students with severe disabilities in regular school environments (Danielson & Bellamy, 1989). This paper presents descriptive data from a survey completed by teachers of students with severe disabilities in Oregon during 1988. The survey was designed to determine if students with severe disabilities who engage in problem behaviors are placed in regular school settings in Oregon, and what organizational variables were used to assist such students to be part of regular schools. The survey of teachers working with students with severe disabilities was conducted in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Education. Seventy-five percent of the teachers responded to the survey. They identified 184 students as having severe intellectual disabilities and severe problem behaviors (0.4% of all students in the state receiving special education support). The teachers reported that the major extra support for students with severe problem behaviors was in the form of additional teaching assistants. The teachers reported that they did not feel adequately prepared in their preservice training to deal with students with severe problem behaviors, and did not feel there were adequate resources for supporting such students. When queried about educational outcomes, however, the teachers reported that over 90% of students with severe problem behavior spent some portion of each school day socially integrated with students who were not disabled, and that over 40% of the students with problem behaviors spent some time each week physically integrated through community-based instruction. The paper discusses the challenge faced by schools as they attempt to build the capacity to support students with more significant behavior problems.
Figuring Out What to Do with the Grownups: How Teachers Make Inclusion “Work” for Students with Disabilities
Authors: Ferguson Dianne L. , Meyer Gwen , Jeanchild Lysa , Juniper Leah , Zingo Joe
Published: June 2014

This article describes details of inclusion of students with severe disabilities using an extended example of one high school drama class. Based on research conducted in eight schools by a team of four researchers, the article describes three inclusion outcomes for both disabled and nondisabled students (curriculum infusion, social inclusion, and learning inclusion). It then describes how the drama teacher and the special education teacher provided teaching support, prosthetic support, and interpretive support to one disabled student by developing both collaborative and consultive relationships with each other.
Achievements and Challenges I: A Five-Year Report on Consumer and System Outcomes from the Supported Employment Initiative
Authors: West Michael , Revell W. Grant , Wehman Paul
Published: June 2014

This article presents results from the 1990 fiscal year survey of state supported employment implementation conducted by the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Supported Employment at Virginia Commonwealth University, and a longitudinal analysis of findings from the 5-year course of this investigation. State vocational rehabilitation agencies reported a total of 74,657 supported employment participants and 2,647 provider agencies for 1990. Persons with mental retardation continue to be the primary service group, but there has been a dramatic increase in the proportion of supported employment participants with mental illness. Among participants with mental retardation, those with mild retardation continue to be the primary recipients of services. Use of the individual placement model has also increased substantially, with a corresponding decrease in the use of most group options. The availability of extended services funding was found to be limited across a number of disability groups. Findings are discussed in relation to the achievements of the states in implementing supported employment, and challenges to the states for improving service access and delivery for individuals with severe disabilities.
Inclusion of Preschoolers with Profound Disabilities: An Analysis of Children's Interactions
Authors: Hanline Mary Frances
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to explore the nature of spontaneous peer interactions in a full-inclusion preschool. Three children with profound disabilities were observed for a total of 480 min each in indoor and outdoor supervised play. Three children without disabilities were observed under the same conditions for comparison purposes. Results of the study showed variation in the behavior of the children with disabilities, but also showed that the children with disabilities had many opportunities to participate in peer social interactions and engaged in interactions comparable in length to those of their peers without disabilities. Findings also indicate that particular attention may need to be paid to the encouragement of initiating interactions and to helping young children without disabilities understand and respond to the idiosyncratic behaviors of peers with profound disabilities.
Elements of a Theoretical Structure that Will Support Best Practices in Communication Facilitation
Authors: Jackson Lewis
Published: June 2014

Communication programming for individuals with severe disabilities often does not meet the requirements of best practices. One reason for this is that a dominant psycholinguistic model, the Dictionary + Rules model (pronounced “Dictionary plus Rules model”) provides a theoretical base that is inconsistent with best practices. In fact, the model's perspective on language and communication may be sufficiently inadequate and misleading to warrant not using this model as an approach to understanding the fundamental mechanisms underlying communicative behavior. An alternative model, the Context × Memory model (pronounced “Context times Memory model”) is described. This model is shown to support a view of communication and language that is consistent with emerging best practices and has new implications for language instruction. Adoption of this second model represents a paradigm shift, because this model's perspective on the relationship between cognition and language differs from that of the dominant model.
Analyzing the Communication Environment to Increase Functional Communication
Authors: Rowland Charity , Schweigert Philip
Published: June 2014

Many students with severe and multiple disabilities demonstrate severe communication impairments. Efforts to improve communication in these students often embrace a “natural environment” or “milieu” approach, embedding opportunities to communicate within natural, functional activities across the entire schedule of daily activities. In reality, functional activities differ greatly in the degree to which they foster communication. This article describes an environmental inventory designed to allow a teacher or speech-language pathologist to analyze the extent to which a specific activity encourages functional communication for a particular student. The inventory may be used to compare different activities across the student's day or to track the improvement of specific activities that initially may show little communicative value for the student. Reliability and validity data for the inventory are presented along with a case study of its use to monitor and guide improvements in a functional activity to increase communication by a young child with multiple disabilities.