bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Tablet Computer Application (App) in Helping Students with Visual Impairments Solve Mathematics Problems
Authors: Beal Carole R. , Rosenblum L. Penny 
Published: December 2018

Introduction The authors examined a tablet computer application (iPad app) for its effectiveness in helping students studying pre-algebra to solve mathematical word problems. Methods Forty-three visually impaired students (that is, those who are blind or have low vision) completed eight alternating mathematics units presented using their traditional literacy medium or an iPad app. Twenty percent of the mathematics problems included graphics such as maps, line graphs, and bar graphs. During each session, teachers of visually impaired students rated the amount of support they provided for students and the student motivation. Results Students answered more mathematics problems correctly when using the iPad app and, overall, teachers reported that their students were more motivated with the app than with their traditional literacy medium. Students often used the hints provided in the app when they did not solve a problem correctly the first time. Discussion Visually impaired students and their teachers found the app and graphics to be easy to use and motivating. The built-in Scratch pad was used by almost all students who were print users. Implications for practitioners The study results contribute to the growing body of knowledge about the potential value of tablet-type devices for use by visually impaired students.
VoIP Accessibility: A Usability Study of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Systems and a Survey of VoIP Users with Vision Loss
Authors: Packer Jaclyn , Reuschel William 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Accessibility of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems was tested with a hands-on usability study and an online survey of VoIP users who are visually impaired. The survey examined the importance of common VoIP features, and both methods assessed difficulty in using those features. Methods The usability test included four paid participants who are blind and four who have low vision. Four different tasks using four different VoIP systems (two Windows-based, two iOS-based) were presented in random order. The online survey included participants with prior VoIP experience: 50 individuals who were blind and 22 who have low vision. Results Usability test participants found that receiving an incoming call was the easiest task and transferring a call was the most difficult. Those with previous iOS experience had a large advantage with the two iOS systems over those with little experience. For the online survey, most respondents (81%) had used VoIP at home for personal use and 49% had used it in their workplace. The caller ID feature was most important to participants, yet only slightly more than half found the feature easy to use; this feature was the most discrepant between importance and ease of use (p < .01). Call management was the most difficult feature for respondents. Generally, those with low vision found features to be more accessible than did those who are blind. Discussion Almost, all usability study participants reported that they could use all four systems in a real-world setting. Although some of the features were readily usable, many of the VoIP features that respondents to the online survey considered to be important were difficult for them to use. This finding indicates a serious gap between what is presently offered and what is needed for true accessibility by those with vision loss, indicating the necessity of adding accessible features to all VoIP systems. Implications for practitioners Rehabilitation staff members and teachers of young adults with vision loss should become familiar with current VoIP systems and introduce them to their clients and students in order to increase their future prospects for employment.
Drivers with Low Vision: Characteristics and Transportation Issues
Authors: Crudden Adele , Steverson Anne C. , Cmar Jennifer L. 
Published: December 2018

Introduction This study provides descriptive information about drivers with low vision and transportation issues, including their own self-imposed driving restrictions. Methods An electronic survey administered online in late 2013 to early 2014 obtained data from 592 adults with visual impairments. Of those, 17 had a valid driver's license. These 17 provided information about their employment, activity limitations, public transportation use, services received, and transportation self-efficacy. Results Approximately half of the low vision drivers were employed. Most had not received vocational rehabilitation or orientation and mobility (O&M) services. Most drivers limited their night driving and over 70% noted that transportation problems limited their participation in entertainment or leisure activities. Most drivers had access to public transportation, but did not frequently use it. Drivers were generally confident in their ability to perform transportation- related tasks, although overall, drivers using bioptic devices tended to be more confident. Drivers who did not use bioptic devices were least confident in arranging a fair price for daily transportation to work with a driver. Discussion Drivers with low vision who limit their activities and employment due to transportation issues may not be receiving the vocational rehabilitation or O&M services that could help them compensate for these limitations. Further research examining the behaviors and service needs of low vision drivers is indicated, particularly for younger drivers. Study limitations include the small sample size, non-probability sampling method, and electronic data collection. Implications for practitioners Low vision drivers may benefit from evaluation by O&M specialists and vocational rehabilitation providers to determine if additional services are needed. Persons with low vision should be informed about evaluation for bioptic devices, and vocational rehabilitation providers should network with bioptic providers and other professionals to obtain referrals of persons with low vision who are not yet vocational rehabilitation recipients.
Intercountry Adoption of Children with Visual Impairments: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Conroy Paula Wenner 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Although there is much research related to the adoption of children with disabilities in general, there is none that focuses specifically on the experiences of parents who have adopted children with visual impairments (that is, who are blind or have low vision) from outside of the United States (also called “intercountry” or “international” adoption). Methods Fifteen parents of children who were adopted from outside the United States and had visual impairments were interviewed in this exploratory study. The participants all lived in the United States following the adoptions and volunteered to participate in this study in 2015. Research questions focusing on pre-adoption (why and who), challenges, and supports framed the open-ended interviews. The interviews were transcribed and themes emerged through the process of coding. Results Parents shared their personal experiences through interviews. All 15 parents had similarities in the process of adoption. Parents adopted in order to begin or enlarge their families, but did not necessarily go into the process desiring to adopt a child with a visual impairment. Challenges were experienced in the areas of medical, educational, and social-emotional needs. Parents agreed that supports were necessary before, during, and after the adoption process. Discussion The need for supports throughout the entire process of inter-country adoption of a child with a visual impairment was made clear through this study. Adoption agencies and agencies for visually impaired individuals are in a good position to set up support networks and mentorship programs. Implications for practitioners This study only scratches the surface of the topic of intercountry adoption of children with visual impairments. By sharing experiences, attention can be given to issues, and systems can be put into place to better support families in raising internationally adopted children with visual impairments.
Participant Experiences in an Employment Mentoring Program for College Students with Visual Impairments
Authors: Antonelli Karla , O'Mally Jamie , Steverson Anne 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Mentors can help college graduates with visual impairments (that is, those with blindness or low vision) prepare for and seek employment in their chosen fields by serving as role models and sharing their experiences with mentees. Identifying mentoring activities and discussions most valued by mentees with visual impairments will facilitate the design of future mentoring programs. Methods A nationwide mentoring program for college students with legal blindness was implemented using an experimental longitudinal research design. Career mentors with legal blindness worked with mentees to develop knowledge and skills related to securing employment. Data included engagement in job-seeking activities, most helpful aspects of the mentoring relationship, and a participant evaluation of the program. Results Most mentees indicated that program activities and discussions related to visual impairment (for instance, disclosure and accommodation planning) and field-specific issues (such as career exploration and professional development) were of greatest value. Participants evaluated the program positively. Discussion Mentees valued knowledge, support, encouragement, and career guidance provided by mentors. Mentors valued the opportunity to contribute to the growth of young professionals with visual impairments. Implications for practitioners Students with visual impairments find value in specific aspects of mentoring relationships, and mentors are eager to work with students seeking employment. Topics and activities for future mentoring programs should include disclosure, accommodations, blindness skills, and job-search skills. Level of visual impairment and the career field should both be considered when pairing mentors with students with visual impairments preparing for employment.
First-Line Therapies for VTE Treatment and Secondary Prophylaxis in Patients With Cancer: A New Direction
Authors: Vogel Samantha M. , Smith Leticia V. , Peterson Evan J. 
Published: December 2018

Objective: To review evidence behind anticoagulants in cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) with a focus on low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH) and the role of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Data Sources: PubMed was searched using terms “venous thromboembolism,” “cancer,” and “anticoagulation.” This search was restricted to clinical trials, meta-analyses, and subgroup analyses. Additional references were identified from reviewing literature citations. Study Selection: English-language prospective and retrospective studies assessing the efficacy and safety of LMWH and DOACs in patients with cancer. Data Analysis: Several trials were analyzed that compared anticoagulation therapies for prevention of recurrent VTE in patients with cancer. Many studies comparing LMWH and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) found nonsignificant differences between therapies. A single study demonstrated that LMWHs are superior to VKAs. This evidence supporting LMWH for long-term VTE treatment in patients with cancer is based on comparison to VKA, but results are limited by methodological issues, and the benefit of LMWH may be driven by poor control. Subanalyses of DOAC trials suggest these are equally or more effective as VKA in cancer, but this conclusion is underpowered. Conclusion: DOACs have the potential to bypass many challenges with traditional therapy. After analyzing the evidence available, we conclude that after careful consideration of risks and benefits, use of DOACs for VTE treatment are a reasonable option in patients with cancer.
Test sensitivity of mammography and mean sojourn time over 40 years of breast cancer screening in Nijmegen (The Netherlands)
Authors: Aarts AMWM , Duffy SW , Geurts SME , Vulkan DP , Otten JDM , Hsu C-Y , Chen THH , Verbeek ALM , Broeders MJM 
Published: December 2018

Objectives We investigated whether changes in mammographic technique and screening policy have improved mammographic sensitivity, and elongated the mean sojourn time, since the introduction of biennial breast cancer screening in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, in 1975. Methods Maximum likelihood estimation, non-linear regression, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation were used to estimate test sensitivity, mean sojourn time, and underlying breast cancer incidence in four time periods, covering 40 years of breast cancer screening in Nijmegen (1975–2012). Results Maximum likelihood estimation generated an estimated test sensitivity of approximately 90% and a mean sojourn time around three years, while the estimates based on non-linear regression and Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation were 80% and four years, respectively. All three methods estimated a rise in the underlying breast cancer incidence over time, with approximately one case more per 1000 women per year in the final period compared with the first period. Conclusions The three methods showed a slightly higher mammographic sensitivity and a longer mean sojourn time in the last period, after the introduction of digital mammography. Estimates were more realistic for the more sophisticated methods, non-linear regression and Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation, while the simple closed form approximation of maximum likelihood estimation led to rather high estimates for sensitivity in the early periods.
A decade of speculation
Authors: Chandrasekhar CP , Ghosh Jayati 
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe power of finance ensured that, other than for an initial fiscal push to salvage financial institutions, monetary measures in the form of quantitative easing, involving the infusion of large volumes of cheap liquidity, were the principal response to the 2008 global financial crisis. The effects of the generalised and prolonged dependence on such measures have been a substantial increase in vulnerability, at the centre of which is a huge build-up of private – especially corporate – debt, and unwarranted and unsustainable asset price inflation in both developed country and ‘emerging economy’ markets. A consequence of these processes is a massive increase in income and wealth inequality across the world, which limits the level of effective demand and growth.
Salvage or Solution: Alloplastic Reconstruction in Hemifacial Microsomia
Authors: Polley John W. , Girotto John A. , Fahrenkopf Matthew P. , Dietze-Fiedler Megan L. , Kelley Joshua P. , Taylor Joseph C. , Lazarou Spiros A. , Demetriades Neophytos C. 
Published: December 2018

Introduction:Skeletal reconstruction in severe grades of hemifacial microsomia (HFM) continues to be challenging. Traditional techniques of autografts and osseous distraction for reconstruction of the glenoid fossa, condyle, and ramus can fall short of expectations and can create new problems. This intercontinental study analyzes the role of alloplastic skeletal rehabilitation in severe HFM.Methods:Ten consecutive patients with Pruzansky grade III HFM were reconstructed between October 2014 and July 2017 at 2 craniofacial centers following the same protocol. Data were gathered retrospectively from the medical records, including photographs and virtual planning records. Pre and postoperative photos were taken to compare occlusal status, interincisal opening, sagittal mandibular projection, and posterior facial height. Alloplastic reconstruction was accomplished using a custom designed titanium implant.Results:Ten consecutive skeletally mature patients with HFM with failed traditional reconstructions were successfully treated with virtually planned alloplastic reconstructions (11 joints) and simultaneous orthognathic surgery. The glenoid fossa, condyle, and ramus on the affected sides were reconstructed with custom designed titanium implants. All patients achieved occlusal stabilization, normalization of posterior facial height and sagittal mandibular projection, and maintenance or improved inter-incisal opening. There were no major complications or repeated surgeries. Follow-up ranges from 6 to 50 months.Conclusion:Alloplastic reconstruction allows for precise vertical reconstruction of the ramus and condyle and sagittal repositioning of the mandibular body. The glenoid fossa component is firmly anchored to the skull base assuring a stable centric relation on the reconstructed side. Consistent and acceptable results can be achieved in skeletally mature patients.
Remodeling of Rectal Innervation After Pullthrough Surgery for Hirschsprung Disease: Relevance to Criteria for the Determination of Retained Transition Zone
Authors: Kapur Raj P , Arnold Michael A , Conces Miriam R , Ambartsumyan Lusine , Avansino Jeffrey , Levitt Marc , Wood Richard , Mast Kelley J 
Published: December 2018

Background After pullthrough surgery for Hirschsprung disease (HSCR), Glut1-positive submucosal nerve hypertrophy is used to diagnose retained transition zone in the neorectum. We hypothesized that pelvic nerves, severed during pullthrough surgery, sprout into the neorectum to mimic transition zone. Methods The density (nerves/100x field) and maximum diameter of Glut1-positive submucosal nerves were measured in biopsies and redo resections from 20 patients with post-pullthrough obstructive symptoms. Their original and/or redo resections excluded unequivocal features of transition zone (myenteric hypoganglionosis or partial circumferential aganglionosis) in 17. Postoperative values were compared with control data from 28 cadaveric and 6 surgical non-HSCR specimens, and 14 primary HSCR resections. When possible, nerves were tracked from attached native pelvic soft tissue or aganglionic rectal cuff into the pulled-through colon. Results Glut1-positive submucosal nerves were not present in the 11 colons of non-HSCR infants less than 1 year of age, except sparsely in the rectum. In 17 older non-HSCR controls, occasional Glut1-positive nerves were observed in prerectal colon and were larger and more numerous in the rectum. In redo resections, Glut1-positive submucosal innervation in post-pullthrough specimens did not differ significantly from age-appropriate non-HSCR rectal controls and pelvic Glut1-positive nerves were never observed to penetrate the pulled-through colon. However, the density and caliber of Glut1-positive nerves in the neorectums were significantly greater than expected based on the prerectal location from which the pulled-through bowel originated. Conclusions Submucosal innervation in post-pullthrough specimens does not support the hypothesis that native pelvic nerves innervate the neorectum, but suggests remodeling occurs to establish the age-appropriate density and caliber of rectal Glut1-positive innervation. The latter should not be interpreted as transition zone pullthrough in a rectal biopsy from a previously done pullthrough.
Breaking bad and difficult news in obstetric ultrasound and sonographer burnout: Is training helpful?
Authors: Johnson Judith , Arezina Jane , McGuinness Alison , Culpan Anne-Marie , Hall Louise 
Published: December 2018

Background Sonographers report high levels of burnout. For those working in obstetric ultrasound, one frequently cited stressor is the delivery of bad or difficult news. Training in news delivery may reduce sonographer stress levels, but no studies have investigated sonographer experiences of this training. Aims To investigate sonographer experiences of difficult news delivery training and preferences for training techniques, and to assess whether news delivery training is associated with lower burnout and higher wellbeing. Methods A cross-sectional survey measured occupational characteristics, news delivery training experiences and preferences, burnout (on two dimensions of exhaustion and disengagement), and general mental wellbeing. Results Ninety sonographers (85 female; mean age = 47) responded. The majority of participants thought training in difficult news delivery had improved their practice. Preferred training techniques were observation of clinical practice and receiving service-user input. Eighty per cent of participants were experiencing exhaustion, 43.3% were experiencing disengagement and 88.9% could be classed as having a minor psychiatric disorder. Having received difficult news delivery training was associated with lower levels of disengagement, even when other variables were controlled for. Discussion News delivery training is perceived to be effective by sonographers and may help to reduce sonographer burnout levels.
The BODE index and inspiratory muscle performance in COPD: Clinical findings and implications
Authors: Formiga Magno F , Vital Isabel , Urdaneta Gisel , Balestrini Kira , Cahalin Lawrence P , Campos Michael A 
Published: December 2018

Objectives: The Test of Incremental Respiratory Endurance is a novel testing method that provides a unique examination of one’s inspiratory muscle strength, work and endurance. Little is known about the relationship between inspiratory muscle performance and mortality risk in obstructive lung disease. We examined the relationship between the Test of Incremental Respiratory Endurance measures and the Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise index in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Methods: In all, 70 males with mild-to-very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (mean ± standard deviation of 70.2 ± 5.9 years) underwent measurements of body-mass index, spirometry, dyspnea and a 6-min walk test from which the Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise score was calculated. The Test of Incremental Respiratory Endurance provided measures of maximal inspiratory pressure, sustained maximal inspiratory pressure and inspiratory duration. Results: All Test of Incremental Respiratory Endurance parameters inversely correlated with the Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise score: maximal inspiratory pressure (r = −0.355, p = 0.00), sustained maximal inspiratory pressure (r = −0.426, p = 0.00) and ID (r = −0.278, p = 0.02), with sustained maximal inspiratory pressure displaying the highest correlation. Independent significant correlations were also observed between the sustained maximal inspiratory pressure and all Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise score components, except for body-mass index. Finally, sustained maximal inspiratory pressure was significantly different among the Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise index quartiles. Discussion: The significant association between the Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise score and inspiratory muscle performance, in particular sustained maximal inspiratory pressure, suggests that these measures may have a potential prognostic value in the evaluation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Médialab stories: How to align actor network theory and digital methods
Authors: Boullier Dominique 
Published: December 2018

The history of laboratories may become controversial in social sciences. In this paper, the story of Sciences Po Médialab told by Venturini et al. is discussed and completed by demonstrating the incoherence in the choice of digital methods at the Médialab from the actor network theory perspective. As the Médialab mostly used web topologies as structural analysis of social positions, they were not able to account for the propagation of ideas, considered in actor network theory as non-humans that have their own agency. The main arguments in favour of the ‘more continuous social’ developed at the Médialab (quali-quanti, following the actors, zooming) proved to be as misleading as the network metaphor. The distribution of agency that actor network theory so successfully expands was paradoxicallty reduced to structures and individual preferences, to the detriment of the agency of replications that circulate entities in the form of messages, content or memes, and that should now become the next step for actor network theory-style digital methods.