bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consensus for Mixed‐Order Multiagent Systems over Jointly Connected Topologies via Impulse Control
Authors: Sun Fenglan , Liao Xiaogang , Li Yongfu , Liu Feng
Published: January 2019

Because of the complexity of the environment, the dynamics of agents in the same system may be different. That is, the dynamics of some agents may be first ordered, and the others may be second ordered, even high ordered. In addition, the network topologies of systems are always varying over time. Because of these facts, this paper studies the consensus problem of the mixed‐order multiagent networks over the jointly connected topologies. By adopting the impulse control technique, some control protocols are proposed based on the information of the agents themselves and their neighbors. Several simulation results are given to verify the correctness of the theoretical results.
Inflammasome Genes’ Polymorphisms in Egyptian Chronic Hepatitis C Patients: Influence on Vulnerability to Infection and Response to Treatment
Authors: Estfanous Shady Z. K. , Ali Sahar A. , Seif Sameh M. , Soror Sameh H. A. , Abdelaziz Dalia H. A.
Published: January 2019

Chronic inflammation is a pivotal contributor to the liver damage mediated by hepatitis C virus (HCV). The NOD-like receptor, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is activated by HCV in both hepatocytes and Kupffer cells. The aim of our study was to investigate the association of nine single-nucleotide polymorphisms in four inflammasome genes (NLRP3, CARD8, IL-1β, and IL-18) with the susceptibility to HCV infection and outcome of interferon treatment in 201 Egyptian chronic hepatitis C patients and 95 healthy controls. The genotyping was conducted using TaqMan predesigned SNP assay. In the comparative analysis, the CC genotype of the NLRP3 rs1539019 was found to be associated with the lower risk to chronic HCV infection (OR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.17-0.62). This association was also found for the CA genotype and the A allele of the NLRP3 rs35829419 (OR: 0.18 and 0.22, respectively), in addition to the GG genotype and G allele of IL-18 rs1946518 (OR: 0.55 and 0.61, respectively). In contrast, the AA genotype of the IL-1βrs1143629 was significantly more frequent in HCV patients (OR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1-2.86). Notably, the frequency of the AA genotype of NLRP3 rs1539019 was significantly higher in patients with lack of response (NR) to the interferon treatment (OR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1-3.7). A similar association was found for both the CC genotype and C allele of the NLRP3 rs35829419 (OR: 2.78 and 2.73, respectively) and for the TT genotype and T allele of CARD8 rs2043211 (OR: 2.64 and 1.54, respectively). Yet, the IL-1β(rs1143629, rs1143634) and IL-18 (rs187238, rs1946518) polymorphisms did not show any significant association with response to interferon treatment. In conclusion, this study reports, for the first time, the association of genetic variations in NLRP3 with hepatitis C susceptibility and response to treatment in Egyptian patients. However, further large-scale studies are recommended to confirm our findings.
A Thermochemical Parameters and Theoretical Study of the Chlorinated Compounds of Thiophene
Authors: Saraireh Ibrahim A. M. , Altarawneh Mohammednoor , Alhawarin Jibril , Almatarneh Mansour H.
Published: January 2019

This contribution sets out to compute thermochemical and geometrical parameters of the complete series of chlorinated isomers of thiophene based on the accurate chemistry model of CBS-QB3. Herein, we compute standard entropies, standard enthalpies of formation, standard Gibbs free energies of formation, and heat capacities. Our calculated enthalpy values agree with available limited experimental values. The DFT-based reactivity descriptors were used to elucidate the site selectivity for the chlorination sequence of thiophene. The relative preference for chlorination was found to be in accord with the thermodynamic stability trends inferred based on the H scale. Calculated Fukui indices predict a chlorination sequence to ensue as follows: 2-chloro → 2,5-dichloro → 2,3,5-trichloro → 2,3,4,5-tetrachlorothiophene.
Hypertension and Postoperative Pain: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Chiang Han-Liang , Huang Yu-Chi , Lin Huey-Shyan , Chan Min-Ho , Chia Yuan-Yi
Published: January 2019

Objectives. The relationship between pain and hypertension is of great pathophysiological and clinical interest in the pain field, but the mechanism is poorly understood. This study used the postoperative patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) dose and the visual analysis scale (VAS) score to assess the relationship between pain and hypertension. Methods. In this prospective study in a single-center hospital, 200 participants were enrolled and divided into three groups: normotensive group, hypertension without treatment group, and hypertension with treatment group. The participants scheduled for elective inhalational general anesthesia were interviewed at hospital admission. Results. A significant difference was observed in analgesic dosage on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 between the female normotensive group and female hypertension with treatment group (independent-samples, one-way analysis of covariance, age, and weight as covariates:P=0.021,  0.014,  0.032). No significant differences in the VAS scores and PCA dosages were observed between the male normotensive group and any one of the male hypertensive groups. Conclusion. We agree that hypertensive hypoanalgesia exists in some experimental settings. The mechanism linking postoperative pain and hypertension is far more complex than we initially believed. Therefore, more studies are required to investigate the roles that antihypertensive drugs, sex, and psychological stress play. Antihypertensive drugs may play a crucial role in mediating the relationship between pain and hypertension. Psychosocial factors were discussed but were not examined.
Diabetic Retinopathy as a Risk Factor Associated with the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Azuma Seishin , Asahina Yasuhiro , Kakinuma Sei , Azuma Keiko , Miyoshi Masato , Inoue Emi , Tsunoda Tomoyuki , Sato Ayako , Kaneko Shun , Nagata Hiroko , Kawai-Kitahata Fukiko , Murakawa Miyako , Nitta Sayuri , Itsui Yasuhiro , Tomita Makoto , Nakagawa Mina , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: January 2019

Background: The risk factors associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are still unclear. The aim of the present study was to identify such risk factors in NAFLD patients who developed HCC. Methods: Between April 2000 and ­December 2016, a total of 182 patients with NAFLD were enrolled in this study; of these, only 22 patients had HCC. To identify risk factors, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. To identify risk factors other than the degree of fibrosis, propensity matched analysis adjusted by the NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) was carried out on 44 patients. Multivariate and survival analyses were also performed in HCC patients. Results: In 182 patients, multivariate analysis highlighted the NFS (OR 2.275; p < 0.001) and hypertension (OR 5.868; p = 0.037) as independent factors that were significantly associated with the development of HCC. After adjustment for the NFS, multivariate analysis identified diabetic retinopathy (OR 8.654; p = 0.017) as an independent factor that was significantly associated with the development of HCC. For predicting the development of HCC, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of diabetic retinopathy was significantly higher than that of diabetes (0.731 vs. 0.615; p < 0.001). In patients with HCC, multivariate analysis indicated that the NFS were significantly associated with diabetic retinopathy. Conclusions: Diabetic retinopathy as well as liver fibrosis is a risk factor that associates with the development of HCC in NAFLD patients. Therefore, NAFLD patients with diabetic retinopathy should undergo careful screening for HCC.
Analysis of Nationwide Data to Determine the Incidence and Diagnosed Prevalence of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease in the USA: 2013–2015
Authors: Willey Cynthia , Kamat Siddhesh , Stellhorn Robert , Blais Jaime
Published: January 2019

Background: This study addresses an important gap, as it is the first US nationwide, epidemiologic study of ADPKD incidence and prevalence. Summary: This 3-year, observational study utilized data from Truven Health MarketScan® administrative claims, as well as cross-sectional data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS). We estimated the annual incidence and diagnosed prevalence using population-based data on over 170 million de-identified patients to provide the most current epidemiologic estimates available. The ADPKD-diagnosed prevalence was 4.3 per 10,000 in the NAMCS, which closely corresponded with age-adjusted rates from patients with either commercial insurance or employer-sponsored Medicare supplemental insurance. The annual incidence was 0.62 per 10,000. Both nationwide data sets indicate that approximately 140,000 patients are currently diagnosed in the USA. We also found significant differences by gender and age. Females are nearly twice as likely as males to be diagnosed in early adulthood, while the incidence in males was highest in those aged 65 years or older. ADPKD appears more likely to be diagnosed in men after disease progression or the development of chronic kidney disease. Key Messages: Our results revealed striking age and gender differences in the incidence of ADPKD. Young women are diagnosed with ADPKD at nearly twice the rate of young men, perhaps due to the use of ultrasound in women during child-bearing years. This points to a need for increased recognition of ADPKD, with an emphasis on younger men in particular. ADPKD has been inaccurately perceived as a common condition based on misinterpretation of early epidemiologic data (1957) confirmed by our data and recent European data. ADPKD affects approximately 140,000 patients in the USA and meets the criterion for a rare disease. Our results indicate a need for further study of gender and ADPKD diagnosis, progression, management, and outcomes.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Lycopene on Experimental Spinal Cord Ischemia Injury via Cyclooxygenase-2 Suppression
Authors: Hua Ye  , Xu Nanfei  , Ma  Tao  , Liu Yumin  , Xu  Hong  , Lu Yunnan 
Published: January 2019

Objective: Spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury (SCII) is a devastating complication following thoracoabdominal aortic surgeries, often leading to severe neurological deficits. We sought to examine the effects of lycopene, a naturally existing carotenoid with anti-inflammatory properties, in the treatment against SCII. Methods: Rats were assigned into four treatment groups: Sham (sham operation), SCII (SCII-induction), LY25, and LY50 (lycopene treatment at 25 or 50 mg/kg following SCII induction, respectively). Results: Lycopene treatment improved the recovery of neurological functions following SCII and suppressed the neuronal cell death and neuroinflammation at 14 days after SCII. Furthermore, Western blot assay revealed that lycopene treatment attenuated the SCII-induced increase in the protein levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nuclear factor-κB, and activate protein-1, as well as the reduction of heme oxygenase-1. Conclusion: Lycopene exerted neuroprotective functions in SCII and inhibited SCII-elicited neuroinflammation via COX-2 suppression.
Dexlansoprazole is Effective in Relieving Heartburn during the Fasting Month of Ramadan
Authors: Rimmani Hussein H. , Rustom Luma Basma O. , Rahal Mahmoud A. , Shayto Rani H. , Chaar Hani , Sharara Ala I.
Published: January 2019

Background and Aims: Proton pump inhibitors are effective at reducing heartburn. No studies have evaluated their efficacy in Ramadan. Dexlansoprazole has a unique active formulation independent of time-of-day dosing or food. The aim is to investigate the efficacy of dexlansoprazole 60 mg during Ramadan in patients with symptomatic heartburn. Methods: Subjects recruited using poster, radio, and SMS advertisements completed a diary using a mobile-friendly application and received daily SMS reminders. Dexlansoprazole was started on day 8 for 3 weeks. No placebo arm was used in this trial. Primary endpoint was relief of heartburn expressed as mean 24-h free heartburn percentage (24FH%) per weekly period. Results: A total of 32 patients were enrolled. During week 1, only 1 person (3.1%) was heartburn-free and mean 24FH% was 41.1 ± 24.8%. On dexlansoprazole, mean 24FH% rose to 63.4 ± 23.8 and 81.6 ± 24.5% in weeks 2 and 4, respectively (p < 0.001 for both). Median 24FH% increased from 35.7% in week 1 to 71.4 and 85.7% in weeks 2 and 4, respectively. Mean Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire (GERDQ) scores decreased from 10.0 ± 3.2 in week 1 to 6.53 ± 2.2 in week 2 (p < 0.001) and 5.87 ± 2.1 in week 4 (p < 0.001). Mean heartburn severity score decreased from 2.5 ± 1.0 to 1.7 ± 0.8 (p = 0.001). Early response was higher in patients with GERDQ scores ≥8 (p = 0.012). Conclusion: Dexlansoprazole is effective in the treatment of heartburn during Ramadan. Clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT03079050.
Two new species of Billolivia (Gesneriaceae) from the Langbiang Plateau, Vietnam
Authors: TRƯỜNG LƯU HỒNG , NHÂN PHẠM HỮU , ĐẠT NGUYỄN QUỐC , VĂN NGUYỄN THẾ , MẾN NGUYỄN THÀNH , LONG VŨ NGỌC
Published: January 2019

Two new species of the recently established genus Billolivia (Gesneriaceae) are described from the Langbiang Plateau in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, namely B. noanii and B. trucii. Their conservation status is assessed. These findings increase the total number of Billolivia species to be 13. A key to all known species of the genus is given.
Phylogenetic position of Argentinian and Chilean endemic species of Senecio ser. Culcitium (Asteraceae) with an evolutionary analysis of morphological characters
Authors: SALOMÓN LUCIANA , SEDE SILVANA M. , FREIRE SUSANA E.
Published: January 2019

In its current circumscription, Senecio ser. Culcitium Cabrera, which includes ca. 40 South American species, is characterized by discoid, sometimes nodding capitula, calycular bracts resembling a multiseriate involucre, and style branches apically truncate with a ring of penicillate collecting hairs. The phylogenetic relationships of Senecio ser. Culcitium were examined based on DNA sequences from ITS and trnK regions, focusing on seven endemic species of Argentina and Chile never included in previous works. Likewise, 18 morphological characters were analyzed and mapped on the phylogeny in order to discuss their importance in defining the group. Our results confirm the polyphyly of S. ser. Culcitium as circumscribed by Cabrera because its members appeared in four different clades throughout Senecio. One clade contains the taxonomic type of the series and about a half of the species previously assigned to S. ser. Culcitium. Most of the Argentinean-Chilean endemic species are split into three different clades distantly related to the principal Culcitium clade: 1) Senecio candidans and S. gilliesii are nested within S. ser. Hualtatini; 2) S. aspleniifolius and S. jarae are nested within S. ser. Repentes; and 3) S. diemii, S. magellanicus, and S. martinensis appear within the informally named ‘diemii group’. The nodding capitulum, which was traditionally used as a diagnostic character for Culcitium, could be used to define morphologically S. ser. Culcitium in its revised circumscription. However, the other two characters traditionally used as diagnostic, i.e. development of calycular bracts and pubescence of style branches, are variable within the series: the calycular bracts range from scarcely to widely developed and the pubescence of the style branches ranges from a few short hairs poorly differentiated into a crown of hairs to numerous long hairs. As a result of the morphological study of the characters and the phylogenetic analysis, we include a key to differentiate S. ser. Culcitium s. str. from the other series and the informal diemii group, in which the Culcitium species have been redistributed.
Description of two new species of Microgastrini (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) from India
Authors: AKHTAR MIR SAMIM , AHMAD ZUBAIR , RAMAMURTHY V. V.
Published: January 2019

Parapanteles sireeshaae Ahmad et Akhtar, sp. nov., is described from Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, India. Specimens of the new species were reared from Hyposidra successaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) on Tinospora cordifolia (Ranunculales: Menispermaceae) in betel vine garden. The new species is distinguished from P. masoni Austin et Dangerfield by the punctation on coxae and anterior diagonal carina of propodeum. Pholetesor hayati Akhtar, sp. nov., is described from Jammu and Kashmir, India and distinguished from P. salalicus (Mason) by the size of frons, sculpture on tergite II and smooth tergite III. The Pholetesor is recorded for the first time from the Oriental region.
A new cave species of Deuteraphorura (Collembola: Onychiuridae) and redescription of four species of the genus from Italy
Authors: FANCIULLI PIETRO PAOLO , LORETI MARA , DALLAI ROMANO
Published: January 2019

The description of a new species and the redescription of four species of the genus Deuteraphorura are given. Deuteraphorura caprelleana sp. nov. is characterized by the peculiar distribution of dorsal (32/033/33354) and ventral (3/011/3212) pseudocelli that allow to recognize it from the other congeneric species. Furthermore, four species, Deuteraphorura apuanica (Dallai, 1970), D. pseudobosnaria (Dallai, 1970), D. pseudoinsubraria (Dallai, 1970) and D. pseudoghidinii (Dallai, 1969), are redescribed based on type and new topotypic material to furnish the description of some characters, especially concerning the chaetotaxy, not considered in the original description. A proposed key to the italian species is also reported.
Introduced leaf beetles of the Maritime Provinces, 9: Chaetocnema concinna (Marsham, 1802) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: LESAGE LAURENT , MAJKA CHRISTOPHER G.
Published: January 2019

The taxonomy, nomenclature, identification, introduction history, biology, and economic importance of Chaetocnema concinna (Marsham, 1802) are reviewed, and its status as pest or beneficial insect is discussed. While it is the most important pest of sugar beet in Europe, its economic importance has not yet been demonstrated in North America. Chaetocnema concinna is widely distributed in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island and presently known from only two localities in New Brunswick. On the basis of voucher specimens available, we determined that it was introduced in these provinces in the late 1980s. Since C. concinna is associated with many species of plants and can be either harmful or beneficial, we consider that “brassy flea beetle” is the most appropriate popular name available.
Two new genera of Aradidae from Malaysia and Vietnam (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Aradidae)
Authors: HEISS E.
Published: January 2019

In this paper the apterous Carventinae genus Parataiwanaptera n. gen with the species Parataiwanaptera laevigata n. sp. from Vietnam is described and figured. It is most closely related to the monotypic genus Taiwanaptera Heiss & Nagashima 2008 from Taiwan and Japan, showing however distinct morphological differences. The second new genus, in the Mezirinae, Schuhaptera n. gen with the species Schuhaptera penangensis n. sp from Penang Island, Malaysia, is brachypterous and shows no close relationship to other Mezirinae genera described so far from the Oriental region.
European species of Tubpontania gen. nov., a new genus for species of the Pontania crassispina group (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae: Nematinae)
Authors: VIKBERG VELI
Published: January 2019

Tubpontania gen. nov. (type species Nematus anomalopterus Förster, 1854), is proposed for the species of the former Pontania crassispina group. Tubpontania anomaloptera (Förster, 1854), comb. nov., = Amauronematus maidli Zirngiebl, 1937, syn. nov., = Nematus (Pontania) tuberculatus Benson, 1953, syn. nov. Other European species of the genus are Tubpontania cyrnea (Liston, 2005) (= Pontania joergenseni Enslin, 1916, syn. nov.; preoccupied by Pontania jörgenseni Strand, 1908), Tubpontania crassispina (Thomson, 1871), comb. nov., Tubpontania purpureae (Cameron, 1884), comb. nov., and Tubpontania nudipectus (Vikberg, 1965), comb. nov. Tubpontania nitidinota sp. nov., closely related to T. nudipectus, is described from Fennoscandia. Furthermore, the following North American species belong here: Tubpontania arctophilae (Benson, 1960), comb. nov., Tubpontania populi (Marlatt, 1896), comb. nov., Tubpontania pumila (Rohwer, 1910), comb. nov., Tubpontania rotundidentata (Zinovjev & Vikberg, 1999), comb. nov. and Tubpontania terminalis (Marlatt, 1896), comb. nov.
Shaping Discourse Through Social Media: Using Foucauldian Discourse Analysis to Explore the Narratives That Influence Educational Policy
Authors: Sam Cecile H.
Published: January 2019

This article offers Foucauldian discourse analysis (FDA) as an innovative qualitative methodology to apply to the intersection of social media and public policy research. The article has two sections. The first section briefly defines FDA and discourse and situates the methodology in the educational policy research literature. The second section applies FDA to a narrative about the Common Core State Standards as it occurred on Twitter, with an explanation of key terms throughout the process.
Novice School Principals Constructing Their Role Vis-À-Vis External Stakeholders: (Not) Attempting to Be “All Things to All People”
Authors: Prado Tuma Andrea , Spillane James P.
Published: January 2019

Purpose: A school principal’s ability to engage with external stakeholders is critical for achieving a range of school objectives such as involving parents, implementing policy mandates, and accessing resources from the school district. This study examines how novice school principals make sense of different external stakeholders’ demands and their own role in relation to external stakeholders during their first year on the job. Research Approach: We analyze 53 semistructured interviews conducted with 18 novice principals throughout their first year on the job. We use an iterative process of coding and analysis to identify patterns and verify our findings by ensuring interrater reliability in our coding and examining disconfirming evidence. Findings: We find that novice principals struggle to make sense of external stakeholder claims that they perceive to conflict with their own understanding of the goals and values of the school. In particular, conflicting claims elicit sense-making about a new principal’s role vis-à-vis external stakeholders. Across time, a majority of novice principals narrow the scope of their role by coming to terms with taking an unpopular position, setting priorities, and modifying their expectations about the job. Implications for Research and Practice: Our study highlights the cognitive, rather than behavioral, responses that principals have toward conflicting claims. Furthermore, we extend work on the occupational socialization of school principals by showing how conflicting claims shape novice principals emerging understanding of their role vis-à-vis external stakeholders. Our findings have implications for improving principal preparation programs and succession planning.
Quadratic feedback–based equivalent sliding mode control of wind turbine blade section based on rigid trailing-edge flap
Authors: Liu Ting-Rui
Published: January 2019

Modeling of aeroelastic system of wind turbine blade section based on chordwise rigid trailing-edge flap has been investigated. The flutter suppression of blade section exhibiting flap-wise bending and twist deformation is performed by equivalent sliding mode control. Aerodynamic expressions are based on the modified quasi-steady model which is attached to the influences of trailing-edge flap. The continuous equivalent sliding mode control algorithm based on quadratic feedback parameter is applied to realize flutter suppression, with displacements and velocities, control input of angle of trailing-edge flap and sliding mode function demonstrated. To facilitate the process of computer implementation, the discrete equivalent sliding mode control algorithm is discussed in detail, with better control effects and angle control of trailing-edge flap demonstrated. The quadratic feedback–based equivalent sliding mode control algorithm, including continuous equivalent sliding mode control and discrete equivalent sliding mode control, realizes the analysis of control effects based on feedback parameter with empirical adjustment coefficient. This provides schemes of not only theoretical simulation but also real-time implementation for the application of equivalent sliding mode control in different engineering projects.
Impact of Epigenetic Regulation on Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bais M.V.
Published: January 2019

The most common type of head and neck cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), can develop therapeutic resistance that complicates its treatment. The 5-y survival rate for HNSCC remains at ~50%, and improving these outcomes requires a better understanding of the pathogenesis of HNSCC. Studies of HNSCC using in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo approaches provide a novel conceptual framework based on epigenetic mechanisms for developing future clinical applications. Normal oral tissues are influenced by environmental factors that induce pathological changes affecting the network of epigenetic enzymes and signaling pathways to induce HNSCC growth and metastasis. Although various epigenetic regulator families, such as DNA methyltransferases, ten-eleven translocation proteins, histone acetyltransferases, histone deacetylases, BET bromodomain proteins, protein arginine methyltransferases, histone lysine methyltransferases, and histone lysine demethylases, have a role in diverse cancers, specific members have a function in HNSCC. Recently, lysine-specific demethylases have been identified as a potential, attractive, and novel target of HNSCC. Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) expression is inappropriately upregulated in HNSCC and an orthotopic HNSCC mouse model. LSD1 can demethylate lysine at specific histone positions to repress gene expression or stimulate transcription, indicating a dual and context-dependent role in transcriptional regulation. Our study showed that LSD1 promotes HNSCC growth and metastasis. Pharmacological attenuation of LSD1 inhibits orthotopic and patient-derived HNSCC xenograft growth-specific target genes and signaling pathways. This review provides recent evidence demonstrating the function of epigenetic regulator enzymes in HNSCC progression, including potential therapeutic applications for such enzymes in combination and immunotherapy.
Trains, bodies, landscapes. Experiencing distance in the long nineteenth century
Authors: Geurts Anna P. H.
Published: January 2019

The arrival of the railways has led scholars of nineteenth-century Europe to posit the thesis of a shrinking world, in which distances were annihilated and travel became a decorporealised and delocalised experience. This article uses travellers’ own writings to empirically complicate this thesis by looking at which journeys were characterised as near or far, and why. Building on Massey’s and Wenzlhuemer’s work on the multiplicity of space and spatial power, the seemingly contradictory findings are explained by suggesting the coexistence of a number of different types of lived distance. The article thus offers a taxonomy of sorts, outlining those distance types that were experienced most often by western-European travellers – grounded in physical effort, landscape elements and other often highly specific, material characteristics of their journeys. Together, they suggest that distances remained a tangible reality to travellers, firmly anchored in their bodies and the physical spaces they occupied and traversed.
Study of relaxation behavior and processability of polybutadiene rubber composition
Authors: Nandi Sangita , Subbaiah Yogesha , Manchana Ravinath , Mitra Susanta
Published: January 2019

In this work, nickel-catalyzed high- cis 1,4-polybutadiene rubbers (PBR) with different molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, and Mooney relaxation time have been solution blended at different ratios and their rheological, thermal, and physical properties were characterized. PBR blend compositions showed similar processability as pristine rubber grades at higher temperature, but their Mooney relaxation time and rheological branching index (BI) are distinctly different from both pristine PBR grades at low temperature. In addition, Mooney relaxation time and BI of the blends were found to be independent of blend compositions; however, glass transition temperature ( Tg), cis%, volatile% of the compositions remain similar to the raw rubbers.
Establishing a Generalized Repertoire of Initiating Bids for Joint Attention in Children with Autism
Authors: Gomes Sandra R. , Reeve Sharon A. , Brothers Kevin J. , Reeve Kenneth F. , Sidener Tina M.
Published: January 2019

The current study evaluated whether multiple-exemplar training, auditory scripts, and script-fading procedures could establish a generalized repertoire of initiating bids for joint attention in four young children with autism. Stimuli drawn from each of three experimenter-defined categories were used during teaching to program for generalization of initiations of bids for joint attention from trained stimuli to novel stimuli. A fourth category was reserved for assessment of across-category generalization of bids for joint attention. The four categories were (a) visually enticing toys, (b) unusually placed items, (c) environmental sounds, and (d) pictures. Assignment of categories for teaching and assessment of generalization was counterbalanced across the participants. Three different auditory scripts were used during intervention for each of the training stimuli to program for response generalization. All four children learned to initiate bids for joint attention. After scripts were subsequently faded and reinforcement was thinned, bids for joint attention were maintained and also generalized to novel stimuli and settings.
Team Interaction Coaching with Educators of Adolescents who are Deaf-Blind: Applying the Diagnostic Intervention Model
Authors: Janssen Marleen J. , Riksen-Walraven J. Marianne , Van Dijk Jan P. M. , Ruijssenaars Wied A. J. J. M. , Vlaskamp Carla
Published: January 2019

In an earlier publication, we presented the Diagnostic Intervention Model, which can be used as a guide in the design and conduct of interventions to foster harmonious interactions between children who are deaf-blind and their educators. This article demonstrates the use of the model in everyday practice and the effects of its application in two case studies, using team interaction coaching. Implications for everyday practice are discussed.
The Experiences of Parents of Students with Visual Impairments who are Professionals in the Field of Visual Impairment
Authors: de Steiguer Pamela B. , Erin Jane N. , Topor Irene L. , Rosenblum L. Penny
Published: January 2019

This survey examined the experiences of parents of individuals with visual impairments who acquired professional credentials in the field of visual impairment. The participants reported on such topics as the advantages and disadvantages of being a parent-professional, the types of support they seek, and advice to others who are balancing both roles.
The Difference that Age Makes: Cultural Factors that Shape Older Adults’ Responses to Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Mogk Marja
Published: January 2019

This article suggests that approaching vision loss from age-related macular degeneration from a sociocultural perspective, specifically considering perceptions of aging, blindness, disability, and generational viewpoints and norms, may be critical to understanding older adults’ responses to vision loss and visual rehabilitation.
The Impact of Assistive Technology on the Educational Performance of Students with Visual Impairments: A Synthesis of the Research
Authors: Kelly Stacy M. , Smith Derrick W.
Published: January 2019

This synthesis examined the research literature from 1965 to 2009 on the assistive technology that is used by individuals with visual impairments. The authors located and reviewed 256 articles for evidence-based research on assistive technology that had a positive impact on educational performance. Of the 256 studies, only 2 provided promising evidence-based practices.
Accuracy and Techniques in the Preparation of Mathematics Worksheets for Tactile Learners
Authors: Rosenblum L. Penny , Herzberg Tina
Published: January 2019

Data were gathered from 166 participants regarding their qualifications for and training in preparing mathematics materials for tactile learners. The participants shared information about the courses and workshops they had attended, the books and resources they used, the amount of time they spent preparing mathematics materials, and information about the production of tactile graphics.
Resilience in Parents of Young Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: de Klerk Heidi , Greeff Abraham P.
Published: January 2019

This article reports on a study of the adaptation of parents with children with visual impairment in South Africa. The results showed that familial values (such as attitude toward the disability, religious faith, and familial closeness) permit a process of inclusion (through the use of resources and acceptance of help) and the development of a sense of accomplishment.
Fostering Harmonious Interactions in a Boy with Congenital Deaf-Blindness: A Single-Case Study
Authors: Janssen Marleen J. , Riksen-Walraven J. Marianne , van Dijk Jan P. M. , Huisman Mark , Ruijssenaars Wied A. J. J. M.
Published: January 2019

This article demonstrates the effectiveness of applying the Diagnostic Intervention Model for fostering harmonious interactions by describing a single-case study. Changes in the caregiver's turn-giving had substantial effects on the child's turn-taking, regulation of intensity, and approving and disapproving answers. The interaction effects were less clear for the child's initiatives.
Users’ Evaluations of Four Electronic Travel Aids Aimed at Navigation for Persons who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Roentgen Uta R. , Gelderblom Gert Jan , de Witte Luc P.
Published: January 2019

Eighteen persons with visual impairments evaluated four systematically selected navigation systems. Their performance on 11 tasks, provided ratings, satisfaction on seven aspects of the assistive devices, and explanatory comments show generally valuable functionality and usability, as well as individual marked preferences for various features of different navigation systems.
Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems Braille Reading Assessment: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Posey Virginia K. , Henderson Barbara W.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

This exploratory study determined whether transcribing selected test items on an adult life and work skills reading test into braille could maintain the same approximate scale-score range and maintain fitness within the item response theory model as used by the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS) for developing tests.

Methods

In concert with a focus group of practitioners, CASAS and the American Printing House for the Blind selected 25 test items in a life and work context that were previously field-tested with approximately 30,000 sighted adult education students. These test items were adapted for a contracted braille format. Both qualitative data and statistical data were collected during and after the braille reading test was field-tested.

Results

Sixty-five youths and adults, about 50% of whom were aged 18 or younger, participated in the field testing of the CASAS braille reading test between September 2005 and April 2007. The scale-score range for the braille test was slightly lower than for a similar version in the print format. No significant difference was found between the adults who were visually impaired (those who were blind or had low vision— braille readers) who took the braille test and the sighted adults who took a print version of the brailled test items.

Discussion

Valuable suggestions for constructing and administering braille tests were made as a result of the study. New braille assessments will incorporate refreshable braille displays to allow test takers to gain better access to more information and the computing environment.

Implications for practitioners

The results support the value of customizing a reading test in a braille format to ensure realistic tasks in the lives and work of adult students who are visually impaired. Hard-copy braille will remain important in future standardized assessments, as will options that offer computer delivery with universal design features.
The Effectiveness of a Multi-Disciplinary Group Rehabilitation Program on the Psychosocial Functioning of Elderly People who are Visually Impaired
Authors: Alma Manna A. , Groothoff Johan W. , Melis-Dankers Bart J. M. , Suurmeijer Theo P. B. M. , Van der Mei Sijrike F.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The pilot study reported here determined the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary group rehabilitation program, Visually Impaired Elderly Persons Participating (VIPP), on psychosocial functioning.

Methods

The single-group pretest–posttest pilot study included 29 persons with visual impairments (aged 55 and older) who were referred to a low-vision rehabilitation center. The VIPP intervention (20 weekly meetings) consisted of four components (practical training; education, social interaction, counseling, and training in problem-solving skills; individual and group goal setting; and a home-based exercise program). Psychosocial adaptation to vision loss, helplessness, self-efficacy, mental health, and fear of falling were used as indicators of psychosocial functioning and were assessed at the baseline, halfway, immediately after completion of the intervention, and at the six-month follow-up.

Results

Directly after the intervention, the participants’ adaptation to vision loss (ES = 0.57), self-efficacy (ES = 0.50), and mental health (ES = 0.39) improved compared to the baseline. Moreover, helplessness and a generic and vision-specific fear of falling decreased (ES = 0.26, ES = 0.20, and ES = 0.24, respectively). The six-month follow-up measure indicated improved adaptation to vision loss (ES = 0.54), a lesser feeling of helplessness (ES = 0.53), better mental health (ES = 0.22), and a lesser vision-specific fear of falling (ES = 0.27). In contrast, a decrease in self-efficacy (ES = 0.14) and an increase in the generic fear of falling (ES = 0.18) were found.

Discussion

The tentative conclusion of this small-scale pilot study is that the VIPP program benefits psychosocial functioning in both the short and long term.

Implications for practitioners

The study showed that low-vision rehabilitation centers could implement multidisciplinary group rehabilitation programs, such as VIPP, to improve the psychosocial functioning of elderly people who are visually impaired.
English Language Learners: Experiences of Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments who Work with this Population
Authors: Topor Irene , Rosenblum L. Penny
Published: January 2019

Introduction

This article presents a study that gathered data from 66 teachers of students with visual impairments about their preparation to work with children who are visually impaired and are learning English, and their knowledge of instructional strategies and methods of instruction.

Methods

An online five-part survey was available to teachers of students with visual impairments in the United States and Canada for a month-long period in the spring of 2012.

Results

The 66 participants had various levels of knowledge of strategies for teaching English language learners. Many used common instructional strategies for English language learning when meeting their students’ learning needs. When they taught braille to the students, they almost always taught in English. Thirty percent of the teachers did not feel qualified to work with students who are visually impaired and English language learners.

Discussion

The participants were rich in their knowledge of strategies for teaching English, indicating that this group of self-selected individuals may have chosen to participate because the topic was of interest to them. Two-thirds of them felt qualified to work with students who are visually impaired and English language learners.

Implications for practitioners

Teachers of students with visual impairments are often knowledgeable about educational strategies used with students who are learning English. They reported an overlap in strategies used with students who are visually impaired and students who are English language learners. When they teach braille, they most often do so in English braille. There is a need to duplicate this study with a wider cross section of teachers of students with visual impairments to ensure that the data reported here are representative of the population.
Reconstruction of Masculine Identities Through Caring Practices: The Experiences of Male Caregivers in Hong Kong
Authors: Leung Lai Ching , Chan Kam Wah , Tam Kin Yuen
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore from a gender perspective how masculinities might be reworked into identities of care through men taking on the role of family caregiver. A qualitative method was adopted for this research. Twenty Chinese men in Hong Kong who were the main caregivers in their families were invited for in-depth interviews to understand their views on caring and their experiences as caregivers. We identified four types of male caregiver: (a) conforming caregivers, (b) traditional caregivers, (c) transitional caregivers, and (d) transforming caregivers. Based on our findings, we argue that when men engage in caring, changes can occur in their perceptions of the value of care, their relationships with family members, and their male identities. The involvement of men in caring may lead to social change for men and transform gender relations.
Ocean data portals: Performing a new infrastructure for ocean governance
Authors: Boucquey Noëlle , Martin Kevin St. , Fairbanks Luke , Campbell Lisa M , Wise Sarah
Published: January 2019

We are currently in what might be termed a “third phase” of ocean enclosures around the world. This phase has involved an unprecedented intensity of map-making that supports an emerging regime of ocean governance where resources are geocoded, multiple and disparate marine uses are weighed against each other, spatial tradeoffs are made, and exclusive rights to spaces and resources are established. The discourse and practice of marine spatial planning inform the contours of this emerging regime. This paper examines the infrastructure of marine spatial planning via two ocean data portals recently created to support marine spatial planning on the East Coast of the United States. Applying theories of ontological politics, critical cartography, and a critical conceptualization of “care,” we examine portal performances in order to link their organization and imaging practices with the ideological and ontological work these infrastructures do, particularly in relation to environmental and human community actors. We further examine how ocean ontologies may be made durable through portal use and repetition, but also how such performances can “slip,” thereby creating openings for enacting marine spatial planning differently. Our analysis reveals how portal infrastructures assemble, edit, and visualize data, and how it matters to the success of particular performances of marine spatial planning.
Examining adults’ participant roles in cyberbullying
Authors: Betts Lucy R. , Baguley Thom , Gardner Sarah E.
Published: January 2019

Adults’ participant roles in cyberbullying remain unclear. Two hundred and sixty-four (163 female and 87 male) 18- to 74-year-olds from 31 countries completed measures to assess their experiences of, and engagement in, 5 cyberbullying types for up to 9 media. Cluster analysis identified two distinct groups: rarely victim and bully (85%) and frequently victim and occasional bully. Sex and age predicted group membership: Females and older participants were more likely to belong to the rarely victim and bully group, whereas males and younger participants were more likely to belong to the frequently victim and occasional bully group. The findings have implications for anti-cyberbullying interventions and how behaviors are interpreted online.
Effects of the combination of metformin and exercise on glycated hemoglobin, functional capacity, lipid profile, quality of life, and body weight
Authors: Eltonsy Sherif , Dufour Doiron Monique , Simard Patrice , Jose Caroline , Sénéchal Martin , Bouchard Danielle R. , LeBlanc Rémi , Bélanger Mathieu
Published: January 2019

Objective

To evaluate the impact of the combination of metformin and exercise on changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), functional capacity, the lipid profile, quality of life, and weight.

Methods

Data from a 12-week cardiovascular rehabilitation program (2014–2016) were retrospectively evaluated. Metformin exposure was determined through recorded prescriptions, and average minutes of exercise per week were computed from exercise logs. The primary outcomes were changes in HbA1c and functional capacity (6-minute walk test [6MWT]) over 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes were changes in the lipid profile, quality of life, and weight. Directed acyclic graphs were used to identify potential confounders, accounted for with multiple linear regression.

Results

The cohort comprised 403 patients (85 metformin users, 318 non-users). The average amount of exercise was 102.7±48.7 minutes/week among metformin users and 107.7±58.1 minutes/week among non-users. Although changes in HbA1c were similar for both groups, the coefficient for the metformin–exercise interaction indicated significantly greater improvements in the 6MWT among metformin users. There were no between-group differences in any secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

The combination of metformin and exercise led to greater gains in functional capacity than exercise alone. This combination did not appear to influence the effects of either treatment on other outcomes.
The Effect of Assistance on Learning and Affect in an Algebra Tutor
Authors: Borracci Giuliana , Gauthier Erica , Jennings Jay , Sale Kyle , Muldner Kasia
Published: January 2019

We investigated the impact of assistance on learning and affect during problem-solving activities with a computer tutor we built using the Cognitive Tutor Authoring Tools framework. The tutor delivered its primary form of assistance in the form of worked-out examples. We manipulated the level of assistance the examples in the tutor provided, by having similar problem-example pairs in one version of the tutor (high-assistance condition) and reduced similarity problem-example pairs in the other version (reduced-assistance condition). The reduced-assistance condition resulted in significantly higher learning, without increasing negative affect like frustration.