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Culter Harris K, Frick Semmler BJ, Anderson S, Mance E, Stojkov A, Metzler S, DiGiovine CP. Innovative solutions to support individuals with disabilities accessing public transportation: a case study. Assist Technol 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38381134 DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2024.2305977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals with cognitive disabilities have challenges with personal navigation and wayfinding, especially when traveling on public transportation. The purpose of this case study is to describe the structure and implementation of the Personal Navigation for Individuals with Disabilities (PNID) education and training program, which is based on a socio-technical architecture for individuals with cognitive disabilities within a fixed-route public bus system. A case study methodology was used to describe preliminary findings of the skills, attributes, and experiences of three individuals with cognitive disabilities as it relates to transportation on fixed-route bus systems in a midsized urban setting. The three individuals completed five training activities: safety, public bus, smartphone, WayFinder App, and fixed-route bus system. The case study provided a preliminary mixed-methods overview of training travelers with cognitive disabilities to use the WayFinder system while accessing fixed-route public bus system. The insights and strategies identified through the case study demonstrate the potential opportunities for development, implementation, and sustainability of the PNID program in other midsized urban settings. The PNID program (i.e. AT service delivery process), in combination with the WayFinder system (i.e. assistive technology), has the potential to meet the unique needs of individuals with cognitive disabilities when accessing public transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaetlyn Culter Harris
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Science, Occupational Therapy Division, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Ohio Health Rehabilitation Hospital Therapy Department, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Bethany J Frick Semmler
- Department of Speech and Hearing Science, College of Arts and Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Anderson
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Science, Occupational Therapy Division, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mance
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Science, Occupational Therapy Division, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ashley Stojkov
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions, Physician Assistant Program, Shreveport, Louisiana, USA
| | - Sandra Metzler
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Carmen P DiGiovine
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Science, Occupational Therapy Division, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Assistive Technology Center, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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2
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Scavarda A. The shame-blame complex of parents with cognitively disabled children in Italy. Sociol Health Illn 2024. [PMID: 38165697 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
This article aims to advance knowledge related to the concept of the 'shame-blame complex' by analysing the accounts and experiences of parents with cognitively disabled children. It draws on 29 interviews with parents of children with Down syndrome and shadowing sessions with one family, carried out in Italy. Results show how the feeling of shame as a consequence of being associated with a disabled child is turned into blame for bad parenting. The sources of this blaming process are twofold: firstly, neoliberalism has disseminated an intensive parenting model based on the imperative of individual responsibility and risk avoidance. Secondly, ableism acts as a network of processes and beliefs that produce a particular kind of self and body as the perfect and complete human being. Participants have been held responsible for their children's condition because they avoided prenatal screening or continued a pregnancy after receiving a positive result. Consequently, parents' moral culpability for their children's diversity and their social marginalisation were enhanced. Although the interviewees resist the shame of being associated with a cognitively disabled child and the blame for bad parenting, they seem unable to escape from the grips of the shame-blame complex. The latter has structural and cultural underpinnings. In an age of 'neoliberal-ableism', this complex is indeed a powerful weapon to erode the rights of families with cognitively disabled members.
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Then SN, Chesterman J, Matsuyama Y. Supporting the Involvement of Adults with Cognitive Disabilities in Research: The Need for Reform. J Law Med 2023; 30:459-471. [PMID: 38303624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
This article examines current legal and ethical requirements concerning research about adults with cognitive disabilities. These requirements, the article argues, are complex, difficult to navigate, and inevitably act as a disincentive for research to be conducted. These requirements also do little to encourage active involvement by adults with cognitive disabilities in deciding whether to participate in research. The article argues that reforms are needed for State and Territory laws to require, wherever possible, adults to be supported to make their own decisions about research participation. State and Territory law reform is also required to clarify when, and on what basis, others may be appointed to make research participation decisions on behalf of adults with cognitive disabilities. The article concludes by seeking complementary reform of the National Health and Medical Research Council National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research, which would result in it being more human rights compliant and simpler to apply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Ning Then
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland
| | | | - Yuu Matsuyama
- Office of the Queensland Public Advocate, Brisbane, Queensland
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4
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Cañete R, Peralta E. Assistive Technology to Improve Collaboration in Children with ASD: State-of-the-Art and Future Challenges in the Smart Products Sector. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:8321. [PMID: 36366019 PMCID: PMC9653791 DOI: 10.3390/s22218321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Within the field of products for autism spectrum disorder, one of the main research areas is focused on the development of assistive technology. Mid and high-tech products integrate interactive and smart functions with multisensory reinforcements, making the user experience more intuitive, adaptable, and dynamic. These products have a very significant impact on improving the skills of children with autism, including collaboration and social skills, which are essential for the integration of these children into society and, therefore, their well-being. This work carried out an exhaustive analysis of the scientific literature, as well as market research and trends, and patent analysis to explore the state-of-the-art of assistive technology and smart products for children with ASD, specifically those aimed at improving social and communication skills. The results show a reduced availability of products that act as facilitators of the special needs of children with ASD, which is even more evident for products aimed at improving collaboration skills. Products that allow the participation of several users simultaneously through multi-user interfaces are required. On top of this, the trend toward virtual environments is leading to a loss of material aspects in the design that are essential for the development of these children.
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5
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Steinbart D, Gaus V, Kowski AB, Holtkamp M. Valproic acid use in fertile women with genetic generalized epilepsies. Acta Neurol Scand 2021; 144:288-295. [PMID: 33977526 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In genetic generalized epilepsies (GGE), valproic acid (VPA) is the most efficacious compound. However, due to teratogenicity and increased risk for impaired cognitive development after intrauterine exposure, its use in women of fertile age is strictly regulated but sometimes unavoidable. METHODS All patients with GGE treated at the outpatient clinic of a tertiary epilepsy center with at least one visit between January 2015 and April 2020 were included in this retrospective study. The rate of women aged 18 to 49 years taking VPA was compared to that of men of the same age group and to women > 49 years. Furthermore, in each group, clinical variables associated with VPA use were sought. RESULTS Twenty-eight out of 125 women of fertile age (22%) were treated with VPA, compared to 28 out of 56 men ≤ 49 years (50%; p = .002) and to 22 out of 40 female patients > 49 years (55%; p < .001). VPA dose was lower in fertile women compared to men, with no difference in seizure freedom rates. In women ≤ 49 years, multivariate analysis demonstrated age as the only variable independently associated with VPA use (OR 1.095; 95% CI 1.036-1.159). In the other two groups, no associated variables were identified. CONCLUSIONS Despite warnings with respect to teratogenicity and impaired cognitive development with VPA, from 2015 to 2020, almost every fourth women of fertile age with GGE received this compound. Inevitably lower VPA doses in these women seem sufficient for favorable seizure freedom rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Steinbart
- Department of Neurology Epilepsy‐Center Berlin‐Brandenburg Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Verena Gaus
- Department of Neurology Epilepsy‐Center Berlin‐Brandenburg Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Alexander B. Kowski
- Department of Neurology Epilepsy‐Center Berlin‐Brandenburg Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Martin Holtkamp
- Department of Neurology Epilepsy‐Center Berlin‐Brandenburg Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
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6
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Rocheleau JN, Chalghoumi H, Jutai J, Farrell S, Lachapelle Y, Cobigo V. Caregivers' Role in Cybersecurity for Aging Information Technology Users with Intellectual Disability. Cyberpsychol Behav Soc Netw 2021; 24:624-629. [PMID: 34182769 DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2020.0572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Information technology (IT) users with intellectual disability (ID) are likely to experience online privacy violations without adequate support from their caregivers. Given that aging users face additional challenges when using IT than their younger counterparts, the goal of this exploratory study is to investigate caregivers' strategies and barriers for helping to protect the privacy of aging IT users with ID. Six caregivers (four paid caregivers, two family members) of aging users with ID completed a series of six focus groups about their experiences assisting the people they support with using IT, including their strategies and barriers for helping to protect these users' privacy. Participants were also asked about their own attitudes and experiences related to online privacy and information security. Based on our inductive thematic analysis of the qualitative data, participants used three main strategies to help protect the privacy of aging users with ID: (1) restricting access to personal information, (2) limiting disclosure of personal details, and (3) providing just-in-time instruction and feedback. We also identified four key barriers to privacy protection: (1) limited awareness and knowledge about information security, (2) balancing privacy and autonomy, (3) maintaining professional boundaries, and (4) residential care services' policies. Inclusive and transdisciplinary research is needed to address the elevated privacy and security risks for aging IT users with ID, and provide caregivers with training on how to support this population to use IT safely. Technology developers should create solutions to decrease aging users with ID's dependence on caregivers for privacy protection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeffrey Jutai
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences and LIFE Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Yves Lachapelle
- Département de Psychoéducation, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Virginie Cobigo
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,Centre for Research on Education and Community Services, Ottawa, Canada
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Parrini M, Naskar S, Alberti M, Colombi I, Morelli G, Rocchi A, Nanni M, Piccardi F, Charles S, Ronzitti G, Mingozzi F, Contestabile A, Cancedda L. Restoring neuronal chloride homeostasis with anti-NKCC1 gene therapy rescues cognitive deficits in a mouse model of Down syndrome. Mol Ther 2021; 29:3072-3092. [PMID: 34058387 PMCID: PMC8531145 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A common feature of diverse brain disorders is the alteration of GABA-mediated inhibition because of aberrant, intracellular chloride homeostasis induced by changes in the expression and/or function of chloride transporters. Notably, pharmacological inhibition of the chloride importer NKCC1 is able to rescue brain-related core deficits in animal models of these pathologies and in some human clinical studies. Here, we show that reducing NKCC1 expression by RNA interference in the Ts65Dn mouse model of Down syndrome (DS) restores intracellular chloride concentration, efficacy of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated inhibition, and neuronal network dynamics in vitro and ex vivo. Importantly, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated, neuron-specific NKCC1 knockdown in vivo rescues cognitive deficits in diverse behavioral tasks in Ts65Dn animals. Our results highlight a mechanistic link between NKCC1 expression and behavioral abnormalities in DS mice and establish a molecular target for new therapeutic approaches, including gene therapy, to treat brain disorders characterized by neuronal chloride imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Parrini
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Shovan Naskar
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Micol Alberti
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Ilaria Colombi
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morelli
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Rocchi
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genoa, Italy; IRCSS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Marina Nanni
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Federica Piccardi
- Animal Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Severine Charles
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France; Paris-Saclay University, University Evry, Inserm, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Giuseppe Ronzitti
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France; Paris-Saclay University, University Evry, Inserm, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Federico Mingozzi
- Genethon, 91000 Evry, France; Paris-Saclay University, University Evry, Inserm, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000 Evry, France
| | - Andrea Contestabile
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Brain Development and Disease Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy; Dulbecco Telethon Institute, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to identify an architectural design framework that can be applied to create adaptable, transformative therapy rooms that benefit children with autism and their therapists. BACKGROUND Previous research suggests that environment shapes and influences human behavior. However, there remains a lack of evidence of effective design for pediatric rehabilitation therapy rooms. This study specifically focuses on how the design of the therapy room influences the patient's level of comfort and participation as well as the therapists' quality and efficiency of treatment to improve the overall therapeutic experience. METHOD Two different surveys were conducted to improve the design of a therapeutic room based on professional therapist experiences. A grounded theory approach was employed to identify specific codes and categories. RESULTS The result of this study is an architectural framework based on specific design tenets and their properties that not only can be utilized by architects and interior designers for building a new therapy center but could also be used for remodeling existing therapy rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Norouzi
- The 12346University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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9
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Cobigo V, Czechowski K, Chalghoumi H, Gauthier-Beaupre A, Assal H, Jutai J, Kobayashi K, Grenier A, Bah F. Protecting the privacy of technology users who have cognitive disabilities: Identifying areas for improvement and targets for change. J Rehabil Assist Technol Eng 2020; 7:2055668320950195. [PMID: 33062296 DOI: 10.1177/2055668320950195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Information Technologies (IT) may serve assistive roles that facilitate the interaction of people living with cognitive disabilities (CD) within their environments. However, there are some notable concerns related to privacy threats associated with the use of IT. The purpose of this study was to examine how assistive technology developers may best adapt over time to develop their IT to be resilient against threats to privacy. We therefore focused on the following areas: (1) developers' knowledge and practices related to privacy protection; (2) challenges when applying recommended practices, and; (3) preferred channels to acquire knowledge. Method We conducted semi-structured interviews with ten technology developers who are members of the AGE-WELL network undertaking research and development of assistive technologies to be used by people who have cognitive disabilities. We used an inductive-deductive method for the analysis of qualitative data to examine participant responses and generate themes related to the study goals. Results Principal themes that emerged from the data include practices specific to populations with CD, challenges to obtaining consent to use of information, and preferred channels to acquire knowledge. Conclusion We identify areas of focus for developing a knowledge mobilization strategy to improve relevant policies and practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Cobigo
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Hajer Chalghoumi
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Hala Assal
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeffery Jutai
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Kobayashi
- Department of Sociology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amanda Grenier
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Baycrest Hopsital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fatoumata Bah
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Lavian RH. "See the half-filled glass and move forward" parental experience of a single mother of two daughters with cognitive disabilities. AIMS Public Health 2018; 5:64-88. [PMID: 30083570 PMCID: PMC6070461 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2018.1.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research is to give voice to a single mother of two grown up daughters with cognitive disabilities in order to examine her parental experience. The narrative approach is used in this study. The research tool is an in-depth narrative interview. The interview was recorded and transcribed and the findings divided into key themes that were analyzed in a holistic fashion combining formative and content related aspects. The research finds that this special type of parenting is complex and full of challenges. The mother adapted ways of coping that helped her on her parental journey. Her means of coping were cognitively produced and focused on emotions, with three guiding principles throughout: Seeing the glass as half full, relating to her daughters as normal and the desire to look after her daughters herself and not move them to an external framework. It appears that her optimistic personality influenced her positive parenting style. The research also found that support provided by nuclear family contributed to reinforcing the mother's internal resources and enabled her to maintain a balance between caring for her daughters and developing a personal life and even a new relationship. We hope that insights from this study will enable educational and professional staff to provide appropriate and effective support to mothers of children with cognitive disabilities and consequently create a platform for fruitful and effective collaborations between them and educational and welfare institutions as well as framework that accompany their children after their school years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rivka Hillel Lavian
- Head of M.Ed, Special Education Program, Levinsky College of Education and Inbal Ben Haim, M.Ed
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11
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Abstract
AIM This study aims to recognize and estimate the prevalence of depression and its risk factors among residents of assisted living facilities (ALs) in Jordan. BACKGROUND Depression is commonly experienced by residents of ALs. The condition is, however, often misunderstood as a part of normal aging and may be overlooked by health care professionals. Little is known about the extent of depression and its risk factors among AL residents in Jordan. SUBJECTS AND METHODS A national representative sample of 221 residents selected from all AL units across Jordan was recruited to the study. Data on expected risk factors for depression were collected, including sociodemographics; smoking status; number of roommates; number of family members; assessments for cognitive functioning, for lower limb functioning, for hand, shoulder, and arm impairments; and oral health status. Levels of depression among the sample respondents were also assessed. RESULTS The study found that around 60% of the participants reported depressive manifestations, with 48.0% of AL residents exhibiting impaired cognitive functions, one-third (33.2%) having >50% upper limb disability, two-thirds (63.2%) being at moderate risk of falls, and 69.7% having fair to poor oral health status. Being female, and having a higher level of education, disability of the upper limbs, and impairment of cognitive functions were found to be independent risk factors for depression in participants. CONCLUSION Depression is relatively common among residents of AL units in Jordan. Health care professionals, nurses, physiotherapists, and dentists working in these facilities need to work cooperatively to identify the manifestations of depression in residents and collaboratively implement the best practice in the treatment of depression and circumvent its long-term impacts on the health of residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidaa M Almomani
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Wegdan Bani-issa
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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12
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Torrado JC, Gomez J, Montoro G. Emotional Self-Regulation of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Smartwatches for Monitoring and Interaction. Sensors (Basel) 2017; 17:s17061359. [PMID: 28604607 PMCID: PMC5492838 DOI: 10.3390/s17061359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, we analyze the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to have a pervasive, feasible and non-stigmatizing form of assistance in their emotional self-regulation, in order to ease certain behavioral issues that undermine their mental health throughout their life. We argue the potential of recent widespread wearables, and more specifically smartwatches, to achieve this goal. Then, a smartwatch system that implements a wide range of self-regulation strategies and infers outburst patterns from physiological signals and movement is presented, along with an authoring tool for smartphones that is to be used by caregivers or family members to create and edit these strategies, in an adaptive way. We conducted an intensive experiment with two individuals with ASD who showed varied, representative behavioral responses to their emotional dysregulation. Both users were able to employ effective, customized emotional self-regulation strategies by means of the system, recovering from the majority of mild stress episodes and temper tantrums experienced in the nine days of experiment in their classroom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan C Torrado
- Department of Computer Engineering, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain.
| | - Javier Gomez
- Department of Computer Engineering, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain.
| | - Germán Montoro
- Department of Computer Engineering, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain.
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13
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Rico-Olarte C, López DM, Blobel B, Kepplinger S. User Experience Evaluations in Rehabilitation Video Games for Children: A Systematic Mapping of the Literature. Stud Health Technol Inform 2017; 243:13-17. [PMID: 28883160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, the interest in user experience (UX) evaluation methods for assessing technology solutions, especially in health systems for children with special needs like cognitive disabilities, has increased. OBJECTIVE Conduct a systematic mapping study to provide an overview in the field of UX evaluations in rehabilitation video games for children. METHODS The definition of research questions, the search for primary studies and the extraction of those studies by inclusion and exclusion criteria lead to the mapping of primary papers according to a classification scheme. RESULTS Main findings from this study include the detection of the target population of the selected studies, the recognition of two different ways of evaluating UX: (i) user evaluation and (ii) system evaluation, and UX measurements and devices used. CONCLUSIONS This systematic mapping specifies the research gaps identified for future research works in the area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diego M López
- Telematics Engineering Research Group, University of Cauca, Colombia
| | - Bernd Blobel
- eHealth Competence Center Bavaria, Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Germany
| | - Sara Kepplinger
- Human-centered Media Technologies (HMT), Fraunhofer IDMT, Germany
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14
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Johnson E, Hervás R, Gutiérrez López de la Franca C, Mondéjar T, Ochoa SF, Favela J. Assessing empathy and managing emotions through interactions with an affective avatar. Health Informatics J 2016; 24:182-193. [PMID: 27694616 DOI: 10.1177/1460458216661864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Assistive technologies can improve the quality of life of people diagnosed with different forms of social communication disorders. We report on the design and evaluation of an affective avatar aimed at engaging the user in a social interaction with the purpose of assisting in communication therapies. A human-avatar taxonomy is proposed to assist the design of affective avatars aimed at addressing social communication disorder. The avatar was evaluated with 30 subjects to assess how effectively it conveys the desired emotion and elicits empathy from the user. Results provide evidence that users become used to the avatar after a number of interactions, and they perceive the defined behavior as being logical. The users' interactions with the avatar entail affective reactions, including the mimic emotions that users felt, and establish a preliminary ground truth about prototypic empathic interactions with avatars that is being used to train learning algorithms to support social communication disorder evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jesús Favela
- Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), Mexico
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15
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Lalanne L, Weiner L, Trojak B, Berna F, Bertschy G. Substance-use disorder in high-functioning autism: clinical and neurocognitive insights from two case reports. BMC Psychiatry 2015; 15:149. [PMID: 26149411 PMCID: PMC4493816 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-015-0541-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low prevalence of substance-use disorder has been reported in adults with autism. However, on a superficial level, adults with high-functioning autism (HFA) display a 'normal' façade when they drink alcohol, which may explain why their alcohol dependency is not better diagnosed. CASE PRESENTATION Here, we report two cases of HFA adults who use alcohol and psychostimulants to cope with their anxiety and improve their cognitive abilities and social skills. We analyze how neurocognitive traits associated with HFA may be potential triggers for substance-use disorder. CONCLUSION Better identification of autism and its cognitive impairments, which may be vulnerability traits for developing substance-use disorders, could help improve the diagnosis and treatment of substance-use disorders among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Lalanne
- Department of Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France. .,INSERM 1114, FMTS, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Department of Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France. .,INSERM 1114, FMTS, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Benoit Trojak
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France. .,EA 4452, LPPM, University of Burgundy, Dijon, France.
| | - Fabrice Berna
- Department of Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France. .,INSERM 1114, FMTS, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Gilles Bertschy
- Department of Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France. .,INSERM 1114, FMTS, Strasbourg University Hospital, 1 place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
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Abstract
Barring few exceptions, allied health professionals, engineers, manufacturers of assistive technologies (ATs), and consumer product manufacturers have developed few technologies for individuals with cognitive impairments (CIs). In 2004, the National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) recognized the need to support research in this emergent field. They funded the first Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for the Advancement of Cognitive Technologies (RERC-ACT). The RERC-ACT has since designed and evaluated existing and emerging technologies through rigorous research, improving upon existing AT devices, and creating new technologies for individuals with CIs. The RERC-ACT has contributed to the development and testing of AT products that assist persons with CIs to actively engage in tasks of daily living at home, school, work, and in the community. This article highlights the RERC-ACT's engineering development and research projects and discusses how current research may impact the quality of life for an aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Cristine Heyn
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Joy Lucille Cassidy
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Cathy Bodine
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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17
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Abstract
ACCESSIBLE SUMMARY ● People with severe mental illnesses (SMIs) suffer from health inequities and have a higher mortality rate, resulting from a sedentary lifestyle and a high prevalence of undiagnosed and untreated metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors. Cognitive deficits due to SMI symptoms may affect their ability to engage in a healthier lifestyle. ● Programmes for a healthier lifestyle with physical activity components may improve mental and physical health for people with SMIs. In order to increase physical activity among this population, a new approach was developed as an integrated part of daily care. ● This programme included a cognitive support in the shape of cognitive adaptation training (CAT) in order to address cognitive impairments, and provided education and individualized support in natural nursing environments to help individuals engage in physical activity (PHYS) and dietary changes (PHYS/CAT). ABSTRACT People with severe mental illness (SMIs) are more prone to physical illnesses, increased mortality and cognitive impairments, all of which negatively influence their daily lives. Physical activity (PHYS) programmes have helped alleviate SMI. LIFEHOPE is an ongoing research project with the purpose of developing a sustainable lifestyle intervention for physical and mental health. PHYS/cognitive adaptation training (CAT) is a newly created lifestyle intervention that provides group education and is based on CAT. It provides individualized support for PHYS and dietary change in a natural nursing environment. The aim of this study was to obtain further knowledge for developing a sustainable lifestyle programme by exploring psychiatric clients' experiences with PHYS and lifestyle habits, which we did by interviewing a local reference group, community mental healthcare users and community mental healthcare workers. Then, we developed a lifestyle programme for people with SMI using information obtained from these focus group interviews. Our results suggest that there is a need for support and education, as well as active interventions, in carrying out PHYS and dietary changes among people with SMIs, and the PHYS/CAT may be a useful strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M Rönngren
- Department of Nursing, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
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18
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Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to examine job separations from supported employment (SE). The aim was to identify the types and nature of separations and precipitating events leading to the separation. METHODS A retrospective chart review methodology was utilized. The study was conducted in a metropolitan area in the Southeast United States by a university-based SE program. Participants were 47 SE clients who had been placed into and separated from 67 jobs. Using a coding form, information regarding the type of separation and issues that preceded the separation were recorded. Data were aggregated using descriptive statistics. RESULTS The largest number of separations was due to termination, followed by resignation and mutual consent of the employer and employee. The mean number of issues leading to the separation was 2.2, ranging from one to five. Only eight positive issues were found (compared to 116 negative and 20 neutral), the most prevalent being entry into an educational or training program. Common negative issues included poor work performance, attendance and punctuality problems, conflicts with the supervisor, and social and behavioral issues. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study illustrate the need to address job retention issues during the job development process, finding the most appropriate person-job fit and workplace culture for each client. The findings also support the need for vigilant and regular communication between the SE program and employers to intervene quickly when problems arise. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Separation from Supported Employment (SE) SE is an evidence-based employment practice that has been shown effective across multiple disability groups. Studying job separations can provide valuable information for improving service. Locating the best person-job fit, as well as frequent contract with employers, can help prevent unnecessary job loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael West
- Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, VA , USA
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19
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Goedendorp MM, Knoop H, Gielissen MFM, Verhagen CAHHVM, Bleijenberg G. The effects of cognitive behavioral therapy for postcancer fatigue on perceived cognitive disabilities and neuropsychological test performance. J Pain Symptom Manage 2014; 47:35-44. [PMID: 23707383 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2013.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT After successful cancer treatment, a substantial number of survivors continue to experience fatigue and related concentration and memory problems. Severe fatigue after cancer treatment can be treated effectively with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but it is unclear whether CBT has an effect on cognitive functioning. OBJECTIVES We hypothesized that patients would report less cognitive disability after treatment with CBT for cancer-related fatigue. CBT was not expected to affect neuropsychological test performance, as it has been shown that fatigue is not associated with test performance. METHODS Data were used from a randomized controlled trial in which 98 severely fatigued cancer survivors, treated at least one year previously, were assessed at baseline (T1) and six months post-baseline (T2). Patients were randomly assigned to receive CBT (n = 50) or to a waiting list (WL) control condition (n = 48). Self-reported cognitive disability was assessed by the Concentration subscale of the Checklist Individual Strength and the Alertness Behavior subscale of the Sickness Impact Profile. Neuropsychological test performance was measured by the symbol digit modalities task and two reaction time tasks. RESULTS Patients who received CBT for post-cancer fatigue reported significantly less cognitive disability compared with those in the WL group. CBT also was associated with a clinically relevant reduction in concentration problems (CBT, 32% vs. WL, 2%). There were no significant differences in neuropsychological test performance between the CBT and WL groups. CONCLUSION CBT for post-cancer fatigue has already been shown to be an effective therapy. The present study demonstrates that CBT also may lead to a decrease in perceived cognitive disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine M Goedendorp
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands; Expert Centre for Chronic Fatigue, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Hans Knoop
- Expert Centre for Chronic Fatigue, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke F M Gielissen
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gijs Bleijenberg
- Expert Centre for Chronic Fatigue, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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20
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García-Herranz M, Olivera F, Haya P, Alamán X. Harnessing the interaction continuum for subtle assisted living. Sensors (Basel) 2012; 12:9829-9846. [PMID: 23012573 PMCID: PMC3444131 DOI: 10.3390/s120709829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/11/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
People interact with each other in many levels of attention, intention and meaning. This Interaction Continuum is used daily to deal with different contexts, adapting the interaction to communication needs and available resources. Nevertheless, computer-supported interaction has mainly focused on the most direct, explicit and intrusive types of human to human Interaction such as phone calls, emails, or video conferences. This paper presents the results of exploring and exploiting the potentials of undemanding interaction mechanisms, paying special attention to subtle communication and background interaction. As we argue the benefits of this type of interaction for people with special needs, we present a theoretical framework to define it and propose a proof of concept based on Augmented Objects and a color codification mechanism. Finally, we evaluate and analyze the strengths and limitations of such approach with people with cognitive disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fernando Olivera
- Ingeniería Mecatrónica, Universidad Politécnica de Zacatecas, Fresnillo (Zac) 99059, Mexico; E-Mail:
| | - Pablo Haya
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Conocimiento, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain; E-Mail:
| | - Xavier Alamán
- Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain; E-Mail:
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