bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergent Patterns of Feedback Strategies in Performing a Closed Motor Skill
Authors: Chen David D. , Kaufman Doris , Chung Meng-Wen
Published: August 2011

This study identified self-chosen patterns of feedback usage and how they influenced accuracy and consistency in performing a closed motor skill. Learners completed 100 practice trials with 25 opportunities to receive knowledge of results (KR), the timing of which was self-chosen, followed by 25 no-KR retention trials. The study identified two patterns of self-chosen KR, namely, a faded frequency pattern and a reversed faded frequency pattern. Analyses of variance indicated a significant trial block effect for accuracy in acquisition and no significant main effects or interactions associated with self-chosen patterns of KR. Quantification of regularity of KR patterns yielded correlations indicating that less regularity was associated with greater accuracy in performing the task. These results were congruent with previous research on self-chosen feedback.
Transfer of Lexical Information in Adults with Reading Disorders
Authors: Walker Marianna M.
Published: August 2011

This study was designed to test whether adults with reading disorders differ from adults with normal reading abilities in their interhemispheric transfer rates during a lexical decision task. Correlations of performance were completed between lexical decision vocal reaction times (msec.), interhemispheric reaction rates (RVF vocal reaction times–LVF vocal reaction times) and measures of decoding skills, including sight-word decoding and phonological decoding for 20 adults with reading disorders and 20 with normal reading abilities. Following a series of Pearson product-moment correlations, the correlation between interhemispheric transfer time and sight-word recognition was significant and negative for the adults with reading disorders. This value indicates a significant association between the direction of the interhemispheric transfer time times and sight-word recognition for reading-disordered adults. When correlations were negative (LVF reaction times <RVF reaction times), stronger sight-word recognition scores were found. The correlation between interhemispheric transfer time and sight-word recognition was not significant for the normal reading adults. For both groups, the correlations between interhemispheric transfer time and phonological decoding were not significant so an association between phonological decoding and interhemispheric transfer time was not evident. The current findings suggest a strong relationship between reading proficiency and reaction times in completing the lexical decision task for the reading-disordered adults.
Symptom Cluster Associated with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in University Students
Authors: Laforce Robert , Martin-MaCleod Lynn
Published: August 2011

There is growing recognition that even a minor blow to the head can have serious consequences on physical, cognitive, behavioral, and social well-being. Previous studies have indicated that such changes may in turn have a dramatic effect on the ability of university students to carry out their studies. This survey measured the prevalence of mild traumatic brain injury in a nonclinical population of 1,075 university students from all disciplines. In addition to surveying the nature, cause, and sex distribution, it further investigated the relationships between the physical, cognitive, behavioral, and social repercussions of the incidents. Results replicated earlier findings and indicated a prevalence rate of mild traumatic brain injury of 34.9% ( n = 375). Moreover, significant correlations were found among the physical, cognitive, behavioral, and social changes reported by the students, suggesting a cluster of symptoms associated with such incidents. Altogether, these results suggest that even currently enrolled and active university students may face unique and subtle challenges related to a mild traumatic brain injury.
Reliability and Validity of the Tritrac-R3D Accelerometer during Backpacking: A Case Study
Authors: DeVoe Dale , Dalleck Lance
Published: August 2011

This study investigated the utility of the Tritrac-R3D accelerometer as a reliable and valid instrument in the quantification of physical activity while backpacking in the field and to evaluate heart-rate responses and oxygen consumption to assess the feasibility of using the Tritrac-R3D to estimate caloric expenditure. Two 7-day backpacking expeditions were conducted in two consecutive years by a single subject at Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. The average hiking heart rate ranged from 60% to 77% HEmax during the expeditions. The average rate of estimated caloric cost ranged from 6.8 to 11.7 kcals · min.−1 (equivalent to 408 to 702 kcals · hr.−1), indicating a relatively moderate to high level of exertion. The Tritrac had adequate consistency and reliability in the field between the two expeditions in recorded activity counts. The Tritrac underestimated caloric expenditure during backpacking with changes in terrain, and hiking speed contributed to even greater disparity in accuracy
Facial Expression and Sarcasm
Authors: Rockwell Patricia
Published: August 2011

This study examined facial expression in the presentation of sarcasm. 60 responses (sarcastic responses = 30, nonsarcastic responses = 30) from 40 different speakers were coded by two trained coders. Expressions in three facial areas—eyebrow, eyes, and mouth—were evaluated. Only movement in the mouth area significantly differentiated ratings of sarcasm from nonsarcasm.
Variability Effects on Retention of a Motor Skill in Elementary School Children
Authors: Bortoli Laura , Spagolla Giancarla , Robazza Claudio
Published: August 2011

Variability effects on learning, retention, and transfer of motor skills have been a main issue for scientists involved in laboratory and field research. Variable practice is intended as parameter variations of a generalized motor program as well as rehearsal of different motor programs. Although the benefits deriving from variable practice on motor skill retention appear quite robust in laboratory settings, field investigations have produced mixed results. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine the effects of different variable schedules on the retention of a complex motor skill in a physical education setting. 61 elementary school children were assigned to Blocked/Nonvariable, Blocked/Variable, Serial/Nonvariable, or Serial/Variable schedules, and practiced two tasks (throwing and hurdle running) and a complex skill (jumping) across 14 lessons. Improved performance in the complex skill was found after practice, with the Serial/Nonvariable group outperforming all other groups. Therefore, the rehearsal of different motor programs was beneficial for jumping skill retention, whereas parameter variation was not.
Adolescents' Hero Identification and Self-Perception
Authors: Graham Melody A. , Border Jennifer , Decaluwe Gwen , Foemmel Jennifer , McGraw Kelly
Published: August 2011

This study explored associations for having a hero with aspects of adolescents' self-concept for 168 high school students who completed Harter's Self-perception Profile and questions about their heroes. Having a hero was related to having a stronger sense of social acceptance, romantic appeal, and athletic competence and a weaker sense of scholastic competence.
Construct Validity of Wechsler Factor Scores
Authors: Livingston Ronald B , Gray Robert M. , Broquie Jo Ann P. , Dickson Terri L. , Collins Amy L. , Spence Shannon
Published: August 2011

The construct validity of the Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, and Freedom from Distractibility factor scores was examined in a sample of school-aged referred children. Examination of correlations between factor scores and neuropsychological and achievement tests generally supported the construct validity of the factors. The Verbal Comprehension factor was associated with verbal, quantitative, and concept-formation abilities. The Perceptual Organization factor was related to nonverbal concept formation, tactual performance, and visual attention. The Freedom from Distractibility factor demonstrated a complex pattern of correlations and appeared to reflect a range of abilities including quantitative, language, attentional, and concept formation.
Suicide as an Indicator of Quality of Life: Apparent Conflict between Microeconomic and Macroeconomic Approaches
Authors: Yang Bijou , Lester David
Published: August 2011

While a low incidence of suicide may indicate a high quality of life for individuals, the reverse may be true at the societal level.
Sex Differences in Grade Three Students' Attitudes toward Physical Activity
Authors: Hicks Melisa K. , Crist Randall W. , Wiggins Matthew S. , Moode F. Michael
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this study was to investigate the attitudes children have towards physical activity and whether boys and girls differ significantly. Sex differences were hypothesized on one or more of the subdomains of Grade 3 Children's Attitudes Toward Physical Activity inventory. The 46 boys and 51 girls ranged from 8 to 10 years of age. A multivariate analysis of variance indicated a significant effect for sex, and subsequent univariate analysis indicated that the boys had significantly lower scores than the girls on the Aesthetic subscale. Results were discussed in terms of attitudes about activity in physical education classes and continued research with younger children.
Cell-Mediated Immune Hypersensitivity is Stronger in the Left Side of the Body Than the Right in Healthy Young Subjects
Authors: Dane Şenol , Erdem Teoman , Gümüştekin Kenan
Published: August 2011

More frequent appearance of herpes zoster infection on the left side of the body has been noted. In women, breast cancer occurs more frequently on the left side. It has been suggested that the left neocortex is involved in neuroimmunomodulation via the dopaminergic system. In this study, our purpose was to investigate the possible difference in cell-mediated hypersensitivity between right and left body sides using the tuberculin test with 22 male and 36 female healthy high school students. In the present study, the cell-mediated hypersensitivity was higher in the left side of the body than the right. This difference was slightly more apparent in the girls and may be related to brain asymmetry in neuroimmunomodulation.
Do Competitive Martial Arts Attract Aggressive Children?
Authors: Reynes Eric , Lorant Jean
Published: August 2011

The purpose of the present study was to ascertain whether children beginning martial arts training were more aggressive than their peers. 150 8-yr.-old children were administered the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. Analysis showed that children beginning martial arts training did not score more aggressive than their peers but scored higher on the Anger scale. This difference, however, appeared only in children practicing judo.
Accuracy of Movement Speed and Error Detection Skills in Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Harbourne Regina T.
Published: August 2011

People with cerebral palsy (CP) usually have decreased ability to learn new movements and decreased movement speed. This study examined the ability of 10 adolescents with CP ( M age= 16.2 yr., SD = 1.9 yr.) to achieve a target speed on an upper extremity ballistic task and to detect speed errors in their movements, compared to the performance of 10 adolescents with no disability ( M age=15.7 yr., SD = 1.7 yr.). Subjects were instructed to slide a lever along a track in 150 msec, then guess their movement time. Knowledge of results feedback was provided on the first 50 trials except for Trials 11–20 on Day 1. Knowledge of results feedback was withheld on Day 2, Trials 51–60, to assess learning and retention of the skill. Speed Error and Error Detection were compared for two groups of adolescents on Trials 51–60. Independent t tests indicated a significant difference between the two groups for both Speed Error and Error Detection. Examination of individual scores of the adolescents with CP indicated that half scored within the range of the control group, and variability of skills within the group with CP was high. Some individuals with CP have deficits in accuracy of movement speed and error detection unrelated to their severity of CP which may affect their ability to learn new movements.
Does Perceived Exertion Depend on Glycemic Index of Foods Ingested Throughout Three Hours before a One-Hour High-Intensity Exercise?
Authors: Garcin Murielle , Piton Annie , Brésillion Sylvain , Pérès Gilbert
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationships between perceived exertion (RPE) and plasma glucose concentrations or hunger feelings during a 1-hr. bicycle submaximal exercise after ingestion of pre-exercise test foods with a different glycemic index. Each of endurance-trained male triathletes ingested three different glycemic index (GI) foods (HighGI: glucose, LowGI: whole-wheat biscuit or water) throughout the 3 hr. before exercise at 80% maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max). RPE values increased as a logarithmic function of time. This result is opposite to results obtained with longer exercise bouts up to 3 hr. duration. RPE and hunger ratings were not significantly different for the three test foods whatever the time. Moreover, RPE did not correlate with plasma glucose concentrations during exercise. Consequently, RPE did not depend on the GI of the pre-exercise test foods during a 1-hr. exercise at 80% VO2 max. Physiological and psychological factors other than glycemie index may have mediated the perceptual responses during a 1-hr. high-intensity exercise. It is possible that during endurance exercise of longer duration, the level of blood glucose mediates the intensity of peripheral exertional perceptions arising from active skeletal muscle during prolonged exercise.
Comparison of Male and Female Junior Athletes' Self-Perceptions and Body Image
Authors: Daley Amanda J. , Hunter Beverly
Published: August 2011

Few studies have examined sex differences in body perceptions in sports where the pressure to display a certain physique is reduced. The aim of the present study was to investigate sex differences in physical self-perceptions and body image in junior athletes who are involved in sprint kayaking, a sport where a low body weight is relatively unimportant. 12 male and 13 female members (aged 13–17 yr.) of the British Canoe Union Junior Development Squad for sprint-kayak racing completed the Physical Self-perception Profile for Children and the Multidimensional Body–Self Relations Questionnaire. Multivariate analysis of variance indicated that girls reported significantly higher Sports Competence and lower Appearance Orientation scores than boys. This study has raised a number of issues surrounding the physical self-perceptions and body image of junior athletes involved in a power- and strength-based sport. It seems that male athletes may also experience pressures to conform to a male version of a ‘beautiful body’.
Influence of Perturbation Induced by an Anticipated Load on Human Motor Regulatory Systems
Authors: Shimura Kuniyoshi , Yahagi Susumu , Kasai Tatsuya
Published: August 2011

To investigate how human motor regulatory systems are modified by prior knowledge of a predictable external perturbation, six normal human subjects, each when sitting on a chair, were required to maintain a stable elbow flexion angle (90°) while different weight perturbations were applied (0.5-kg or 2-kg loads). Loads were applied either by the experimenter Without Anticipation or With Anticipation by the subject's own contralateral hand. Acceleration of the forearm movement (elbow extension and flexion) by loads and electromyograms (EMGs) of the biceps brachii (BB) and the triceps brachii (TB) muscle were recorded. Under With Anticipation conditions, preceding EMG activities of BB and TB muscles prior to the onset time of perturbation were clearly observed. Furthermore, the amount of these preceding EMG activities was larger in the heavy load perturbation than in the light load perturbation. Under Without Anticipation conditions, however, these preceding EMG activities were not observed. In the preceding EMG activities, EMG bursts (latency 20 msec.) of a presumed stretch reflex induced by the perturbation were clearly observed. Thus, the function of anticipatory adjustment of maintaining the elbow angle definitely appears to optimize limb stability in the case of the mechanical self-applied perturbation. Furthermore, the extent of the anticipatory adjustment of the elbow angle was dependent on the predicted magnitude of load.
The Changing Sleep Habits of University Students: An Update
Authors: Hicks Robert A. , Fernandez Cosette , Pellegrini Robert J.
Published: August 2011

Using data collected from 9,543 university undergraduates, we noted that over three decades, the median hours of sleep reported by these students has decreased by more than one hour.
Postnatal Anoxia from CO2 for One Minute Produces Sex-Specific Changes in Contextual Fear Conditioning in Adult Rats
Authors: Golanski A. J. , McKay B. E. , Persinger M. A.
Published: August 2011

In a split-litter design, equal numbers of male and female rats were exposed either to carbon dioxide for 1 min. or to the control condition on either postnatal Days 9–10 or 17–18. At 120 days of age half the numbers of rats in each condition were given subclinical dosages of lithium (1.5 mEq/kg) and pilocarpine (15 mg/kg) or saline. 40 days later all rats were tested in a conditioned fear paradigm. A four-way analysis of variance as a function of the variables anoxia, age at the time of anoxia, sex, and subclinical seizure induction indicated a significant interaction between sex and anoxic history. Post hoc analysis showed that performance of male rats exposed to the anoxic condition did not differ from normal or anoxic female rats. The results suggest that only 1 min. of preweaning anoxia may produce permanent changes in contextual fear conditioning for male but not female rats.
Temporal Relationships of Self-Efficacy and Social Support as Predictors of Adherence in a 6-Month Strength-Training Program for Older Women
Authors: Rhodes Ryan E. , Martin Alan D. , Taunton Jack E.
Published: August 2011

The present study investigated how self-efficacy and social support predicted adherence to a strength-training program for elderly women over two time periods in the initial 6 mo. of the program. Participants were 30 elderly women volunteers aged 75 to 80 who completed measures of barrier self-efficacy and general social support at baseline and 3 mo. later. Social support from the program was also measured at 3 mo. Adherence to the program was measured by attendance. Hierarchical regression equations were utilized to identify the contributions of self-efficacy and social support for adherence at 0 to 3 mo. and 4 to 6 mo. For prediction of the first 3 mo. of adherence, both self-efficacy and social support contributed significant unique variance towards the total explained variance of 36%. For the 4- to 6-mo. period, self-efficacy explained significant (12%) variance in adherence even when controlling for the previous 3-mo. adherence. Inclusion of general social support and social support from the program, however, did not account for significant variance. Researchers must continue to examine self-efficacy and social support in exercise adherence within various time periods among older adults to develop effective intervention strategies.
Predicting the Italian Suicide Rate for 1864–1962
Authors: Lester David
Published: August 2011

For the period 1864–1962, Italian suicide rates were negatively associated with birth and death rates.
Relationships between Self-Regulation and Personality Scores of Persons with down Syndrome
Authors: Kojima Michio , Ikeda Yukie
Published: August 2011

This study examined the associations of self-regulation (scores on self-assertion and self-control) with personality traits for 76 persons with Down syndrome. Analysis shows self-assertion scores were correlated with scores for all personality traits. The correlations were significant with Emotionality and Playfulness for people with Down syndrome but not for those without Down syndrome ( n = 40). Self-control scores significantly correlated with scores on controlling and attachment for both groups. Emotionality was related to scores on self-control for students without Down syndrome but not for those with Down syndrome.
Reduction of Mental Stress with Lavender Odorant
Authors: Motomura Naoyasu , Sakurai Akihiro , Yotsuya Yukiko
Published: August 2011

The effect of the lavender odorant on a Japanese version of Cox and Mackay's stress/arousal adjective checklist for three groups was studied. One group of 14 was placed into a (2- x 2- x 3-m) sound-protected room for 20 min. without the presentation of an odor, an analogous group of 15 received the odor oil, and one group of 13 received a nonstressful condition. Analysis suggested that lavender odorants were associated with reduced mental stress and increased arousal rate.
Differential Cognitive Processing of Kanji and Kana Words: Do Orthographic and Semantic Codes Function in Parallel in Word Matching Task
Authors: Kawakami Ayako , Hatta Takeshi , Kogure Terumasa
Published: August 2011

Relative engagements of the orthographic and semantic codes in Kanji and Hiragana word recognition were investigated. In Exp. 1, subjects judged whether the pairs of Kanji words (prime and target) presented sequentially were physically identical to each other in the word condition In the sentence condition, subjects decided whether the target word was valid for the prime sentence presented in advance. The results showed that the response times to the target words orthographically similar (to the prime) were significantly slower than to semantically related target words in the word condition, and that this was also the case in the sentence condition. In Exp. 2, subjects judged whether the target word written in Hiragana was physically identical to the prime word in the word condition. In the sentence condition, subjects decided if the target word was valid for the previously presented prime sentence. Analysis indicated that response times to orthographically similar words were slower than to semantically related words in the word condition but not in the sentence condition wherein the response times to the semantically and orthographically similar words were Largely the same. Based on these results, differential contributions of orthographic and semantic codes in cognitive processing of Japanese Kanji and Hiragana words was discussed.
Perceptual Criteria and Attributes Used for Evaluation of Clothing by Women Using Wheelchairs
Authors: Abraham-Murali Liza , Kane William , Staples Consuella
Published: August 2011

The apparel and clothing attributes important to persons with disabilities are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to identify apparel attributes of persona] value to persons using a wheelchair and used to evaluate clothing. Four focus group interviews on three categories of clothing, formal wear, casual wear, and undergarments, were conducted with 19 female wheelchair users. Participants discussed clothing generally and after viewing garments designed especially for people with disabilities. Analysis of the content of the interviews yielded 49 phrases or words that could be categorized into Physical Appearance, Physical Performance, Expressiveness, and Extrinsic Attributes. Participants were concerned most about Physical Appearance for which criteria are observable attributes of the garment. Attributes of value in order of importance are styling of garment, fabric, garment construction, and color. The Physical Performance criteria include in order of attention benefits of physical aspects such as convenience, performance of garment, fabric, and effect of care. Expressiveness criteria evoked participants' feelings and reaction to use. Extrinsic Attribute criteria are those used to evaluate and nuke purchase decisions and are of less importance. These 19 persons with disability value casual clothing which had regular features. Results describe useful information on the criteria disabled persons use to evaluate clothing for use.
An Experimental Consideration of Fixation Properties
Authors: Itoh Nana , Kato Takaaki , Fukuda Tadahiko
Published: August 2011

While varying the size and complexity of a stimulus object, we measured eye movements during fixation. Although subjects' eyes are fixated at the center of the object, the experimental results indicate that “fluctuation during fixation (FDF)” which is larger movements than “miniature eye movements” occurred. In addition, FDF varies according to the peripherals of fixation points characterized by the size and complexity of the stimulus object.
Heart-Rate Variability during Nocturnal Sleep in Mentally Retarded Children
Authors: Shibagaki Masamitsu
Published: August 2011

Heart-rate variability in four normal and 30 mentally retarded children was investigated during nocturnal sleep. In four normal and 25 mentally retarded subjects, a high frequency component defined as spectral activity between 0.15 and 0.5 Hz was found in the compressed spectral array of the power spectra. A periodic change was seen in the high frequency component which corresponded precisely to the sleep cycle. However, four children with mental retardation did not show normally expected changes in the high frequency components specific to the sleep stages, a quantity of the high frequency component in only one sleep cycle ( n = 2; 6 mo and 3 yr., 8 mo.), a decreased quantity and discontinuity of the high frequency component in only the second sleep cycle ( n = 1; 1 yr., 2 mo.), and no high frequency component in any sleep cycle ( n =1; 3 mo.). These findings suggest that some mentally retarded children have an abnormal parasympathetic nervous activity.
Duss Fairy Tales: Some Data from a New Evaluation Form
Authors: Mazzeschi Claudia , Lis Adriana , Calvo Vincenzo , Vallone Vega , Superchi Elisabetta
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this paper is to extend the research on the Duss Fairy Tales in an Italian sample. Attention has been paid, in particular, to the study of some variables identified in a newly devised schedule. The protocols were scored for four indexes: (1) the main hero of the stories, (2) number and types of characters, (3) number of emotions expressed, and (4) number of heroes' and characters' actions and behaviors. Subjects were 70 children aged 3.5 to 10.5 yr. enrolled in kindergartens and elementary schools in Italy. The relationships of scores with age and sex were also investigated. There was an increase across three age groups in the richness of stories in terms of emotions and characters' identification
Note on Comparability of Microcog Test Forms
Authors: Lopez Shane J. , Edwards Lisa M. , Floyd R. Keith , Magyar-Moe Jeana , Rehfeldt Jason D. , Ryder Jamie A.
Published: August 2011

This study investigated the differences between the Standard and Short forms of MicroCog by comparing Domain scores for a clinical sample of 351 substance abusers which gave a significant difference between scores on the Spatial Processing Domain. Implications for research and clinical use are discussed.
Setting for Exercise and Concerns about Body Appearance of Women Who Exercise
Authors: Yin Zenong
Published: August 2011

The present study examined the association between the sex composition of exercise environment and concerns related to body appearance of women who exercise. A questionnaire concerning social physique anxiety, body dissatisfaction, and attitude toward women-only exercise environment was administered to 81 women who used either the women-only area or the co-ed area in a fitness club. A one-way analysis of variance indicated that those who exercised in a women-only area reported more social physique anxiety and dissatisfaction with body size and favored exercising in areas exclusively reserved for women than women who exercised primarily in co-ed areas. The women-only area served as a protective environment for those who were heavier, anxious about their body appearances, and dissatisfied about their body images. These women also preferred to exercise in an exclusively female setting compared to women who used the co-ed area.
Cues to Referent Gender in Randomly Constructed Names
Authors: Whissell Cynthia
Published: August 2011

50 volunteers' assignments of gender to 32 randomly constructed names confirmed previous findings with respect to the structure of actual names (men's names are shorter, women's names tend to end in vowels, especially the schwa vowel) and with respect to the emotionality of sounds in actual names (men's names sound more Active, Nasty, and Unpleasant; women's names sound softer). Assignment of sex to random names was predictable ( R > .8) on the basis of combinations of these variables.
Interactive Effects of Sex and Psychosocial Interventions on Work Pace and Accuracy in a Self-Paced Product-Assembly Task
Authors: Schell Kraig L. , Grasha Anthony F.
Published: August 2011

This study was designed to assess the effect of participants' sex and two performance-enhancing interventions on performance in a laboratory-based product-assembly task. The task environment simulated dispensing medications as in a pharmacy. 33 men and 59 women worked in the simulation, completing four sets of orders totaling 114 products. Participants either worked with no interventions, with a copy strip to aid in data entry, or with both the copy strip and bottle sleeves to aid in stimulus selection during assembly. Analysis indicated that accuracy and pacing improved during the task as a function of the number of interventions available. Also, these improvements were not subject to effects of sex. It was concluded that the interventions tested in this study to aid in performance during product-assembly tasks like filling prescriptions are equally beneficial to both men and women. Ideas for research are discussed.
Effects of Pyridoxine on Dreaming: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Ebben Matthew , Lequerica Anthony , Spielman Arthur
Published: August 2011

The effect of pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6) on dreaming was investigated in a placebo, double-blind study to examine various claims that Vitamin B-6 increases dream vividness or the ability to recall dreams. 12 college students participated in all three treatment conditions, each of which involved ingesting either 100 mg B-6, 250 mg B-6, or a placebo prior to bedtime for a period of five consecutive days. The treatment conditions were completely counterbalanced and a two-day wash-out period occurred between the three five-day treatment blocks. Morning self-reports indicated a significant difference in dream-salience scores (this is a composite score containing measures on vividness, bizarreness, emotionality, and color) between the 250-mg condition and placebo over the first three days of each treatment. The data for dream salience suggests that Vitamin B-6 may act by increasing cortical arousal during periods of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. An hypothesis is presented involving the role of B-6 in the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin. However, this first study needs to be replicated using the same procedures and also demonstrated in a sleep laboratory before the results can be considered certain.
Graphing Calculators and Students' Conceptions of the Derivative
Authors: Alkhateeb Haitham M. , Wampler Justin
Published: August 2011

This study compared the effect of using graphing calculators on college students' conceptual understanding of the derivative with the traditional teaching approach in Calculus I course. Students (49 men and 52 women) in four classes at a large public university participated. On a posttest, women who were taught calculus using the graphing calculator had significantly higher scores than those taught by the traditional method.
Factor Structure of an Arabic Translation of the Scale, Preference for Numerical Information
Authors: Alkhateeb Haitham M. , Abed Adnan S.
Published: August 2011

An Arabic translation of Viswanathan's 1993 scale, Preference for Numerical Information, was administered to 157 tenth-grade students ( M age=16.1 yr.) in the United Arab Emirates. Analysis showed that the scale was homogeneous as the factor solution was comparable to that reported in the original study and item scores were moderately correlated with total scores when used in a different cultural setting.
Children's Face Recognition in Different Contexts: The Role of Encoding Strategies
Authors: Schwarzer Gudrun , Roebers Claudia M.
Published: August 2011

In this study, the relationship between face recognition and different facial encoding strategies was investigated. Children (6–8 years, N = 134) participated in both a face recognition task and an encoding task. During the recognition task, they saw 7 target faces in an eyewitness context (video) or in a neutral context (static black and white slides) which they later had to recognize from a set of 21 faces. On the encoding task, the same children had to categorize new faces (schematic and photorealistic) into two categories. The construction of the categories allowed participants to encode the faces either analytically (by focusing on a single attribute) or holistically (in terms of overall similarity). The results showed that face recognition was better in the social than in the neutral context. In the neutral context, only holistic encoding was connected to better face recognition. In the social context, children seemed to use not only information about the faces but also information about the persons.
Effects of Self-Assessment on Retention in Rule-Based Learning
Authors: Hassmén Peter , Hunt Darwin P. , Dybeck Charlotta
Published: August 2011

The main purpose of most educational and training programs is that the person will acquire some specified knowledge, retain it until a later time when it will be retrieved and employed to make decisions, select and execute actions, etc. Previous research has indicated that there might be a positive relation between an individual's certainty about the correctness of learned responses and how well the material is retained over shorter time-periods. In the present study, 39 men and 38 women learned the names of eight different hand pliers; they were also assessing their certainty about the names of the pliers. After the learning session, the participants returned after either 1, 6, or 12 wk. for a retention and relearning session. Analysis showed that higher certainty was associated positively with retention. The men were more prone than the women to rate themselves as being “Extremely sure” of being correct, even when they, in fact, were wrong. Also, men and women learned the material equally fast, but the men required significantly fewer trials than the women to relearn the material. Inclusion of ratings of certainty offers a convenient way of assessing when training has been sufficient and facilitates detection of misinformation (sure-but-wrong answers).
T-Score and Raw-Score Comparisons in Detecting Brain Dysfunction Using the Booklet Category Test and the Short Category Test
Authors: Gontkovsky Samuel T. , Souheaver Gary T.
Published: August 2011

Often considered one of the more discriminating tests between normal and brain-damaged individuals, the Category Test has been described as a complex measure of new problem solving, logical analysis, concept formation, abstract reasoning, and mental efficiency. Since publication of a booklet format by DeFilippis and McCampbell in 1979, researchers have attempted to develop other versions to reduce time required for administration. The present study compared the sensitivity of the Short Category Test, Booklet Format with the Booklet Category Test. Subjects were 22 male veterans seen for comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation and were classified into a brain-damaged or a control group ( n s=11) according to independent neurological or neuroradiological evidence. Comparison of performances based on T scores yielded no significant differences between the groups on either format. Analyses of performance based upon suggested raw score cut-offs for the tests, however, yielded a statistically meaningful difference, but caution is in order when using T scores derived from age- or education-based normative data to suggest the presence of brain dysfunction. Raw score cut-offs yielded valid differentiation of individual patients in both groups.
The Anxiolytic Effect of Aqua Aerobics in Elderly Women
Authors: Wininger Steven R.
Published: August 2011

This study examined the anxiolytic (anxiety reducing) effects of exercise for elderly women engaging in a single bout of aqua aerobics. Volunteers ( N -29) completed questionnaires immediately before and after participating in an aqua aerobics class. The average age of participants was 66.4 yr. A brief form of Spielberger's State Anxiety Inventory and a questionnaire on demographic items were administered prior to engagement in exercise, and the brief form of the State Anxiety Inventory was administered again immediately after the exercise session. There was a significant difference on a t test between participants' ratings of anxiety before exercise ( M = 16.8) compared to after exercise ( M = 13.9); participants' ratings of state anxiety were somewhat lower after exercising Weaknesses of the present study and suggestions for research are presented.
Color of Computer Display Frame in Work Performance, Mood, and Physiological Response
Authors: Hatta Takeshi , Yoshida Hirotaka , Kawakami Ayako , Okamoto Masahiko
Published: August 2011

The effects of the color of a personal computer screen on work performance, psychological mood, and autonomic response were investigated. 24 subjects were asked to perform visual tasks presented on the computer display. Three types of computer monitor, which were colored red, blue, or beige, were employed to present visual cognitive tasks. The mood measure, the Japanese Stress Arousal Check List, and heart rate measurement were administered before and after work on each color of computer monitor. Analysis of a low-demand task (Exp. 1) showed that the red computer monitor reduced visual task performance compared to that with the blue, while the blue monitor decreased visual task performance on a high-demand task (Exp. 2). The color of the monitor did not affect mood or heart rate. Based on these findings, the effect of the color of environmental cues on work was discussed.
Anthropometric Profiles and Social Physique Anxiety of Physical Education Professionals from India
Authors: Mookerjee Swapan , Singh Jasraj , Cash Tamra
Published: August 2011

Previous work indicates that there may be a relationship between the observation and evaluation of one's physique and the construct of social physique anxiety associated with this process. Since physical educators are expected to serve as role models of desired fitness behaviors, bodily appearance, and composition, it is of interest to examine whether such responses and relationships may be observed. However, there is limited published information on anthropometric profiles and body images of physical education professionals, especially of those from India. Therefore, this study compared anthropometric profiles and Social Physique Anxiety in a sample of 182 male physical education professionals from India ( M age = 41.2 yr.). Body Mass Index, sum of three skinfolds (Tricep, Abdomen, and Thigh), and waist/hip ratio were determined using standard procedures. The sample was grouped into overweight and normal weight categories. Significant group differences were found for the sum of skinfolds and waist/hip ratio, with no significant differences between groups on the Social Physique Anxiety total score. Correlations for the anthropometric measures with the Social Physique Anxiety scores indicated no significant relationships. Mean total Social Physique Anxiety score for the combined group was comparable to those reported for other groups of physically active individuals. These findings indicate low Social Physique Anxiety in this sample and may have implications with regard to the attitudes pertaining to body image and role modeling of appropriate fitness behaviors.
Attitudes of Undergraduate Majors in Elementary Education toward Mathematics through a Hands-on Manipulative Approach
Authors: Alkhateeb Haitham M.
Published: August 2011

Using a manipulative approach in a mathematics course, this study was designed to assess attitudes toward mathematics of undergraduates in elementary education. A 20-item attitude rating administered as pre- and posttest to 95 students (7 men and 88 women) was used to assess the effect of the hands-on approach. A dependent t test indicated a statistically significant but very small change in their ratings.
Relationship of Perceived and Actual Motor Competence in Children
Authors: Raudsepp Lennart , Liblik Raino
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between children's actual and perceived motor competence. 280 children between the ages of 10 and 13 years individually completed the Children's Physical Self-perception Profile which assesses perceptions of sport competence, physical conditioning, strength, body attractiveness, and general physical self-worth. The internal reliabilities (α) of the sub-scales ranged from .75 to .82. After completing the profile, the subject's actual motor competence was measured using tests of aerobic fitness and functional strength. Body fatness (sum of five skinfolds) was measured as an objective measure of perceived body attractiveness. Analysis of variance showed that boys and girls differed in perceived competence and actual motor competence. The boys showed higher perceived competence on four scores, but there was no sex difference in perception of body attractiveness. Correlations and regression analysis showed that actual and perceived motor competence were significantly but only moderately ( r = .25–.56) correlated. In addition, items of perceived physical competence and age accounted for 17% (sit-ups) to 25% (endurance shuttle run) of the variance in actual motor competence of the children. These findings showed that 10- to 13-yr.-old children can only moderately assess personal motor competence.
Evidence for Lack of Change in Seasonality of Suicide from Timiş County, Romania
Authors: Voracek Martin , Vintilã Mona , Fisher Maryanne L. , Yip Paul S. F.
Published: August 2011

Evidence from politically and socially stable countries in Northern Europe and the Southern Hemisphere indicates a marked decrease in the seasonality of suicide over the past two decades. Generalizability of this trend to societies in transition has not yet been investigated. Data for suicide by hanging in Timiş County of Romania show both a nondecrease in seasonality of suicide for the current transitional period (1990–98), relative to the last decade of the Communist regime (1980–89) and shifts in location for suicide peak and trough months. Recent decreases in the seasonality of suicide might not generalize to societies in transition, and research would improve from focusing on the “natural laboratories” these societies represent.
Modeling in Learning Two Volleyball Skills
Authors: Zetou Eleni , Tzetzis George , Vernadakis Nikos , Kioumourtzoglou Efthimis
Published: August 2011

The present study was designed to investigate the influence of two different types of modeling and knowledge of performance on acquisition and retention of two volleyball skills (set and serve). Participants were 63 boys and 53 girls in elementary school, whose mean age was 11.7 yr. ( SD = .5). The children were randomly assigned into two groups given the same practice method for 16 practice sessions (8 for the set and 8 for the serve) but different types of modeling. Some participants observed a videotape of an expert model performing the skills, and the second group observed a videotaped replay of their own performance. Verbal cues were provided simultaneously with the videotaped demonstration. The first group improved set and serve skills more on acquisition and on the retention test than the second group. This improvement was present when scores and form were evaluated. Modeling plus instructional cues seemed to improve children's learning of two volleyball skills (set and serve), and this procedure is suggested for use by practitioners.
Two-Component Processes in Switching Attention: A Study of Event-Related Potentials
Authors: Hsieh Shulan
Published: August 2011

When participants are asked either to repeat the task from the previous trial or switch to the other task, their reaction times are larger for switched than repeated tasks. This “switch cost” has been repeatedly demonstrated in behavioral studies. In this study, event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded from 12 healthy college students to assess whether this switch cost reflects component processes of preparation and interference. Analyses of ERPs showed that following the cue, there was greater positivity for a switched relative to a repeated trial when the tasks occurred in a fixed-order rather than in a random-order condition. Following the onset of the stimulus-pair, there was greater negativity for switched relative to repeated trials when the task stimulus consisted of both letters and digits but not when it consisted of either a letter or a digit paired with a neutral character. The data provide neurophysiological evidence for the two component processes.
Suicidal and Drug-Related Behaviors of Rural Seventh and Eighth Grade Students
Authors: Light Harriett
Published: August 2011

Among 1,641 rural students in Grades 7 and 8, tobacco, alcohol, and inhalants were the most commonly used drugs; 281 reported suicidal thoughts, and 175 Stated they made a plan to kill themselves during the past year.
Changes of Sleep or Waking Habits by Age and Sex in Japanese
Authors: Park Young Man , Matsumoto Kazuya , Seo Yoo Jin , Kang Min Jeong , Nagashima Hidetoshi
Published: August 2011

We analyzed the effects of age and sex on habitual sleep/wake rhythm and Morningness–Eveningness scores of 2,252 subjects (6–89 years) randomly selected in Shimonoseki, Japan. Subjects were divided into 21 age groups with a matching number of men and women in each age group. The most common sleep parameter patterns by age showed a v- or ^-pattern with a turning point in young adulthood or at the period of puberty. During the period between 6 yr. of age to puberty or young adulthood, the bedtimes on weekdays and weekends and the waking times on weekends were delayed, Morningness–Eveningness scores shifted to the evening type, and sleep length on weekdays decreased. After that period, across groups of increasing age, bedtime and waking time on weekdays and weekends became earlier, sleep length on weekdays and sleep latency increased, Morningness–Eveningness scores shifted to morning type, and the number of awakenings increased. The number of daytime naps increased in the 16–19 yr. group, decreased slightly after that age group, but increased again in older groups. The weekday bedtimes of women above 40 yr. of age was significantly later and their sleep lengths significantly shorter than those of men of the same age. Average sleep latency was longer for women than men. The number of awakenings was larger in women above 50 yr. of age than men of the same age group. The turning point of age gained from the two linear regressions on data for subjects that have a minimum sum of squared error, was between 16 and 25 yr. of age. Average phase of sleep/wake rhythm shifted backward and sleep length decreased in groups from age 6 to puberty or young adulthood. After early adolescence, the average phase of the sleep/wake rhythm shifted forward, sleep latency became longer, and daytime napping increased. Number of awakenings increased rapidly for women's groups over 40 yr. of age and for men's groups after 50 yr. of age. Sex differences in our research are in apparent conflict with previous data and are discussed from the perspective of women's social and domestic roles in Japan.