bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transitioning to distance learning and virtual conferencing
Authors: Arquilla John , Guzdial Mark
Published: June 2020

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Communications
Web site, http://cacm.acm.org, features more than a dozen bloggers in the BLOG@CACM community. In each issue of
Communications
, we'll publish selected posts or excerpts.

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John Arquilla considers responses to the Coronavirus pandemic, while Mark Guzdial ponders the impacts of competitive enrollment.
NOX2 Is Critical to Endocardial to Mesenchymal Transition and Heart Development
Authors: Moazzen Hoda , Wu Yan , Engineer Anish , Lu Xiangru , Aulakh Simran , Feng Qingping
Published: June 2020

NADPH oxidases (NOX) are a major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the heart. ROS signaling regulates gene expression, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. However, the role of NOX2 in embryonic heart development remains elusive. We hypothesized that deficiency of Nox2 disrupts endocardial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and results in congenital septal and valvular defects. Our data show that 34% of Nox2-/- neonatal mice had various congenital heart defects (CHDs) including atrial septal defects (ASD), ventricular septal defects (VSD), atrioventricular canal defects (AVCD), and malformation of atrioventricular and aortic valves. Notably, Nox2-/- embryonic hearts show abnormal development of the endocardial cushion as evidenced by decreased cell proliferation and an increased rate of apoptosis. Additionally, Nox2 deficiency disrupted EndMT of atrioventricular cushion explants ex vivo. Furthermore, treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to reduce ROS levels in the wild-type endocardial cushion explants decreased the number of cells undergoing EndMT. Importantly, deficiency of Nox2 was associated with reduced expression of Gata4, Tgfβ2, Bmp2, Bmp4, and Snail1, which are critical to endocardial cushion and valvoseptal development. We conclude that NOX2 is critical to EndMT, endocardial cushion cell proliferation, and normal embryonic heart development.
On Local Generalized Ulam–Hyers Stability for Nonlinear Fractional Functional Differential Equation
Authors: Nie Dongming , Khan Niazi Azmat Ullah , Ahmed Bilal
Published: June 2020

We discuss the existence of positive solution for a class of nonlinear fractional differential equations with delay involving Caputo derivative. Well-known Leray–Schauder theorem, Arzela–Ascoli theorem, and Banach contraction principle are used for the fixed point property and existence of a solution. We establish local generalized Ulam–Hyers stability and local generalized Ulam–Hyers–Rassias stability for the same class of nonlinear fractional neutral differential equations. The simulation of an example is also given to show the applicability of our results.
How Tumor Cell Dedifferentiation Drives Immune Evasion and Resistance to Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Jinyang , Stanger Ben Z.
Published: June 2020

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, yet most patients do not respond. While tumor antigens are needed for effective immunotherapy, a favorable tumor immune microenvironment is also critical. In this review, we discuss emerging evidence that tumor cells exploit cellular plasticity and dedifferentiation programs to avoid immune surveillance, which in turn drives metastatic dissemination and resistance to immunotherapy. A deeper understanding of these programs may provide novel opportunities to enhance the efficacy of existing immunotherapies.
Anti–PD-1 Induces M1 Polarization in the Glioma Microenvironment and Exerts Therapeutic Efficacy in the Absence of CD8 Cytotoxic T Cells
Authors: Rao Ganesh , Latha Khatri , Ott Martina , Sabbagh Aria , Marisetty Anantha , Ling Xiaoyang , Zamler Daniel , Doucette Tiffany A. , Yang Yuhui , Kong Ling-Yuan , Wei Jun , Fuller Gregory N. , Benavides Fernando , Sonabend Adam M. , Long James , Li Shulin , Curran Michael , Heimberger Amy B.
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) therapy has demonstrated inconsistent therapeutic results in patients with glioblastoma (GBM) including those with profound impairments in CD8 T-cell effector responses.

Experimental Design:

We ablated the CD8α gene in BL6 mice and intercrossed them with Ntv-a mice to determine how CD8 T cells affect malignant progression in forming endogenous gliomas. Tumor-bearing mice were treated with PD-1 to determine the efficacy of this treatment in the absence of T cells. The tumor microenvironment of treated and control mice was analyzed by IHC and FACS.

Results:

We observed a survival benefit in immunocompetent mice with endogenously arising intracranial glioblastomas after intravenous administration of anti–PD-1. The therapeutic effect of PD-1 administration persisted in mice even after genetic ablation of the CD8 gene (CD8−/−). CD11b+ and Iba1+ monocytes and macrophages were enriched in the glioma microenvironment of the CD8−/− mice. The macrophages and microglia assumed a proinflammatory M1 response signature in the setting of anti–PD-1 blockade through the elimination of PD-1–expressing macrophages and microglia in the tumor microenvironment. Anti–PD-1 can inhibit the proliferation of and induce apoptosis of microglia through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, as fluorescently labeled anti–PD-1 was shown to gain direct access to the glioma microenvironment.

Conclusions:

Our results show that the therapeutic effect of anti–PD-1 blockade in GBM may be mediated by the innate immune system, rather than by CD8 T cells. Anti–PD-1 immunologically modulates innate immunity in the glioma microenvironment—likely a key mode of activity.
Successful Treatment of Alopecia Areata Patches with Triamcinolone Acetonide Using MMP®: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Barletta Marina , Gasques Luciana
Published: June 2020

Intralesional (IL) injection of corticosteroids is an effective treatment of alopecia areata (AA). A novel drug delivery technique that uses a tattoo machine (MMP®) has been successfully used to treat other skin disorders. We tested this technique to treat AA. We used the Cheyenne dermopigmentation machine (Anvisa 80281110016; Germany) with a 27 Magnum needle cartridge (Anvisa 80281110015) at a frequency of 70 Hz and needle depth of 1.0 mm. A triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) solution was placed in a sterile receptacle and loaded onto the cartridge by capillarity. We produced micropunctures of the skin with the medication-soaked needles until the affected area was covered by a bloody dew. Case 1: J.C.V., a male, with a diagnosis of AA in patches was treated with 1-monthly session with 2.5 mg/mL TAC delivered by MMP® (4 sessions in total). Case 2: L.M.V., a 78-year-old female with a diagnosis of AA was treated with 1-monthly session with 10 mg/mL TAC delivered by MMP® (4 sessions in total). MMP® is a novel technique that combines microneedling with drug delivery, and it could be used to deliver IL TAC to AA patients. This technique promotes a more uniform absorption of corticosteroids than traditional treatment methods of AA.
Lexical Diversity in Cypriot-Greek-Speaking Toddlers: A Preliminary Longitudinal Study
Authors: Voniati Louiza , Tafiadis Dionysios , Armostis Spyros , Kosma Evangelia I. , Chronopoulos Spyridon K.
Published: June 2020

Background/Aims: The number of different words (NDW), an essential measure of lexical diversity, is extremely valuable towards providing data regarding children’s language development. However, in Cyprus, practitioners are deprived of the opportunity to utilize NDW, as no normative data exist for toddlers who speak Cypriot Greek (CYG). Methods: The language samples of 36 monolingual CYG-speaking toddlers (aged 36, 40, 44, and 48 months) with a typical course of language development were collected and quantitatively analyzed. Based on the language sample analysis, we ascertained typical NDW values at the aforementioned ages and tested through a linear mixed-effects model whether gender and age affected NDW. Results: The results showed that age significantly predicted NDW increase; gender did not emerge as a significant predictor of NDW, but this may be due to the small statistical power. Conclusion: This study intends to provide the first step towards longitudinal investigation of the level of NDW for CYG-speaking children with a typical course of language development. The provided data, which could serve as preliminary norms, may be used – under some restrictions for the time being – during language assessment. Moreover, these acquired data could contribute to the development of an NDW database for diverse CYG-speaking populations of different age ranges in the future.
Diminution of real power loss by novel gentoo penguin algorithm
Authors: Lenin Kanagasabai
Published: June 2020

In this paper Gentoo Penguin Algorithm (GPA) is proposed to solve optimal reactive power problem. Gentoo Penguins preliminary population possesses heat radiation and magnetizes each other by absorption coefficient. Gentoo Penguins will move towards further penguins which possesses low cost (elevated heat concentration) of absorption. Cost is defined by the heat concentration, distance. Gentoo Penguins penguin attraction value is calculated by the amount of heat prevailed between two Gentoo penguins. Gentoo Penguins heat radiation is measured as linear. Less heat is received in longer distance, in little distance, huge heat is received. Gentoo Penguin Algorithm has been tested in standard IEEE 57 bus test system and simulation results show the projected algorithm reduced the real power loss considerably.
Power loss reduction by gryllidae optimization algorithm
Authors: Lenin Kanagasabai
Published: June 2020

This paper projects Gryllidae Optimization Algorithm (GOA) has been applied to solve optimal reactive power problem. Proposed GOA approach is based on the chirping characteristics of Gryllidae. In common, male Gryllidae chirp, on the other hand some female Gryllidae also do as well. Male Gryllidae draw the females by this sound which they produce. Moreover, they caution the other Gryllidae against dangers with this sound. The hearing organs of the Gryllidae are housed in an expansion of their forelegs. Through this, they bias to the produced fluttering sounds. Proposed Gryllidae Optimization Algorithm (GOA) has been tested in standard IEEE 14, 30 bus test systems and simulation results show that the projected algorithms reduced the real power loss considerably.
Was du schon immer über Linguistik, DaF und Interkulturalität wissen wolltest, aber nicht zu fragen wagtest: Reflexões sobre Linguística, Ensino-Aprendizagem e Interculturalidade em língua alemã
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas
Published: June 2020

O presente livro tem a intenção de discutir pesquisas atuais nas áreas de Linguística Aplicada, Linguística Contrativa, Ensino e Aprendizagem de Alemão como língua estrangeira/adicional (ALE, ALA) e Estudos (Inter)culturais. Tendo em vista a importância dessas interações, o volume foi organizado com capítulos de diferentes áreas de pesquisa e contextos de trabalho, proporcionando um espaço de interlocução e reflexão sobre as pesquisas atuais em língua alemã. Os textos escolhidos revelam a intenção de abrir espaço para essas discussões e análises em pauta ao longo da obra.
Molecular Basis of Atrial Fibrillation Pathophysiology and Therapy
Authors: Nattel Stanley , Heijman Jordi , Zhou Liping , Dobrev Dobromir
Published: June 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a highly prevalent arrhythmia, with substantial associated morbidity and mortality. There have been significant management advances over the past 2 decades, but the burden of the disease continues to increase and there is certainly plenty of room for improvement in treatment options. A potential key to therapeutic innovation is a better understanding of underlying fundamental mechanisms. This article reviews recent advances in understanding the molecular basis for AF, with a particular emphasis on relating these new insights to opportunities for clinical translation. We first review the evidence relating basic electrophysiological mechanisms to the characteristics of clinical AF. We then discuss the molecular control of factors leading to some of the principal determinants, including abnormalities in impulse conduction (such as tissue fibrosis and other extra-cardiomyocyte alterations, connexin dysregulation and Na
+
-channel dysfunction), electrical refractoriness, and impulse generation. We then consider the molecular drivers of AF progression, including a range of Ca
2+
-dependent intracellular processes, microRNA changes, and inflammatory signaling. The concept of key interactome-related nodal points is then evaluated, dealing with systems like those associated with CaMKII (Ca
2+
/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II), NLRP3 (NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains-containing protein-3), and transcription-factors like TBX5 and PitX2c. We conclude with a critical discussion of therapeutic implications, knowledge gaps and future directions, dealing with such aspects as drug repurposing, biologicals, multispecific drugs, the targeting of cardiomyocyte inflammatory signaling and potential considerations in intervening at the level of interactomes and gene-regulation. The area of molecular intervention for AF management presents exciting new opportunities, along with substantial challenges.
Animal Models of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Schüttler Dominik , Bapat Aneesh , Kääb Stefan , Lee Kichang , Tomsits Philipp , Clauss Sebastian , Hucker William J.
Published: June 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia encountered in humans and is a significant source of morbidity and mortality. Despite its prevalence, our mechanistic understanding is incomplete, the therapeutic options have limited efficacy, and are often fraught with risks. A better biological understanding of AF is needed to spearhead novel therapeutic avenues. Although “natural” AF is nearly nonexistent in most species, animal models have contributed significantly to our understanding of AF and some therapeutic options. However, the impediments of animal models are also apparent and stem largely from the differences in basic physiology as well as the complexities underlying human AF; these preclude the creation of a “perfect” animal model and have obviated the translation of animal findings. Herein, we review the vast array of AF models available, spanning the mouse heart (weighing 1/1000th of a human heart) to the horse heart (10× heavier than the human heart). We attempt to highlight the features of each model that bring value to our understanding of AF but also the shortcomings and pitfalls. Finally, we borrowed the concept of a SWOT analysis from the business community (which stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) and applied this introspective type of analysis to animal models for AF. We identify unmet needs and stress that is in the context of rapidly advancing technologies, these present opportunities for the future use of animal models.
Genetics of Atrial Fibrillation in 2020
Authors: Roselli Carolina , Rienstra Michiel , Ellinor Patrick T.
Published: June 2020

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder that leads to an increased risk for stroke and heart failure. Atrial fibrillation is a complex disease with both environmental and genetic risk factors that contribute to the arrhythmia. Over the last decade, rapid progress has been made in identifying the genetic basis for this common condition. In this review, we provide an overview of the primary types of genetic analyses performed for atrial fibrillation, including linkage studies, genome-wide association studies, and studies of rare coding variation. With these results in mind, we aim to highlighting the existing knowledge gaps and future directions for atrial fibrillation genetics research.
A New Therapeutic Framework for Atrial Fibrillation Drug Development
Authors: Ang Yen-Sin , Rajamani Sridharan , Haldar Saptarsi M. , Hüser Jörg
Published: June 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a highly prevalent cardiac arrhythmia and cause of significant morbidity and mortality. Its increasing prevalence in aging societies constitutes a growing challenge to global healthcare systems. Despite substantial unmet needs in AF prevention and treatment, drug developments hitherto have been challenging, and the current pharmaceutical pipeline is nearly empty. In this review, we argue that current drugs for AF are inadequate because of an oversimplified system for patient classification and the development of drugs that do not interdict underlying disease mechanisms. We posit that an improved understanding of AF molecular pathophysiology related to the continuous identification of novel disease-modifying drug targets and an increased appreciation of patient heterogeneity provide a new framework to personalize AF drug development. Together with recent innovations in diagnostics, remote rhythm monitoring, and big data capabilities, we anticipate that adoption of a new framework for patient subsegmentation based on pathophysiological, genetic, and molecular subsets will improve success rates of clinical trials and advance drugs that reduce the individual patient and public health burden of AF.
Associations Between High-Density Lipoprotein Particles and Ischemic Events by Vascular Domain, Sex, and Ethnicity
Authors: Singh Kavisha , Chandra Alvin , Sperry Thomas , Joshi Parag H. , Khera Amit , Virani Salim S. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Otvos James D. , Dullaart Robin P.F. , Gruppen Eke G. , Connelly Margery A. , Ayers Colby R. , Rohatgi Anand
Published: June 2020

Background:

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentration (HDL-C) is an established atheroprotective marker, in particular for coronary artery disease; however, HDL particle concentration (HDL-P) may better predict risk. The associations of HDL-C and HDL-P with ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) among women and Blacks have not been well studied. We hypothesized that HDL-P would consistently be associated with MI and stroke among women and Blacks compared with HDL-C.

Methods:

We analyzed individual-level participant data in a pooled cohort of 4 large population studies without baseline atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: DHS (Dallas Heart Study; n=2535), ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities; n=1595), MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis; n=6632), and PREVEND (Prevention of Renal and Vascular Endstage Disease; n=5022). HDL markers were analyzed in adjusted Cox proportional hazard models for MI and ischemic stroke.

Results:

In the overall population (n=15 784), HDL-P was inversely associated with the combined outcome of MI and ischemic stroke, adjusted for cardiometabolic risk factors (hazard ratio [HR] for quartile 4 [Q4] versus quartile 1 [Q1], 0.64 [95% CI, 0.52–0.78]), as was HDL-C (HR for Q4 versus Q1, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.61–0.94]). Adjustment for HDL-C did not attenuate the inverse relationship between HDL-P and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, whereas adjustment for HDL-P attenuated all associations between HDL-C and events. HDL-P was inversely associated with the individual end points of MI and ischemic stroke in the overall population, including in women. HDL-P was inversely associated with MI among White participants but not among Black participants (HR for Q4 versus Q1 for Whites, 0.49 [95% CI, 0.35–0.69]; for Blacks, 1.22 [95% CI, 0.76–1.98];
P
interaction
=0.001). Similarly, HDL-C was inversely associated with MI among White participants (HR for Q4 versus Q1, 0.53 [95% CI, 0.36–0.78]) but had a weak direct association with MI among Black participants (HR for Q4 versus Q1, 1.75 [95% CI, 1.08–2.83];
P
interaction
<0.0001).

Conclusions:

Compared with HDL-C, HDL-P was consistently associated with MI and ischemic stroke in the overall population. Differential associations of both HDL-C and HDL-P for MI by Black ethnicity suggest that atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk may differ by vascular domain and ethnicity. Future studies should examine individual outcomes separately.
Cross-linked ethylene-vinyl acetate – poly(urethane) temperature-memory composite actuator
Authors: Rodriguez JE , Giraldo DH , Restrepo JC , Colorado HA
Published: June 2020

Semicrystalline polymeric systems are a type of Shape Memory Polymer (SMP), which are more straightforward to synthesize in comparison with other class of stimulus-responsive polymers. On these systems, the shape memory is triggered by temperature and partially driven by crystallization-induced elongation, heating-induced contraction, and elastic entropy. However, a stable temporary and permanent shape through cycling is not easy to achieve. For that reason, a laminar composite made based in the encapsulation of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) inside a PU matrix was developed, with the aim of obtaining an actuator with a preferred deformation direction and stable change of shape. In this study, chemically cross-linked ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (cEVA) as SMP was synthesized and functionalized as a reinforcing strip. A temperature-memory actuator composite was manufactured by the encapsulation of a shape memory programmed strip in an elastomer matrix. The shape memory properties and thermocycling assessment were evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. Results show the ability of the actuator to bend and unbend, following multiple consecutive heating-cooling cycles. The relationship between the strip, the matrix, and the interface is critical in the bending and shape memory maintenance.
A Review of the Work Accomplished by the Blind Relief Commission of Hamilton County, Ohio
Authors: Stricker Louis
Published: June 2020

Editor's Note. — The pensions for the blind of Ohio are dispensed by unpaid county commissioners. Each of the eighty-eight commissions is composed of three persons. The care with which some of these boards are beginning their work is admirably shown by the following paper. At the same time that these “Pension Commissions” were created a State Commission for the Blind was established. The County Commissions have the single problem of the State Commission that of finding employment and of ameliorating, in any way possible, the condition of the blind. Dr. Stricker clearly portrays the condition of the blind who have had no friendly organization to which to turn for advice, help, or work. Professor Van Cleve explains what the State School is doing for the juvenile blind. Mr. Charles F. F. Campbell presented a paper at the Ohio Conference of Charities and Correction to the same audience addressed by Dr. Stricker and Professor Van Cleve to show what is possible for the blind along industrial lines. Space does not permit us to print his paper, but our readers can find full information regarding the workshops for the blind in the United States at the end of the July, 1908, Vol. II, No. 2. In connection with the movement in behalf of the blind which is now developing in Ohio, it is interesting to consider the results of the systematic “field work” conducted by the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, which is ably set forth in Miss Lucy Wright's paper.

It is clear to every one that the aggregation of the indigent blind throughout the country is a result of the lack of attention in the past. The Ohio pension is an attempt to relieve the needs of this accumulated group of neglected people. One of the chief purposes of the schools, workshops, societies, and state commissions for the blind is to prevent such accumulations in the future.
II the Dilemma in Training Mobility Instructors
Authors: Rusalem Herbert
Published: June 2020

This article was written prior to the publication of the report of the mobility conference, which appears in condensed form in the preceding pages. The author wishes it understood that this paper was written without reference to the conference and without knowledge of its deliberations; and that it should not be seen as a critique of the conference nor as a challenge to its findings. It is merely an expression of a point of view arrived at independently by a single individual.—Ed.
Prevocational Evaluation Examined
Authors: Acker Martin H. , Dauterman William L. , Macdonald Wallace R.
Published: June 2020

On the basis of these findings it would appear that there is an urgent need for continuing study of prevocational evaluation units. If there is a conceptual framework within which we are to operate, what is it and where is it when we attempt to define our everyday procedures? What methodology is existent in our limited staffs and physical plants which permits us to carry out forty-five more or less different functions? On what validation studies does our confidence in our procedures and findings rest? Do we really mean to suggest, as is indicated by some of the terminology, that such units have three valid functions? Or does the term “evaluation” have so little significance that it often includes the functions of “treatment” and “training”?

This is not the time to attempt to unify our theories and methods; but surely it must be the time for continuing agency soul searching. The justification of this expensive service in the future will have to be based on more than a sincere desire to do something for our clients, and piecemeal evidence that it is a “worthwhile service” in the opinion of vocational rehabilitation personnel.
Reading Comes Naturally: A Mother and Her Blind Child's Experiences
Authors: Miller Diane D.
Published: June 2020

Based on experiences with her own blind child, the author offers suggestions to other parents and teachers on activities to do with young visually impaired children that will help promote early developmental learning in braille reading. Also included are implications for design and production of appropriate preschool books and materials.
Facilitating the Language Acquisition Skill of Blind Infants
Authors: Matsuda Maryon M.
Published: June 2020

Language acquisition should ideally begin at the same age for blind children as it should for sighted children. Parents of blind infants should be educated to their child's behavior and use it to assimilate the child to their environment. The author outlines some steps to utilize behavior and environment to develop language skills in blind infants.
Night Mobility Instruction for Children with Low Vision
Authors: Tapp Kenneth L.
Published: June 2020

Children with low vision frequently benefit from orientation and mobility instruction at night. Focusing on the needs of children, this paper examines the challenges of after-dark travel. The physical effects of low light on both normal and abnormal vision are discussed. The resulting consequences for low vision travel skills and orientation skills are outlined. Techniques for efficient vision use are suggested. Night travel aids are discussed and evaluated. Impaired night driver vision and reduced pedestrian visibility are considered.
Developing Writing and Word Processing Skills with Visually Impaired Children: A Beginning
Authors: Koenig Alan J. , Mack Catherine G. , Schenk William A. , Ashcroft S.C.
Published: June 2020

The Apple Education Foundation awarded a two-year joint project to Peabody College for Teachers and Tennessee School for the Blind (TSB) for the purpose of studying the development of word processing skills by visually handicapped students. Apple IIe microcomputers, printers, software, and specialized technological aids are now being used by students and teachers at TSB and by preservice teachers at Peabody College. This article discusses the project's conceptual framework, activities at the project site, and a module developed to introduce students to the Braille–Edit word processing system.
A Program for Sighted, Blind, Low Vision, and Disabled Volunteers
Authors: Franks Jeannette
Published: June 2020

This article describes the structure of a volunteer program in a social service agency serving blind and visually impaired people in Seattle, Wash. The program's screening and placement processes, job descriptions, evaluations, statistics and manual are reviewed. Examples of volunteering, including opportunities for handicapped volunteers, are given.
Perceived Barriers to Employment (Or Visually Impaired Women: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Corn Anne L. , Muscella Deborah B. , Cannon Glenna S. , Shepler Renae C.
Published: June 2020

According to recent studies, visually impaired women are at a higher risk of unemployment than visually impaired men or non-handicapped women. The following preliminary study examines the self-perceptions of 41 working-age visually impaired women to assess their effect on the women's views of employment opportunities. Researchers found that the visually impaired women perceived themselves as having substantially more barriers to employment than their sighted counterparts, and that this could have a critical impact on their pursuit of work.
A ‘Musical Pathway’ for Spacially Disoriented Blind Residents of a Skilled Nursing Facility
Authors: Uslan M.M. , Russell L. , Weiner C.
Published: June 2020

The Auditory Directional System provides a “musical pathway” for blind persons to follow to get to interior destinations in an institutional setting. The system's components are a compact disc player and a network of speakers, infrared “people” detection equipment, and a computer-controlled speaker-sequencing system. To engage the Auditory Directional System, the blind resident pushes a centrally located button for a particular destination. When the person arrives at the first musical cue, infrared sensors detect the person and activate the next speaker. The person's presence continues to activate each subsequent speaker until he or she reaches the final destination. To trigger the detection process, the resident's clothing is equipped with retro-reflective tape This article describes the equipment—its purpose and how it works—and the results of a field test with three residents at a skilled nursing facility.
Development of Counting Strategies in Congenitally Blind Children
Authors: Sicilian S.P.
Published: June 2020

Various counting tasks were presented to congenitally, totally blind children between the ages of three and thirteen in order to determine the behaviors they employ to ensure accurate counting. Examination of their counting behaviors revealed three dimensions of tactile strategies, each serving a specific function within the counting process. These functions include “scanning” arrays to gather information about the configuration and characteristics of objects, “organizing” the counting process based on the arrangement of objects, and “partitioning” objects already counted from those still to be counted. A developmental progression in the ontogenesis of each of these dimensions of strategic behavior was identified through an analysis of the subjects’ counting behaviors.
Rehabilitation Teachers and Orientation & Mobility Instructors: Interprofessional Perceptions
Authors: Ponchillia P.E. , Dewey C. , Cymerant J.
Published: June 2020

This article reports the findings of a nationwide survey of rehabilitation teachers and orientation and mobility instructors, designed to identify their interprofessional perceptions. The Interprofessional Perceptions Scale (IPS) was used to determine perceptions relating to the general areas of mutual respect, relative roles, professional competence, and professional status. Subjects in each group reported a generally positive attitude toward the other group of professionals. However, issues relating to professional role and professional status appear to cause some difficulty between the groups. Suggestions for increasing teamwork efficiency are presented.
Play Environments for Visually Impaired Children
Authors: Schneekloth L.H.
Published: June 2020

The author compared the motor activities and environmental interactions of sighted and visually impaired children during unstructured play in their natural play environments to: 1) assess motor proficiency level; 2) establish frequency and kind of gross motor, manipulative, self-stimulation, and social/play behaviors; and 3) assess their use of the environment. Overall analyses suggest that some developmental delays observed in visually impaired children can be attributed to a lack of opportunity for gross motor interactions with the environment. An environmental intervention strategy and design principles are proposed which involve appropriate design of complex and accessible play environments, and personnel training to use the environment as an active educational tool.
Is Conscientiousness Always Associated With Better Health? A U.S.–Japan Cross-Cultural Examination of Biological Health Risk
Authors: Kitayama Shinobu , Park Jiyoung
Published: June 2020

In Western societies, conscientiousness is associated with better health. Here, we tested whether this pattern would extend to East Asian, collectivistic societies. In these societies, social obligation motivated by conscientiousness could be excessive and thus health-impairing. We tested this prediction using cross-cultural surveys of Americans ( N = 1,054) and Japanese ( N = 382). Biomarkers of inflammation (interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein) and cardiovascular malfunction (systolic blood pressure and total-to-HDL cholesterol ratio) were adopted to define biological health risk (BHR). Among Americans, conscientiousness was associated with lower BHR. Moreover, this relationship was mediated by healthy lifestyle. In contrast, among Japanese, the relationship between conscientiousness and BHR was not significant. Further analysis revealed, however, that conscientiousness was associated with a greater commitment to social obligation, which in turn predicted higher BHR. These findings suggest that conscientiousness may or may not be salubrious, depending on health implications of normatively sanctioned behaviors in varying cultures.
Association of whole-grain and dietary fiber intake with cardiometabolic risk in children and adolescents
Authors: Fulgoni Victor L , Brauchla Mary , Fleige Lisa , Chu YiFang
Published: June 2020

Background:

Diet is known to affect many risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD), a leading cause of mortality and morbidity.

Aim:

The objective of this study was to explore the potential association between whole grain and dietary fiber with CVD risk factors, including metabolic syndrome (MetS) in children and adolescents using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2014.

Methods:

Two days of 24-hour recall data from 16,507 children and adolescents age 2–18 years were used to estimate dietary intakes. Continuous MetS scores (cMetS) were computed by aggregating age/sex regressed z-scores of waist circumference, mean arterial blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. Regression analyses were used to assess association of fiber and whole grain intake with cardiometabolic markers including MetS after adjusting for demographic factors.

Results:

Increasing tertiles of fiber intake were significantly associated with 3% lowered risk MetS in adolescents age 13–18 years. Additionally, increasing intake tertiles of fiber were associated with reduced risk elevated cholesterol (5–11% reduction), elevated diastolic blood pressure (10–23% reduction) in adolescents age 13–18 years, and risk of obesity (3–5% reduction) in children and adolescent age 2–18 years. Increasing tertiles of whole grain intake were only associated with reduced risk of elevated triglycerides (52% risk reduction) in adolescents age 13–18 years.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that intake of dietary fiber was inversely associated with several markers of cardiovascular disease risk including MetS.
Harnessing social and collaborative tools in digital disaster response work: Implications for design and practice
Authors: Gambo Najeeb , Perry Mark , Kashefi Armin , Ayoung Daniel Azerikatoa
Published: June 2020

This paper explores the implication of the use and appropriation of collaborative technologies in digital disaster response. Using a virtual ethnographic approach, we studied the work of Humanity Road through participant observation of seventeen response operations across thirteen countries for seventeen months. The results identify critical areas where collaborative technologies have been successfully deployed for organising disaster responses. Our analysis offers insights into the areas where these technologies have facilitated or hindered the capacity of cooperative work during response operations. We conclude by suggesting implications for design and practice.
Collaborative Governance and the Challenges of Network-Based Research
Authors: Berardo Ramiro , Fischer Manuel , Hamilton Matthew
Published: June 2020

We review the literature examining collaborative governance processes from a network perspective and evaluate the extent to which it tackles important conceptual and methodological challenges. In particular, we assess whether scholars clearly identify the boundaries of the network, define nodes and the nature of ties, and examine how they deal with missing data, account for tie strength, take tie multiplexity into account, and study networks over time. We discuss the implications of our findings for the collaborative governance literature and ways to address the shortcomings in existing research.
The role of oxidation of low-density lipids in pathogenesis of osteoarthritis: A narrative review
Authors: Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Akagi Masao
Published: June 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disorder that causes degeneration of cartilage, synovial inflammation, and formation of osteophytes. Aging, obesity, and sex are considered the main risk factors of OA. Recent studies have suggested that metabolic syndrome (MetS) disorders, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and obesity, may be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of OA. MetS disorders are common diseases that also result in atherosclerosis. Researchers believe that OA and atherosclerosis have underlying similar molecular mechanisms because the prevalence of both diseases increases with age. Oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Recent reports have shown that ox-LDL and low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1) are involved in the pathogenesis of OA. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the current understanding of the role of the LOX-1/ox-LDL system in the pathogenesis of OA and to reveal common underlying molecular pathways that are shared by MetS in OA and the LOX-1/ox-LDL system.
Inverse Sideways Perspective on a Road: A Drawing by a Blind Adult
Authors: Carboni Selene , Kennedy John M.
Published: June 2020

An unusual drawing of a road has two lines converging sideways, from right to left. The left side of the picture is explicitly described as the location of the observer. Also, the fronts of the cars on the road face left, with the largest car on the right. This sideways perspective is novel. In linear perspective, roads running parallel with the picture surface should be drawn with parallel lines. Lines for roads running orthogonal to the picture surface should converge with elevation. The rule for roads is if converging, then upward, and if sideways, then not converging. The sketch is by a blind woman with modest experience in drawing, including perspective. It suggests an intermediate stage of drawing development, with inconsistent use of the observer’s vantage point, in keeping with theories of perspective drawing by the blind and sighted of Willats, Kennedy and others.
Comparison of Patellofemoral Kinematics and Stability After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament and Medial Quadriceps Tendon–Femoral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Spang Robert , Egan Jonathan , Hanna Philip , Lechtig Aron , Haber Daniel , DeAngelis Joseph P. , Nazarian Ara , Ramappa Arun J.
Published: June 2020

Background:

There is a lack of evidence regarding the optimum extensor-sided fixation method for medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction. There is increased interest in avoiding patellar drilling via soft tissue–only fixation to the distal quadriceps, thus reconstructing the medial quadriceps tendon–femoral ligament (MQTFL). The biomechanical implications of differing extensor-sided fixation constructs remain unknown.

Hypothesis:

The null hypothesis was there would be no differences between traditional MPFL reconstruction and MQTFL reconstruction with respect to resistance to lateral translation, patellar position, or patellofemoral contact pressures.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Nine adult knee specimens were mounted on a jig that applied static, physiologic loads to the quadriceps tendons. Patellar position and orientation, knee flexion angle, and patellofemoral pressure were recorded at 8 different flexion angles between 0° and 110°. Additionally, a lateral patellar excursion test was conducted wherein a load was applied directly to the patella in the lateral direction with the knee at 30° of flexion and subjected to 2-N quadriceps loads. Testing was conducted under 4 conditions: intact, transected MPFL, MQTFL reconstruction, and MPFL reconstruction. For MQTFL reconstruction, the surgical technique established by Fulkerson was employed. For MPFL reconstruction, a traditional technique was utilized.

Results:

The patellar excursion test showed no significant difference between the MQTFL and intact states with respect to lateral translation. MPFL reconstruction led to significantly less lateral translation ( P < .05) than all other states. There were no significant differences between MPFL and MQTFL reconstructions with respect to peak patellofemoral contact pressure. MPFL and MQTFL reconstructions both resulted in increased internal rotation of the patella with the knee in full extension.

Conclusion:

Soft tissue-only extensor-sided fixation to the distal quadriceps (MQTFL) during patella stabilization appears to re-create native stability in this time 0 cadaver model. Fixation to the patella (MPFL) was associated with increased resistance to lateral translation.

Clinical Relevance:

Evolving anatomic knowledge and concern for patellar fracture has led to increased interest in MQTFL reconstruction. Both MQTFL and MPFL reconstructions restored patellofemoral stability to lateral translation without increasing contact pressures under appropriate graft tensioning, with MQTFL more closely restoring native resistance to lateral translation at the time of surgery.
Attitudes Toward Men and Rejection of Rape Myths: The Impact on Survivor Rape Acknowledgment
Authors: Wilson Laura C. , Newins Amie R.
Published: June 2020

Because unacknowledged rape survivors (i.e., those who do not conceptualize their victimization as rape) are less likely to report the crime to police or seek formal services, a better understanding of factors that contribute to rape acknowledgment is a key step to improving access to care and assault reporting on college campuses. To contribute to this line of research, this study examined the indirect effect of sexist attitudes toward men on rape acknowledgment via rejection of rape myths among female rape survivors. The analyzed sample included 250 college female rape survivors ( M age = 22.49 years, SD = 7.27) who completed measures of sexual assault history, sexist beliefs toward men, and rejection of rape myths. Among these women, 49.6% were classified as acknowledged rape survivors and 50.4% of the sample was classified as unacknowledged rape survivors. Indirect effects of sexist beliefs on rape acknowledgment via rape myth rejection were supported for four types of sexist beliefs, including resentment of paternalism, compensatory gender differentiation, maternalism, and complementary gender differentiation. Specifically, the findings supported that people with greater levels of these particular types of sexist beliefs toward men rejected rape myths less, and lower rejection of rape myths was associated with increased likelihood of unacknowledged rape. The indirect effects were not supported for the heterosexual hostility or heterosexual intimacy subscales of sexist beliefs. By identifying antecedents of rape acknowledgment, the findings from this study can be used to inform programming geared toward encouraging survivors to seek services, which ultimately improves survivor outcomes.
Family Versus Institutional Involvement in Restructuring: Evidence From the Communications Equipment Industry
Authors: Chang Erick P. C. , James Sharon D.
Published: June 2020

The prospect of restructuring can be seen as a mixed gamble that creates tensions between family owners and institutional investors in publicly traded firms. Both sides diverge in their reference points as family owners will pursue noneconomic goals, while institutional owners will pursue economic goals. We develop and test arguments to predict how resistance from family owners and support from institutional owners affect a firm’s restructuring. Using panel data from 1990 to 2004, the findings support our predictions and show that family owners can achieve both economic and noneconomic goals post-restructuring.
Fleeing bodies and fleeting performances: Transience and the nation-state
Authors: Gully Jennifer M , Itagaki Lynn Mie
Published: June 2020

This essay examines parallels between the resolidification of German identity and reconfigurations of German national space and nation-state time. From recurring events (refugee-guided tours) to temporary installations (a private home’s garden memorial), these performances by and about those excluded or conditionally tolerated define an emerging refugee subjectivity. Each performance stages the dichotomy between transience and permanent residence and engages the public in perpetual enactments of democratic deliberation. We argue that these performances force audiences to recognize how they implicitly define their nations and fellow citizens by both their domestic democratic practices and the exceptions at the border: who is deported and kept out, who are permitted to enter and remain. With growing critical interest in performance and performativity in international relations, we consider the impact of individual and collective pro-migrant protest performances on national identity and electoral politics in Germany and their effects on organizing, resistance, and performance “artivism” globally.
Case-mix for assessing primary care value (CPCV)
Authors: Gao Jian , Moran Eileen , Schwartz Amy , Ruser Christopher
Published: June 2020

Measuring primary care (PC) performance and designing payment systems that reward value rather than volume have been a great challenge due in large part to lack of reliable risk adjustment mechanisms pertinent to primary care. Using risk scores designed for total resource needs to assess PC performance or set PC payment rates is inadequate because high-cost patients may not have high needs in PC and vice versa. The greatest challenge in developing a risk algorithm for PC is that significant components of PC providers’ workload are unobservable but needed in the modeling. In this study, we sought to overcome this challenge by analyzing 5,172,773 patients in the U.S. Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system to identify potential proxies of the unobservable PC workload. By combining the number of PC visits and prescription drug classes, we formed a proxy for the expected PC workload, which enabled us to develop a case-mix algorithm pertaining to primary care. The resultant algorithm with high explanatory power (R2 = 0.702) is based on a publicly available patient classification system to account for patient comorbidities and thus can be used by other health systems to compare PC performance, workload, staffing levels, and to set more equitable payment rates.