bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normal and Impaired Reflexive Orienting of Attention after Central Nonpredictive Cues
Authors: Bonato Mario , Priftis Konstantinos , Marenzi Roberto , Zorzi Marco
Published: June 2008

Recent studies suggest that stimuli with directional meaning can trigger lateral shifts of visuospatial attention when centrally presented as noninformative cues. We investigated covert orienting in healthy participants and in a group of 17 right brain-damaged patients (9 with hemispatial neglect) comparing arrows, eye gaze, and digits as central nonpredictive cues in a detection task. Orienting effects elicited by arrows and eye gaze were overall consistent in healthy participants and in right brain-damaged patients, whereas digit cues were ineffective. Moreover, patients with neglect showed, at the shortest delay between cue and target, a disengage deficit for arrow cueing whose magnitude was predicted by neglect severity. We conclude that the peculiar form of attentional orienting triggered by the directional meaning of arrow cues presents some features previously thought to characterize only the stimulus-driven (exogenous) orienting to noninformative peripheral cues.
Task-dependent Modulations of Prefrontal and Hippocampal Activity during Intrinsic Word Production
Authors: Whitney Carin , Weis Susanne , Krings Timo , Huber Walter , Grossman Murray , Kircher Tilo
Published: June 2008

Functional imaging studies of single word production have consistently reported activation of the lateral prefrontal and cingulate cortex. Its contribution has been shown to be sensitive to task demands, which can be manipulated by the degree of response specification. Compared with classical verbal fluency, free word association relies less on response restrictions but to a greater extent on associative binding processes, usually subserved by the hippocampus. To elucidate the relevance of the frontal and medial-temporal areas during verbal retrieval tasks, we applied varying degrees of response specification. During fMRI data acquisition, 18 subjects performed a free verbal association (FVA), a semantic verbal fluency (SVF) task, and a phonological verbal fluency (PVF) task. Externally guided word production served as a baseline condition to control for basic articulatory and reading processes. As expected, increased brain activity was observed in the left lateral and bilateral medial frontal cortices for SVF and PVF. The anterior cingulate gyrus was the only structure common to both fluency tasks in direct comparison to the less restricted FVA task. The hippocampus was engaged during associative and semantic retrieval. Interestingly, hippocampal activity was selectively evident during FVA in direct comparison to SVF when it was controlled for stimulus–response relations. The current data confirm the role of the left prefrontal–cingulate network in constrained word production. Hippocampal activity during spontaneous word production is a novel finding and seems to be dependent on the retrieval process (free vs. constrained) rather than the variety of stimulus–response relationships that is involved.
End or Means—The “What” and “How” of Observed Intentional Actions
Authors: Hesse Maike D. , Sparing Roland , Fink Gereon R.
Published: June 2008

Action understanding and learning are suggested to be mediated, at least in part, by the human mirror neuron system (hMNS). Static images as well as videos of actions with the outcome occluded have been shown to activate the hMNS. However, whether the hMNS preferentially responds to end or means of an action remains to be investigated. We, therefore, presented subjects with videos of intentional actions that were shown from two perspectives (factor 1, perspective: first vs. third person) while subjects directed their attention to the means or the end thereof (factor 2, task: means vs. end). End- or means-related changes in BOLD signal and corticospinal excitability (CSE) were assessed using fMRI and TMS, respectively. Judging the means of an action compared with its end differentially activated bilateral ventral premotor (vPMC) and inferior parietal cortex (IPL), that is, the core regions of the hMNS. The reverse contrast revealed left precuneus and bilateral superior frontal, angular, and middle temporal gyrus activity. In accordance, the two tasks, although identically in stimulus properties, modulated CSE differentially. Although recent studies suggest that the hMNS may prefer the presence of a goal or context, our data show that within the same context, it responds preferentially when attention is directed to the action means. Consequently, in addition to inferring action goals, a key function of the hMNS may be to anticipate the trajectories and dynamics of observed actions, which is a prerequisite for any timely interaction.
Midrash, Theology, and History: Two Powers in Heaven Revisited
Authors: Schremer Adiel
Published: June 2008

This paper seeks to re-contextualize and re-interpret the earliest rabbinic polemic against the concept of "Two Powers in Heaven." In contrast to previous interpretations that view that polemic as aimed at rejecting Christian or Gnostic concepts, the present paper suggests that Two Powers was conceived by Tannaitic sources as an expression of existential giving up on God, which stemmed from His inability to demonstrate His power, as was exposed in the military defeat of the Jews in their wars against the Roman Empire.
The Fable of "the Middle-Aged Man with Two Wives": From the Aesopian Motif to the Babylonian Talmud Version in b. B. Qam. 60b
Authors: Maciá Lorena Miralles
Published: June 2008

Some motifs of the Aesopian tradition were adapted by rabbinic literature. One of them was the case of a man who had two wives, one young and the other old, who plucked out his grey and black hairs respectively, until he became bald. The current tale had several versions until the rabbis included it with the mashal form in a passage of the Tractate Baba Qamma of the Babylonian Talmud. In this article I collect the passages where it appears prior to the Talmudic text (the Augustana recension of the Aesopian fables and the works of Diodorus Siculus, Babrius, and Phaedrus), in order to determine, as far as possible, to which version of the tale the rabbinic tradition could have access.
Benefits of Membership: The Activation and Amplification of Group Identities in Response to Social Rejection
Authors: Knowles Megan L. , Gardner Wendi L.
Published: June 2008

Groups vary in the range of benefits they provide to members, but one potential benefit of membership is a confirmation of individuals' sense of belonging to a larger social whole. The current studies present an exploration of this potential benefit by examining the activation and amplification of group identities and memberships following rejection. Results demonstrate that rejected participants exhibited heightened activation of group constructs, social identities, and idiosyncratic group memberships (Studies 1 and 2) and judged their own groups to be more entitative (meaningful and cohesive) than other groups (Study 3) as compared to controls. Moreover, heightened activation of group constructs and entitative group memberships after rejection was associated with higher self-esteem (Studies 1 and 2) and more positive mood (Study 4). The potential use of group identity activation and amplification as an indirect belonging regulation strategy is discussed within the context of a broader belonging regulation model.
Involvement Among Resident Fathers and Links to Infant Cognitive Outcomes
Authors: Bronte-Tinkew Jacinta , Carrano Jennifer , Horowitz Allison , Kinukawa Akemi
Published: June 2008

Using a sample of resident fathers in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study–Birth Cohort (9-month Father Study), this study examined how father involvement is associated with infant cognitive outcomes in two domains (babbling and exploring objects with a purpose). Results from a series of logistic regression models indicate that varied aspects of father involvement (cognitively stimulating activities, physical care, paternal warmth, and caregiving activities) are associated with a lower likelihood of infant cognitive delay. Two-way interaction models further indicate that father involvement is related to greater reductions in infant cognitive delay for male infants than for female infants and for infants with disabilities than for infants without. These findings point to the importance of considering fathers' roles in early infant outcomes. Early positive father–child interactions reduce cognitive delay.
IKDC or KOOS? Which Measures Symptoms and Disabilities Most Important to Postoperative Articular Cartilage Repair Patients?
Authors: Hambly Karen , Griva Konstadina
Published: June 2008

Background

The relevance of knee-specific subjective measures of outcome to patients has not been evaluated for cartilage repair procedures.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify which instrument out of the Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score and the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form measures symptoms and disabilities most important to Postoperative articular cartilage repair patients.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Data were collected from 58 participants of an Internet knee forum via a self-reported online questionnaire consisting of demographic and surgical data, the Tegner activity scale, and 49 consolidated items from the Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score and the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form. Item importance, frequency, and frequency-importance product were calculated.

Results

Overall, the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form was the highest scoring instrument in all categories. However, 2 of the Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscales (“function in sport and recreation” and “knee-related quality of life”) scored higher on mean importance and frequency-importance product than the overall International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form score.

Conclusion

The International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form provided the best overall measure of symptoms and disabilities that are most important to this population of postoperative articular cartilage repair patients. This brings into question the validity of using the Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score in shorter-term—less than 10 years—studies. Issues related to sports activity appear to be highly valued and very pertinent to evaluation of outcomes for this patient group.
Effect of Neutral-Cushioned Running Shoes on Plantar Pressure Loading and Comfort in Athletes with Cavus Feet
Authors: Wegener Caleb , Burns Joshua , Penkala Stefania , Sc Grad Dip Ex Spr
Published: June 2008

Background

High injury rates observed in athletes with cavus feet are thought to be associated with elevated plantar pressure loading. Neutral-cushioned running shoes are often recommended to manage and prevent such injuries.

Purpose

To investigate in-shoe plantar pressure loading and comfort during running in 2 popular neutral-cushioned running shoes recommended for athletes with cavus feet.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Plantar pressures were collected using the in-shoe Novel Pedar-X system during overground running in 22 athletes with cavus feet in 2 neutral-cushioned running shoes (Asics Nimbus 6 and Brooks Glycerin 3) and a control condition (Dunlop Volley). Comfort was measured using a validated visual analog scale.

Results

Compared with the control, both neutral-cushioned running shoes significantly reduced peak pressure and pressure-time integrals by 17% to 33% ( P < .001). The Brooks Glycerin most effectively reduced pressure beneath the whole foot and forefoot ( P < .01), and the Asics Nimbus most effectively reduced rearfoot pressure ( P < .01). Both neutral-cushioned running shoes reduced force at the forefoot by 6% and increased it at the midfoot by 12% to 17% ( P < .05). Contact time and area increased in both neutral-cushioned running shoes ( P < .01). The Asics Nimbus was the most comfortable, although both neutral-cushioned running shoes were significantly more comfortable than the control ( P < .001).

Conclusion

Two popular types of neutral-cushioned running shoes were effective at reducing plantar pressures in athletes with cavus feet.

Clinical Relevance

Regional differences in pressure reduction suggest neutral-cushioned running shoe recommendation should shift from being categorical in nature to being based on location of injury or elevated plantar pressure.
Finance as Servant? Lessons from New Deal Financial Reform
Authors: Russell Ellen D.
Published: June 2008

New Deal financial reforms wrestled with a dilemma that is instructive for contemporary advocates of economic change. A project of financial reform that puts constraints on finance may impair the profitability of financial capitalists, thus provoking financial capital to sabotage the financial reforms. This article discusses how the New Deal navigated this dilemma in hopes of gleaning insights useful for contemporary projects of financial reform.
Geometrically Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Composite Plates Integrated with the Patches of Piezoelectric Fiber-reinforced Composite
Authors: Shivakumar J. , Ray M.C.
Published: June 2008

Geometrically nonlinear static analysis of laminated smart composite plates integrated with the patches of piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composite (PFRC) material acting as the distributed actuators has been carried out by a generalized energy based finite element model. The Von Karman type nonlinear strain displacement relations and a simple first-order shear deformation theory are used for deriving this coupled electromechanical finite element model. Eight-noded isoparametric serendipity elements are used for discretizing the overall plates. The nonlinear finite element equilibrium equations are solved by Picard's direct iteration method under relaxation. The performance of the PFRC patches has been investigated for both symmetric and antisymmetric cross-ply and antisymmetric angle-ply laminated composite plate substrates with different boundary conditions. Particular emphasis has been placed on investigating the effect of variation of piezoelectric fiber orientation on the actuating capability of the PFRC patches for counteracting the nonlinear deformations of the smart composite plates. The results suggest the potential use of the patches of PFRC material for distributed control of nonlinear deformations of smart composite structures.
Hygrothermal Effects on the Buckling of Laminated Composite Plates with Random Geometric and Material Properties
Authors: Singh B.N. , Verma V.K.
Published: June 2008

The combined effects of temperature and moisture on the buckling of laminated composite plates with random geometric and material properties are investigated. A C0 finite element based on higher order shear deformation theory has been used for deriving the standard eigenvalue problem. The random material and geometric properties are modeled as basic random variables. A Taylor series based mean-centered first order perturbation technique is used to find mean and standard derivation of the hygrothermal buckling loads of laminated composite plates subjected to uniform temperature and moisture rise with different boundary conditions. The effects of modulus ratio, fiber orientation, length to thickness ratio, aspect ratio, and boundary conditions on the hygrothermal buckling are analyzed. It is found that a small amount of material and geometric variations of the composite plate significantly affect the hygrothermal buckling loads. The results have been validated with independent Monte Carlo simulations and those are available in literature.
Thermal Residual Stresses in Single-sided Bonded Composite Patching
Authors: Zun Wang  , Jiayu Xiao  , Dazhi Jiang  , Jingcheng Zeng  , Fubiao Yang
Published: June 2008

Thermal residual strains/stresses in the single-sided bonded specimens, resulting from the mismatch in coefficients of thermal expansion between the carbon/epoxy composite patch and the aluminum alloy substrate, were experimentally and numerically investigated. A two-dimensional plane-stress finite element model was developed to predict the thermal residual stresses. The finite element analysis (FEA) results agree well with the experimental results, which indicates the FEA is an efficient method to estimate the residual stresses in the single-sided patched structures. The FEA results show that the residual stress in the substrate near the adhesive interface and the peak shear stress in the adhesive layer can be efficiently reduced by increasing the adhesive layer thickness, and as the patch to substrate stiffness ratio increases, the residual stress decreases and the peak shear stress increases.
Gray Relational Analysis between Size Distribution and Impact Strength of Polypropylene/Hollow Glass Bead Composites
Authors: Liang J.Z. , Wu C.B.
Published: June 2008

The impact strength of V-notched U-notched and non-notched specimens of hollow glass bead filled polypropylene composite (PP/HGB) were measured by using Charpy impact tester, and the directed gray relational grade (GRG) between the HGB size distribution and the impact strength of the composites was determined by means of gray relational analysis (GRA) in order to investigate the influence of the HGB size distribution on the impact strength of the composites. The results indicated that the particles with size range from 0.00 to 24.7 µm have a positive influence on the impact strength of the composites, and the particles with size ranging from 18.90 to 24.7 µm have a greater positive influence than that of the particles with size range from 0.00 to 18.9 µm. While the particles with size ranging from 24.72 to 256.0 µm have a negative influence, especially the particles with size in a range from 100.60 to 256.0 µm. That is, the impact strength of the composites could be enhanced by increasing the particle content in the tested fillers with size range from 0.00 to 27.72 µm especially the particles with size ranging from 18.90 to 24.7 µm, whereas decreasing the particles content with size range from 24.72 to 256.0 µm, especially the particles with size range from 100.60 to 256.0 µm.
Microstructural and Mechanical Aspects of Carbon/Epoxy Composites at Liquid Nitrogen Temperature
Authors: Surendra Kumar M. , Sharma Neeti , Ray B.C.
Published: June 2008

Woven carbon fibers of 50, 55, and 60 wt% were reinforced with epoxy matrix to prepare laminated composites. These were exposed to liquid nitrogen temperature and mechanical tests were carried out at a range of 2—500 mm/min cross-head speeds. The main emphasis of the investigation was to evaluate the role of percentage matrix phase and interfacial areas on tensile and interlaminar shear failure mechanism of carbon/epoxy composites at cryogenic temperature for different loading rates. The mechanical performance of the laminated composites at cryogenic temperature were compared with room temperature property. The woven carbon/epoxy laminates were found to be loading rate sensitive. An improvement in tensile strength and reduction in ILSS was reported after cryogenic conditioning of the carbon/epoxy laminates. Microstructral analysis was done to show low temperature damage mechanisms. The phenomenon may be attributed to cryogenic hardening, matrix crackings, carbon fiber, and epoxy (matrix) contraction, anisotropic nature of carbon fibers, and stress relaxation after cryogenic conditioning.
Effect of Solid Lubricant on the Tribological Properties of Polyimide Composites Reinforced with Carbon Fibers
Authors: Zhang X.R. , Pei X.Q. , Wang Q.H.
Published: June 2008

The short carbon fiber reinforced polyimide (PI) composites filled with particulates of graphite were prepared by a heat molding technique. The friction and wear behaviors of PI composites sliding against GCr15 steel rings were evaluated on an M-2000 model ring-on-block test rig. It was found that the filler of graphite can significantly improve the wear resistance and decrease the friction coefficient of the PI composites. It was also found that the tribological properties of the short carbon fiber reinforced PI composites filled with graphite are closely related with the sliding condition such as sliding rate and the applied load.
Preparation and Physico-Chemical Study of Jute—Carbon Hybrid Composites of Bisphenol-C based Mixed Epoxy—Phenolic Resins
Authors: Patel V.A. , Bhuva B.D. , Parsania P.H.
Published: June 2008

Jute—carbon hybrid composites (JCEBCF-10 to JCEBCF-50) of mixed matrix materials (epoxy resin of bisphenol-C (EBC) and bisphenol-C-formaldehyde (BCF) of 10—50 wt% of epoxy resin) have been prepared by hand lay-up technique at 150°C under 7.6 MPa pressure for 2 h. JCEBCF-10 to JCEBCF-50 possess 5.13—10.0 MPa tensile strength, 5.06—17.0 MPa flexural strength, 1.82—1.60 kV/mm electric strength and 3.16—5.90 × 1012 ohm cm, resistivity. Tensile strength and flexural strength have increased, while electric strength has decreased with increasing amounts of BCF content in the composites. Volume resistivity has decreased up to 30 wt% BCF and then it is increased. Water absorption by composites was carried out in water, 10% aq. NaCl and 10% aq. HCl solutions at room temperature and in boiling water. Observed equilibrium water content in JCEBCF-10 to JCEBCF-50 in water, 10% aq. NaCl, 10% aq. HCl and in boiling water is 8.00—5.87, 5.77—4.10, 10.00—7.40, and 7.1—5.5%, respectively. Observed diffusivity order is NaCl > H2O > HCl. In boiling water equilibrium water absorption time (6 h) is decreased 24 times as compared to room temperature (144 h) without any damage indicating excellent hydrolytic stability in boiling water and even in harsh acidic and saline environments.
Adaptation and Testing of Instruments to Measure Diabetes Self-Management in People With Type 2 Diabetes in Mainland China
Authors: Yin Xu  , Savage Christine , Toobert Deborah , Wei Pan  , Whitmer Kyra
Published: June 2008

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to test the psychometric properties of instruments used to measure diabetes self-management (DSM) that were modified and translated into Chinese. Method: A convenience sample of 30 people with type 2 diabetes in Beijing, China, completed a questionnaire consisting of six instruments that had been translated and modified for use with a Chinese population. The reliability and validity were examined. Results: The Cronbach's alpha for the six instruments varied from .62 to .87. Factors analysis was performed, with variances explained by factors ranging from 61.6% to 97.9%. Conclusions: The findings of the psychometric testing of the modified and translated instruments support the use of these tools to assess DSM and its influencing factors in Chinese people with type 2 diabetes.
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Antisocial Process Screening Device With a Clinical Inpatient Population
Authors: Fite Paul J. , Greening Leilani , Stoppelbein Laura , Fabiano Gregory A.
Published: June 2008

Research linking psychopathic tendencies to childhood behavior problems is predicated on the assumption that the findings are based on using psychometrically sound measures of psychopathic tendencies. Although evaluated with community samples, the psychometric properties of such measures have not been evaluated with inpatient clinical populations thereby limiting conclusions. Hence, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the factor structure of a widely used measure—the Antisocial Process Screening Device (APSD)—with an inpatient population. Parents of 328 children ( M age = 8.90 years) completed the APSD at the time of their child's admission for treatment. Although confirmatory factor analyses supported the three- and two-factor solutions proposed by the authors of the measure, the two-factor structure was more parsimonious. Factors of the two-factor model were also related to symptoms of childhood behavior disorders. The findings extend current research on the APSD's factor structure to an inpatient population.
Visibility of Team Science
Authors: Illman Deborah L. , Clark Fiona
Published: June 2008

There is a growing trend toward interdisciplinary research, with team science often touted as key to the creation of new knowledge and capabilities important to solving societal problems. But the balance between the funding of team efforts versus smaller grants is an issue that continues to be debated nationally. We analyzed media coverage of 17 active U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Science and Technology Centers (STCs) from 2000 to 2006. Research received the greatest coverage (49.5 percent), followed by institutional news (24.4 percent). A center name appeared in 35 percent of the items, and the NSF and STC program were less visible, at 31 percent and 10 percent, respectively. Surprisingly, no significant differences were found between hard news and feature stories in mentions of centers, NSF, or STC. Thus, even with the greater length and flexibility of a feature, the STC model and nature of team science remains essentially invisible to the public through the lens of the media.
A Question of Balance
Authors: Clarke Christopher E.
Published: June 2008

Although balance is a well-known and arguably important journalistic norm, how should journalists adhere to this norm when the bulk of scientific evidence clearly favors one (presumably accurate) perspective? Should balance be defined in terms of the quantity of information or the quality of viewpoints presented? Using British and American newspaper coverage of the autism-vaccine controversy as a case study, this article explores whether balanced reporting on scientific claims produced a discourse at odds with the scientific consensus that there was no autism-vaccine link. Implications for journalism ethics and risk communication are discussed.
Actualizing “Professional Altruism”
Authors: Cabin William D.
Published: June 2008

The Medicare home health benefit and the Medicare Hospice Benefit (HMB) differ significantly in social work coverage, with social work being only 1%-2% of national Medicare home health visits compared to about 10% of national HMB visits. There has been some research on the frustrations of home care and hospice social workers. However, there is no research that compares home care and hospice social workers. The article presents results of convenience sample interviews of 34 home care social workers and 42 hospice social workers in New York City from August 2006 to October 2007. The analysis finds that, in contrast to home health social workers, hospice social workers feel more able to actualize their altruism professionally; their professional training is more relevant to actual practice; their patients and caregivers have fewer unmet psychosocial needs; and their care is less constrained, and actually enhanced to a great extent, by payer requirements.
Task effectiveness and word learning in a second language: The involvement load hypothesis on trial
Authors: Keating Gregory D.
Published: June 2008

This study tests the claim that word learning and retention in a second language are contingent upon a task's involvement load (i.e. the amount of need, search, and evaluation it imposes), as proposed by Laufer and Hulstijn (2001). Seventy-nine beginning learners of Spanish completed one of three vocabulary learning tasks that varied in the amount of involvement (i.e. mental effort) they induced: reading comprehension (no effort), reading comprehension plus target word suppliance (moderate effort), and sentence writing (strong effort). Passive and active knowledge of the target words was assessed immediately after treatment and two weeks later. In line with the predictions of the Involvement Load Hypothesis, retention was highest in the sentence writing task, lower in the reading plus fill-in task, and lowest in the reading comprehension task. However, when time on task was considered, the benefit associated with more involving tasks faded. The results are discussed in light of form-focused vocabulary instruction.
The value of written corrective feedback for migrant and international students
Authors: Bitchener John , Knoch Ute
Published: June 2008

This article provides an overview of research that has investigated the effectiveness of written corrective feedback (WCF) on ESL student writing. In doing so, it highlights a number of shortcomings in the design of some studies and explains what needs to be done in future research so that answers to the issues that have been raised can be effectively addressed. The article reports on a two-month study (with 144 international and migrant ESL students in Auckland, New Zealand) that investigated the extent to which different WCF options (direct corrective feedback, written and oral meta-linguistic explanation; direct corrective feedback and written meta-linguistic explanation; direct corrective feedback only; no corrective feedback) help students improve their accuracy in the use of two functional uses of the English article system (referential indefinite `a' and referential definite `the'). The study found (1) that students who received all three WCF options outperformed those who did not receive WCF, (2) that their level of accuracy was retained over seven weeks and (3) that there was no difference in the extent to which migrant and international students improved the accuracy of their writing as a result of WCF.
A comparative study of Croatian and Hungarian EFL students
Authors: Mihaljević Djigunović Jelena , Nikolov Marianne , Ottó István
Published: June 2008

This comparative research aims to provide insights into how Croatian and Hungarian 8th graders' proficiency in English as a foreign language (EFL) compares to one another in relation to organizational macro factors. A total of 717 14-year-old students participated in the study in two neighboring regions and towns of Croatia and Hungary examining how Croatian and Hungarian 8th graders' performances compare on the same EFL measuring instruments by starting age, frequency of weekly classes, and size of group. The findings show that Croatian students performed significantly better on the EFL proficiency tests than their Hungarian counterparts, despite the fact that Hungarian learners start English earlier, and study the language in more weekly classes in smaller groups. Larger differences have been found between groups' performances in Hungary than in Croatia, whereas no significant differences characterize within-group variations.
New-onset psychiatric disorders in individuals with autism
Authors: Hutton Jane , Goode Susan , Murphy Margaret , Le Couteur Ann , Rutter Michael
Published: June 2008

A follow-up study to at least the age of 21 years of 135 individuals with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosed in childhood and an IQ of over 30 was conducted. The study is distinctive in its large size, low attrition rate and use of systematic interviews to obtain clinical information. Questionnaires completed by caregivers asked about the development of new psychiatric disorders. For the 39 individuals with a possible new disorder, a detailed psychiatric assessment was undertaken through parental interview. Of all participants, 16 percent developed a definite new psychiatric disorder. A further 6 percent developed a possible new disorder. Five individuals developed an obsessive-compulsive disorder and/or catatonia; eight an affective disorder with marked obsessional features; three complex affective disorders; four more straightforward affective disorders; one a bipolar disorder; and one an acute anxiety state complicated by alcohol excess. There was no case of schizophrenia.
Exploring the relationship between measures of self-esteem and psychological adjustment among adolescents with Asperger Syndrome
Authors: Williamson Sara , Craig Jaime , Slinger Richard
Published: June 2008

This exploratory study examines the relationships between self-esteem and psychological adjustment among 19 adolescents with Asperger syndrome and 19 typically developing adolescents using a model developed by Harter. The groups were matched for age (mean 13 years), sex (M:F 16:3) and ethnicity (white British). Participants completed four quantitative measures examining self-competencies, social approval, anxiety, depression and self-worth. Findings revealed significant group differences: the adolescents with Asperger syndrome perceived themselves to be less competent in social and athletic domains, and to receive less peer approval. Logistic regression analyses indicated that the variables studied were particularly relevant in distinguishing group differences and worked together in predicting group membership. Indeed the variables in the final model accurately predicted group membership for all individuals in the sample. Exploratory hierarchical multiple regression analyses suggested that the two groups had different patterns of relationships between measures of self-competencies, social approval and psychological outcomes.
Mortality and causes of death in autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Mouridsen Svend Erik , Brønnum-Hansen Henrik , Rich Bente , Isager Torben
Published: June 2008

This study compared mortality among Danish citizens with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) with that of the general population. A clinical cohort of 341 Danish individuals with variants of ASD, previously followed over the period 1960—93, now on average 43 years of age, were updated with respect to mortality and causes of death. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated for various times after diagnosis. In all, 26 persons with ASD had died, whereas the expected number of deaths was 13.5. Thus the mortality risk among those with ASD was nearly twice that of the general population. The SMR was particularly high in females. The excess mortality risk has remained unchanged since our first study in 1993. Eight of the 26 deaths were associated with epilepsy and four died from epilepsy. Future staff education should focus on better managing of the complex relationships between ASD and physical illness to prevent avoidable deaths.
Can autistic children read the mind of an animated triangle?
Authors: Salter Gemma , Seigal Anna , Claxton Melanie , Lawrence Kate , Skuse David
Published: June 2008

Are children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but normal-range intelligence, impaired on theory of mind skills measured by responses to abstract animations in the form of a computerized cartoon? Fifty-six cases and closely matched comparisons were tested. We rated verbal responses according to the length of their descriptions, their appropriateness and the children's use of `mentalizing' terms. Children with ASD used `mentalizing' language to describe the animations as well as comparisons, although the content of their descriptions was significantly less appropriate. Performance on this task was not well correlated with standardized measures of parent-reported behaviour or the child's interactions with an observer. The implications of our results are discussed in relation to previous studies that have used this methodology.
Family health narratives: midlife women's concepts of vulnerability to illness
Authors: Lindenmeyer Antje , Griffiths Frances , Green Eileen , Thompson Diane , Tsouroufli Maria
Published: June 2008

Perceptions of vulnerability to illness are strongly influenced by the salience given to personal experience of illness in the family. This article proposes that this salience is created through autobiographical narrative, both as individual life story and collectively shaped family history. The article focuses on responses related to health in the family drawn from semi-structured interviews with women in a qualitative study exploring midlife women's health. Uncertainty about the future was a major emergent theme. Most respondents were worried about a specified condition such as heart disease or breast cancer. Many women were uncertain about whether illness in the family was inherited. Some felt certain that illness in the family meant that they were more vulnerable to illness or that their relatives' ageing would be mirrored in their own inevitable decline, while a few expressed cautious optimism about the future. In order to elucidate these responses, we focused on narratives in which family members' appearance was discussed and compared to that of others in the family. The visualization of both kinship and the effects of illness led to strong similarities being seen as grounds for worry. This led to some women distancing themselves from the legacies of illness in their families. Women tended to look at the whole family as the context for their perceptions of vulnerability, developing complex patterns of resemblance or difference within their families.
Fear of the unknown: ultrasound and anxiety about fetal health
Authors: Harpel Tammy S.
Published: June 2008

Using a qualitative approach, this study sought to explore the role of ultrasound in fetal health anxiety. One semi-structured interview was conducted with 30 pregnant women. Data analysis was inductive, following the principles of the template and editing organizing styles of coding and analysis. Overall, 93 percent of the women reported anxiety over fetal health, with 96.5 percent of these women indicating that ultrasound played a role in their anxiety. The women reported heightened fetal health anxiety in anticipation of the ultrasound, as well as during the ultrasound due to the sonographer's behavior and an inability to see the monitor. Findings indicated that fetal health anxiety was relieved by the ultrasound, particularly when women had access to the visual image and received encouraging verbal feedback. The findings are discussed with regard to their implications for policy and obstetric practice.
Conceptualizing autonomy in the context of chronic physical illness: relating philosophical theories to social scientific perspectives
Authors: Mars Godelief M.J. , Kempen Gertrudis I.J.M. , Widdershoven Guy A.M. , Janssen Peter P.M. , van Eijk Jacques T.M.
Published: June 2008

The aim of this article is to conceptualize autonomy in the context of chronic physical illness. To this end, we compare and contrast a selection of contemporary philosophical theories of autonomy with social scientific perspectives on chronic illness, particularly models of disability and symbolic interactionism. The philosophical theories mainly depart from a positive conceptualization of autonomy, which involves actively shaping one's life and identifying with fundamental values. This conceptualization is preferred over a negative conceptualization, which defines autonomy as non-interference, for its compatibility with social models of disability and with the assumption that people are interdependent. Interference may disable, but also enable people with a chronic illness to shape their lives. What matters is that people can realize what they want to realize. We suggest that, in the context of chronic physical illness, autonomy might be conceptualized as correspondence between what people want their lives to be like and what their lives are actually like. Disturbed autonomy might be restored either by expanding opportunities to arrange life or by adjusting how one wants life to be arranged. The grounds for the latter approach might be questioned, first, if people have not adjusted what they want carefully, and second, if reorganization of the material and social environment would have made it unnecessary to adjust one's arrangement of life.
Endurance and contest: women's narratives of endometriosis
Authors: Markovic Milica , Manderson Lenore , Warren Narelle
Published: June 2008

Endometriosis is an often painful medical condition in which, in response to hormones associated with the menstrual cycle, the uterine lining grows in the peritoneum and other organs, bleeding into the surrounding organs and tissues. Diagnosis is not always straightforward, and women and health professionals alike may have difficulties recognizing period pain as a sign of anomaly, considering it instead as an inevitable part of menstruation. This article describes the illness narratives of Australian women with endometriosis, drawing on data collected during a study conducted in Victoria in 2004—5. Thirty women (aged 20—78 years) from various socio-demographic backgrounds participated in in-depth interviews. We explore the influence of socio-demographic background and social and family norms on women's illness narratives of endurance and contest. Narratives of endurance are characterized by the normalization of period pain by young women, their families and health professionals, and, with diagnosis, long-term exposure to biomedical treatments. In contrast, narratives of contest are dominated by how women's subjective experience is challenged by doctors, their requirements for a patient-centered approach, and their desire to have access to complementary treatments.
Disruption foreclosed: older women's cancer narratives
Authors: Sinding Chris , Wiernikowski Jennifer
Published: June 2008

A challenge has emerged to Bury's (1982) conceptualization of chronic illness as biographical disruption. The idea that certain life circumstances — notably older age or the presence of significant health and social problems — render the experience of chronic illness biographically `continuous' or `reinforcing' has gained currency in the social study of chronic illness.

This article draws from a qualitative study with women diagnosed with cancer in their 70s or 80s. Respondents' narratives suggest that a long life, especially a life characterized by struggle, does provide a context for the assessment of cancer as non-disruptive. However, the study offers evidence that a long life characterized by sufficiency may also be associated with an assessment of cancer as non-disruptive, and that older age and hardship sometimes render chronic illness especially problematic.

Centrally, the article examines respondents' oft-cited commitment to avoid `dwelling' on illness, highlighting how broad cultural and moral discourses, patterns of social interaction and structures of power combine to foreclose older women's accounts of disruption.
‘Is mining good for development?’
Authors: Graulau Jeannette
Published: June 2008

The paper presents a general overview of the intellectual history of the question of mining in the development field. It describes the leading development theories and their normative claims with respect to mining, based upon the work of landmark theorists in the field. The contention of this paper is that development theories, swinging like a pendulum back and forth with the question ‘Is mining good for development?’, have a troubled relationship with the question about mining. The theories that embrace a positive view of capitalism in the classical political economy tradition and mainstream development economics generally support mining for development. The theories that are critical of the capitalist order, including structuralism, dependency, neodependency, world-system, feminist and discourse theory, generally have a strong opposition to mining for development. The unsettled question of mining shows that important questions about the relationship between development and technology, and the equity requirements of such a relationship, remain unsettled in the scholarship. The overarching goal of the paper is to provide initial ground upon which to discuss the normative history of the topic of mining in the development scholarship.
Human resource development policy in the context of software exports
Authors: Nicholson Brian , Sahay Sundeep
Published: June 2008

Software industry development is acknowledged as an important engine of economic growth for many less developed countries. The role of national policy has been identified by various researchers as a catalyst to software industry and software exports development. Software development is a service that is both labour and knowledge-intensive, and thus an important aspect of related policy is concerned with the provision of appropriately educated and trained human resources in sufficient quantity. This paper provides an analysis of the human resources issues facing policy makers in less developed countries engaged in software exports policy formulation. The complexities are highlighted through the case study of Costa Rica, where there is an ongoing national strategic planning effort to increase software exports.
VISION
Authors: Bellon-Harn Monica L. , Garrett Michael T.
Published: June 2008

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has established knowledge and skills needed for culturally competent service delivery by speech-language pathologists. Among these are skills needed to demonstrate sensitivity to cultural and linguistic differences. The purpose of this article is to describe a model, VISION, to assist in development of cultural competence. This article includes a description of the components of VISION followed by vignettes to illustrate its application.
The Exercise Assessment and Screening for You (EASY) Tool: Application in the Oldest Old Population
Authors: Resnick Barbara , Ory Marcia G. , Hora Kerrie , Rogers Michael E. , Page Phillip , Chodzko-Zajko Wojtek , Bazzarre Terry L.
Published: June 2008

The screening tool, the Exercise Assessment and Screening for You (EASY), was developed to call attention to the benefits of exercise and to assist older adults in selecting safe and effective exercise. The purpose of this study is to describe the use of the EASY in an oldest old population, consider the factors associated with EASY scores, and examine the relationship between exercise and adverse events in this population. The sample comprised 163 oldest old adults with an average age of 86.5 (SD = 5.8), the majority of whom were women (73%) and unmarried (64%). The participants responded affirmatively to approximately 2 of the 6 items on the EASY (mean = 1.9, SD = 1.3). Fear of falling, negative outcome expectations, number of comorbidities, age, and pain were all significantly associated with the total score on the EASY and accounted for 24% of the variance. Those who responded affirmatively to at least 1 item on the EASY were more likely to engage in exercise than those who did not (chi-square = 8.0, P = .01). The findings from this study help establish some baseline evidence of the applicability of the EASY when used as a screening tool to help guide oldest old adults prior to starting an exercise program.
Four Phases of Mediatization: An Analysis of the Mediatization of Politics
Authors: Strömbäck Jesper
Published: June 2008

Two concepts that have been used to describe the changes with regards to media and politics during the last fifty years are the concepts of mediation and mediatization . However, both these concepts are used more often than they are properly defined. Moreover, there is a lack of analysis of the process of mediatization, although the concept as such denotes a process.Thus the purpose of this article is to analyze the concepts of mediated and mediatized politics from a process-oriented perspective. The article argues that mediatization is a multidimensional and inherently process-oriented concept and that it is possible to make a distinction between four phases of mediatization. Each of these phases is analyzed.The conclusion is that as politics becomes increasingly mediatized, the important question no longer is related to the independence of the media from politics and society. The important question becomes the independence of politics and society from the media.
Politics and Media in the 2007 Argentine Presidential Elections
Authors: Luchessi Lila
Published: June 2008

The 2007 elections put in evidence the current relationship among politics, media, and public opinion in Argentina. Whereas the 2001 crisis palpably showed the gap between political leadership and social demands, the 2007 election showed a gradual realignment of political and social cleavages.The media, particularly newspapers, clearly express this realignment as editorial positions closely matched audiences' political preferences during the campaign.