Classical Position Research Articles

Evidence for motivated control: Understanding the paradoxical link between threat and efficacy beliefs about climate change

Studies reveal that the more efficacious people feel in their ability to combat climate change, the more threatened they feel by it. This positive correlation deserves unpacking, given that classic theories position efficacy beliefs as coping appraisals that help manage threats. First, we tested whether the relationship is an artifact of overlap with a latent variable that is implicated in both threat and efficacy: “green” identity. Second, we tested whether efficacy perceptions are (partly) motivated cognitions designed to ameliorate helplessness in the face of threat. Study 1 (N = 4345 Australians) replicated the positive correlation between threat and efficacy, and showed that the relationships remained after controlling for green identity. Direct evidence for motivated control was found in Study 2 (N = 212 Americans): Participants who read a high-threat message reported more (collective) efficacy than did those who read a climate change message that downplayed threat. Implications for theoretical models of control are discussed.

Book Review. Leo L. Beranek and Tim J. Mellow, Acoustics - Sound Fields and Transducers, Elsevier-Academic Press 2012

Abstract The reviewed book is a new, expanded and modernized edition of the classical position of the book “Acoustics” published in 1954 and reprinted in 1986. The subtitle: “Sound Fields and Transducers” reflects well the nature of the changes in relation to the original. The chapters concerning sound fields and transducers have been added or significantly expanded and chapters on other subjects, such as noise control, hearing, and speech, have been removed. The chapter about acoustic measurements has been also removed, although some parts of it concerning reciprocity calibration of transducers would be compatible with the concept of the present version of the book. The book consists of 14 chapters. The chapters are divided into parts which are numbered consecutively, independently on numeration of chapters, and sections numbered within chapters. The book contains also three appendices. The scientific level of the book is high and it is designed for advanced readers, e.g., graduate students, and professionals who want to expand their knowledge.

Comparative Sonoanatomy of Classic “Short Axis” Probe Position with a Novel “Medial-oblique” Probe Position for Ultrasound-guided Internal Jugular Vein Cannulation: A Crossover Study

BackgroundUltrasound (US)-guided short-axis approach for internal jugular vein (IJV) cannulation does not fully protect patients from inadvertent carotid artery (CA) puncture. Carotid puncture is not rare (occurring in up to 4% of all IJV cannulations) despite the use of US. ObjectivesCompare the sonoanatomy of the “medial-oblique approach” probe position with the classic US-guided “short-axis” probe position, specifically: relation of internal CA and IJV; vertical and horizontal diameter of IJV; and degree of overlapping of IJV with CA. MethodsOne hundred consecutive patients between the ages of 18 and 50 years, both male and female, and American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status classification system (ASA PS) I–II undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia were recruited in this prospective, randomized, crossover, parallel-group study. ResultsThe transverse diameter of the IJV was found to be significantly higher in the medial-oblique probe position (p = 0.000, mean difference 0.43 cm; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34–0.52). The percentage of overlap was also significantly lower in the medial-oblique probe position (48.7 ± 10.7% in short-axis vs. 36.3 ± 13.2% in medial-oblique probe position; p = 0.000; mean difference 12.4%, 95% CI 9.1–15.8). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the anteroposterior diameter of the IJV between the two probe positions (1.11 ± 0.26 cm in short axis vs 1.07 ± 0.25 cm in medial oblique; p = 0.631). ConclusionThe medial-oblique probe position for IJV cannulation provides sonoanatomic superiority over the classic short-axis probe position. Further randomized, controlled trials may confirm the medial-oblique view's clinical benefit in the future.

Es blitzt schon wieder – dieses Mal bei aš-Šarīf al-Murtaḍā

As-Sarīf al-Murtaḍā (d. 1044) included in his Dīwān nine poems on the lightning. Although he removed in these poems the lightning scene from its classical position in the polythematic qaṣīda, he maintained in most of them its combination with the motif of remembrance. So, his poems are not completely monothematic like the “modern” descriptive (waṣf) poems. Also, in some other respect, the Sarīf combines the old with the new. Seven of the poems are interpreted in the article.

Sobre la economía laboral

La economía laboral, que atiende asuntos relativos a la oferta y la demanda de empleo y los salarios, es un asunto que en palabras del profesor Sapelli (2007), ha sufrido cambios rotundos en los últimos años. En el presente artículo se presentan algunas posiciones clásicas, neoclásicas e institucionalistas respecto a las formas de integración y programas económicos que ofrecen soluciones relativas a las variables económico-laborales. El diálogo parte de los aportes de la Escuela de Chicago esbozando a manera general la Teoría del Capital Humano, que encuentran eco en las políticas neoliberales, pero que choca con los postulados marxistas y neoinstitucionalistas que señalan rutas alternas. Del estudio se concluye la necesidad de llegar a una vía intermedia en la acepción del papel del Estado frente a dos variables claves: la educación y la inversión.

Polynomials, radial basis functions and multilayer perceptron neural network methods in local geoid determination with GPS/levelling

The means for determining reference surfaces when using satellite-based positioning techniques differs from the way they are determined using classical terrestrial positioning techniques. The height of any point on earth, as determined by a global positioning system (GPS), is based on the World Geodetic System of 1984 datum, but when using classical terrestrial measurements this height is based on the geoid. However, GPS-derived ellipsoidal heights must initially be transformed into orthometric heights for practical applications. We use geoid models developed with geoid heights for the height transformation, because orthometric height determination methods using classical techniques require time and manpower. In this study, the performances of polynomials, radial basis functions (RBFs) and multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network algorithms used in local geoid surface modelling were evaluated in the study area. Upon analysis of statistical results, the artificial neural network method was observed to give better results than the other two methods.

They are all lies. Even Mother Theresa did it for herself ...

In this paper we explore the question of what are we trying to achieve in teaching business ethics at undergraduate university level. The dominant normative model of business ethics suggests that the aim of business ethics (including the teaching of business ethics) is to move businesspeople from an egotistic position to an altruistic position. According to the latter position, the greater good of society is served by unselfish, other-regarding action, instead of by the narrow, self-centred interests of individuals or corporations acting on their own behalf (i.e. egoism). In this paper, the dominant model is analysed and criticised by means of subjecting it to the question of whether it is at all possible to move people from one position to another through teaching business ethics. A second, related aim of this analysis and critique deals with the question of whether ethics (as taking up moral responsibility for one’s actions) really entails a neat, linear model of change from position A to B. To arrive at a possible alternative model of teaching and “doing” business ethics, we explore some classic philosophical positions in which mixed signals are given regarding the status of egoism in ethics. This analysis will be applied to, and supported by, experience gained from teaching business ethics to accounting and management students at undergraduate level at the University of Stellenbosch.

A semi‐quantitative approach to variation of the azygos vein course

The azygos vein (AV) is typically described (illustrated) as ascending vertically on the right of thoracic vertebrae. Most thoracic vein studies have focused on tributary patterns, but some have noted more leftward AV courses. This study statistically documents variation in AV course independent of tributary patterns. A more statistical approach to the probable position of AV at different vertical levels may aid clinicians in locating and assessing it in clinical contexts. The AV course was exposed in 84 cadavers by removing overlying viscera between the aortic hiatus and tracheal bifurcation. Subjectively, non-pathological specimens were digitally photographed in anterior view. For each photo, a scaled grid was used to mark the horizontal position of the AV center at each of five vertical levels. The summated numerical distributions showed the following: ∼5% of the AVs ascended on the right side (classical) position, ∼30% did not cross the midline, ∼70% included part or all of their course left of the midline, and ∼14% reached the extreme left side. Based on this data, the modal AV course (1) begins at, or to the right of, the midline, (2) deviates leftward, (3) crosses the midline below mid-level, (4) reaches a leftward maximum at about 3/5 of its course, (5) then deviates rightward (often only reaching the midline at the uppermost level). In several noticeable cases, the leftward maximum was associated with large connections to left-side veins, suggesting a possible tension mechanism exerting traction on the AV over time.

Modified retroperitoneoscopic port sites for surgery of upper urinary tract.

Background and Objectives:Our objective was to introduce our experience using modified retroperitoneoscopic port positions for operations of the upper urinary tract.Methods:We designed different trocar positions or incisions according to different surgical procedures and specimen sizes. A total of 116 patients, comprising patients with common adrenal, kidney, and ureter diseases, underwent retroperitoneoscopic operations by use of modified incisions. These patients comprised 23 with adrenal diseases, 84 with kidney diseases, and 9 with ureter diseases. The specimen was retrieved, as much as possible, through a transverse incision to produce a hidden scar after recovery. By contrast, 143 patients underwent the same or similar procedures using classical 3-port incisions. The operative time was defined as the time from skin incision to skin closure.Results:There were no significant differences in age, estimated blood loss, oral intake, and hospital stay between groups. A significant difference in favor of the modified group was noted with respect to analgesia use (diclofenac sodium, 50 mg vs 100 mg; P < .05) in all 3 modified methods, as well as in cosmetic outcome in the groups undergoing the first modification (score, 8.9 ± 2.2 VS 7.3 ± 2.8; P < .05) and second modification (score, 8.7 ± 2.5 VS 7.1 ± 2.4; P < .05). In addition, the mean operative time in patients undergoing ureter operations was shorter than that in the conventional group using classical 3-port positions (55 ± 11 minutes vs 70 ± 15 minutes, P < .05).Conclusions:Our modified retroperitoneoscopic incision is a safe, cosmetic alternative procedure for operations of the upper urinary tract. Different diseases and specimen sizes can be treated with the personalized or suitable incisions that we have introduced.

The state offensiveness in the international system: a theoretical discussion on political realism

The offensive realism theory, on the basis of political realism as a broader view of studying the international relations, supports that the offensiveness of states is an intrinsic element of the system’s structure. Analysing this hypothesis, we draw conclusions about the validity of the current position’s methodological process. Testing the validity of the assumption we use a comparative analysis between the classical realistic position for human’s bad nature and the thesis of structural realism for the systemic need to pursue power. Following the comparison of these two opposing positions, we examine the dilemmatic version of war and peace and we underline the importance of the term balance of power for keeping the stability in the system.

A new look at the Lake Superior biomass size spectrum

We synthesized data from multiple sampling programs and years to describe the Lake Superior pelagic biomass size structure. Data consisted of Coulter counts for phytoplankton, optical plankton counts for zooplankton, and acoustic surveys for pelagic prey fish. The size spectrum was stable across two time periods separated by 5 years. The primary scaling or overall slope of the normalized biomass size spectra for the combined years was −1.113, consistent with a previous estimate for Lake Superior (−1.10). Periodic dome structures within the overall biomass size structure were fit to polynomial regressions based on the observed sub-domes within the classical taxonomic positions (algae, zooplankton, and fish). This interpretation of periodic dome delineation was aligned more closely with predator–prey size relationships that exist within the zooplankton (herbivorous, predacious) and fish (planktivorous, piscivorous) taxonomic positions. Domes were spaced approximately every 3.78 log10 units along the axis and with a decreasing peak magnitude of −4.1 log10 units. The relative position of the algal and herbivorous zooplankton domes predicted well the subsequent biomass domes for larger predatory zooplankton and planktivorous prey fish.

The Algorithm for Determining the Coordinates of a Point in Three-Dimensional Space by Using the Auxiliary Point

ABSTRACT During the process of satellite navigation, and also in the many tasks of classical positioning, we need to calculate the corrections to the initial (or approximate) location of the point using precise measurement of distances to the permanent points of reference (reference points). In this paper the authors have provided a way of developing Hausbrandt's equations, on the basis of which the exact coordinates of the point in two-dimensional space can be determined by using the computed correction to the coordinates of the auxiliary point. The authors developed generalised equations for threedimensional space introducing additional fixed point and have presented proof of derived formulas.

New positions for an internal heat exchanger in a CO2 supercritical refrigeration plant. Experimental analysis and energetic evaluation

IHX is probably, one of the most commonly alternative used to improve cooling capacity and COP in a CO2 refrigerating plant working in supercritical conditions. The “classical” position at gas-cooler exit has been analyzed by several authors with positive results. The aim of this work is to compare, from experimental approach, the energetic behavior of a refrigerating plant working with several IHX configurations: gas-cooler exit (classical position), liquid receiver exit, and in both positions at the same time. The energetic behavior includes: cooling capacity, power consumption and COP. Moreover, the discharge temperature reached on each position has been analyzed.From the experimental results, a general improvement in COP and cooling capacity has been observed regardless the position of the IHX. A maximum increment of 13% on COP has been registered working with two IHX at the same time.

Intersubjectivity via mediators dependent on the mind

&#x0D; According to traditional views, the mediator of intersubjectivity, the physical world, is independent of subjectivity metaphysically because the physical world precedes subjectivity. The paper considers the consequences of a new model of intersubjective mediation where there are no mediators independent of subjectivity. This model recalls a classical idealist position à la Berkeley and Leibniz that has been expanded by John Foster, Howard Robinson, and Timothy Sprigge in contemporary analytical philosophy. The new model has three challenging features: i. it is coherent, cannot be falsified by any result of modern science, ii. it can be argued for using arguments from the philosophy of the mind, iii. it posits that morality, intersubjective acknowledgement, and reality experienced communally have a higher status metaphysically than mere physical existence.&#x0D;

What Do Normative Approaches to Argumentation Stand to Gain from Rhetorical Insights?

ABSTRACT This article appropriates Thomas Conley's (1990) four classical positions on the nature and function of rhetoric, and assesses their relevance vis-à-vis three contemporary normative approaches to argumentation: the epistemological approach, pragma-dialectical theory, and informal logic. In each case, the room for the integration of rhetorical insights into argument evaluation is found to be restricted by dialectical and logico-epistemic norms endorsed in these approaches. Moreover, when rhetorical insights could fit the so restricted room, then the reliability and the specificity of such insights remain inversely related, with methodologically well-hardened knowledge of what persuades remaining too general. The trade-off between reliability and specificity of suasory knowledge, or so is our thesis, undermines the claim that rhetorical insights can presently inform the evaluation of natural language arguments in these three normative approaches.

Recurrent Anterior Instability Manifesting as Luxatio Erecta Humeri: A Case Report.

Luxatio erecta humeri is a rare type of glenohumeral dislocation. The mechanisms of this injury involve either direct axial loading on a fully abducted extremity or leverage of the humeral head across the acromion by a hyperabduction force. The clinical diagnosis can be made by recognizing the classic position of an upward-pointing upper limb, resembling the position of the Statue of Liberty’s right arm. Because inferior glenohumeral dislocations usually result from high-energy trauma, they are commonly associated with other injuries. These include greater tuberosity fractures, rotator cuff tears, and injuries to the brachial plexus or axillary vessels. Fery and Sommelet published a series of ten cases of inferior dislocations, noting that these injuries were always seen with either a greater tuberosity fracture or a rotator cuff tear1. Orthopaedic referral is required and surgery is almost always warranted with inferior glenohumeral dislocations. Luxatio erecta humeri is associated with inferior glenohumeral ligament tears and adhesive capsulitis. Cases of recurrent luxatio erecta have rarely been reported in the current literature2. We searched the Medical Subject Headings in PubMed with the keywords “luxatio,” “erecta,” “repeated,” and “recurrent,” and found only one documented case report of recurrent luxatio erecta through January 2013. Although this case report does not describe a true recurrent luxatio erecta, it is unique because it is a case of recurrent anterior instability that had manifested as acute luxatio erecta without any of the usual associated injuries. The patient was informed that data concerning the case would be submitted for publication, and he provided consent. A twenty-seven-year-old right-handed man presented to the emergency department after waking with an acutely painful, fixed hyperabducted left shoulder. He had been sleeping with the left hand behind his head. He had experienced five similar presentations of acute dislocation previously but had never …

Relational evolution of observables for Hamiltonian-constrained systems

Evolution of systems in which Hamiltonians are generators of gauge transformations is a notion that requires more structure than the canonical theory provides. We identify and study this additional structure in the framework of relational observables (``partial observables''). We formulate necessary and sufficient conditions for the resulting evolution in the physical phase space to be a symplectomorphism. We give examples which satisfy those conditions and examples which do not. We point out that several classic positions in the literature on relational observables contain an incomplete approach to the issue of evolution and false statements. Our work provides useful clarification and opens the door to studying correctly formulated definitions.

Knowledge-sociological and information-sociological aspects of knowledge organization

50 years ago knowledge organization, the development of scientific concepts and arrangements, has been seen as a logical and thus universal problem. Older approaches accordingly see areas of knowledge as naturally given and organically grown. At latest with the constructivism has entered a ‘turn’, which sees knowledge organization as a social convention and accordingly regards universal standards skeptical. Simultaneously in the sciences came up a stronger concern with historical and sociological studies of its foundations and in philosophy of science the return to different kinds of relativizations has gained more importance. In this paper, some single classical sociological positions are discussed, conclusions are drawn for knowledge and information as well as for science and knowledge organization and objections are designated.

Que changent les « entendeurs de voix » à l’écoute des hallucinations ? II. Recherches sur l’entente de voix

ObjectivesSeveral studies have shown the high prevalence of experiences of acoustic-verbal hallucinations (so-called “voices”) in non-psychiatric individuals. From the 1980s was constituted an international movement – the “voice hearers” – who relativize but also fertilize the clinical knowledge on the listening of hallucinations. This paper proposes to question some of aspects of the debate on “voice hearers” when integrating it within the broader contemporary models attempting to account for “psychotic-like experiences” or “exceptional experiences”. MaterialsA brief review of scientific literature on these experiences help to compare psychiatric, psychoanalytic and more specialized researches on “voice-hearing”. We also compare classical clinical positions with new ones. ResultsIt appears that “voice-hearers” introduce a reversal of some classical prejudices, in moving towards a treatment of psychotic-like experiences as if they were neurotic expressions. Paranormal and spiritual interpretations of voices are ubiquitous in many studies of voice hearing, and even are outstanding examples of salutogenic appraisals of psychotic-like experiences. The research on the type of appraisal along the axes of internal/external or personal/impersonal provides direct guidance on clinical intervention strategies. ConclusionsNo longer focusing on the “what” but rather on the “how” of hallucinations experiences helps to avoid some biases relative to the assessment of beliefs – especially unusual beliefs – in the clinical setting. As the figurehead of the broader movement of “recovery”, the Hearing Voices Movement offers a competitive clinical practice, but failed to provide a true differential clinical practice starting from a neutral name referring to several psychopathological pathways that need to be distinguished.

Problem analysis of health tourism sector

On the basis of experts health tourism is one of the most dynamically developing sectors within tourism. The outstanding role of the sector is partly owing to increasing health consciousness and partly to aging society – beside numerous other factors. But health tourism in Hungary is hit by several problems in spite of the fact that recently particular attention is paid to this sector. It can be mentioned as a difficulty that supply of education system is not in conformity with market demands, thus fresh supply of experts is not appropriate. As a world trend, classic position of thermal baths based on natural curative factors is getting to be displaced by adventure baths, which is unfavourable for health tourism. Notwithstanding that Hungary is in a distinguished place on a world scale as regards tourist arrivals, yet we are only in a mid-filed position relating to industrial revenues. Suppliers of this sector do not pay enough attention to disabled persons. The established TDM Organisations have to cope with numerous challenges. Nevertheless experts agree that high support of health tourism can be suggested despite to problems, market risks and significant international competition. However, this support has to be more aimed than before and has to be rather founded on world trends.