bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CLOSED‐FORM EXPRESSION FOR THE PEARSON TYPE IV DISTRIBUTION FUNCTION
Authors: Willink R.
Published: May 2008

A closed‐form expression is presented for the probability integral of the Pearson Type IV distribution, and a corresponding method of evaluation is given. This analysis addresses a long‐standing gap in the theory of the Pearson system of distributions. In addition, a simple derivation is given of an expression for the normalizing constant in the Type IV integral.
Global Current Account Imbalances: American Fiscal Policy versus East Asian Savings*
Authors: Chinn Menzie D. , Ito Hiro
Published: May 2008

We consider the origins of global current account imbalances. We first discuss how the expansion of the US current account deficit and the decrease in global real interest rates can be reconciled with the widespread view that American expansionary fiscal policy is partly the source of current trends. We then investigate empirically the medium‐term determinants of the current account using a model that controls for factors related to institutional development. In addition to the conventional macroeconomic factors, we examine a series of environmental factors, including the degree of financial openness and the extent of legal development. We find that for industrial countries, the government budget balance is an important determinant of the current account balance; the budget balance coefficient is 0.10 to 0.49 depending on model specifications. These varying estimates lead us to conclude that fiscal factors might be as important as excess savings arising from East Asia.
The Role of Fiscal Policy in a Monetary Union: are National Automatic Stabilizers Effective?*
Authors: Colciago Andrea , Ropele Tiziano , Muscatelli V. Anton , Tirelli Patrizio
Published: May 2008

We assess the role of national fiscal policies, as automatic stabilizers, within a monetary union. We use a two‐country New Keynesian DSGE model, incorporating non‐Ricardian consumers and a home bias in national consumption. Fiscal policy directly stabilizes non‐Ricardian agents' consumption. By doing so it contributes to the reduction in the volatility of variables such as output, wage inflation, and real interest rates. Our analysis of country‐specific shocks does not suggest potential inter‐country conflicts (as long as policies are constrained within the automatic stabilizers framework). However, we detect a potential conflict between the two consumer groups, because fiscal policy may raise optimizing agents' consumption volatility.
Sharing Money Creation in a Monetary Union*
Authors: Auray Stéphane , Eyquem Aurélien , Hamiache Gérard , Poutineau Jean‐Christophe
Published: May 2008

How to share money creation among the members of the European Monetary Union? To address this issue, we construct a two‐country New Open‐economy Macroeconomics model of an asymmetric monetary union with an incomplete financial market and home bias in consumption. We consider two sharing rules consistent with the current regulations of the European System of Central Banks. First, each participating National Central Bank supplies half of the European Central Bank determined money creation in the monetary union. Secondly, each National Central Bank adapts the national increase in money demand, under the constraint that the total money creation in the union does not exceed the level determined by the ECB for the whole union. We show that the current sharing rule, which ignores countries’ heterogeneity, is superior in terms of welfare. The key role of the current account is emphasized. It proves an efficient decentralized mechanism for allocation of money.
SUCCESSIVE INTERVALS SCALING WITH UNEQUAL VARIANCES AND COVARIANCES
Authors: Sjöberg Lennart
Published: May 2008

The paper describes a solution for scale values in successive intervals scaling which does not assume equal covariances and variances. A more restrictive distribution assumption is made, however. Advantages and disadvantages of the method are discussed in relation to the two available conventional scaling techniques for scaling with unequal variances.
ON QUALITATIVE CHANGES IN THE RETENTION OF FORMS
Authors: Wright J. M. von
Published: May 2008

An experiment was performed to test the following prediction: If a pattern is learned in terms of ‘schema with correction’, and the subject's conception of the figural schema is changed during the retention interval, the ‘memory’ of the pattern will change correspondingly. Following the repeated presentation of a pattern S, and the memorization of a related pattern A, patterns deviating from S more and more in a predetermined direction were interpolated. This led to a highly significant systematic error of the predicted kind in the subject's performance when he subsequently was given a recognition test for A.
ACCESSORIAL AND INCLUSIVE APPROACHES TO MARGINAL PERCEPTUAL PHENOMENA
Authors: Kragh Ulf , Smith Gudmund J. W.
Published: May 2008

Since most theories of perception are based on focal data in the phenomenal field, an array of accessorial concepts have to be added in order to account for marginal data. The present paper indicates how both classes of phenomena may be included in the same experimental operation and referred to a unitary, operational model of perception—personality. The core of this model is the assumption that everyday perception is the result of a micro‐process which proceeds from stimulus‐distal stages to more and more stimulus‐proximal ones. The interrelations between this model on the one hand and physiological and genetic frames on the other are also indicated.
A COMPARISON OF LEARNING IN RATS AND MICE IN A HEBB‐WILLIAMS PROBLEM BOX
Authors: Goude Gunnar
Published: May 2008

A learning experiment was performed with rats and mice in a Hebb‐Williams problem box, using Problem No. 12. A measure of the habit strength (R̄n) was calculated, using the same criterion for both groups. In addition, the habit strength was calculated for another criterion for the rats. With the common criterion the function of learning was R̄n= 2.49 (1–0.88n) and R̄n= 1.71 (1–0.94n) for rats and mice respectively. According to the other criterion for the rat experiments, the function of learning was R̄n= 2.35 (1–0.84n). The measure and learning function is chosen and discussed with reference to Björkman's model for the measurement of associative strength and theory of verbal rote learning.
A NOTE ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN Q AND R FACTORS
Authors: Holley J. W.
Published: May 2008

The relationship between Q and R factor loadings is presented, using the Guilford index of G. The transition is offered as a rationale for the use of the two factor methods in a coordinated manner. An illustrative example is presented, using hypothetical data. Finally a suggested application of the coordinated use of the two systems in the clinical area, properly justified by the rationale of the present paper, is offered.
ANALYSIS OF THE MISSING PART IN PROBLEM SITUATIONS
Authors: Raaheim Kjell
Published: May 2008

The so‐called Ring Problem was presented in writing to 127 students, of which half were given additional instructions to look for a missing instrumental part and try to replace it with the objects at hand. The added instructions increased the number of solutions within a 5‐min. period. The results are taken to indicate the importance of determining the functional characteristics of the missing part in a practical problem situation.
THE IMPORTANCE OF STRATEGY IN A COMPLEX LEARNING TASK
Authors: Lindahl Maj‐Britt
Published: May 2008

The predictive value of cognitive strategies on behaviour was investigated in a classification task. This was similar to usual concept learning tasks but a possibility to deductive solution was provided together with the customary possibility to inductive solution. The results showed that improvement was dependent on the efficiency of the strategy. The theoretical interpretation of the results was that the learning of complex tasks depends upon hypothesis testing activity in the subject rather than on automatic S‐R‐connections.
TRAINING OF PERIPHERAL VISUAL ACUITY
Authors: Saugstad Per , Lie Ivar
Published: May 2008

An experiment was performed to investigate whether the duration of exposure and the size of the test objects are factors critical for obtaining a training effect in peripheral visual acuity. Contrary to previous results it is shown that considerable improvement may be obtained even under conditions of flash stimulation, provided that the test object used for training is sufficiently small to be just discriminable. The results are interpreted in terms of shifts in the maximum momentary level of attention from the central to the peripheral area of the visual field.
DIFFERENTIATION OF CHARACTER NEUROSIS AND SYMPTOM NEUROSIS ON THE BASIS OF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TWO SERIAL EXPERIMENTS
Authors: Smith Gudmund J. W. , Nilsson Lennart , Johnson Gunnar
Published: May 2008

The difference between two serial tests as regards signs of hysteria and obsession‐compulsion is compared with differences in number of symptoms reported by the patient. Signs in the more formal colour‐word test, measuring habitual behaviour patterns, correspond to fewer symptoms than signs in a tachistoscopic test revealing more of the perceptual representation (content) of behaviour disorders. This difference is supposed to reflect important aspects of the difference between character neurosis and symptom neurosis.
MULTIDIMENSIONAL RATIO SCALING AND MULTIDIMENSIONAL SIMILARITY OF SIMPLE GEOMETRIC FIGURES
Authors: Künnapas Teodor , Mälhammar Gun , Svenson Ola
Published: May 2008

The special case of purely qualitative multidimensional similarity was studied in four experiments concerned with simple geometric figures. A previously proposed equation did not describe the relation between subjective similarity and angular separation of the percept vectors. Factor analyses indicate that in the ‘homogeneous’ experiments (with parallelogram figures) there were two pairs of inversely related subjective attributes which vary as a function of the difference between the horizontal and vertical axes of the parallelogram, and that in the ‘heterogeneous’ experiments (different figures) there were four main independent subjective attributes.
Similarity between Early and Middle Adolescent Close Friends’ Beliefs about Personal Jurisdiction
Authors: Daddis Christopher
Published: May 2008

Similarity in close friends’ beliefs about personal jurisdiction was examined using questionnaires and interviews with 162 early (Mage = 11.82) and middle (Mage = 15.68) adolescents who were matched with reciprocally nominated close friends. Using the framework of social domain theory, beliefs about personal jurisdiction were assessed for personal, social conventional, prudential, and multifaceted issues. As hypothesized, close friends were more similar than non‐friends in their ratings of legitimate parental authority and the degree of harm and consequences to others for prudential and multifaceted issues. Also as expected, friends were similar in their justifications for the legitimacy of parental authority over multifaceted issues. Similarity was moderated by age, direct discussion, and friendship duration; effects varied according to the domain of the issue. Results were discussed in terms of peers’ influence on adolescents’ push for increased autonomy.
It's Not Just Being Popular, it's Knowing it, too: The Role of Self‐perceptions of Status in the Associations between Peer Status and Aggression
Authors: Mayeux Lara , Cillessen Antonius H. N.
Published: May 2008

Moderators of the well‐established association between status and overt and relational aggression were tested in a four‐year longitudinal sample (N = 358) of high school students. Self‐perceptions of popularity were found to moderate the link between actual peer‐perceived popularity and aggression, with adolescents who were both popular and aware of their popular status, scoring highest on peer‐nominated aggression and showing the greatest increases in aggression over time. Self‐perceptions of liking moderated the associations between social preference and aggression as well. Adolescents who saw themselves as disliked were particularly likely to show increases in aggression over time. The moderating effect of self‐perceptions was further moderated by gender in several cases. Findings are discussed in light of Coie's theory of the development of peer status theory. The social‐cognitive elements of high peer status, particularly of perceived popularity, are also highlighted.
Loving and forgetting: moments of inarticulacy in tribal India*
Authors: Vitebsky Piers
Published: May 2008

Young Sora in Orissa, India, are ‘forgetting’ their dead. Where the older generation used shamans in trance to negotiate with ancestors in elaborate dialogues, their newly Baptist children refuse to talk to the dead or feed them, leaving their parents afraid to die for fear of neglect. Against a background of contemporary Indian nation‐building, this article examines the differing emotional price paid for this disengagement by two young persons whom the author has known since 1975, as one becomes a Baptist and the other a shaman. Their struggles to be or to become a certain kind of person are revealed through recent extraordinary moments, precipitated by the author's presence, when verbal articulacy fails them. Their conflicts between filial attachment and repudiation, or shamanic vocation and recantation, are explored to show how changes in loving and forgetting can be revealed through new but fleeting forms of inarticulacy.

Les jeunes Sora de l'Orissa, en Inde, sont en train « d'oublier » leurs morts. Alors que les anciennes générations faisaient appel aux chamans en transe pour négocier avec les ancêtres au cours de dialogues élaborés, leurs enfants, convertis au christianisme baptiste, refusent de parler aux morts et de les nourrir, laissant ainsi leurs parents appréhender une mort après laquelle ils seront négligés. Dans le contexte contemporain de la construction de la nation indienne, l'auteur examine le prix émotionnel divergent payé pour ce désengagement par deux jeunes gens qu'il connaît depuis 1975. L'un est devenu baptiste, l'autre chaman. Leur lutte pour être ou devenir un certain type de personne est révélée au cours de récents épisodes sortant de l'ordinaire, catalysés par la présence de l'auteur, où le pouvoir des mots leur fait défaut. Les conflits qu'ils connaissent entre attachement filial et répudiation, entre vocation chamanique et abjuration, sont explorés pour montrer comment les changements dans l'amour et le pardon peuvent être révélés à travers de nouvelles formes fugaces d'inarticulation.
The grey zone: the ‘ordinary’ violence of extraordinary times
Authors: Roy Srila
Published: May 2008

The article analyses the ‘ordinary’ violence of revolutionary politics, particularly acts of gendered and sexual violence that tend to be neglected in the face of the ‘extraordinariness’ of political terror. Focusing on the extreme left Naxalbari movement of West Bengal, it points to those morally ambiguous ‘grey zones’ that confound the rigid distinctions between victim and victimizer in insurrectionary politics. Public and private recollections of sexual and gender‐based injuries by women activists point to the complex intermeshing of different forms of violence (everyday, political, structural, symbolic) across ‘safe’ and ‘unsafe’ spaces, ‘public’ and ‘private’ worlds, and communities of trust and those of betrayal. In making sense of these memories and their largely secret or ‘untellable’ nature, the article places sexual violence on a continuum of multiple and interrelated forces that are both overt and symbolic, and include a society's ways of mourning some forms of violence and silencing others. The idea of a continuum explores the ‘greyness’ of violence as the very object of anthropological inquiry.

L'article analyse la violence « ordinaire » des politiques révolutionnaires, en particulier les actes de violence sexuée et sexuelle, souvent négligées face au caractère « extraordinaire » de la terreur politique. Dans le cas précis du mouvement d'extrême‐gauche Naxalbari du Bengale occidental, l'auteur pointe les « zones grises » d'ambiguïté morale où les distinctions strictes entre victimes et agresseurs se confondent dans les politiques d'insurrection. Les souvenirs, publics et privés, d'agressions sexuelles et sexuées de femmes activistes mettent en évidence les liens complexes entre différentes formes de violence (quotidienne, politique, structurelle, symbolique) dans les espaces « sûrs » et « à risques », dans le monde « public » et « privé », et les communautés de confiance et de trahison. En recherchant le sens de ces souvenirs et de leur nature en grande partie secrète ou « indicible », l'auteur situe la violence sexuelle dans un continuum de forces multiples et liées, à la fois manifestes et symboliques, qui incluent la façon dont une société déplore certaines formes de violence et en passe d'autres sous silence. L'idée d'un continuum explore le caractère « gris » de la violence comme l'objet même de l'enquête anthropologique.
Between stewardship and sacrifice: agency and economy in a Southern California Charismatic church
Authors: Bialecki Jon
Published: May 2008

Despite a growing interest in the anthropology of Christianity, the economic practices of the North American‐inspired stream of theologically conservative Evangelical and Pentecostal/Charismatic Christians have received comparatively little attention. Analysing economic practices and forms of musical worship in a middle‐class, mixed‐ethnicity Charismatic ‘Vineyard’ church located in Southern California, this article argues that apparently contradictory aspects of Charismatic Christian economic practice can be understood through use of anthropological ‘spheres of exchange’ theory. Specifically, this article identifies the existence of three different, but interrelated, spheres (secular exchange, stewardship, and sacrifice), each of which has its own guiding assumptions regarding proper morality, agency, and subjectivity for these Charismatic Christians. These differing spheres are used, this article argues, not just to regulate behaviour, but also to allow for moral revaluations of successes and failures, allowing them better to engage as economic actors in the world.

Malgré un intérêt croissant pour l'anthropologie du christianisme, les pratiques économiques du courant évangélique et pentecôtiste charismatique, inspiré par l'Amérique du Nord et théologiquement conservateur, ne bénéficient pas d'une grande attention. Dans une analyse des pratiques économiques et des formes de célébration musicale d'une église charismatique du mouvement « Vineyard » dans le sud de la Californie, regroupant des milieux sociaux et appartenances ethniques mélangés, le présent article avance que les aspects apparemment contradictoires de la pratique économique des chrétiens charismatiques peuvent être comprises par le biais de la théorie anthropologique des « sphères d’échanges ». Plus précisément, il identifie l'existence de trois sphères différentes mais interconnectées (échange séculier, gestion et sacrifice), dont chacune a ses propres hypothèses d'orientation en ce qui concerne la moralité adéquate, le statut d'agent et la subjectivité pour ces chrétiens charismatiques. Selon les auteurs, ces différentes sphères permettent non seulement de réguler les comportements, mais aussi de procéder à une réévaluation morale des succès et des échecs, afin de permettre aux fidèles de s'engager comme acteurs économiques dans le monde.
‘Blog This’: surfing the metropolis and the method of London
Authors: Reed Adam
Published: May 2008

This article examines the ways in which a group of London webloggers or on‐line journal keepers constitute their city. They claim that their strategies for knowing London are derived from techniques for knowing the Internet. In particular, webloggers adapt the activity and culture of on‐line surfing. The article investigates the method of ‘blogging’ alongside and against the interpretative strategies deployed by urban theorists and sketch writers. It is intended as a contribution to urban anthropology, anthropology of the Internet, the anthropology of knowledge, and the ethnography of London.

L'auteur examine la manière dont un groupe de blogueurs ou d'auteurs de journaux en ligne londoniens constituent leur ville. Il affirme que leurs stratégies pour connaître Londres s'inspirent des techniques employées pour connaître Internet. En particulier, les webloggers ont adapté l'activité et la culture de la navigation en ligne. L'article étudie la méthode de « blogging » parallèlement et en comparaison avec les stratégies interprétatives déployées par les théoriciens de l'urbanisme et les planificateurs. Cet article se veut une contribution à l'anthropologie urbaine, à l'anthropologie de l'Internet, à l'anthropologie de la connaissance et à l'ethnographie de Londres.
Neutrophils in cerebrospinal fluid without pleocytosis
Authors: Dietzel J. , Krebs A. , Lüdemann J. , Roser M. , Dressel A.
Published: May 2008

Neutrophils in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples are commonly considered a pathological feature; however, there is little information on the frequency and significance of these cells in CSF samples without pleocytosis. Therefore, the frequency and possible clinical significance of neutrophils in CSF was investigated. In a retrospective study comprising 1556 consecutive CSF samples, cytologies and patient records were reviewed. Five hundred thirty‐eight CSF samples without pleocytosis were identified. Neutrophils were detected in 35.5% of these samples. The presence of neutrophils was associated with sepsis (P < 0.01), recent epileptic seizure (P < 0.0001), and blood contamination (P < 0.01). Amongst patients without CSF pleocytosis, CNS infections were not more frequent if neutrophils were present. Neutrophils are frequently observed in CSF with normal leukocyte counts. As sepsis but not CNS infection occurred more frequently in these patients, we conclude that in the absence of CSF pleocytosis, neutrophils are not indicative of CNS infections.
Proposing the stroke levity scale: a valid, reliable, simple, and time‐saving measure of stroke severity
Authors: Owolabi M. O. , Platz T.
Published: May 2008

Background and purpose:  National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is long and complex. Our objective was to design a valid, reliable, simple, and time‐saving stroke severity scale.

Methods:  About 103 and 100 consecutive stroke patients in Berlin (Germany) and Ibadan (Nigeria), respectively were evaluated using the measures listed below. The Stroke Levity Scale (SLS) was calculated as maximum power (0–5) in the dexterous hand + maximum power in the weaker lower limb + mobility score−1(if aphasia present).

Results:  It took less than 2 min to administer the SLS in contrast to 8 min for the NIHSS. The SLS showed significant correlation to the NIHSS (ρ = −0.79, P < 0.0001), the modified Rankin Scale (ρ = −0.79, P < 0.0001), and the health‐related quality of life (QOL) in stroke patient’s questionnaire (ρ = 0.78, P < 0.0001). It had Cronbach’s α of 0.75 (Ibadan) and 0.71 (Berlin). The κ‐value for test‐retest reliability was 0.77 with P < 0.0001.

Conclusions:  The SLS is a concise, valid, and reliable stroke impairment scale that can be used routinely to monitor outcome in stroke patients. Because it is brief and simple to apply, non‐neurologists can be taught to administer it in addition to QOL and disability scales for stroke survivors without significantly increasing the respondent burden.
Evaluation of activatory and inhibitory natural killer cell receptors in non‐segmental vitiligo: a flow cytometric study
Authors: Basak PY , Adiloglu AK , Koc IG , Tas T , Akkaya VB
Published: May 2008

Background  Recent observations established the role of altered cellular immunity and autoimmune hypothesis in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. There have been several reports discussing T‐cell and natural killer (NK) cell populations, but NK cell receptors were not evaluated in vitiligo.

Objective  The purpose of this investigation was to assess the role of T and NK cells as well as activatory and inhibitory NK cell receptor alterations in the pathogenesis of vitiligo and whether any aberrations were correlated with clinical findings of the disease.

Patients/methods  Fifty‐three patients with non‐segmental vitiligo and 45 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. The percentages of lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes and CD3, CD4, CD8, CD14, CD16, CD56, CD45, CD45RA, CD54RO, CD28, CD80, CD94, CD158a, KIR3DL‐1 receptors as well as CD94, CD158a, KIR3DL‐1 receptors on CD16+ cells were detected by using flow cytometry. The patient and control groups were compared in terms of the results of flow cytometric analysis, and the results were assessed regarding the type and activity of vitiligo.

Results  The percentages of CD16+CD56+, CD3+CD16+CD56+, CD8+ and CD45RO+ cells were significantly increased in vitiligo group compared with the controls. No difference was detected between the patients and control groups in percentages of CD3+, CD4+, CD3−CD16+CD56+, CD28+, CD45+, CD45RA+, CD94+, CD158a+ and KIR3DL‐1+ cells. The percentage of CD16+CD158a+ cells was significantly decreased in a randomized selected group of vitiligo patients. There were no differences in percentage expression of studied cell surface antigens between patients in the active or stable period. CD3+ cells were significantly increased in generalized form, and CD45RO+ cells were significantly increased in acral/acrofacial form when compared with the other types of vitiligo.

Conclusions  These results indicate further evidence for T and NK cell abnormalities in non‐segmental vitiligo. The present data show that NK cell activation may be responsible in the pathogenesis of vitiligo in conformity with decreased inhibitory and increased activatory NK cell receptors.
Are Constructiveness and Destructiveness Essential Features of Guilt and Shame Feelings Respectively?
Authors: DOST AYFER , YAGMURLU BILGE
Published: May 2008

This paper involves a critical evaluation of a conceptualization of guilt and shame, which guides a number of research mainly in social psychology. In the contemporary literature, conceptualization of guilt and shame shows variation. In one of the leading approaches, guilt is regarded as an experience that targets behavior in evaluative thought and shame as targeting the self. According to this distinction, guilt has a constructive nature and it motivates the individual to take reparative actions, since it targets the behavior, whereas shame has a destructive quality and is linked with problem behaviors, since it targets the self. The claim that guilt and shame are adaptive and maladaptive feelings respectively by their very nature, has been challenged by theory and research. Researchers from non‐Western cultures also criticized compartmentalization of guilt and shame as constructive and destructive emotions by emphasizing cultural variation in the experience of self‐conscious emotions. In this regard, the present paper argues that features of constructiveness and destructiveness do not necessarily follow from the definitions of guilt and shame and that this dichotomous conceptualization of guilt and shame, and the research findings based on this dichotomy need reconsideration.
What's Social About Social Emotions?
Authors: HARELI SHLOMO , PARKINSON BRIAN
Published: May 2008

This paper presents a new approach to the demarcation of social emotions, based on their dependence on social appraisals that are designed to assess events bearing on social concerns. Previous theoretical attempts to characterize social emotions are compared, and their inconsistencies highlighted. Evidence for the present formulation is derived from theory and research into links between appraisals and emotions. Emotions identified as social using our criteria are also shown to bring more consistent consequences for social behavior than nonsocial emotions. We conclude by considering ways of validating and refining our classification.
Goals of Action and Emotional Reasons for Action. A Modern Version of the Theory of Ultimate Psychological Hedonism
Authors: MEES ULRICH , SCHMITT ANNETTE
Published: May 2008

In this paper we present a modern version of the classic theory of “ultimate psychological hedonism” (UPH). As does the UPH, our two‐dimensional model of metatelic orientations also postulates a fundamentally hedonistic motivation for any human action. However, it makes a distinction between “telic” or content‐based goals of actions and “metatelic” or emotional reasons for actions. In our view, only the emotional reasons for action, but not the goals of action, conform to the UPH. After outlining our model, we will elucidate the similarities and differences between our model and classic UPH. In this context we will clarify several basic misconceptions regarding classic UPH. In a next step, two major criticisms of the theory of ultimate psychological hedonism will be discussed, that is (1) the statement that the hedonistic principle has no motivating effect at all and (2) the argument that the hedonistic motivation is only one of many motivations of human actions. We believe that both of these arguments can be refuted. Finally, we will discuss the compatibility of our model with evolutionary theory.
On Acting Against One's Best Judgement: A Social Constructionist Interpretation for the Akrasia Problem
Authors: ROMAIOLI DIEGO , FACCIO ELENA , SALVINI ALESSANDRO
Published: May 2008

Akrasia is a philosophical concept meaning the possibility to perform actions against one's best judgement. This contribution aims to clarify this phenomenon in terms of a social construction, stating it as a narrative configuration generated by an observer. The latter finds himself engaged in justifying a “problematic” line of action with regard to specific cultural beliefs referring to the self, the others and the behaviour. This paper intends to make explicit the assumptions underlying the traditional definitions of akrasia when, paradoxically, an agent performs an action not in accordance with his/her best judgement. In the transition from modern to post‐modern psychology, we here propose an interpretation of the phenomenon in psychological terms, envisaging akrasia as a narrative form functional to the identity processes and to the social dynamics of the structures of contemporary societies. Implications in the psychological practice will be taken into account.
Our Emotional Connection to Truth: Moving Beyond a Functional View of Language in Discourse Analysis
Authors: SULLIVAN PAUL
Published: May 2008

This article is a theoretical examination of the relationship between truth (understood experientially) and forms of dialogue, in discursive psychology. To do this, I mainly draw on Bakhtin (1929/1984, 1975/1981) and Kiekegaard (1841/1989, 1846/1968). In contrast to a hermeneutic tradition that has sidelined the importance of the author to discourse (e.g., Barthes, 1967/1977), these authors offer an understanding of truth that depends on the author's emotional connection to the truth they are expressing. They most clearly demonstrate the dynamics of our emotional connection to truth in their descriptions of different forms of speech. Kierkegaard describes the relationship between self and truth in irony, while Bakhtin does the same in the epic, the confession and the quarrel. It is my argument that these forms of speech interact with truth and help organise selfhood. I also argue that our current methodological emphasis on the function of words or the play of dominant discourses tend to overlook the experiential landscape of language and its reciprocal relationship with our subjectivity.
Sexual dimorphism in chelicerae size in three species of nuptial‐gift spiders: a discussion of possible functions and driving selective forces
Authors: Costa‐Schmidt L. E. , De Araújo A. M.
Published: May 2008

Positive allometric patterns observed for intersexual signalling characters are related to directional sexual selection, and supported by theoretical and empirical data. Recent models have shown that positive allometry may not hold as a rule if the influence of natural selection is added to the model. Here we tested these models applying traditional morphometrical techniques for the analysis of chelicerae sexual dimorphism and allometric patterns within the genus Paratrechalea: Paratrechalea azul, Paratrechalea galianoae and Paratrechalea ornata. Spider chelicerae are basically used for prey capture, but males of Paratrechalea also use the chelicerae to offer a nuptial gift during courtship, also presenting a clear size and colour sexual dimorphism supporting a possible role as a signal. Chelicerae size was male biased for all the variables studied and showed an isometric pattern, while females showed a higher variation. Our findings are in accordance with models of viability‐related function for prey capture, questioning some statements proposed by the positive allometry model.
Identification of the sensory neuron specific regulatory region for the mouse gene encoding the voltage‐gated sodium channel NaV1.8
Authors: Puhl III Henry L. , Ikeda Stephen R.
Published: May 2008

Voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSC) are critical membrane components that participate in the electrical activity of excitable cells. The type one VGSC family includes the tetrodotoxin insensitive sodium channel, NaV1.8, encoded by the Scn10a gene. NaV1.8 expression is restricted to small and medium diameter nociceptive sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia and cranial sensory ganglia. To understand the stringent transcriptional regulation of the Scn10a gene, the sensory neuron specific promoter was functionally identified. While identifying the mRNA 5′‐end, alternative splicing within the 5′‐UTR was observed to create heterogeneity in the RNA transcript. Four kilobases of upstream genomic DNA was cloned and the presence of tissue specific promoter activity was tested by microinjection and adenoviral infection of fluorescent protein reporter constructs into primary mouse and rat neurons, and cell lines. The region contained many putative transcription factor‐binding sites and strong homology with the predicted rat ortholog. Homology to the predicted human ortholog was limited to the proximal end and several conserved cis elements were noted. Two regulatory modules were identified by microinjection of reporter constructs into dorsal root ganglia and superior cervical ganglia neurons: a neuron specific proximal promoter region between −1.6 and −0.2 kb of the transcription start site cluster, and a distal sensory neuron switch region beyond −1.6 kb that restricted fluorescent protein expression to a subset of primary sensory neurons.
When is a student not a student? Issues of identity and conflict on a distance learning work‐based nurse education programme
Authors: Watts Jacqueline H. , Waraker Stella M.
Published: May 2008

Students on work‐based professional programmes experience a range of challenges in their learning and are often required to move between roles to balance their personal, work and study lives. This small‐scale qualitative action research considers factors that help and hinder distance learning nursing students in establishing their student role identity. It reveals that students value recognition by work colleagues of their formal learner status and benefit from the peer support of other students within face‐to‐face and on‐line tutorials. The paper draws out the risk‐laden nature of embarking on professional education programmes as an experienced but unqualified practitioner. It argues that the support structures within both sponsoring employer organizations and higher education institutions, necessary to underpin successful learning, need to be flexible and student‐centred. Encouraging the development of study skills and good academic ‘habits’, as a form of psychological stroking, is central to building learner confidence.
Student nurse transition from traditional to problem‐based learning
Authors: Smith Lynda , Coleman Valerie
Published: May 2008

Problem‐based learning (PBL) continues to be a feature of many nursing programmes and has been the subject of a number of empirical studies. This study explored the experience of PBL of a group of registered nurses undertaking a 1 year children's nursing programme. Focus group interviews at the end of the programme and 6 months post‐qualification captured the student's perceptions of how they experienced learning to be a children's nurse on this type of programme and subsequently the impact it had had on them on their return to practice.

Themes identified by the focus groups centred on the transitions students have to make to this type of learning and the need to let go of previous education expectations. Adapting to the PBL process led to a range of strategies being employed by the group to cope with the new demand, resulting in largely negative perceptions of PBL on programme completion. The second focus group allowed the group time to reflect on their experience and the impact of it on their role and presented a positive balanced view of their experience. This included increased confidence, assertiveness, being more questioning of practice and likely to search for and use evidence to underpin practice than before this PBL programme.

This research demonstrates the need to provide more initial preparation at the start of programmes to support the transition to PBL and provide ongoing mechanisms for listening and responding to student concerns about the PBL process. For those considering PBL in the future, blended approaches rather than curricula wholly delivered by PBL may be more suited to shorter programmes of study. However, the overall message from this research indicates that although the students experienced difficulties in the process, the outcome did in fact meet their needs in the longer term.
Mechanical Characterization of KMPR by Nano‐Indentation for MEMS Applications
Authors: Ou K.‐S. , Yan H.‐Y. , Chen K.‐S.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  The elastic modulus and hardness of a novel negative photoresist, KMPR, under different heat treatment temperatures, have been characterized in this work using a combination of nanoindentation, uniaxial tension and vibration tests. There are two major conclusions. First, the material exhibits strong anisotropy. The apparent modulus obtained by the indentation method (6.5–7.5 GPa) is higher than that characterized by the uniaxial tensile test (1.07 GPa). The modulus issue is further validated by the subsequent vibration test data. Second, the apparent modulus and the apparent hardness vary with heat treatment temperatures. The room temperature elastic modulus decreased with an increase of the processing temperature but the apparent hardness essentially exhibited an opposite trend. It is suggested that this unusual result was caused by the pile‐up effect during the indentation process.
THE REDISTRIBUTIVE IMPACT OF ALTERNATIVE INCOME MAINTENANCE SCHEMES: A MICROSIMULATION STUDY USING SWISS DATA
Authors: Abul Naga Ramses H. , Kolodziejczyk Christophe , Müller Tobias
Published: May 2008

Taking a benchmark scenario, the current situation in Switzerland, and using a microsimulation technique, we compare the effectiveness of various income maintenance schemes for reducing inequality and poverty. A full negative income tax allowance designed to eliminate poverty is shown to reduce income inequality most drastically. An integrated federal linear tax rate of 62 percent is required to make it viable. Aggregate work hours are reduced by approximately 10 percent and average disposable income falls by 9.3 percent under such circumstances. A participation income restricted to adults in employment and covering 50 percent of subsistence costs is however shown to result in an unambiguous social welfare improvement over the current situation in Switzerland.
INVESTMENT BEHAVIOR OF U.S. FIRMS OVER HETEROGENEOUS CAPITAL GOODS: A SNAPSHOT
Authors: Wilson Daniel
Published: May 2008

Previous research has shown that the composition of investment and capital can matter for investment dynamics and productivity. However, very little is known about the composition of investment at the micro level. The goal of this note is to help fill this knowledge gap by assessing the nature of the cross‐firm variation in investment composition using micro data from the 1998 Annual Capital Expenditure Survey (ACES), a sample of roughly 30,000 firms drawn from the private, nonfarm economy. The data reveal substantial variation that can be characterized by heterogeneous lumpiness of investment in the asset‐type dimension. The data also show that some of the variation in investment composition is due to the state of firms’ total investment; specifically, computers account for a significantly larger share of firms’ incremental investment than of lumpy investment.
Nanobioengineered Electrospun Composite Nanofibers and Osteoblasts for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Venugopal Jayarama Reddy , Low Sharon , Choon Aw Tar , Kumar A. Bharath , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Bone defects represent a medical and socioeconomic challenge. Engineering bioartificial bone tissues may help to solve problems related to donor site morbidity and size limitations. Nanofibrous scaffolds were electrospun into a blend of synthetic biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) with hydroxyapatite (HA) and natural polymer gelatin (Gel) at a ratio of 1:1:2 (PCL/HA/Gel) compared to PCL (9%), PCL/HA (1:1), and PCL/Gel (1:2) nanofibers. These fiber diameters were around 411 ± 158 to 856 ± 157 nm, and the pore size and porosity around 5–35 µm and 76–93%, respectively. The interconnecting porous structure of the nanofibrous scaffolds provides large surface area for cell attachment and sufficient space for nutrient transportation. The tensile property of composite nanofibrous scaffold (PCL/HA/Gel) was highly flexible and allows penetrating osteoblasts inside the scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration. Fourier transform infrared analysis showed that the composite nanofiber contains an amino group, a phosphate group, and carboxyl groups for inducing proliferation and mineralization of osteoblasts for in vitro bone formation. The cell proliferation (88%), alkaline phosphatase activity (77%), and mineralization (66%) of osteoblasts were significantly (P < 0.001) increased in composite nanofibrous scaffold compared to PCL nanofibrous scaffolds. Field emission scanning electron microscopic images showed that the composite nanofibers supported the proliferation and mineralization of osteoblast cells. These results show that the fabrication of electrospun PCL/HA/Gel composite nanofibrous scaffolds has potential for the proliferation and mineralization of osteoblasts for bone regeneration.
Association Between Arterial Stiffness and Peritoneal Small Solute Transport Rate
Authors: Zhe Xing‐wei , Tian Xin‐kui , Chen Wei , Guo Li‐juan , Gu Yue , Chen Hui‐min , Tang Li‐jun , Wang Tao
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  While cardiovascular disease accounts for 40–50% of the mortality in dialysis patients, and while a high peritoneal transport in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is an independent predictor of outcome, it is unclear if there are any links. Aortic stiffness has become established as a cardiovascular risk factor. We thus studied pulse wave velocity (PWV) in CAPD patients to explore the possible link between peritoneal small solute transport and aortic stiffness. CAPD patients (n = 76, 27 M/49 F) in our center were included in the present study. Aortic stiffness was assessed by brachial pulse pressure (PP) and carotid–femoral PWV. Patients’ peritoneal small solute transport rate was assessed by D/Pcr at 4 h. Extracellular water over total body water (E/T ratio) was assessed by means of bioimpedance analysis. C‐reactive protein was also measured. Carotid–femoral PWV was positively associated with patients’ age (r = 0.555; P < 0.01), time on peritoneal dialysis (r = 0.332; P < 0.01), diabetic status (r =  0.319; P < 0.01), D/Pcr (r = 0.241; P < 0.05), PP (r = 0.475; P < 0.01), and E/T (r = 0.606; P < 0.01). In a multivariate regression analysis, carotid–femoral PWV was independently determined by E/T (P < 0.01), PP (P < 0.01), age (P < 0.01), and D/Pcr (P < 0.05). D/Pcr, in addition to E/T, age, and PP, was an independent predictor of elevated carotid–femoral PWV in CAPD patients, suggesting that there might be a link between high aortic stiffness and increased peritoneal small solute transport rate.
The Discovery and Development of the Triptans, a Major Therapeutic Breakthrough
Authors: Humphrey Patrick P.A.
Published: May 2008

The drug discovery programs that led to the development of the triptans were determined by the membership of the American Headache Society to be the most important breakthrough in headache medicine in the last 50 years. Dr. Humphrey, who spearheaded the drug discovery, recounts the pioneering work that took place and examines its therapeutic impact.
Fifty Years of Headache Care Evolution: From a Few Interested Doctors to Certified Specialists and Comprehensive Systems
Authors: Saper Joel R.
Published: May 2008

Headache care has evolved dramatically during the lifetime of the American Headache Society. Dr. Saper charts the most important developments and recognizes those instrumental in influencing current thought and practice.
Functional Imaging in Primary Headache Disorders
Authors: Cutrer F. Michael
Published: May 2008

Over the past two decades, the development of new functional neuroimaging techniques has improved our understanding of the brain events underlying several primary headache disorders. In migraine and cluster headache, the advent of these techniques has shifted the emphasis in pathophysiological research away from the vessel and back to the brain.
Headache as a Real Disease
Authors: Lipton Richard B. , Bigal Marcelo E.
Published: May 2008

Acceptance of headache disorders as “real diseases” is now widespread due largely to advances made over the last 50 years in diagnoses, treatment, and the understanding of pathophysiology. Drs. Lipton and Bigal examine the path to acceptance and the impediments that had to be overcome.
The Legitimization of Headache Medicine
Authors: Finkel Alan G.
Published: May 2008

Simultaneous with the drive to ensure the acceptance of headache disorders as “real diseases,” the field of headache medicine has strived for recognition as a subspeciality with itself. Efforts to gain such recognition eventually came to fruition in 2005.
Looking Forward: The End of Autonomy
Authors: Nash David B. , Quigley Glen D.
Published: May 2008

Forecasting how medicine will be practiced 50 years from now presents a challenge. While advances in technology will have a major impact, new cultural outlooks on physician professionalism and autonomy will have an even greater significance in daily practice.

The current healthcare system is in crisis. As members of a profession with responsibilities to both individual patients and society, all physicians have a duty to help solve the critical issues plaguing the healthcare system today. Solutions will require some major changes in the way physicians practice medicine.

The most important – and the most difficult – change will be relinquishing our long‐held belief in the premise of physician autonomy. As recognized in the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) Quality Chasm report, medicine today requires “more to know, more to do, more to manage, more to watch, and more people involved than ever before.” Looking forward, these complexities will only intensify.

To create the high‐quality healthcare system of the future, the profession must discard its view of the physician as an independent, self‐governing craftsman and adopt practices that are consistent with the principles of evidence‐based medicine, continuous quality improvement (CQI), and transparency.