bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Functionalized Porous Titanium Implants for Enhancing Angiogenesis in Vitro
Authors: Roland Laura , Backhaus Samantha , Grau Michael , Matena Julia , Teske Michael , Beyerbach Martin , Murua Escobar Hugo , Haferkamp Heinz , Gellrich Nils-Claudius , Nolte Ingo
Published: April 2016

Implant constructs supporting angiogenesis are favorable for treating critically-sized bone defects, as ingrowth of capillaries towards the center of large defects is often insufficient. Consequently, the insufficient nutritional supply of these regions leads to impaired bone healing. Implants with specially designed angiogenic supporting geometry and functionalized with proangiogenic cytokines can enhance angiogenesis. In this study, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) were used for incorporation into poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL)-coated porous titanium implants. Bioactivity of released factors and influence on angiogenesis of functionalized implants were evaluated using a migration assay and angiogenesis assays. Both implants released angiogenic factors, inducing migration of endothelial cells. Also, VEGF-functionalized PCL-coated titanium implants enhanced angiogenesis in vitro. Both factors were rapidly released in high doses from the implant coating during the first 72 h.
Processing Mineralogy Study on Lead and Zinc Oxide Ore in Sichuan
Authors: Yang Mei , Xiao Wending , Yang Xiang , Zhang Patrick
Published: April 2016

The processing mineralogy characteristics of an oxidized lead-zinc ore from Sichuan were studied systematically using numerous modern instruments. Results showed that lead and zinc oxide content in the ore exceeded the minimum industrial grade, and also included a relatively high concentration of silver and iron. This ore is composed of many different minerals. Major zinc-containing minerals include sphalerite, hemimorphite, smithsonite, hydrozincite, zinc-containing baileychlore, and zinc-containing dolomite and calcite. Lead-containing minerals are primarily galena and cerussite with small amounts of dechenite, cesaronite, anglesite, limonite and coronadite. Gangue minerals include dolomite and calcite. Dissemination size for the main minerals ranges from medium (0.04 mm) to fine (0.02 mm). All the valuable minerals are well liberated, including galena, sphalerite, cerussite, calamine, and smithsonite. However, the dissemination relationships are complex. Lead is concentrated mainly in galena and cerussite, while zinc occurs primarily in sphalerite, calamine, and smithsonite. The theoretical recovery for lead and zinc were estimated at 72% and 67%, respectively.
Enantioselective Separation of 4,8-DHT and Phytotoxicity of the Enantiomers on Various Plant Species
Authors: Yang Li , Ma Xiao-Yan , Ruan Xiao , Jiang De-An , Pan Cun-De , Wang Qiang
Published: April 2016

As a candidate for bioherbicide, 4,8-dihydroxy-1-tetralone (4,8-DHT) was isolated from Caryospora callicarpa epicarp and its two enantiomers, S-(+)-isosclerone and R-(−)-regiolone, were separated by chiral high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on a Chiralcel OD column with chiral stationary phase (CSP)-coated cellulose-tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate). Then, the phytotoxicity of 4,8-DHT and its enantiomers toward the seeds germination and seedling growth of the five tested plant species, including lettuce (Latuca sativa), radish (Raphanus sativus), cucumber (Cucumis sativus), onion (Allium cepa), and wheat (Triticum aestivum), were investigated and the results indicated a hormesis at low concentration of 4,8-DHT and its enantiomers, but a retardant effect at high concentration. Between the two enantiomers of 4,8-DHT, the S-(+)-isosclerone was more toxic to seeds germination and seedling growth of the five tested plant species than the R-(−)-regiolone, and also the phytotoxicity of S-(+)-isosclerone varied with different plants. For example, S-(+)-isosclerone was the most active to seedling growth of lettuce, indicating that S-(+)-isosclerone had specific effects on different organisms. Thus, all of the chirality and concentration of 4,8-DHT, as well as the affected plant species, need to be taken into consideration in the development and utilization of 4,8-DHT.
Volatile Organic Compounds Emissions from Luculia pinceana Flower and Its Changes at Different Stages of Flower Development
Authors: Li Yuying , Ma Hong , Wan Youming , Li Taiqiang , Liu Xiuxian , Sun Zhenghai , Li Zhenghong
Published: April 2016

Luculia plants are famed ornamental plants with sweetly fragrant flowers, of which L. pinceana Hooker, found primarily in Yunnan Province, China, has the widest distribution. Solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) was employed to identify the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from different flower development stages of L. pinceana for the evaluation of floral volatile polymorphism. Peak areas were normalized as percentages and used to determine the relative amounts of the volatiles. The results showed that a total of 39 compounds were identified at four different stages of L. pinceana flower development, including 26 at the bud stage, 26 at the initial-flowering stage, 32 at the full-flowering stage, and 32 at the end-flowering stage. The most abundant compound was paeonol (51%–83%) followed by (E,E)-α-farnesene, cyclosativene, and δ-cadinene. All these volatile compounds create the unique fragrance of L. pinceana flower. Floral scent emission offered tendency of ascending first and descending in succession, meeting its peak level at the initial-flowering stage. The richest diversity of floral volatile was detected at the third and later periods of flower development. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the composition and its relative content of floral scent differed throughout the whole flower development. The result has important implications for future floral fragrance breeding of Luculia. L. pinceana would be adequate for a beneficial houseplant and has a promising prospect for development as essential oil besides for a fragrant ornamental owing to the main compounds of floral scent with many medicinal properties.
Peruvoside, a Cardiac Glycoside, Induces Primitive Myeloid Leukemia Cell Death
Authors: Feng Qian , Leong Wa , Liu Liang , Chan Wai-In
Published: April 2016

Despite the available chemotherapy and treatment, leukemia remains a difficult disease to cure due to frequent relapses after treatment. Among the heterogeneous leukemic cells, a rare population referred as the leukemic stem cell (LSC), is thought to be responsible for relapses and drug resistance. Cardiac glycosides (CGs) have been used in treating heart failure despite its toxicity. Recently, increasing evidence has demonstrated its new usage as a potential anti-cancer drug. Ouabain, one of the CGs, specifically targeted CD34+CD38− leukemic stem-like cells, but not the more mature CD34+CD38+ leukemic cells, making this type of compounds a potential treatment for leukemia. In search of other potential anti-leukemia CGs, we found that Peruvoside, a less studied CG, is more effective than Ouabain and Digitoxin at inducing cell death in primitive myeloid leukemia cells without obvious cytotoxicity on normal blood cells. Similar to Ouabain and Digitoxin, Peruvoside also caused cell cycle arrest at G2/M stage. It up-regulates CDKN1A expression and activated the cleavage of Caspase 3, 8 and PARP, resulting in apoptosis. Thus, Peruvoside showed potent anti-leukemia effect, which may serve as a new anti-leukemia agent in the future.
Special Issue: Chemoinformatics
Authors: Willett Peter
Published: April 2016

Chemoinformatics techniques were originally developed for the construction and searching of large archives of chemical structures but they were soon applied to problems in drug discovery and are now playing an increasingly important role in many additional areas of chemistry. This Special Issue contains seven original research articles and four review articles that provide an introduction to several aspects of this rapidly developing field.
Highly Efficient Reproducible Perovskite Solar Cells Prepared by Low-Temperature Processing
Authors: Hu Hao , Wong Ka , Kollek Tom , Hanusch Fabian , Polarz Sebastian , Docampo Pablo , Schmidt-Mende Lukas
Published: April 2016

In this work, we describe the role of the different layers in perovskite solar cells to achieve reproducible, ~16% efficient perovskite solar cells. We used a planar device architecture with PEDOT:PSS on the bottom, followed by the perovskite layer and an evaporated C60 layer before deposition of the top electrode. No high temperature annealing step is needed, which also allows processing on flexible plastic substrates. Only the optimization of all of these layers leads to highly efficient and reproducible results. In this work, we describe the effects of different processing conditions, especially the influence of the C60 top layer on the device performance.
Correction: Popp, J., et al. Biofuels and Their Co-Products as Livestock Feed: Global Economic and Environmental Implications. Molecules 2016, 21, 285.
Authors: Popp József , Harangi-Rákos Mónika , Gabnai Zoltán , Balogh Péter , Antal Gabriella , Bai Attila
Published: April 2016

The authors wish to make the following correction to their paper[1].[...]
A Practical and Portable Solids-State Electronic Terahertz Imaging System
Authors: Smart Ken , Du Jia , Li Li , Wang David , Leslie Keith , Ji Fan , Li Xiang , Zeng Da
Published: April 2016

A practical compact solid-state terahertz imaging system is presented. Various beam guiding architectures were explored and hardware performance assessed to improve its compactness, robustness, multi-functionality and simplicity of operation. The system performance in terms of image resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, the electronic signal modulation versus optical chopper, is evaluated and discussed. The system can be conveniently switched between transmission and reflection mode according to the application. A range of imaging application scenarios was explored and images of high visual quality were obtained in both transmission and reflection mode.
TRANSITING PLANET CANDIDATES BEYOND THE SNOW LINE DETECTED BY VISUAL INSPECTION OF 7557 KEPLER OBJECTS OF INTEREST
Authors: Uehara Sho , Kawahara Hajime , Masuda Kento , Yamada Shin’ya , Aizawa Masataka
Published: April 2016

We visually inspected the light curves of 7557 Kepler Objects of Interest (KOIs) to search for single transit events (STEs) that were possibly due to long-period giant planets. We identified 28 STEs in 24 KOIs, among which 14 events are newly reported in this paper. We estimate the radius and orbital period of the objects causing STEs by fitting the STE light curves simultaneously with the transits of the other planets in the system or with prior information on the host star density. As a result, we found that STEs in seven of those systems are consistent with Neptune- to Jupiter-sized objects of orbital periods ranging from a few to ∼

20

years

. We also estimate that

≳
20
%

of the compact multi-transiting systems host cool giant planets with periods

≳
3

years

on the basis of their occurrence in the KOIs with multiple candidates, assuming the small mutual inclination between inner and outer planetary orbits.
SPECTROSCOPIC INDICATION OF A CENTI-PARSEC SUPERMASSIVE BLACK HOLE BINARY IN THE GALACTIC CENTER OF NGC 5548
Authors: Li Yan-Rong , Wang Jian-Min , Ho Luis C. , Lu Kai-Xing , Qiu Jie , Du Pu , Hu Chen , Huang Ying-Ke , Zhang Zhi-Xiang , Wang Kai , Bai Jin-Ming
Published: April 2016

As a natural consequence of cosmological hierarchical structure formation, sub-parsec supermassive black hole binaries (SMBHBs) should be common in galaxies but thus far have eluded spectroscopic identification. Based on four decades of optical spectroscopic monitoring, we report that the nucleus of NGC 5548, a nearby Seyfert galaxy long suspected to have experienced a major merger about 1 billion yr ago, exhibits long-term variability with a period of ∼14 yr in the optical continuum and broad Hβ emission line. Remarkably, the double-peaked profile of Hβ shows systematic velocity changes with a similar period. These pieces of observations plausibly indicate that an SMBHB resides in the center of NGC 5548. The complex, secular variations in the line profiles can be explained by orbital motion of a binary with equal mass and a semimajor axis of ∼22 light-days (corresponding to ∼18 milli-parsec). At a distance of 75 Mpc, NGC 5548 is one of the nearest sub-parsec SMBHB candidates that offers an ideal laboratory for gravitational wave detection.
A VERY COMPACT DENSE GALAXY OVERDENSITY WITH δ ≃ 130 IDENTIFIED AT z ∼ 8: IMPLICATIONS FOR EARLY PROTOCLUSTER AND CLUSTER CORE FORMATION
Authors: Ishigaki Masafumi , Ouchi Masami , Harikane Yuichi
Published: April 2016

We report the first identification of a compact dense galaxy overdensity at

z
∼
8

 called A2744z8OD. A2744z8OD consists of eight Y-dropout galaxies behind Abell 2744 that were originally pinpointed by Hubble Frontier Fields studies. However, so far, no studies have derived the basic physical quantities of structure formation or made comparisons with theoretical models. We obtain a homogeneous sample of dropout galaxies at

z
∼
8

from eight field data of Hubble legacy images that are as deep as the A2744z8OD data. Using the sample, we find that a galaxy surface overdensity value of A2744z8OD is very high

δ
≃
130

, where δ is defined by an overdensity in a small circle of 6″ (

≃
30

physical kiloparsecs) radius. Because there is no such large δ value reported for high-z overdensities to date, A2744z8OD is a system that is clearly different from those found in previous high-z overdensity studies. In the galaxy+structure formation models of Henriques et al., there exists a very similar overdensity, Modelz8OD, that is made of eight model dropout galaxies at

z
∼
8

in a 6″ radius circle. Modelz8OD is a progenitor of a today’s

10

14

M

⊙

cluster, and more than half of the seven Modelz8OD galaxies are merged into the brightest cluster galaxy of the cluster. If Modelz8OD is a counterpart to A2744z8OD, the models suggest that A2744z8OD would be part of a cluster core forming from a 

10

14

M

⊙

cluster that began star formation at

z
>
12

.
Insomnia and Depression: A Reciprocal Relationship
Authors: Herrick Daniel D. , Sateia Michael J.
Published: April 2016

Available data consistently confirm the close association between chronic insomnia and depression. This review examines the evidence supporting a reciprocal relationship between the two disorders. The epidemiology and subjective presentation of sleep disturbance in depression is discussed, in addition to objective findings on polysomnography and electroencephalography. The evidence for insomnia as a risk factor for future depression is reviewed, and encouraging results showing benefit of treating insomnia as a preventive measure are presented. Prominent hypotheses regarding the sleep-related etiology of depression, including cholinergic/aminergic imbalance and circadian dysregulation, are discussed. Important effects of antidepressant pharmacotherapy on sleep are outlined, with a focus on activating versus sedating and motoric activation properties. Finally, the relationship between depression and other sleep disorders (obstructive sleep apnea, hypersomnia, and restless legs syndrome) is briefly discussed. The data clearly show that insomnia and depression are interrelated, and effective treatment of one disorder must incorporate consideration and management of the other.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2016;46(3):164–172.]
Person-Centered Care for Older Adults With Serious Mental Illness and Substance Misuse Within a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
Authors: Cacchione Pamela Z. , Eible Lisa , Gill Le'Roi L. , Huege Steven F.
Published: April 2016

Providing person-centered care (PCC) to older adults with dual diagnosis, co-occurring serious mental illness (SMI), and substance misuse is complex and requires an interprofessional team. Older adults, who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare (i.e., dual-eligibles) are overrepresented in the population of older adults with SMI and substance misuse. Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) exist to support community living needs of nursing home–eligible older adults and are increasingly in a position to serve older adults with SMI and substance misuse issues. PACE programs provide integrated person-centered mental health care to address the serious medical, social, and emotional complications posed by having SMI and substance misuse disorders. The case study presented illustrates PCC provided to a dual-diagnosis PACE participant, illustrating the impact of recent and past trauma on current psychopathology and substance misuse. Finally, recommendations for addressing PCC of dual diagnosis within the PACE model are provided. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 42
(5), 11–17.]
The Boxer's Fracture: Splint Immobilization Is Not Necessary
Authors: Dunn John C. , Kusnezov Nicholas , Orr Justin D. , Pallis Mark , Mitchell Justin S.
Published: April 2016

Fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck, or boxer's fractures, are common, particularly among young men. Because of the high frequency of this injury, there is a considerable range of treatment options. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine whether reduction and splint or cast immobilization is necessary for fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck. The authors conducted a systematic review of all published studies that randomized these fractures to cast immobilization vs treatment with soft wrap without reduction. Cast immobilization is not superior to soft wrap without reduction in most cases. The study found that reduction and cast immobilization is not necessary for boxer's fractures. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(3):188–192.]
Smooth Pins Reinforcing Static Cement Spacers for Infected Total Knee Arthroplasty Are Not Safe
Authors: Llado Roald J. , Banerjee Samik , Khanuja Harpal S.
Published: April 2016

Prosthetic joint infection is one of the most dreaded complications following elective lower extremity primary total joint arthroplasty, resulting in substantial pain, disability, and health care costs. Both static and articulating antibiotic-impregnated spacers have been used in the management of 2-stage revision for infected total knee arthroplasty, which remains the gold standard for treatment of these infections. Articulating spacers may provide theoretical benefits with regard to improved range of motion after reimplantation secondary to less scar formations and soft tissue contractures. However, static spacers may be necessary to overcome instability associated with substantial bone defects, incompetent extensor mechanisms, and collateral ligament insufficiencies. In these scenarios, static spacers are often reinforced with intramedullary rods or Steinmann pins to provide additional knee stability, improve construct strength, maintain extension, and avoid flexion contractures. This case report describes an extremely rare case of migration of smooth pins through the posterior tibia into the calf following static spacer use in a 48-year-old man. Various mechanical and systemic complications have been reported in up to 50% of patients with the use of polymethyl methacrylate spacer devices, such as acute renal failure, allergic reactions from antibiotic use, stiffness, bone loss, fractures, and dislocations. However, to the best of the authors' knowledge, this complication of hardware migration has not been reported previously in the literature. The authors believe that orthopedic surgeons should consider the use of threaded pin dowels or intramedullary rods to avoid this potential untoward complication. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(3):e553–e557.]
Outcomes Following Radial Head Arthroplasty
Authors: Fowler John R. , Henry Sarah E. , Xu Peter , Goitz Robert J.
Published: April 2016

Most current series of radial head arthroplasty include small numbers of patients with short- to medium-term follow-up and significant heterogeneity in patients, treatments, and outcome measures. The purpose of this systematic review was to review outcomes for radial head arthroplasty based on injury chronicity, injury pattern, and type of implant used. The authors systematically searched electronic databases for studies containing radial head arthroplasty or radial head replacement and identified 19 studies for inclusion in the analysis. For each included study, a composite mean was obtained for Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and range of motion. Outcomes were said to differ significantly if their confidence intervals did not overlap. The MEPS for acute treatment (90) was higher than that for delayed treatment (81). There was no difference in the pooled MEPS between the isolated (89) and complex injury pattern (87) groups or implant material. There was no difference in range of motion between the acute and delayed or isolated and complex groups, but the average degree of pronation was higher in patients treated with titanium implants (76°) compared with cobalt chromium implants (66°). This systematic review suggests that outcomes are improved following acute arthroplasty for treatment of radial head fractures compared with delayed treatment, based on MEPS. The lack of other significant differences detected is likely due to the significant heterogeneity and inadequate power in current studies. Further prospective studies isolating the different variables will be needed to determine their true effect on outcomes. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(3):153–160.]
Cancer as a Platform for Genetics Education in the Undergraduate Nursing Curriculum
Authors: Kiernan Jason , Vallerand April Hazard
Published: April 2016

Background:

Nursing leaders and governing agencies have long requested more genetic content in the undergraduate nursing curriculum. Despite this, evidence in the literature detailing how to meet this objective is scarce.

Method:

Using a familiar health condition such as cancer, undergraduate nursing students are introduced to the multiple genetic abnormalities that underlie the cellular dysregulation leading to carcinogenesis.

Results:

Nursing students complete the course with a knowledge of cancer and its genetic underpinnings.

Conclusion:

This approach facilitated integration of genetic content in a disease-focused nursing course. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2016;55(4):236–239.]
Induction of Posterior Vitreous Detachment in Pediatric Vitrectomy by Preoperative Intravitreal Injection of Tissue Plasminogen Activator
Authors: Chuang Chih-Chun , Chen San-Ni
Published: April 2016

Purpose:

To report the efficacy of intravitreal injection of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) with or without autoserum in induction of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) in pediatric vitrectomy.

Methods:

Retrospective, interventional case series of pediatric patients receiving intravitreal injection of tPA preoperatively to facilitate PVD in vitrectomy from January 2011 to December 2014 at the Changhua Christian Hospital, Taiwan. All patients received intravitreal injections of 25 µg of tPA 3 days before vitrectomy. For cases without preexisting vitreous hemorrhage, 0.1 mL of intravitreal autologous serum was co-administered. Main outcome measures included successful rate of posterior vitreous detachment in vitrectomy, visual outcome, and related ocular complications.

Results:

Four boys and 2 girls were included. Ages ranged from 39 weeks' postmenstrual age to 8 years. The indications for vitrectomy were traumatic macular hole (cases 1 and 2); premacular hemorrhage secondary to retinopathy of prematurity (case 3); abusive head trauma with premacular hemorrhage, subinternal limiting membrane hemorrhage, and macular hole (case 4); trauma with dense vitreous hemorrhage (case 5); and vitreous hemorrhage with unknown cause (case 6). Successful PVD was induced intraoperatively in all cases and the macular hole was closed successfully in 3 of 3 cases (cases 1, 2, and 4). No surgical complications were noted. Visual outcome improved in all 3 eyes with checkable preoperative visual acuity (cases 1, 2, and 6).

Conclusions:

Intravitreal injection of tPA 3 days before vitrectomy may be a helpful adjunct to induce pediatric PVD.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2016;53(2):113–118.]
Adolescents Who Self-Injure
Authors: Durand Simone C. , McGuinness Teena M.
Published: April 2016

Children and adolescents engage in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) at a much higher frequency than parents and caregivers may estimate. This form of self-injury has long been distinguished from suicide, with distinct risk factors and comorbidities for each behavior. Although the outcome of NSSI is less devastating than suicide, adolescents who self-injure are suffering. Adolescents live and move within a particular context and view the world from a unique developmental perspective. Treatment should proceed from alliance with the patient and an understanding of the context in which he/she lives. Modifiable risk factors have been identified and several treatments are shown to reduce frequency of self-injury. Some interventions have been shown to actually increase distress. Nurses are in a position to identify adolescents who self-injure and connect the whole family system to appropriate effective intervention. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
,
54
(4), 26–29.]
Safety and Abuse Liability of Oxazepam: Is This Benzodiazepine Drug Underutilized?
Authors: Howland Robert H.
Published: April 2016

Benzodiazepine drugs are controversial because of safety and abuse liability concerns, although they have clinically relevant pharmacological differences. The current article reviews studies pertaining to the pharmacology, safety, and abuse liability of oxazepam. Compared to other benzodiazepine drugs, oxazepam has a favorable safety and abuse liability profile, which may be related to its pharmacology. Oxazepam is more slowly absorbed and enters the brain more slowly than other benzodiazepine drugs; it does not have active metabolites and does not accumulate with chronic dosing; its metabolism is not affected by age or by mild/moderate liver disease; and it is not prone to drug–drug interactions. Oxazepam also binds to the translocator protein, which stimulates the synthesis of neurosteroids, and this effect may contribute to its reduced abuse liability. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54
(4), 22–25.]
Quality of Vision After Wavefront-Guided or Wavefront-Optimized LASIK: A Prospective Randomized Contralateral Eye Study
Authors: Kung Jennifer S. , Manche Edward E.
Published: April 2016

PURPOSE:

To compare the effect of wavefront-guided and wavefront-optimized LASIK using different laser platforms on subjective quality of vision.

METHODS:

The dominant eyes of 55 participants with myopia were randomized to receive either wavefront-guided LASIK treatment by the VISX Star S4 IR Custom-Vue excimer laser system (Abbott Medical Optics, Inc., Santa Clara, CA) or wavefront-optimized treatment by the WaveLight Allegretto Wave Eye-Q 400-Hz excimer laser system (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX), whereas the fellow eye had the alternate laser treatment. Patients completed a questionnaire assessing quality of vision and visual symptoms (daytime and nighttime glare, daytime and nighttime clarity, halos, haze, fluctuating vision, and double vision) preoperatively and at postoperative months 1, 3, 6, and 12.

RESULTS:

At 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, there was no significant difference in any individual symptom between the wavefront-guided and wavefront-optimized groups, although at 12 months wavefront-guided eyes trended toward having more excellent vision (wavefront-guided vs wavefront-optimized; 2.26 vs 2.43;
P
= .039). In the subgroup of patients with preoperative root mean square (RMS) higher order aberrations (HOAs) less than 0.3
µ
m in both eyes, the wavefront-optimized group demonstrated a trend toward worsened nighttime clarity (
P
= .009), daytime clarity (
P
= .015), and fluctuating vision (
P
= .046), and less excellent vision (
P
= .009) at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

Twelve months after surgery, most patients' self-reported visual symptoms were similar in eyes receiving wavefront-guided or wavefront-optimized LASIK. In general, 36% of patients preferred wavefront-guided LASIK, 19% preferred wavefront-optimized LASIK, and 45% had no preference at 12 months. The wavefront-guided preference was more pronounced in patients with lower baseline HOAs (RMS < 0.3
µ
m).

[
J Refract Surg
. 2016;32(4):230–236.]
Corneal Power Measurement With the Dual Scheimpflug-Placido Topographer After Myopic Excimer Laser Surgery
Authors: Pan Chao , Hua Yanjun , Huang Jinhai , Tan Weina , Lu Weicong , Wang Qinmei
Published: April 2016

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the ability of the Sirius Scheimpflug-Placido Topographer (Costruzione Strumenti Oftalmici, Florence, Italy) in predicting corneal power in eyes with previous myopic corneal refractive surgery.

METHODS:

The following corneal refractive power measurements were obtained with Sirius in 38 eyes with prior myopic excimer laser surgery: simulated keratometry (SimK), true net power based on the Gaussian optical formula (TNP), and the mean pupil power (MPP) calculated by ray tracing within the diameter of the entrance pupil range from 2.5 to 6 mm. These values, along with the corresponding keratometric value, which was based on the equation that converted the MPP within 4.5-mm entrance pupil diameter to a keratometric reading in 75 myopic eyes, were compared using the clinical history method.

RESULTS:

SimK significantly overestimated corneal power by 0.67 ± 0.52 diopters (D), whereas TNP significantly underestimated corneal power by −1.05 ± 0.48 D. The only measurements that showed no statistically significant difference by the clinical history method were the 5 mm MPP, 5.5 mm MPP, and K
MPP4.5POST
, and the 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were −1.10 to 0.62, −0.91 to 0.89, and −0.67 to 1.05 D, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Sirius Scheimpflug-Placido Topographer is an alternative method of measuring corneal power in eyes with previous corneal refractive surgery for myopia when preoperative data are not available. The best options seem to be the 5 mm MPP, 5.5 mm MPP, and the keratometric reading calculated from the regression formula.

[
J Refract Surg.
2016;32(3):182–186.]
State Regulation of Medication Administration by Unlicensed Assistive Personnel in Residential Care and Adult Day Services Settings
Authors: Carder Paula C. , O'Keeffe Janet
Published: April 2016

Residential care settings and adult day services are two community-based care options used by older adults with chronic health conditions. Most states have regulatory provisions that allow unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to administer medications. The current national policy study examined state regulations to identify which states permit UAP to administer medications, as well as staffing and training requirements. Key findings include states lack clear and adequate provisions for nurse oversight of UAP who administer medications, although adult day service regulations provide a greater level of nurse oversight than residential care settings. Specifically, 32 states require residential care to hire a nurse, but only six include provisions regarding nurse availability (e.g., on-call, on-site, number of hours). In contrast, 10 of 20 states that require adult day service programs to hire a nurse provide availability provisions. Nurse oversight of UAP is an important means of assuring quality care and reducing errors; thus, state regulatory agencies might need to strengthen nurse oversight provisions.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2016; 9(5):209–222.]
Evaluating Efficacy of Aflibercept in Refractory Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration With OCT Segmentation Volumetric Analysis
Authors: Choi Catherine S. , Zhang Li , Abràmoff Michael D. , Sonka Milan , Shifera Amde Selassie , Kay Christine N.
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To use automated segmentation software to analyze spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) scans and evaluate the effectiveness of aflibercept (Eylea; Regeneron, Tarrytown, NY) in the treatment of patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) refractory to other treatments.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective chart review of 16 patients refractory to bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA)/ranibizumab (Lucentis; Genentech, San Francisco, CA) treatment was conducted. Visual acuity, central foveal thickness (CFT), maximum fluid height, pigment epithelial detachment (PED) volume, sub-retinal fluid (SRF) volume, fluid-free time interval, and adverse effects were evaluated. Automated segmentation analysis was used to quantify improvement.

RESULTS:

With aflibercept treatment, there was a statistically significant improvement in visual acuity by 1 line (
P
= .020), in CFT by 74.02 µm (
P
= .001), and in maximum fluid height by 31.9 µm (
P
= .011). Total PED and SRF volume also decreased significantly by 1.50 µm
3
× 10
8
µm
3
(
P
= .013). Anatomic improvement was confirmed by automated segmentation analysis.

CONCLUSION:

This study demonstrates utility of automated segmentation software in quantifying anatomic improvement with aflibercept treatment in exudative AMD refractory to other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatments.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:245–251.]
Visualizing Macular Structures During Membrane Peeling Surgery With an Intraoperative Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Device
Authors: Leisser Christoph , Hackl Christoph , Hirnschall Nino , Luft Nikolaus , Döller Birgit , Draschl Petra , Rigal Karl , Findl Oliver
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to examine the quality of intraoperative visualization of the posterior hyaloid, epiretinal membrane (ERM), inner limiting membrane (ILM), and hyporeflective subfoveal zone with a commercially available, microscope-integrated spectral-domain OCT setup (mi-SD-OCT) (Rescan 700; Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Germany).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Twenty patients prospectively scheduled for pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling due to an idiopathic ERM were included. Standard 23-gauge, three-port pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling and staining of the ERM with a trypan blue-based chromovitrectomy dye was performed in all cases. Intraoperative SD-OCT was performed before and after peeling and visualization of the posterior hyaloid, ERM, ILM, and presence of subfoveal hyporeflective zones were examined. OCT follow-ups were performed 2 days and 3 months after surgery. The study was approved by the local ethics committee of the city of Vienna.

RESULTS:

Successful intraoperative visualization of ERM by mi-SD-OCT was possible in all cases. The posterior hyaloid and ILM could not be seen in the mi-SD-OCT scans, whereas an intraoperative subfoveal hyporeflective zone presented in 35% of cases. In 12.5% an independent subfoveal hyporeflective zone presented postoperatively. Visual acuity improved in 93.8% of patients after surgery.

CONCLUSION:

mi-SD-OCT appears to be a valuable tool for intraoperative visualization of the ERM and offers immediate visualization of retinal anatomy during peeling. Therefore, it adds to the understanding of intraoperative traumatic changes due to the peeling procedure.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:328–332.]
Response to Intervention at the Secondary Education Level
Authors: Epler Pam L.
Published: April 2016

The Response to Intervention (RTI) service delivery model has been incorporated into elementary schools throughout the United States. This multi-tiered model has been found to assist struggling students in all academic areas through the use of research-based instructional strategies. Because of its success at the elementary level, more and more secondary education institutions are turning to RTI as a viable model that can help students achieve academic success. This chapter provides a history of how the RTI model was established in American elementary schools as well as an overview of how it can be implemented into the secondary educational environment. The chapter also describes the components required for successful implementation along with challenges facing middle and high schools when using the model. This type of service delivery model is a new way of teaching within the secondary educational arena but has been shown to be extremely effective if implemented correctly.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in the Inclusive School Setting
Authors: Hoffman Joseph Charles , Osipoff Jennifer N.
Published: April 2016

This chapter will provide readers with a general overview of the pathophysiology and treatment of type one diabetes mellitus. Signs and symptoms of potential diabetic emergencies will be highlighted allowing educators to better care for their students with this disease. Laws protecting this group of students will be reviewed. The different types of education and medical plans available for these students. Lastly, the authors present a comprehensive literature review highlighting the possible neurocognitive effects of this disease.
Electronic Performance Support System (EPSS) Tools to Support Teachers and Students
Authors: Mitchem Katherine , Fitzgerald Gail , Koury Kevin
Published: April 2016

This chapter describes the use of a family of Electronic Performance Support Systems (EPSS) to support teachers and students with mild disabilities, especially those with special learning and behavioral needs. This approach uses technology to support students in educational environments. In this chapter, the authors provide a brief overview of the family of tools and describe the need, rationale, and technical development process of the latest tools in the family, PictureTools™ and PictureTools-Mobile™. These tools are designed to support positive behaviors of young children, incorporate both images and video, and in the case of PT-Mobile, the capacity to run on iPod and iPad. In addition, they report the results from two federally funded projects related to development, usability, and feasibility testing of these tools. Future research directions are discussed.
Evolution of a Course for Special Education Teachers on Integrating Technology into Math and Science
Authors: Lyublinskaya Irina
Published: April 2016

This chapter describes a two-year development of a graduate pedagogy course for pre-service special education teachers to integrate technology into teaching mathematics and science. The Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework was used for the course design. The chapter discusses the modifications made to the course from semester to semester based on the analysis of lesson plan TPACK scores and information drawn from pre-service teachers' written feedback. The challenge was to determine an optimal balance between theory and practice and between guided and independent learning that leads to higher TPACK gains. Data analysis showed that in a semester when the instructor provided extensive instructional support coupled with a large amount of work required of the pre-service teachers, they achieved the highest TPACK level; however, this design resulted in unreasonable workload. Reducing the amount of work to a reasonable level produced lower TPACK; nevertheless, the gain in TPACK was still significant.
Using Technology and Community Partnerships to Improve Educator Preparation
Authors: Lierheimer Kristin S. , Murray Mary M. , Wooldridge Deborah G. , Smith Sheila
Published: April 2016

This chapter describes how an institution of higher education, Bowling Green State University (BGSU), partnered with the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI), a quasi-governmental agency, to meet the training needs of the local, state, national, and international community by providing an online autism spectrum disorders (ASD) certificate program. This curriculum incorporates and builds on OCALI's numerous on-line learning modules specifically focused on ASD that were developed by experts in the field of autism. Today over one hundred individuals from eight states and three countries have completed the comprehensive certificate ASD program through BGSU. This program is one example of how technology has broadened the outreach of educational preparation in ASD from local to national and international audiences.
The Role of Technology in Providing Effective Gifted Education Services in Clustered Classrooms
Authors: Collins Geri , Hall Jeffrey , Taylor Bridget
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this chapter is to examine the rationale of clustered classrooms and to explore methods of using technology to enhance the educational outcomes of gifted students in clustered classrooms. The need for this training is great because clustered classrooms can help teachers overcome the problems associated with mixed-ability groupings, tight budgets, and accusations of elitism that often plague gifted education services (Brulles & Winebrenner, 2012). The chapter includes research-based strategies for facilitating clustered classrooms, provides ideas for incorporating technology across multiple content areas, identifies what exemplary student products should look like, and offers a sample lesson plan that can be adapted to cultivate problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and collaboration in a clustered classroom. By highlighting and examining these issues, the authors hope that more teachers will utilize the clustered classroom model, providing outstanding educational opportunities that can benefit all students.
English Language Learners and the Response to Intervention Model
Authors: Higgins Melissa Christine
Published: April 2016

English language learners (ELLs) are often misdiagnosed as having a learning disability or speech and language impairment and as a result are placed into special education programs. Response to Intervention (RTI) is a framework that can reduce this misdiagnosis and help these learners achieve more over time. This chapter explains how some of this misdiagnosis occurs and how to use Response to Intervention with the ELL population to overcome this problem. It includes research-based interventions proven to work for this population, suggestions on how to implement an RTI model, and case studies of students who represent situations that often come up in the field. With successful implementation of an RTI program, it is hoped that all students will receive the targeted support that they need and deserve.
Supporting Communication between People with Social Orientation Impairments Using Affective Computing Technologies
Authors: Bishop Jonathan
Published: April 2016

A disability is a physical or mental impairment that has an adverse long-term impact on someone's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. This is often thought of in terms of medical conditions with clearly defined symptoms. This chapter, however, argues that it is these symptoms that can be considered to be the impairments and that in the right environment can in fact be advantageous. Someone may be have a medical diagnosis but not be symptomatic due to medication, for instance. In this chapter, a set of symptoms is made up from a number of different scales, called Social-Behavioural Traits (SBTs), which are affected by a person's Serotonergic-Dopamagenic Asynchronicity (SDA). This chapter discusses the role of affective computing in achieving harmony between people with various personality differences, including a model for explaining how technology can influence SDA and SBTs for the better.
Technology-Assisted Learning for Students with Moderate and Severe Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Browder Diane M. , Saunders Alicia , Root Jenny
Published: April 2016

For students with moderate and severe developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability, technology can provide critical support for learning and life functioning. A growing body of research demonstrates the benefits of technology for these students to acquire academic skills, improve social functioning, and perform tasks of daily living. This chapter provides a description of this population and their learning needs. The research on technology applications for students with developmental disabilities is reviewed and synthesized. The review includes literature on technology to assist instruction and to provide options for student responding. Examples are provided of how technology can be applied to both instruction and assessment.
Assistive Technologies at the Edge of Language and Speech Science for Children with Communication Disorders
Authors: Ancelle Joséphine Anne Genèvieve
Published: April 2016

About two million individuals in the United States use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices with text-to-speech (TTS) synthesis to speak on their behalf. In this chapter, two specific systems are introduced and evaluated as potentially significant emerging tools for children with communication disorders. The VocalIDTM project was developed to provide unique voices for children who otherwise speak through standard adult voices. Free SpeechTM is an image-based system designed to address grammatical concepts perceived as abstract by children with language disorders. This chapter also reviews the latest developments in electropalatography (EPG): biofeedback technology, which enables the visualization of tongue to palate contact during speech production. SmartPalateTM has developed cutting-edge hardware and software technology to make EPG more intuitive and more accessible in the therapy room and at home.
Telehealth Technology and Pediatric Feeding Disorders
Authors: Luke Taylor A. , Ruchlin Rebecca R.
Published: April 2016

Ongoing advances in technology have provided a platform to extend the accessibility of services for children with developmental disabilities across locations, languages and the socioeconomic continuum. Teletherapy, the use of video-conferencing technology to deliver therapy services, is changing the face of healthcare by providing face-to-face interactions among specialists, parents and children. The current literature has demonstrated success in utilizing teletherapy as a modality for speech-language intervention and for social-behavioral management, while research on feeding therapy remains scarce. The current chapter discusses the prevalence of feeding disorders among infants, toddlers and children with developmental disorders. Using evidence from the current literature, a rationale for the utilization of teletherapy as a means of feeding therapy is presented.
Web-Based Social Stories and Games for Children with Autism
Authors: Jeekratok Kanisorn , Chanchalor Sumalee , Murphy Elizabeth
Published: April 2016

Children with (ASD) may respond well to web–based learning because computers can provide features such as repetition, visual stimuli and independent interactions that appeal to them. However, there has been limited testing of web-based learning especially outside of institutional settings. The study reported on in this paper involved the testing of open, web-based games and social stories for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The web-based learning was accessible by parents, teachers, health professionals and children in an institutional and home setting and consisted of four social stories and seven games housed in a website. Pre- and post-testing of the web-based learning took place over a three-month period with 10 children with ASD enrolled in a special-education center in North-Eastern Thailand. Testing was conducted using observation. Analysis involved descriptive statistics, parametric t-tests and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests. Results revealed improvement for all behaviors although not for all children. Implications include the need for future studies that rely on more participants and that focus on transferability of learned behaviors to real-life contexts. Future studies might also include longitudinal designs to determine sustainability of newly learned behaviors and the design of web-based environments that adapt to or are more specifically tailored to individual needs of children with ASD.