Texas Christian University

About: Texas Christian University is a education organization based out in Fort Worth, Texas, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Poison control. The organization has 3245 authors who have published 8258 publications receiving 282216 citations. The organization is also known as: TCU & Texas Christian University, TCU.

Humans as lie detectors: Some more second thoughts

Abstract: Humans lack the ability to detect deceptive communication when it is present This review examined several explanations for this state of affairs Twenty years of research in deception has shown that there is not a reliable set of nonverbal or verbal indicators of deceptive communication Moreover, human lie detectors’ veracity judgments are often affected by cognitive biases and erroneous stereotypical information about how a prototypical liar should look The current review also suggests that the inability to distinguish lies from truths may be a function of the decoding task presented to receivers in interpersonal communication Receivers of deceptive communication must reject information they have already accepted, must draw inferences of another's underlying intent, and rarely receive any feedback with regard to their inferences Additional factors that mediate lie detection accuracy are also reviewed Finally, suggestions were made regarding how scholars should proceed with future research efforts i

The Inner Structure and Kinematics of the Sagittarius Dwarf Galaxy as a Product of Tidal Stirring

Abstract: The tidal stirring model envisions the formation of dwarf spheroidal (dSph) galaxies in the Local Group and similar environments via the tidal interaction of disky dwarf systems with a larger host galaxy like the Milky Way. These progenitor disks are embedded in extended dark halos and during the evolution both components suffer strong mass loss. In addition, the disks undergo the morphological transformation into spheroids and the transition from ordered to random motion of their stars. Using collisionless N-body simulations, we construct a model for the nearby and highly elongated Sagittarius (Sgr) dSph galaxy within the framework of the tidal stirring scenario. Constrained by the present orbit of the dwarf, which is fairly well known, the model suggests that in order to produce the majority of tidal debris observed as the Sgr stream, but not yet transform the core of the dwarf into a spherical shape, Sgr must have just passed the second pericenter of its current orbit around the Milky Way. In the model, the stellar component of Sgr is still very elongated after the second pericenter and morphologically intermediate between the strong bar formed at the first pericenter and the almost spherical shape existing after the third pericenter. This is thus the first model of the evolution of the Sgr dwarf that accounts for its observed very elliptical shape. At the present time, there is very little intrinsic rotation left and the velocity gradient detected along the major axis is almost entirely of tidal origin. We model the recently measured velocity dispersion profile for Sgr assuming that mass traces light and estimate its current total mass within 5?kpc to be 5.2 ? 108 M ?. To have this mass at present, the model requires that the initial virial mass of Sgr must have been as high as 1.6 ? 1010 M ?, comparable to that of the Large Magellanic Cloud, which may serve as a suitable analog for the pre-interaction, Sgr progenitor.

Does rurality affect quality of life following treatment for breast cancer

Abstract: As reviewed by Bettencourt and colleagues,1 a number of studies have considered psychosocial issues as they relate to the experiences of rural dwelling women who have been treated for breast cancer. While many concerns reported by rural women are commensurate with those identified by urban women (eg, body image, effects of cancer diagnosis and treatment on family members), some differences seem to be emerging. In general, women living in rural areas may be more likely to experience distress than women living in urban communities.2 In addition to a recognized shortage of mental health care in rural communities,3 issues of stigma related to mental health care and expectations of self-sufficiency may limit acceptance of mental health services in rural areas.4 Among rural women living with cancer, high levels of depression and hopelessness/helplessness have been noted.5 Rural women living with cancer report lower than average quality of life6 and may have particular concerns about being stigmatized within their communities as a result of their cancer diagnosis.7 One way in which rural and urban areas may differ is in the availability of community-based social support. The importance of social support as a buffer to emotional distress has been widely studied among a variety of medical populations8 including individuals living with cancer.9 Potential effects of rural versus urban residence have been noted, although findings are somewhat equivocal, as both benefits and hindrances to well-being have been identified. For example, given the shortage of mental health care providers in rural communities,3 geographic distance may limit availability of professional social support for rural women.10 On the other hand, several characteristics of rural communities may be of benefit to individuals coping with cancer. Rural communities often value close relationships with family, community members and religious institutions,4,11 all of which can be excellent sources of social support. In fact, studies have highlighted the perceived benefit of increased community support experienced by female cancer survivors living in rural compared to urban areas.12 Thus, while there may be limited cancer-specific support services in many rural communities, women living in rural areas may have community networks which make general social support readily available.13 Due to unanswered questions regarding whether rurality may affect quality of life among cancer survivors, and recognizing the importance of social support in quality of life outcomes regardless of residence, analyses presented herein were conducted to examine the extent to which rural residence and social support seeking affect quality of life among breast cancer survivors in the early post-treatment period.

"That's Not Fair!": A Simulation Exercise in Social Stratification and Structural Inequality.

Abstract: Social stratification may be one of the most difficult topics covered in sociology classes. This article describes an interactive learning exercise, using a modified version of the game Monopoly, intended to stress the structural nature of social inequality and to stimulate student reflection and class discussion on social stratification in the United States. The primary focus of this exercise is to help students experience different levels of social stratification and to challenge the idea that individual talents or aspirations are enough to overcome structural barriers to upward class mobility. Student reactions to the experience suggest that it is an effective tool for demonstrating the structural nature of social inequality in the United States and for stimulating discussion on social inequality and related topics. This exercise has worked well in introductory sociology, social problems, and social inequality classes.

Maternal IQ, the home environment, and child IQ in low birthweight, premature children.

Abstract: The study examined the extent to which aspects of the home environment play a mediating role in the relation between maternal and child IQ. The procedure of establishing mediation developed by Baron and Kenny was followed using 608 low birthweight, premature infants from eight different sites. Regression analyses indicated that both maternal IQ and Infant/ Toddler HOME scores obtained at 12 months made significant contributions to 3 year child IQ scores. Maternal IQ and Early Childhood HOME scores obtained at 36 months also both made significant contributions to 3 year child IQ scores. There was a significant "indirect" or mediated affect associated with HOME scores at both time points. Structural equation models were used to confirm information developed in the regression analyses. The fit of the model was good for the total sample and for a sample of children and mothers whose IQs were both greater than 70. A stronger indirect effect was noted at three years as compared to one year.