bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Clinical Interpretation With Visual Assessment and Quantitative Coronary Angiography in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Contemporary Practice
Authors: Nallamothu Brahmajee K. , Spertus John A. , Lansky Alexandra J. , Cohen David J. , Jones Philip G. , Kureshi Faraz , Dehmer Gregory J. , Drozda Joseph P. , Walsh Mary Norine , Brush John E. , Koenig Gerald C. , Waites Thad F. , Gantt D. Scott , Kichura George , Chazal Richard A. , O’Brien Peter K. , Valentine C. Michael , Rumsfeld John S. , Reiber Johan H.C. , Elmore Joann G. , Krumholz Richard A. , Weaver W. Douglas , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: March 2013

Background—

Studies conducted decades ago described substantial disagreement and errors in physicians’ angiographic interpretation of coronary stenosis severity. Despite the potential implications of such findings, no large-scale efforts to measure or improve clinical interpretation were subsequently undertaken.

Methods and Results—

We compared clinical interpretation of stenosis severity in coronary lesions with an independent assessment using quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) in 175 randomly selected patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention at 7 US hospitals in 2011. To assess agreement, we calculated mean difference in percent diameter stenosis between clinical interpretation and QCA and a Cohen weighted κ statistic. Of 216 treated lesions, median percent diameter stenosis was 80.0% (quartiles 1 and 3, 80.0% and 90.0%), with 213 (98.6%) assessed as ≥70%. Mean difference in percent diameter stenosis between clinical interpretation and QCA was 8.2±8.4%, reflecting an average higher percent diameter stenosis by clinical interpretation (
P
<0.001). A weighted κ of 0.27 (95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.36) was found between the 2 measurements. Of 213 lesions considered ≥70% by clinical interpretation, 56 (26.3%) were <70% by QCA, although none were <50%. Differences between the 2 measurements were largest for intermediate lesions by QCA (50% to <70%), with variation existing across sites.

Conclusions—

Physicians tended to assess coronary lesions treated with percutaneous coronary intervention as more severe than measurements by QCA. Almost all treated lesions were ≥70% by clinical interpretation, whereas approximately one quarter were <70% by QCA. These findings suggest opportunities to improve clinical interpretation of coronary angiography.
Endothelial Dysfunction and Arterial Stiffness in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Cereda Carlo W. , Tamisier Renaud , Manconi Mauro , Andreotti Jennifer , Frangi Jane , Pifferini Valeria , Bassetti Claudio L.
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) represents a risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity after a cerebral ischemic event (acute ischemic event, ischemic stroke, or transient ischemic attack). In the present study, endothelial function and arterial stiffness were analyzed in patients who experienced a postacute ischemic event with relation to SDB, sleep disruption, and nocturnal oxygenation parameters.

Methods—

SDB was assessed by full polysomnography in patients with acute ischemic event 3 months after the admission at our stroke unit. Moderate-severe SDB was defined according to the apnea-hypopnea index as apnea-hypopnea index ≥20. Endothelial function and arterial stiffness were assessed by peripheral arterial tonometry using Endo-PAT 2000.

Results—

Thirty-seven patients were included. The augmentation index was significantly different between patients with apnea-hypopnea index <20 and apnea-hypopnea index ≥20 (22.4±15.6% versus 34.6±21.6%;
P
=0.042), whereas reactive hyperemia index level was not (2.02±0.65 versus 2.31±0.61;
P
=0.127). Patients with apnea-hypopnea index ≥20 showed an increased risk for arterial stiffness (odds ratio, 5.98 [95% CI, 1.11–41.72]) even when controlling for age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. The augmentation index was correlated with the arousal index (
P
=0.010) and with mean O
2
saturation (
P
=0.043).

Conclusions—

Poststroke patients with moderate-severe SDB were more prone to have increased arterial stiffness, although we did not find significant differences in endothelial function. Arterial stiffness also correlated with sleep disruption (arousal index) and mean O
2
saturation.
Troponin T, N-Terminal Pro–B-Type Natriuretic Peptide, and Incidence of Stroke
Authors: Folsom Aaron R. , Nambi Vijay , Bell Elizabeth J. , Oluleye Oludamilola W. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Lutsey Pamela L. , Huxley Rachel R. , Ballantyne Christie M.
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

Increased levels of plasma troponins and natriuretic peptides are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but only limited information exists on these biomarkers and stroke occurrence. In a prospective epidemiological study, we tested the hypothesis that high-sensitivity troponin T (TnT) and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are associated positively with incidence of stroke.

Methods—

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study measured plasma TnT and NT-proBNP in 10 902 men or women initially free of stroke and followed them for a mean of 11.3 years for stroke occurrence (n=507).

Results—

Both biomarkers were associated positively with total stroke, nonlacunar ischemic, and especially cardioembolic stroke, but not with lacunar or hemorrhagic stroke. For example, after adjustment for prevalent risk factors and cardiac diseases, the hazard ratios (95% CIs) for jointly high values of TnT and NT-proBNP (versus neither biomarker high) were 2.70 (1.92–3.79) for total stroke and 6.26 (3.40–11.5) for cardioembolic stroke. Associations with stroke appeared somewhat stronger for NT-proBNP than TnT. Strikingly, ≈58% of cardioembolic strokes occurred in the highest quintile of prestroke NT-proBNP, and 32% of cardioembolic strokes occurred in participants who had both NT-proBNP in the highest quintile and were known by ARIC to have atrial fibrillation sometime before their cardioembolic stroke occurrence.

Conclusions—

In the general population, elevated plasma TnT and NT-proBNP concentrations are associated with increased risk of cardioembolic and other nonlacunar ischemic strokes.
Inside Volcanic Clouds: Remote Sensing of Ash Plumes Using Microwave Weather Radars
Authors: Marzano Frank S. , Picciotti Errico , Montopoli Mario , Vulpiani Gianfranco
Published: March 2013

Microphysical and dynamical features of volcanic tephra due to Plinian and sub-Plinian eruptions can be quantitatively monitored by using ground-based microwave weather radars. The methodological rationale and unique potential of this remote-sensing technique are illustrated and discussed. Volume data, acquired by ground-based weather radars, are processed to automatically classify and estimate ash particle concentration and fallout. The physical– statistical retrieval algorithm is based on a backscattering microphysical model of fine, coarse, and lapilli ash particles, used within a Bayesian classification and optimal estimation methodology. The experimental evidence of the usefulness and limitations of radar acquisitions for volcanic ash monitoring is supported by describing several case studies of volcanic eruptions all over the world. The radar sensitivity due to the distance and the system noise, as well as the various radar bands and configurations (i.e., Doppler and dual polarized), are taken into account. The discussed examples of radar-derived ash concentrations refer to the case studies of the Augustine volcano eruption in 2002, observed in Alaska by an S-band radar; the Grímsvötn volcano eruptions in 2004 and 2011, observed in Iceland by C- and X-band weather radars and compared with in situ samples; and the Mount Etna volcano eruption in 2011, observed by an X-band polarimetric radar. These applications demonstrate the variety of radar-based products that can be derived and exploited for the study of explosive volcanism.
Driftsondes: Providing In Situ Long-Duration Dropsonde Observations over Remote Regions
Authors: Cohn Stephen A. , Hock Terry , Cocquerez Philippe , Wang Junhong , Rabier Florence , Parsons David , Harr Patrick , Wu Chun-Chieh , Drobinski Philippe , Karbou Fatima , Vénel Stéphanie , Vargas André , Fourrié Nadia , Saint-Ramond Nathalie , Guidard Vincent , Doerenbecher Alexis , Hsu Huang-Hsiung , Lin Po-Hsiung , Chou Ming-Dah , Redelsperger Jean-Luc , Martin Charlie , Fox Jack , Potts Nick , Young Kathryn , Cole Hal
Published: March 2013

Constellations of driftsonde systems— gondolas floating in the stratosphere and able to release dropsondes upon command— have so far been used in three major field experiments from 2006 through 2010. With them, high-quality, high-resolution, in situ atmospheric profiles were made over extended periods in regions that are otherwise very difficult to observe. The measurements have unique value for verifying and evaluating numerical weather prediction models and global data assimilation systems; they can be a valuable resource to validate data from remote sensing instruments, especially on satellites, but also airborne or ground-based remote sensors. These applications for models and remote sensors result in a powerful combination for improving data assimilation systems. Driftsondes also can support process studies in otherwise difficult locations—for example, to study factors that control the development or decay of a tropical disturbance, or to investigate the lower boundary layer over the interior Antarctic continent. The driftsonde system is now a mature and robust observing system that can be combined with flight-level data to conduct multidisciplinary research at heights well above that reached by current research aircraft. In this article we describe the development and capabilities of the driftsonde system, the exemplary science resulting from its use to date, and some future applications.
Achieving Climate Change Absolute Accuracy in Orbit
Authors: Wielicki Bruce A. , Young D. F. , Mlynczak M. G. , Thome K. J. , Leroy S. , Corliss J. , Anderson J. G. , Ao C. O. , Bantges R. , Best F. , Bowman K. , Brindley H. , Butler J. J. , Collins W. , Dykema J. A. , Doelling D. R. , Feldman D. R. , Fox N. , Huang X. , Holz R. , Huang Y. , Jin Z. , Jennings D. , Johnson D. G. , Jucks K. , Kato S. , Kirk-Davidoff D. B. , Knuteson R. , Kopp G. , Kratz D. P. , Liu X. , Lukashin C. , Mannucci A. J. , Phojanamongkolkij N. , Pilewskie P. , Ramaswamy V. , Revercomb H. , Rice J. , Roberts Y. , Roithmayr C. M. , Rose F. , Sandford S. , Shirley E. L. , Smith W. L. , Soden B. , Speth P. W. , Sun W. , Taylor P. C. , Tobin D. , Xiong X.
Published: March 2013

The Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory (CLARREO) mission will provide a calibration laboratory in orbit for the purpose of accurately measuring and attributing climate change. CLARREO measurements establish new climate change benchmarks with high absolute radiometric accuracy and high statistical confidence across a wide range of essential climate variables. CLARREO's inherently high absolute accuracy will be verified and traceable on orbit to Système Internationale (SI) units. The benchmarks established by CLARREO will be critical for assessing changes in the Earth system and climate model predictive capabilities for decades into the future as society works to meet the challenge of optimizing strategies for mitigating and adapting to climate change. The CLARREO benchmarks are derived from measurements of the Earth's thermal infrared spectrum (5–50 μm), the spectrum of solar radiation reflected by the Earth and its atmosphere (320–2300 nm), and radio occultation refractivity from which accurate temperature profiles are derived. The mission has the ability to provide new spectral fingerprints of climate change, as well as to provide the first orbiting radiometer with accuracy sufficient to serve as the reference transfer standard for other space sensors, in essence serving as a “NIST [National Institute of Standards and Technology] in orbit.” CLARREO will greatly improve the accuracy and relevance of a wide range of space-borne instruments for decadal climate change. Finally, CLARREO has developed new metrics and methods for determining the accuracy requirements of climate observations for a wide range of climate variables and uncertainty sources. These methods should be useful for improving our understanding of observing requirements for most climate change observations.
Association Between Coronary Artery Ectasia and Neutrophil–Lymphocyte Ratio
Authors: Balta Sevket , Demirkol Sait , Celik Turgay , Kucuk Ugur , Unlu Murat , Arslan Zekeriya , Balta Ilknur , Iyisoy Atila , Kocak Necmettin , Haqmal Hamidullah , Yokusoglu Mehmet
Published: March 2013

Atherosclerosis plays an important role in the etiopathogenesis of coronary artery ectasia (CAE). Inflammation markers may play a part in the pathogenesis of CAE. We aimed to assess the association between the CAE and the neutrophil–lymphocyte (N/L) ratio. Consecutive eligible patients (n = 181) were divided into 3 groups: patients with CAE, those with newly diagnosed coronary artery disease (CAD), and those with a normal coronary angiogram. The N/L ratio and mean platelet volume (MPV) were measured as part of the automated complete blood count. There were no statistically significant differences in N/L ratio and MPV between the CAE and the CAD groups. The N/L ratio and MPV were significantly higher in patients in both CAE and CAD groups compared to those in the control group ( P < .01). An increased N/L ratio may play a role not only in the pathogenesis of CAD but also in the pathophysiology of CAE.
Parental Education on Asthma Severity in the Emergency Department and Primary Care Follow-up Rates
Authors: Williams Kelli W. , Word Carolyn , Streck Maria R. , Titus M. Olivia
Published: March 2013

Asthma is the most prevalent chronic condition affecting children and a common chief complaint in emergency departments (EDs). We aimed to improve parents’ understanding of their child’s asthma severity on accessing our pediatric ED for an acute asthma exacerbation. A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine outpatient follow-up rates from our ED in 2010-2011. In an attempt to educate parents at ED discharge about their child’s asthma severity at presentation, we included a visual severity scale on their discharge instructions. Postdischarge telephone interviews were completed to determine postintervention follow-up rates. Asthma follow-up rates at 1 week improved from 20.8% to 50% after intervention. This difference was statistically significant after controlling for age and clinical asthma score with logistic regression ( P < .0001). Offering predischarge education about a child’s initial asthma severity is a simple intervention that significantly improved follow-up rates for children seen in the ED for asthma exacerbation.
Isolation of residual shear stress effects in slitting measurement of residual normal stress in laminated composites
Authors: Shokrieh Mahmood M , Akbari Saeed
Published: March 2013

The conventional strain gauge slitting method is usually used to determine the residual stress component normal to the slit plane. Therefore, it is assumed that residual shear stresses released in the slit plane have no effect on the released strains measured by strain gauge. This assumption is valid when measuring released strains by back surface strain gauges. However, in the top surface measurements, it is not true and neglecting residual shear stresses could create a biased estimation of residual normal stresses. In this research, a method based on the use of two symmetrically-placed strain gauges is proposed to separate the measured strains due to residual shear stresses from those due to residual normal stresses in the slitting method. In order to validate the proposed method, two series of slitting experiments were carried out on angle-ply carbon/epoxy laminated composites. The near-surface residual normal stresses were measured using the proposed method. These stresses were also determined using strain data obtained from the back surface strain gauge. Results of both experiments showed good agreement and thus verified the validity of the proposed method for the elimination of residual shear stresses effects in the slitting method.
Modelling manufacturing deformations in corner sections made of composite materials
Authors: Çınar Kenan , Öztürk Umud Esat , Ersoy Nuri , Wisnom Michael R
Published: March 2013

A three-step finite element model has been implemented to predict the spring-in of L-shaped parts. The material property development during the cure has been modelled as step changes during transitions between viscous, rubbery and glassy states of the resin. The tool-part interaction is modelled as a sliding interface with a constant sliding shear stress. The effect of various material and geometric variables on the deformation of L-Section parts are investigated by a parameter sensitivity analysis. The spring-in predictions obtained by the finite element method are compared to experimental measurements for unidirectional and cross-ply parts of various thicknesses and radii. Results indicate that although a 2D plane strain model can predict the spring-in measured at the symmetry plane fairly well, it is not sufficient to capture the complex deformation patterns observed.
Cultural Influences on Mediation in International Crises
Authors: Inman Molly , Kishi Roudabeh , Wilkenfeld Jonathan , Gelfand Michele , Salmon Elizabeth
Published: March 2013

In order to assess the impact of culture on state behavior in international crises, specifically with regard to mediation and its outcome, this study tests hypotheses rooted in both the international relations and the cross-cultural psychology literatures, implementing analysis at both the international-system level and the domestic-state-actor level. At the international system level, the study finds that cultural difference between adversaries affects whether or not mediation occurs during an international crisis but has no effect on tension reduction. At the domestic state actor level, we find that there are certain facets of cultural identity that make a state more or less open to requesting or accepting third-party mediation during an international crisis, but that these facets have no effect on tension reduction.
Rebound Effect in Personal Values
Authors: Lönnqvist Jan-Erik , Jasinskaja-Lahti Inga , Verkasalo Markku
Published: March 2013

Returning to a sample of Ingrian Finnish migrants ( N = 136) in which postmigration change in personal values has previously been documented, we investigated the permanency of such value change. Personal values, measured within the framework provided by Schwartz’s (1992) values theory, were previously measured prior to migration and 1 year after migration. We now add a second follow-up, conducted 2 years after migration. At this time, the changes observed at the first follow-up were dissipating. Specifically, Universalism and Security values were now on the decline after having been elevated at the first follow-up (an inverted U-shape), and Achievement values were increasing in importance after having previously diminished (a U-shape). Personal values appear to react to changing social circumstances but then return close to their baseline levels. The results of the present research constitute the first longitudinal evidence for a rebound effect in personal values.
Genetic Interactions with Prenatal Social Environment
Authors: Conley Dalton , Rauscher Emily
Published: March 2013

Numerous studies report gene-environment interactions, suggesting that specific alleles have different effects on social outcomes depending on environment. In all these studies, however, environmental conditions are potentially endogenous to unmeasured genetic characteristics. That is, it could be that the observed interaction effects actually reflect underlying genetic tendencies that lead individuals into certain environments. What is critical to move this literature forward is random environmental variation that we know is not correlated with innate characteristics of subjects. We exploit a natural experiment that randomizes a particular stressor—birth weight discordance within twin pairs—to address this challenge and ask: Do random differences in early environment (prenatal nutrition) moderate genetic effects on depression, delinquency, or GPA? Using Add Health data, the only consistently significant allele–birth weight interaction we reveal works in the opposite direction of Caspi et al.’s classic finding regarding the interaction of maltreatment with genetic variation in the serotonin transporter promoter. Less robust interactions found for DRD2 and MAOA are consistent with this pattern that reverses prior findings. These results do not necessarily overturn existing research but support our methodological point that gene-environment research must address endogeneity.
Motivations for Equity Borrowing: A Welfare-switching Effect
Authors: Wood Gavin , Parkinson Sharon , Searle Beverley , Smith Susan J.
Published: March 2013

During the early 2000s, mortgage market innovation together with home price appreciation increased the scope for mortgage equity withdrawal. From a macroeconomic perspective, this proved to be an important transmission mechanism for the wealth (particularly collateral) effects of housing. Microeconomic accounts of equity borrowing are less well developed, since standard models of savings and consumption rarely take housing wealth into account. This paper, however, builds on a small but growing literature assigning a precautionary savings role to consumption from housing wealth. The analysis uses panel data sourced from Britain and Australia to model households’ motivations for equity borrowing. Key among these motivations are pressing, uninsurable, ostensibly short-term, spending needs. In these contexts, it is proposed that equity borrowing assumes a welfare-switching role, substituting privately owned housing wealth for collectively funded safety-nets
Women's Stories of Depression: A Constructivist Approach
Authors: Rapmund Val , Moore Cora
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study was to allow depressed women to tell their stories about depression. The epistemological framework was that of constructivism. The study involved a series of in-depth interviews with three depressed women with young children. Their stories provide an alternative reality to the traditional way of viewing depression. The major themes that emerged from the participants' stories seemed to be linked to the way in which they found themselves being pulled in opposite directions, ending up in a ‘no-win situation’, with the ‘stuckness’ maintaining the depression. The recurring themes centre around: Divided loyalties; failure to meet expectations; control; competence versus incompetence; love and rejection experienced by the ‘special child’; rootedness versus alienation; confrontation versus avoidance of issues and problems and; the role of support. The themes identified in this study may be helpful to those who work with depressed women in both a Western and African context.
Adolescent South African Ballet Dancers
Authors: Montanari A. , Zietkiewicz E.A.
Published: March 2013

This paper is an attempt to address the severe paucity in both South African and international literature concerning eating disordered behaviour in young ballet dancers. Allegations suggest that for decades a conspiratorial silence has been maintained in the dancing world around the eating disordered behaviours of performers. The only serious suggestions alluding to high levels of eating disordered behaviour among performers in South Africa have appeared anecdotally in the popular media. Previous international research has suggested that dancers could not possibly maintain their sylph-like physiques with the amount of energy expended in daily training and simultaneously adhere to healthy nutritional standards. In fact, some studies cite high levels of malnutrition amongst members of the dance community (Peterson, 1984). The current research study confirms these findings showing highly significant differences in the drive for thinness in dancers compared with normative adolescent samples. Results also indicate tendencies to interpersonal distrust which could explain why this sensitive behaviour has been so difficult to identify and treat in the past. More detailed statistical analyses show that this sample of adolescent dancers exhibit strong similarities with eating disordered individuals, both anorexic and bulimic. These results provide the evidence required by interested parties to intervene in the neglected nutrition and psychological health of dancers.
Burnout in Psychiatric Nurses: Contributions of the Work Environment and a Sense of Coherence
Authors: Levert Tanya , Lucas Marilyn , Ortlepp Koren
Published: March 2013

Burnout not only affects psychiatric nurses' ability to provide optimal patient care, but its consequences extend to the nurse's psychological and physical health. Couched in a cognitive-transactional model, the broad aim of the current study was to measure burnout levels for psychiatric nurses and to determine the respective roles of the environment and the individual on burnout levels. Burnout levels were measured using Maslach and Jackson's (1986) Burnout Inventory. Environmental variables measured included work load, collegial support, role conflict and role ambiguity. Finally, Antonovsky's (1987) sense of coherence (SOC) measured the characteristics of the individual. Although burnout levels were generally high, a low sense of personal accomplishment was particularly problematic. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation correlated significantly with all factors of the work environment and with the SOC. Personal accomplishment related only to role conflict. Multiple regression analyses showed the sense of coherence and work load to explain a large proportion of both emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation, and role conflict to explain a small but significant amount of the variance in personal accomplishment. Moderated multiple regression analyses added to a growing body of research pointing towards a possible direct effect of the SOC on burnout.
The Psychometric Properties of the Learning Style Inventory and the Learning Style Questionnaire: Two Normative Measures of Learning Styles
Authors: Pickworth Glynis E. , Schoeman Willem J.
Published: March 2013

David Kolb has provided a detailed, useful and widely accepted theory of experiential learning and learning styles. He developed the Learning Styles Inventory (LSI) to assess four learning abilities and four learning styles. Kolb's work is viewed favourably for establishing the existence of individual differences in learning styles, but the major criticism against his work is focused on his method of measuring learning styles and more specifically on the psychometric properties of the LSI. The LSI is an ipsative instrument and the limitations placed on the statistical analysis of data of ipsative measures makes it inappropriate for reliability and validity evaluation of the instrument. In this study the psychometric properties of two normative measures of learning styles, a normative version of the LSI (referred to as the LSI-Likert) and the Learning Style Questionnaire (LSQ), are investigated. A review of the literature on the LSI is presented and the development of normative versions of the LSI is reviewed. First-year university students registered for either a science or human sciences degree completed the two normative instruments. The internal reliability of the four learning ability scales was determined using alpha coefficient. The internal reliability of the LSI-Likert and LSQ was found to be relatively high. The presence of a response bias for both instruments was suspected. It appeared that the LSI-Likert was more successful than the LSQ in differentiating learning abilities and styles in the sample used. Item factor analysis demonstrated two bipolar factors in line with Kolb's theory for the LSQ. The four-factor solution for the LSI-Likert produced four factors which to some extent represented the four learning abilities.
Hermeneutic-Dialogical Approaches to Career Development: An Exploration
Authors: Mkhize Nhlanhla J. , Frizelle Kerry
Published: March 2013

Career development research and practice in South Africa are largely informed by the ideology of self-contained individualism that ignores the social and cultural forces impinging on the process. We argue that hermeneutic and dialogical approaches, in emphasising that development results from exposure to various social and cultural perspectives or voices, provide a better theoretical framework for understanding career development. A narrative- based approach to career development is introduced, followed by examples. Finally, we argue that career development should be reconceptualised to take into account individuals' attempts to navigate their lives in a world that is increasingly characterised by unpredictable changes and uncertainties.
Psycho-Legal Issues Affecting Rape Survivors with Mental Retardation
Authors: Pillay A. L. , Sargent C.
Published: March 2013

Rape survivors who are believed to have mental retardation are subjected to a somewhat different sequence of legal events compared to those without this disability. Their intellectual functioning is questioned, as is their competence to give evidence in the trial of the alleged perpetrator. The authors studied 10 such cases in terms of the contextual aspects of the rape, the survivors' cognitive functioning and their ability to provide accounts of the assaults. The findings indicated that although eight of the subjects were mentally retarded, oply one of them was unable to relate details of the abuse. It is the authors' contention that a non-intimidatory approach, characterized by developmentally sensitive interviewing can substantially increase the individual's level of confidence, enabling them to relate the events in simple terms. Considering the adversarial court procedure, it is advocated that provision be made for the use of an intermediary system in cases involving rape of individuals with mental retardation, irrespective of age.
An Exploratory Study of the Use of the Austin Maze in South Africa
Authors: Grieve Kate W , Viljoen Steve
Published: March 2013

A software version of the Austin Maze together with the Halstead-Reitan Category Test and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were administered to 30 students at the University of Venda, South Africa. For the entire sample, the average number of trials taken to reach criterion (that is, three consecutive error-free trials) on the Austin Maze was 19. The performance of male subjects was generally better than that of females. No significant correlations were found between performance on the Austin Maze and scores on the other psychometric tests. This is seen as implying that, for this group of subjects, the Austin Maze measures a different construct, as documented in the literature. The complexity of a contextual interpretation of the subjects poorer performance on the measures is discussed.
The Construction and Validation of Developmental Scales for Environmentally Disadvantaged Preschool Children
Authors: Herbst Ingrid , Huysamen G.K.
Published: March 2013

This article reports on the development and validation of a set of developmental scales for environmentally disadvantaged pre-school children. Designed to be culturally appropriate and child-friendly, they yvere intended to identify cognitive and motor developmental problems that were commonly experienced by such children and that were impeding their progress at school. Acceptably high indices of test-retest reliability and inter-rater reliability were found. Satisfactory indices of concurrent and construct validity have been obtained. Factor analyses yielded one general factor that was interpreted as a cognitive performance factor. The finding that developmentally stimulated children performed substantially better than unstimulated children on these scales not only supported the scales' construct validity but also necessitated the development of separate norms for children from such different backgrounds.
Predictors and Indicators of Return to Work following Traumatic Brain Injury in South Africa: Findings from a Preliminary Experimental Database
Authors: Watt Nola , Penn Claire
Published: March 2013

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects a substantial portion of the South African population every year. However, there is little empirical evidence available regarding eventual outcome after injury in South Africa. In particular, there is little information regarding the ability of head injured individuals to return to their places of employment following injury, or what factors are most closely related to a successful return to work. This study explored the return to work of a specific group of individuals with TBI, in relation to a number of domains, including: rate and nature of return to work, pre-morbid and accident variables that appeared to be related to return to work, and the relationship between return to work and other aspects of outcome, specifically communicative, cognitive, physical and emotional outcome. The study took the form of a detailed record review of a group of subjects seeking medico-legal compensation, using a specially designed data recording form and computerised database. Results indicated a poor rate of return to work in this sample (32%), with significant changes in work status post-injury. The strongest pre-morbid predictors of outcome were found to be first language and pre-injury educational level, with African language speakers and those with an educational level of matriculation or less being at a significant disadvantage. Numerous communicative and cognitive difficulties were significantly related to a failure to RTW, including difficulties in: motor speech, comprehension, expression, attention, speed of processing, incidental visual memory, cognitive flexibility and insight. These results indicate the multi-factorial nature of outcome following head injury in the sample.
The Psychological Effects of Pre-Competitive Stress on Elite Divers — A Review
Authors: McGregor Heather , Abrahamson Earle
Published: March 2013

Stress occurs when appraisal of the demands of a situation exceed the available resources under conditions where failure to meet the demand is perceived as having negative consequences. Stress is neither considered to be merely an event or response but rather a complex interaction of interrelated constructs and processes reflecting the relationship between intrapersonal and stituational variables. Although, the identification of general categories of stress is possible; it is important to acknowledge the significance of individual differences, especially with respect to cognitive evaluation procedures. The concurrent responses considered in this paper are self-confidence and state anxiety; both of which are related to potential pre-competitive performance stress. Antecedents and consequences are examined with respect to elite competitive springboard divers. Recommendations for future research propose continuous assessment strategies.
The Influence of Urban/Rural Background, Gender, Age & Education on the Perception of and Response to Dreams among Zulu South Africans
Authors: Thwala J. D. , Pillay A. L. , Sargent C.
Published: March 2013

This study explored the effects of urban/rural background, gender, education and age on the way Zulu South Africans (N = 140) perceive, understand and respond to dreams. Results showed that the lives of rural subjects were significantly more influenced by dreams than urban subjects, particularly in terms of consulting dream interpreters and acting in response to dreams. Significantly more men than women reported experiencing dreams as communication with ancestors, and regarded these dreams seriously. Subjects with less education were more likely than others to associate dreams with specific events, consult dream interpreters, and report that their lives were influenced by dreams. More older than younger respondents experienced dreams as a direct communication with ancestors, consulted dream interpreters and responded to dreams with prayer and rituals. These results are discussed in terms of traditional cultural beliefs and deculturation.
Time and Learning
Authors: Craig AP
Published: March 2013

The purpose behind the (ongoing) work reported on in this paper is to develop a productive educational response to the problem of older learners who return to formal schooling after a period of absence, or enter it for the first time; ‘older’ in the sense of being at least three years older than the norm for the Foundation Phase. The aim of this paper is twofold: firstly, to discuss ways in which to assess learning outcomes in preliterate learners and, secondly, to question various approaches to the problem of older learners and formal schooling. As regards our empirical findings, we conclude that, as a group, the learners show encouraging signs of benefiting from schooling.
A Comparison of Sex Differences in Visual-Spatial Performance from Preadolescence to Adulthood in Ghana and Norway
Authors: Amponsah Benjamin
Published: March 2013

This study examined sex-related differences in visual-spatial performance from a cross-cultural perspective by comparing cross-sectional data on four visual-spatial tests (measuring three spatial ability categories) on four different age groups (9, 12, 16 and adults) in Ghana and Norway. Reliable sex differences in favor of males were present in all age groups and their effect size magnitudes were practically constant over age in the two cultures. There were significant differences in the test intercorrelations in the two samples, suggesting that different structures of abilities may underlie spatial task performance in the two cultures. The results do not support the notion that the development of sex differences in spatial abilities is dependent on maturational or psychosocial processes. The near adult effect size by age 9 and the stability of the magnitude across cultures, argue for a biologically-based explanation of the observed sex differences in spatial performance.
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Performance Management Audit Questionnaire
Authors: Theron Callie C. , Spangenberg Hermann H.
Published: March 2013

This article reports on the findings of a more sophisticated and demanding re-analysis of a data set collected and analyzed by Spangenberg and Theron (1997) to examine the validity of a Performance Management audit questionnaire. LISREL 8 was used for a confirmatory factor analysis to determine the fit of the measurement model that guided the construction of the Performance Management Audit Questionnaire (PMAQ). The findings reported here corroborate the position explicated in Spangenberg and Theron (1997) that the PMAQ provides a content valid measure of the Performance Management domain as conceptualised by the systems model.
Psycho-Social Factors and Academic Performance among African Women Students at a Predominantly White University in South Africa
Authors: Malefo Vicky
Published: March 2013

The present study explored the relationships between Family Environment, Life Stress & Coping Strategies and Academic Performance among African Women Students at a Predominantly White University in South Africa. The students' perception of their family environment was assessed through the Family Environment Scale. Information regarding coping behaviours/preferences and Life Stress was elicited through the self-report measures of Ways of Coping Checklist, and the Life Experiences Survey. Academic performance was assessed through the students' weighted average marks for the year. Socio-Economic Status (SES) and other demographic factors were included in the present study which lends support to the multidimensional models of stress and coping in the investigation of the academic performance of Black students in predominantly White universities. Multiple regression procedures were performed to examine which variables from the Family Environment Scale (FES), the Ways of Coping Checklist (WCC), the Negative Change Score (stress index from the Life Experiences Survey), and demographic variables, influenced academic performance. The findings of the study indicated that variation in students' academic performance was accounted for more by students' background variables than the cognitive factors. In view of these findings the multidimensional approach was proposed as a useful theoretical frame of reference to be used in studies which address themselves to the academic performance of black students in general, and black women students in particular, in predominantly white universities in South Africa.
Health Behaviour in Black South African University Students
Authors: Peltzer Karl
Published: March 2013

Four important health behaviours – dietary fat avoidance, regular exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption - were assessed by questionnaire, together with measures of risk awareness, beliefs about the importance of each behaviour for health, health status, health locus and health value. The sample included 793 Black University students from non-health courses chosen at random from the University of the North, South Africa. The students were 370 (46.7%) males and 423 (53.3%) females in the age range of 18 to 25 years (M age 21.0 years, SD=3.48). The following prevalences for healthy behaviour was found: almost half (44.7%) avoided fat and cholesterol and likewise 48% had exercised in the past 14 days. More than 90% were non-smokers and 84% were non-drinkers or drank alcohol only very occasionally. Sex emerged as an independent predictor for smoking and drinking. Men smoked and drank more than women did. The level of risk awareness about healthy behaviour seemed to be low in this sample. Risk awareness and prevalence of health behaviour was only found to have significant effects for non-smoking and not for the other health behaviours (exercise, fat intake, alcohol consumption). Beliefs were more important independent predictors of dietary fat intake and exercises than was risk awareness.
The Role of Psychopathology and Personality in Rage-Type Homicide: A Review
Authors: Cartwright Duncan
Published: March 2013

This article reviews the role of psychopathology and personality in offenders who have committed acts of rage-type murder. The possible role of depression, PTSD, psychotic disorders, intellectual functioning and alcohol/drug abuse are critically considered. It is argued that although some forms of psychopathology may be indicated in some cases, these still remain in the minority. This seems to be consistent with findings that describe such offenders as ‘apparently normal’. In an attempt to explain this further, the character profile and psychodynamics of personality are reviewed. A pattern of overcontrol is isolated as a key theme that best explains the ‘apparent normality’ of the rage-type offender. The relevance of the DSM-IV classification system of personality disorders for understanding this kind of criminal is considered. It is argued that a particular type of borderline personality organisation, not isolated by the DSM-IV system, best explains this character pattern.
Predicting School Achievement in Zimbabwean Multiracial Schools Using Biggs' Learning Process Questionnaire
Authors: Mpofu Elias , Oakland Thomas
Published: March 2013

Biggs' (1987) Learning Process Questionnaire (LPQ) is a widely acknowledged measure of student approaches to learning. However, its utility in predicting actual school achievement and in multi-cultural contexts is unknown. This study investigated the validity of Biggs' LPQ and its underlying theory in predicting academic achievement in Zimbabwean multiracial schools. Three hundred and seventy-six Zimbabwean black (157) and white (219) students (mean age = 12.3 years; SD = .7) attending six racially integrated schools took part in the study. Students who reportedly used a surface approach to learning achieved lower levels of academic achievement compared to those who reportedly used deep and achieving approaches. Compared to white students, black students who reported higher use of a deep approach had lower academic grades. Students who reported a higher use of a surface strategy and taught by female teachers displayed significantly lower academic achievement than those who reported use of deep approaches. Support was found for the LPQ and its underlying theory. They appear to have some potential as research tool for use in Zimbabwean multiracial schools.
On the Importance of Collecting Local Neuropsychological Normative Data
Authors: Anderson Stuart James
Published: March 2013

The goals of neuropsychological assessment include not only an accurate description of neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, but also the reduction of misclassification rates. Despite the availability of tests with acceptable psychometric properties, the value of neuropsychological assessment may be undermined by the lack of clear guidelines on what constitutes impairment, and the use of inadequate normative data. These challenges to accurate neuropsychological assessment may result in both Type 1 and Type 2 diagnostic errors. In this study, the prevalence of impairment was examined in 20 neurologically intact individuals following administration of a small battery of commonly used neuropsychological tests. Results revealed an unacceptably high number of false positive cases. This finding questions the applicability of imported normative data for South African individuals, a dilemma which can only be remedied through the development of substantial data-collection projects.
Organisational Psychology and Workplace Control: The Instrumentality of Corporate Culture
Authors: Bagraim Jeffrey J
Published: March 2013

Corporate culture has emerged as a central theme in organisational psychology and corporate culture initiatives are widely celebrated as a legitimate source of corporate success. Organisational psychologists commissioned to design these initiatives typically describe their efforts with reference to positive humanistic values. This paper reconsiders the assumptions of the corporate culture literature and critically examines the enormous popularity of corporate culture initiatives by considering their instrumentality for managers and organisational psychologists. It is proposed that corporate culture interventions have moral as well as organisational consequences and it is argued that organisational psychologists may be misusing their skills and ignoring the effects of their activities on themselves and others.
Psychopathology, Authoritarian Attitudes, and Prejudice
Authors: Schlachter Anne , Duckitt John
Published: March 2013

While psychological theories have long linked prejudice and psychopathology, research findings have been weak and inconsistent. Three possible reasons for this were remedied in this study: social desirability was controlled, the participants (N = 110; South African adults) had clinically diagnosable psychopathology, and a validated multidimensional measure of psychopathology, the MMCI-II, was used. Analyses of the Millon personality and symptom scales, and principal component factors derived from each set, with measures of authoritarian attitudes and anti-Black prejudice indicated two significant paths linking psychopathology and prejudice. First, a Compulsive-Dependent personality factor was significantly related to authoritarian attitudes, which mediated an indirect effect of this personality disorder on prejudice. Second, a Negative Affectivity symptom factor was directly associated with prejudice, and also mediated indirect effects of an Avoidant-Negativistic personality factor on prejudice. The findings are discussed in terms of authoritarian personality theory and theories linking symptoms of psychopathology and prejudice.