bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Microscope May Enhance Root Coverage With Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft: A Randomized‐Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Bittencourt Sandro , Del Peloso Ribeiro Érica , Sallum Enilson A. , Nociti Francisco H. , Casati Márcio Zaffalon
Published: August 2011

Background: Minimally invasive techniques have broadened the horizons of periodontal plastic surgery to improve treatment outcomes. Thus, the purpose of this clinical trial was to compare root coverage, postoperative morbidity, and esthetic outcomes of subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) technique with or without the use of a surgical microscope in the treatment of gingival recessions.

Methods: In this split‐mouth study, twenty‐four patients with bilateral Miller's Class I or II buccal gingival recessions ≥2.0 mm in canines or premolars were selected. Gingival recessions were randomly designated to receive treatment with SCTG with or without the assistance of the surgical microscope (test and control groups, respectively). Clinical parameters evaluated included the following: depth (RH) and width (RW) of the gingival defect, width (WKT) and thickness (TKT) of keratinized tissue, probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Postoperative morbidity was evaluated by means of an analog visual scale and questionnaire. Patient satisfaction was also evaluated with a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were expressed as mean ± SD. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance was used for examination of differences regarding PD, CAL, and TKT. The Wilcoxon test was used to detect differences between groups and the Friedman test to detect differences within group regarding WKT, RH, and RW.

Results: The average percentages of root coverage for test and control treatments, after 12 months, were 98.0% and 88.3%, respectively (P <0.05). Complete root coverage was achieved in 87.5% and 58.3% of teeth treated in test and control groups, respectively. For all parameters except recession height, there was an improvement in the final examination but without difference between treatments. For the RH, a lower value was found in the test group compared to the control group (P <0.05). In the test group, all patients were satisfied with the esthetics obtained, and 19 patients (79.1%) were satisfied in the control group. For postoperative morbidity, 14 patients in each of the two treatment groups did not use analgesics for pain control.

Conclusion: Both approaches were capable of producing root coverage; however, use of the surgical microscope was associated with additional clinical benefits in the treatment of teeth with gingival recessions.
Analysis of Cathepsin‐K Activity at Tooth and Dental Implant Sites and the Potential of This Enzyme in Reflecting Alveolar Bone Loss
Authors: Yamalik Nermin , Günday Sevim , Uysal Serdar , Kilinç Kamer , Karabulut Erdem , Tözüm Tolga F.
Published: August 2011

Background: Cathepsin‐K is an enzyme involved in bone metabolism which may make this feature important for both natural teeth and dental implants. The aims of the present study are to comparatively analyze the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF)/peri‐implant sulcus fluid (PISF) cathepsin‐K levels of natural teeth and dental implants, and to assess the potential relationship between this biochemical parameter and alveolar bone loss around natural teeth and dental implants.

Methods: Probing depth, bleeding on probing, gingival index, and plaque index clinical parameters were assessed, and GCF/PISF samples were obtained from natural teeth/dental implants presenting with either clinical health, gingivitis/peri‐implant mucositis, or chronic periodontitis/peri‐implantitis. Cathepsin‐K activity levels of 42 GCF samples and 54 PISF samples were determined, and marginal bone loss (MBL) measures were calculated from digitalized standardized intraoral periapical radiographs obtained from natural teeth and dental implants by using cemento‐enamel junction and the actual distance between two consecutive threads of the dental implant as reference points for natural teeth and dental implants, respectively.

Results: Comparing the natural teeth group with dental implant group with regard to MBL measure, cathepsin‐K activity, and GCF/PISF volume revealed no significant differences. In both natural teeth and dental implant groups, despite higher MBL measures, cathepsin‐K activity, and GCF/PISF volumes with the presence of inflammation, it was the presence of alveolar bone loss that lead to significantly higher values for these parameters.

Conclusion: We suggest cathepsin‐K as a biochemical parameter for monitoring periodontal/peri‐implant alveolar bone loss.
Skeletal Muscle Triglycerides, Diacylglycerols, and Ceramides in Insulin Resistance
Authors: Amati Francesca , Dubé John J. , Alvarez-Carnero Elvis , Edreira Martin M. , Chomentowski Peter , Coen Paul M. , Switzer Galen E. , Bickel Perry E. , Stefanovic-Racic Maja , Toledo Frederico G.S. , Goodpaster Bret H.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Chronic exercise and obesity both increase intramyocellular triglycerides (IMTGs) despite having opposing effects on insulin sensitivity. We hypothesized that chronically exercise-trained muscle would be characterized by lower skeletal muscle diacylglycerols (DAGs) and ceramides despite higher IMTGs and would account for its higher insulin sensitivity. We also hypothesized that the expression of key skeletal muscle proteins involved in lipid droplet hydrolysis, DAG formation, and fatty-acid partitioning and oxidation would be associated with the lipotoxic phenotype.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 14 normal-weight, endurance-trained athletes (NWA group) and 7 normal-weight sedentary (NWS group) and 21 obese sedentary (OBS group) volunteers were studied. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by glucose clamps. IMTGs, DAGs, ceramides, and protein expression were measured in muscle biopsies.

RESULTS

DAG content in the NWA group was approximately twofold higher than in the OBS group and ~50% higher than in the NWS group, corresponding to higher insulin sensitivity. While certain DAG moieties clearly were associated with better insulin sensitivity, other species were not. Ceramide content was higher in insulin-resistant obese muscle. The expression of OXPAT/perilipin-5, adipose triglyceride lipase, and stearoyl-CoA desaturase protein was higher in the NWA group, corresponding to a higher mitochondrial content, proportion of type 1 myocytes, IMTGs, DAGs, and insulin sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Total myocellular DAGs were markedly higher in highly trained athletes, corresponding with higher insulin sensitivity, and suggest a more complex role for DAGs in insulin action. Our data also provide additional evidence in humans linking ceramides to insulin resistance. Finally, this study provides novel evidence supporting a role for specific skeletal muscle proteins involved in intramyocellular lipids, mitochondrial oxidative capacity, and insulin resistance.
Obesity-Associated Hepatosteatosis and Impairment of Glucose Homeostasis Are Attenuated by Haptoglobin Deficiency
Authors: Lisi Simonetta , Gamucci Olimpia , Vottari Teresa , Scabia Gaia , Funicello Marcella , Marchi Matilde , Galli Giulia , Arisi Ivan , Brandi Rossella , D’Onofrio Mara , Pinchera Aldo , Santini Ferruccio , Maffei Margherita
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Haptoglobin (Hp) is upregulated in both inflammation and obesity. The low chronic inflammatory state, caused by massive adipose tissue macrophage (ATM) infiltration found in obesity, and low adiponectin have been implicated in the development of insulin resistance and hepatosteatosis. The aim of this work was to investigate whether and how Hp interferes with the onset of obesity-associated complications.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Hp-null (Hp−/−) and wild-type (WT) mice were metabolically profiled under chow-food diet (CFD) and high-fat diet (HFD) feeding by assessing physical parameters, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, insulin response to glucose load, liver triglyceride content, plasma levels of leptin, insulin, glucose, and adiponectin. ATM content was evaluated by using immunohistochemistry (anti-F4/80 antibody). Adiponectin expression was measured in Hp-treated, cultured 3T3-L1 and human adipocytes.

RESULTS

No genotype-related difference was found in CFD animals. HFD-Hp−/− mice revealed significantly higher glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and adiponectin expression and reduced hepatomegaly/steatosis compared with HFD-WT mice. White adipose tissue (WAT) of HFD-Hp−/− mice showed higher activation of insulin signaling cascade, lower ATM, and higher adiponectin expression. Hp was able to inhibit adiponectin expression in cultured adipocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that in the absence of Hp, obesity-associated insulin resistance and hepatosteatosis are attenuated, which is associated with reduced ATM content, increased plasma adiponectin, and higher WAT insulin sensitivity.
Donor Islet Endothelial Cells in Pancreatic Islet Revascularization
Authors: Nyqvist Daniel , Speier Stephan , Rodriguez-Diaz Rayner , Molano R. Damaris , Lipovsek Saša , Rupnik Marjan , Dicker Andrea , Ilegems Erwin , Zahr-Akrawi Elsie , Molina Judith , Lopez-Cabeza Maite , Villate Susana , Abdulreda Midhat H. , Ricordi Camillo , Caicedo Alejandro , Pileggi Antonello , Berggren Per-Olof
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Freshly isolated pancreatic islets contain, in contrast to cultured islets, intraislet endothelial cells (ECs), which can contribute to the formation of functional blood vessels after transplantation. We have characterized how donor islet endothelial cells (DIECs) may contribute to the revascularization rate, vascular density, and endocrine graft function after transplantation of freshly isolated and cultured islets.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Freshly isolated and cultured islets were transplanted under the kidney capsule and into the anterior chamber of the eye. Intravital laser scanning microscopy was used to monitor the revascularization process and DIECs in intact grafts. The grafts’ metabolic function was examined by reversal of diabetes, and the ultrastructural morphology by transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

DIECs significantly contributed to the vasculature of fresh islet grafts, assessed up to 5 months after transplantation, but were hardly detected in cultured islet grafts. Early participation of DIECs in the revascularization process correlated with a higher revascularization rate of freshly isolated islets compared with cultured islets. However, after complete revascularization, the vascular density was similar in the two groups, and host ECs gained morphological features resembling the endogenous islet vasculature. Surprisingly, grafts originating from cultured islets reversed diabetes more rapidly than those originating from fresh islets.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, DIECs contributed to the revascularization of fresh, but not cultured, islets by participating in early processes of vessel formation and persisting in the vasculature over long periods of time. However, the DIECs did not increase the vascular density or improve the endocrine function of the grafts.
Disruption of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1 in Adipocytes Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Decreases Adiposity in High-Fat Diet–Fed Mice
Authors: Jiang Changtao , Qu Aijuan , Matsubara Tsutomu , Chanturiya Tatyana , Jou William , Gavrilova Oksana , Shah Yatrik M. , Gonzalez Frank J.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes form a tightly correlated cluster of metabolic disorders in which adipose is one of the first affected tissues. The role of hypoxia and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) in the development of high-fat diet (HFD)–induced obesity and insulin resistance was investigated using animal models.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Mice with adipocyte-specific targeted disruption of the genes encoding the HIF1 obligatory subunits Hif1α or Arnt (Hif1β) were generated using an aP2-Cre transgene with the Cre/LoxP system. The mice were fed an HFD for 12 weeks and their metabolic phenotypes were determined. Gene expression patterns in adipose tissues were also determined by microarray and quantitative PCR.

RESULTS

On an HFD, adipocyte-specific ARNT knockout mice and adipocyte-specific HIF1α knockout mice exhibit similar metabolic phenotypes, including reduced fat formation, protection from HFD-induced obesity, and insulin resistance compared with similarly fed wild-type controls. The cumulative food intake remained similar; however, the metabolic efficiency was lower in adipocyte-specific HIF1α knockout mice. Moreover, indirect calorimetry revealed respiratory exchange ratios were reduced in adipocyte-specific HIF1α knockout mice. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies demonstrated that targeted disruption of HIF1α in adipocytes enhanced whole-body insulin sensitivity. The improvement of insulin resistance is associated with decreased expression of Socs3 and induction of adiponectin.

CONCLUSIONS

Inhibition of HIF1 in adipose tissue ameliorates obesity and insulin resistance. This study reveals that HIF1 could provide a novel potential therapeutic target for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Effects of a Home-Based Walking Intervention on Mobility and Quality of Life in People With Diabetes and Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Collins Tracie C. , Lunos Scott , Carlson Teri , Henderson Kimberly , Lightbourne Marissa , Nelson Brittney , Hodges James S.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Determine the efficacy of a home-based walking intervention to improve walking ability and quality of life in people with diabetes and peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a randomized, controlled, single-blind trial within university-affiliated clinics in our local community. We randomized 145 participants (45 women) with diabetes and PAD to our intervention—a 6-month behavioral intervention targeting levels of readiness to engage in routine walking for exercise—versus attention control. Our primary outcome was 6-month change in maximal treadmill walking distance. Secondary outcomes included 3-month change in maximal walking distance, lower limb function (i.e., walking impairment scores), quality of life (Medical Outcomes Short Form Survey), exercise behaviors, depressive symptoms, and self-efficacy at 3 and 6 months.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 66.5 (SD 10.1) years. Intervention and control groups did not differ significantly in 6-month change in maximal treadmill walking distance (average [SE] 24.5 [19.6] meters vs. 39.2 [19.6] meters; P = 0.60). Among secondary outcomes, for the intervention and control groups, respectively, average walking speed scores increased by 5.7 [2.2] units and decreased by 1.9 [2.8] units (P = 0.03); the mental health quality of life subscale score increased by 3.2 [1.5] and decreased by 2.4 [1.5] units (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

A home-based walking intervention did not improve walking distance but did improve walking speed and quality of life in people with diabetes and PAD. Clinicians should consider recommending home-based walking therapy for such patients.
Telomere Dysfunction–Related Serological Markers Are Associated With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Xiao Feng , Zheng Xiaoguo , Cui Mingming , Shi Guiying , Chen Xianda , Li Ruili , Song Zhangfa , Rudolph Karl Lenhard , Chen Bowen , Ju Zhenyu
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have identified a set of serological markers for telomere dysfunction and DNA damage. The relevance of these serological markers in type 2 diabetes remains elusive. We investigated the association of serological markers (elongation factor 1α [EF-1α], stathmin, and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase) with leukocyte telomere length, a functional variant of uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2), and susceptibility of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 930 patients and 867 control subjects were recruited to examine the association between leukocyte telomere length, UCP2 variant (−886G>A), recently identified serological markers, and type 2 diabetes. Telomere length was determined by a quantitative real-time PCR–based assay. EF-1α, stathmin, and C-reactive proteins were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. N-acetyl-glucosaminidase was measured by an enzyme activity assay. The UCP2 variant was determined by PCR and restriction enzyme digestion.

RESULTS

The average telomere length of type 2 diabetic patients was significantly shorter than that of control subjects. Serological N-acetyl-glucosaminidase correlates with both age and telomere length and was significantly higher in patients than in control subjects. Neither EF-1α nor stathmin showed significant difference between patients and control subjects. The UCP2–886G>A variant correlated with type 2 diabetes status but did not correlate with telomere length or the serological markers. Multivariate analysis showed that higher serological N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, shorter telomeres, and the UCP2–886G>A variant are independent risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Serological N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, telomere length, and the UCP2–886G>A variant are independent risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Serological N-acetyl-glucosaminidase correlates with telomere length but not with the UCP2–886G>A variant.
Cardiac Geometry and Function in Diabetic or Prediabetic Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: De Marco Marina , de Simone Giovanni , Roman Mary J. , Chinali Marcello , Lee Elisa T. , Calhoun Darren , Howard Barbara V. , Devereux Richard B.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether diabetes (DM) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) were associated with early alterations in left ventricular geometry and function in a large population of adolescents and young adults independently of major confounders.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed echocardiographic data of 1,624 14- to 39-year-old participants (mean age 26.6 ± 7.7 years; 57% female) without prevalent cardiovascular disease from the fourth Strong Heart Study examination; 179 (11%) participants had DM and 299 (18%) had IFG.

RESULTS

Participants with DM and IFG were older and more often obese and hypertensive than participants with normal fasting glucose (NFG) (all P < 0.05). After adjustment for age, sex, systolic blood pressure, and body fat, diabetic and IFG participants had higher left ventricular mass index than those with NFG (41.5 ± 8.7 and 39.6 ± 9.2 vs. 35.6 ± 7.8 g/m2.7) and reduced stress-corrected midwall shortening (98 ± 8.6 and 99 ± 7.5 vs. 101 ± 8.5%; all P < 0.05). The prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy was higher in DM (20%) and IFG (17%) than in NFG participants (12%; P < 0.05). Compared with the other groups, DM was also associated with higher prevalence of inappropriate left ventricular mass, concentric geometry, and more diastolic abnormalities independently of covariates (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In a population of adolescents and young adults, DM is independently associated with early unfavorable cardiovascular phenotype characterized by increased left ventricular mass, concentric geometry, and early preclinical systolic and diastolic dysfunction; early cardiovascular alterations are also present in participants with prediabetes.
Self-Reported Long Total Sleep Duration Is Associated With Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Arora Teresa , Jiang Chao Qiang , Thomas G. Neil , Lam Kin-bong Hubert , Zhang Wei Sen , Cheng Kar Keung , Lam Tai Hing , Taheri Shahrad
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between total sleep duration and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) in older Chinese.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study (GBCS) was performed. Participants (n = 29,333) were aged ≥50 years. Risk of MetSyn and its components were identified for self-reported total sleep duration.

RESULTS

Participants reporting long (≥9 h) and short (<6 h) total sleep duration had increased odds ratio (OR) of 1.18 (95% CI 1.07–1.30) and 1.14 (1.05–1.24) for the presence of MetSyn, respectively. The relationship remained in long sleepers (OR 1.21 [1.10–1.34]) but diminished in short sleepers (0.97 [0.88–1.06]) after full adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

Long sleep duration was associated with greater risk of MetSyn in older Chinese. Confirmation through longitudinal studies is needed. The mechanisms mediating the link between long sleep duration and MetSyn require further investigation.
Metabolic Syndrome Does Not Detect Metabolic Risk in African Men Living in the U.S.
Authors: Ukegbu Ugochi J. , Castillo Darleen C. , Knight Michael G. , Ricks Madia , Miller Bernard V. , Onumah Barbara M. , Sumner Anne E.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

Metabolic risk and metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) prevalence were compared in Africans who immigrated to the U.S. and African Americans. If MetSyn were an effective predictor of cardiometabolic risk, then the group with a worse metabolic risk profile would have a higher rate of MetSyn.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional analyses were performed on 95 men (39 Africans, 56 African Americans, age 38 ± 6 years [mean ± SD]). Glucose tolerance was determined by oral glucose tolerance test, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) was determined by computerized tomography, and MetSyn was determined by the presence of three of five factors: central obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, low levels of HDL cholesterol, hypertension, and fasting hyperglycemia.

RESULTS

MetSyn prevalence was similar in Africans and African Americans (10 vs. 13%, P = 0.74), but hypertension, glycemia (fasting and 2-h glucose), and VAT were higher in Africans.

CONCLUSIONS

African immigrants have a worse metabolic profile than African Americans but a similar prevalence of MetSyn. Therefore, MetSyn may underpredict metabolic risk in Africans.
Source Journals of Articles on Psychomotor Performance: A List Compiled from Index Medicus
Authors: Bohannon Richard W.
Published: August 2011

During 1988 in Cumulated Index Medicus under psychomotor skills, cross-referenced as psychomotor performance, 129 journals were listed. The three most frequently listed were Experimental Brain Research, Perceptual and Motor Skills, and Neuropsychologia. Questions important in evaluating journals, the information they provide on a topic, etc. are complex.
A New Approach to Cerebral Asymmetry: RT Differences in Simultaneous Bimanual Finger Movement during Verbal and Nonverbal Tasks
Authors: Wünscher T. , Jordan K. , Gille H-G. , Roth N.
Published: August 2011

This study was aimed at testing a new approach for examination of functional laterality based on hemispheric specialization. The subjects had to perform verbal (words/nonwords) and nonverbal (similar/different patterns) discrimination. The separation of the two hemispheres during information processing was realized by requiring a simultaneous response of both index fingers. The obtained over-all reaction times (RT) were faster for verbal than for pattern tasks. Considering the RTs for solely the particular, faster response of one or the other index finger, the right index finger turned out to be faster on verbal tasks whereas the left one dominated on pattern tasks. According to the hypothesis that the faster hand indicates the more active (contralateral) hemisphere, it can be assumed that words are responded to more quickly when processed in the left hemisphere. On the other hand, patterns are responded to more quickly when the right hemisphere is active. These results suggest that each hemisphere may be capable of processing verbal and nonverbal material; the speed of information processing, however, is faster in the more adept one.
Sex Differences and Handedness in Hemispheric Lateralization of Tactile-Spatial Functions
Authors: Genetta-Wadley Ann , Swirsky-Sacchetti Thomas
Published: August 2011

Sex differences in spatial processing and handedness were studied with a tactile-spatial task in 27 male and 29 female right-handed undergraduate students in psychology. Subjects were asked to identify amorphous shapes to investigate possible male right-hemisphere specialization for spatial functions and bilateral representation among the women. The Annett handedness questionnaire estimated extent of right-handedness. Subjects were classified by major, and women by phase of menstrual cycle. Analysis shows significantly more right-handedness in women and ambidexterity in men. Over-all, men do not perform significantly better than women, although men outperform women with their left hands when handedness is covaried. Within sex, no difference is seen between left and right hand scores for men, but women perform significantly better with right than left hands. Further analyses suggest men appear right-hemisphere dominant for this task whereas women show left-hemisphere dominance. Analyses of hormonal data support recent research, in that for women on the pill there is a trend to perform worse than all other groups. Engineering students perform significantly better than all other majors.
Vigilance Performance: A Review of Electrodermal Predictors
Authors: Koelega Harry S.
Published: August 2011

A detailed analysis of electrodermal predictors, used in vigilance studies, suggests that slow habituators display a high over-all level of performance, regardless of task demands and modality. A difference in cautiousness of responding is not involved in this superiority. The evidence that fast habituators exhibit greater performance decrements with time is somewhat less strong. Electrodermal lability, in the sense of spontaneous activity, appeared to be useless as a predictor of over-all vigilant efficiency. The relationship between rate of habituation and performance can be explained in terms of differential allocation of information-processing capacity, although explanations in terms of arousal have also been offered. Speed of habituation has also been linked to intelligence. If in further research it can be shown that the predictive capacity of speed of habituation also applies to more complex, real-world tasks, a practical consequence may be to employ slow habituators in monitoring tasks.
Notion of Control and Self-Esteem of Institutionalized Older Men
Authors: Chowdhary Usha
Published: August 2011

12 institutionalized elderly men (those over 65 yr.) participated in an investigation to assess the influence of control on the self-esteem (feelings of self-worth) of the respondents. Langer's 1983 concept of perception of control guided the use of a modified pretest-posttest design. Analysis indicated that having input in decision-making process can enhance institutionalized elderly males' self-esteem and contribute toward improving their quality of life. Possibilities for extending and refining this research are addressed.
Type A-B Behavior and the Self-Report of Daily Hassles and Uplifts
Authors: Margiotta Eugene W. , Davilla Donna A. , Hicks Robert A.
Published: August 2011

Fairly large groups of Type A and Type B college students were asked to respond to the Hassles and Uplifts Scale. The Type A students reported significantly more hassles and uplifts than their Type B peers. These data support the view that Type A people lead more intense, event-filled lives than Type B people.
Children's Judgments of Televised Events: The Real versus Pretend Distinction
Authors: Downs A. Chris
Published: August 2011

Previous research suggests that children's understanding that television is fictional may be dependent on various factors inherent in televised events. 36 children, 4- to 6-yr.-old, were asked to judge the reality of specific televised events shown via videotape The events varied in aggressiveness, format, and type of character shown. While age and sex differences were absent, children's judgments were dependent on the format of the televised events (cartoon versus noncartoon) rather than other variables. Implications for research on children's learning of televised aggression and prosocial behaviors are discussed.
Cognitive Impairment in Alcoholics
Authors: Tamkin Arthur S. , Dolenz John J.
Published: August 2011

The research literature shows that, as a result of chronic alcohol abuse, there occur impairments in abstract reasoning, problem-solving, and perceptual-motor functioning. In an earlier study, Tamkin (1983) obtained significant differences between alcoholics and paired neurotic inpatient controls only on abstract reasoning measured on the Weigl Color-Form Sorting Test. Verbal functions and recall of designs showed no group differences. This study sought to replicate the Weigl test results and to examine other types of cognitive impairments in alcoholics relative to published norms. The study subjects were 104 male alcoholics in an alcohol rehabilitation unit. The tests used were the Weigl, Trails A and B, and three subtests of the WAIS. The proportion of impaired Weigl performances was similar to that obtained in 1983, and all the other test scores were significantly poorer than their published norms.
Comparison of Nigerian High School Male Athletes and Nonathletes on Self-Concept
Authors: Salokun S. O.
Published: August 2011

Nigerian high school athletes (112 high and 90 low in performance) and 108 nonathletes were administered the Tennessee Self-concept Scale. Athletes scored significantly higher on all self-concept subscales except behavior, moral-ethical and family. Better athletes scored significantly higher on all aspects of self-concept: social, moral-ethical, family and behavior, as is consistent with findings from the USA and other countries.
Body Cathexis of Adult Men and Women: Effects of Age and Number of Children
Authors: Shim Soyeon , Kotsiopulos Antigone
Published: August 2011

Responses of 269 men and 482 women out of 1,430 men and 1,400 women to a Body-cathexis Scale, showed men and women gave mean ratings between neutral and moderately positive. Pearson coefficients for age with body cathexis and with several body parts were weak. Further descriptive data should be sought.
Preschool Children's Cognitive Styles and Their Social Orientations
Authors: Saracho Olivia N.
Published: August 2011

300 children ages 3 to 5 yr. were tested for their cognitive style, measured by the Preschool Embedded Figures Test, and their play preferences, measured by the Play Rating Scale, observed and recorded. A repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance showed that (1) field-independent children favored all types of play more than field-dependent children, (2) field-dependent and -independent boys engaged more in physical and block play than did the girls, (3) order of preference for play differed between field-dependent and field-independent children (e.g., field-dependent children preferred physical, dramatic, and manipulative play, while field-independent children preferred dramatic, physical, manipulative and block play), (4) boys engaged more in all forms of play than girls, and (5) order of preference for play differed between boys and girls. Boys preferred physical, block, dramatic and manipulative play, while girls preferred dramatic, manipulative, physical, and block play.
Attire, an Influence on Perceptions of Counselors' Characteristics
Authors: Heitmeyer Jeanne R. , Goldsmith Elizabeth B.
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the initial impressions formed by 86 clients of counselors based on the counselors' attire. Clients' perceptions of counselors' selected characteristics of caring, authenticity, competentness, and trustworthiness were assessed. In addition, clients reported their willingness to see a counselor based on their initial impression of the counselor's attire. Analysis showed that most of the clients preferred a moderate style of dress (neither too formal nor too casual) for both male and female counselors. A strong positive association was found between the counselors' attire and the clients' perception of the four selected characteristics of counselors.
Review of Research on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
Authors: Murray John B.
Published: August 2011

Research on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator as a psychometric instrument and as a reflection of Jung's personality typology was reviewed. Its applications in education, business, the artistic world, and in decision-making processes of business have been extensive and well received.
Asymmetrical Processing of Tachistoscopic Inputs in Undergraduates across Sex, Handedness, Field-Side, and Fixation Instructions
Authors: Iaccino James F.
Published: August 2011

Past studies have indicated that men as well as right-handers show a right-visual field (RVF) advantage for letter recall and a left-visual field (LVF) advantage for letter position recall, suggesting asymmetrical brain organization for these groups. To examine these laterality effects more closely, 96 undergraduates were tested in a tachistoscopic task; they were equally divided by sex and hand dominance. On each of the 48 trials, subjects were required to recall either the letters or respective letter positions within 4 × 4 matrices flashed to the right or left visual field for 100 msec. Subjects further received instructions prior to each trial cueing them as to the field in which the matrix would be positioned (i.e., left, right or neither). Analyses indicated that right-handed men showed the predicted RVF advantage for letters while only right-handed subjects evidenced a LVF advantage for letter positions. Instructions might have contributed to the observed sex difference with letters; this would imply that right-handers exclusively possessed this asymmetrical organization.
Training, Certification, and Experience of Handwriting Analysts
Authors: Peeples E. Edward
Published: August 2011

The significance of type of training was evaluated as were the effects of certification and years of experience of handwriting analysts of the psychogram ( n = 13), gestalt ( n = 11), and stroke analysis ( n = 13) subgroups in the United States. Thirty-seven handwriting analysts volunteered to participate in the analysis of one subject's handwriting and to rate personality attributes of that subject using the factor descriptions from Cattell's Sixteen Personality Factor Test Profile. The test subject answered the 187 questions of the Cattell test, generating her own 16 PF profile. There was a negative correlation between the test profiles generated by the handwriting analysts and that of the 16 PF self-reported by the subject. Intergroup correlations were quite high among the three groups, intragroup correlations were positive but of smaller magnitude. When analysts were rank-ordered by correlations to the subject profile, certification and years of experience did not appear significant.
Body Cathexis and Clothed Body Cathexis: Is There a Difference?
Authors: Markee Nancy L. , Carey Inez L. S. , Pedersen Elaine L.
Published: August 2011

To investigate the difference between perceptions of the nude body and of the clothed body 29 women were administered the Body Cathexis Scale and a Clothed Body Cathexis Scale. Paired t tests indicated that these working women were significantly more satisfied with their clothed bodies than with their nude bodies.
Evaluation of the Craig Lipreading Inventory
Authors: Updike Claudia D. , Albertson Roberta L. , German Cathy M. , Ward Joanne M.
Published: August 2011

Responses to the Craig Lipreading Inventory have not been subjected to rigorous statistical analysis. No normative data currently exist. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the internal validity and intertest reliability and to obtain normative data. The inventory was administered to 150 children, ages 3 to 8 yr. The internal consistency was very high for each subtest. Significant correlations were obtained among the subtests. Significant differences in scores were noted for the three age groups, indicating the need for standards at each age group. Preliminary Z-scores and percentile ranks were computed for each age group. It was concluded that the inventory is a valuable, reliable tool of lipreading evaluation in children.
Role of Color in Perception of Attractiveness
Authors: Radeloff Deanna J.
Published: August 2011

In this color study females reported a favorite color significantly more often than males. Males preferred bright colors significantly more than females, with a converse finding for preference for soft colors. The 276 subjects, when asked to evaluate the attractiveness of stimulus models in photographs, gave as the reason color significantly more often than style of clothing or facial expressions. Subjects significantly concurred with expert choices of recommended and nonrecommended colors in five of the six sets of photographs. This study lends credence that wearing recommended colors makes a difference in judgments of what looks best by subjects over the age of 12.
Another Look at the Power of Meta-Analysis in the Solomon Four-Group Design
Authors: Sawilowsky Shlomo S. , Markman Barry S.
Published: August 2011

Braver and Braver (1988) promoted a meta-analysis technique as the most powerful single test for analyzing data from a Solomon Four-Group Design. Customary analysis on fabricated data was not significant, but the meta-analysis yielded significance. The current paper counters that fabricated data sets can easily be constructed to show that customary tests can yield significance, whereas the meta-analysis does not. Statements about the efficacy and power of meta-analysis should be made more cautiously.
Perceptual Inequality between Two Physically Equal Constant Velocities
Authors: Gyulai Elisabetta
Published: August 2011

When an object moves with an equal constant velocity before and after passing through a tunnel (or before and after a sudden acceleration—or deceleration—in the central part of its trajectory), the two velocities (the one preceding and the one following the tunnel or the sudden acceleration or deceleration) are perceived as different even if actually physically equal. Four experiments were carried out to establish the conditions for the occurrence of this phenomenon. The results show an underestimation of the second velocity (i.e., the one following the tunnel) when the first one (i.e., the one preceding the tunnel) is low, and an overestimation of the second one when the values of the first velocity are higher. An interpretation of the results is proposed, suggesting that an appearance effect (i.e., an apparent higher velocity at the beginning of the movement) could be the basis for the perceptual inequality between the two physically equal constant velocities.
Effect of Outliers on the Relative Power of Parametric and Nonparametric Statistical Tests
Authors: Zimmerman Donald W. , Zumbo Bruno D.
Published: August 2011

It is known that parametric statistical tests, such as t and F, are more powerful than their nonparametric counterparts, such as the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test or the Kruskal-Wallis test, when the assumption of a normal population distribution is satisfied. However, it has been found that, for quite a few nonnormal distributions, the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test ( W) is more powerful than the Student t-test ( t) both in the asymptotic limit and for small samples. The present computer-simulation study examined the role of outliers in determining the relative power of W and t. In a series of five steps, a standard normal distribution, as well as a uniform distribution, was altered so that extreme scores occurred with increasingly higher probability. It was found that the initial power advantage of t gradually diminished in favor of W. In contrast, in a series of five steps, exponential and Cauchy distributions were truncated at less and less extreme values, so that the influence of outliers was reduced, and the initial power advantage of W gradually diminished in favor of t. For all distributions, the ordinary Student t-test performed on the ranks of measures instead of the measures was affected by addition or elimination of outliers in the same way as W and yielded the same probabilities of Type I and Type II errors as W.
Psychology of the Scientist: LXII. Prospects of Psychology in Czechoslovakia
Authors: Brožek Josef , Hoskovec Jiří
Published: August 2011

This note is an addendum to a prior report by T. Radii on the recovery and development of neurosciences in Institutes of Physiology in Czechoslovakia. Present remarks concern Institutes of Psychology
An Intercultural Comparison of Immediacy among Japanese and Americans
Authors: Boyer Laureen M. , Thompson Catherine A. , Klopf Donald W. , Ishii Satoshi
Published: August 2011

On the Self-assessment of Immediacy Scale 165 Japanese and 147 USA students gave scores showing women perceived themselves as more verbally immediate among both cultural groups and Americans scored more immediate than Japanese although both groups were moderate.
Job Control, Paced Tasks, and Discretion
Authors: Shouksmith George
Published: August 2011

Studies relating two dimensions of control over work, discretionary latitude and control over work pace or speed are reviewed. Findings from these studies and new data presented here have led to the conclusion that the amount of control a worker has over his job activities relates to levels of personal satisfaction and adjustment and to perceptions of the job as being ‘ideal’ or one with inherent risk of accidents.
Rejoinder to Braver and Walton Braver
Authors: Sawilowsky Shlomo S. , Markman Barry S.
Published: August 2011

In this rejoinder further comments on the issues confirm the desirability of systematic investigation of the Walton Braver and Braver technique.
Light Sensitivity in Peripheral Retinal Fields of Dyslexic and Proficient Readers
Authors: Grosser George S. , Spafford Carol S.
Published: August 2011

This present study furthers research on perceptual differences between dyslexics and normal readers which is contrary to the current linguistic approaches to this problem. Specifically, thresholds of light intensity for small retinal areas were examined. As hypothesized, the peripheral retinas of proficient readers evidenced lower thresholds than the peripheral retinas of dyslexic readers. These results are consistent with Grosser and Spafford's previous research which showed that dyslexics were better able to detect colors with their peripheral retinas than proficient readers. This research lends support to the premise that dyslexics' retinas have unusually high cone density in the periphery. Additional research is warranted to improve both diagnosis and treatment of dyslexia.
Concreteness, Imagery, Emotionality, and Interest Values of Words When Meaning is Controlled
Authors: Campos Alfredo
Published: August 2011

All previous studies yielded negative correlations between concreteness and emotionality and also emotionality and imagery. A positive correlation between concreteness, emotionality, imagery, and interest of words was hypothesized when concrete and abstract words have the same meaning. 112 subjects rated (1 to 7) 122 pairs of words (244 words) on concreteness, emotionality, imagery, and interest scales. There were positive correlations among all variables. The values were significant between concreteness and imagery, emotionality and imagery, and emotionality and interest.
Effects on Verbal Fluency Associated with Sex, Practice, and Stimulus Letter
Authors: Rideout Bruce E. , Winchester Laurie
Published: August 2011

In an examination of the effects of sex, practice, and various stimulus letters on performance of a simple 1-min. verbal fluency task, each of 8 male and 8 female undergraduates was tested with 8 stimulus letters in a single session. Women scored higher than men on each letter and generated reliably more words across the whole session. Neither men nor women improved reliably from Trial 1 to Trial 2, but women only showed improvement from the first to the second half of the session. Performance on different letters correlated reliably with number of pages devoted to respective letters in the dictionary.
Effects of Subliminal Psychodynamic Activation on Dart-Throwing Performance: Another Nonreplication
Authors: Kothera Lynne , Fudin Robert , Nicastro Richard
Published: August 2011

We attempted to replicate Ross's (1978) findings, reported in 1978 by Silverman, Ross, Adler, and Lustig, on the effects of subliminal oedipal messages on males' dart-throwing performance. Methodological changes were introduced in this experiment to make it consistent with general tachistoscopic procedure and to rule out alternative explanations of results. Further, experimental conditions maximized the possibility that the subliminal messages would influence dart-throwing performance. Despite those design improvements, means for 120 subjects following exposure of BEATING DAD IS OK and BEATING DAD IS WRONG did not differ significantly from control means, and the difference between the means for BEATING messages was nonsignificant. These results are in sharp contrast to those found in Ross's original experiment. Ideas for further research in this area are offered.
Effects of Flotation Restricted Environmental Stimulation on Intercollegiate Tennis Performance
Authors: McAleney Patrick J. , Barabasz Arreed , Barabasz Marianne
Published: August 2011

The study investigated the effects of flotation Restricted Environmental Stimulation (REST) with an imagery message on the competitive performance of intercollegiate tennis players (10 men, 10 women). Pre- and posttreatment athletic performance was measured during intercollegiate competition. Posttreatment results indicated that subjects exposed to flotation REST with an imagery message performed significantly better than subjects exposed to imagery only on a measure of first service accuracy. Findings suggest that flotation REST can be used to enhance the performance of a well learned skill by athletes of high ability.
Geophysical Variables and Behavior: LXIII. Quasi-Experimental Evidence of the Tectonic Strain Theory of Luminous Phenomena: The Derby, Colorado Earthquakes
Authors: Derr J. S. , Persinger M. A.
Published: August 2011

This study provides the first quasi-experimental evidence for the Tectonic Strain Theory for luminous phenomena. Approximately 1500 earthquakes occurred near Derby, Colorado during the years 1962 through 1967 as a result of injection of several millions of gallons of industrial waste fluid into the crystalline bedrock. Correlations between numbers of luminous phenomena within successive 100-km rings from the injection site and the release of seismic energy gave significant coefficients for distances as great as 400 km. Lag/lead analyses between the monthly volume of fluid injection and the monthly numbers of luminous phenomena at various distances indicated that some process was diffusing away from the injection site at a rate of 50 to 100 km/month to distances as far as 300 km. Partial correlation analyses supported the hypothesis that both the luminous phenomena and the Derby quakes were generated by the stresses evoked by the amount of fluid injection during that period. Unprecedented increases in luminous phenomena occurred before releases of strain energy that exceeded magnitudes of 1017 ergs/month.
Graphology as Predictor of Academic Achievement
Authors: Oosthuizen Stanley
Published: August 2011

From 50 psychology students, homogeneous samples of handwriting were obtained and a standardized personality questionnaire was applied. 10 components were scored for the scripts and the questionnaire consisted of 11 components. Components of scripts and scores on the questionnaire were the predictors and second-year grade point averages in psychology provided the criterion. A higher multiple correlation was obtained for graphology than for scores on the personality questionnaire.
Perceived Benefits of Participants in an Employees' Aerobic Fitness Program
Authors: Imm Pamela S.
Published: August 2011

29 employees who participated in an employees' aerobic fitness program were asked to rate effects of participation along several psychological and physical dimensions. Analysis indicated employees felt aerobic dance helped them in various ways, the largest effect being stress reduction, followed by increased stamina/endurance, improvement in mood, improvement in self-concept, and improved flexibility. These results are discussed in terms of measuring effectiveness of worksite aerobic fitness classes and the importance of a comprehensive evaluation which includes an objective external criterion.