Detection thresholds for a small light spot were measured at various distances from configurations (Kanizsa squares and other) consisting of white inducing elements on a dark background. Threshold distributions as a function of target position, number, size and spacing of contrast inducing elements were established. The data show that thresholds are elevated when the target is located close to one or more inducing element(s). Furthermore, threshold elevations diminish with increasing distance of the target from the configurations, increasing spacing and decreasing size of their inducing elements. When the target is flashed upon an illusory contour, no threshold elevation is observed in any of the conditions tested. Within incomplete illusory figures (only half of the square visible), the threshold gradients show the same tendencies. The present observations add further empirical support to the idea that illusory figures are built up by way of local mechanisms at early stages of processing.

Form Perception↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Adoption at birth: prevention against abandonment or neonaticide.

A study was carried out between 1987 and 1989 to try to understand why women choose to give their infants up for adoption at birth and the psychodynamics of this decision. The interviews of 22 female subjects were based on psychoanalytic methodology. They revealed that the motives behind such a choice arose from a specific set of symptoms: The denial of pregnancy and fantasies of violence towards the fetus. These symptoms were the result of psychological and sexual traumas that the subjects experienced during their childhood in negligent or incestuous families. Eighteen of the subjects were able to take advantage of the French law permitting anonymous and cost-free delivery, then the adoption of the baby. However, four of the subjects denied their pregnancies so efficiently that childbirth took them by surprise. The sudden discovery of the reality of the newborn led them to neonaticide. This study clarifies the confusion that exists between the abandonment of a child in a public place, and the choice of adoption at birth, the aim of which is to protect the infant from the risk of violence or future neglect.

Adolescent↗

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[Morphine and neuropathic pain].

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Aged↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[Preventive therapy for nausea and vomiting in patients on opioid therapy for non-malignant pain in rheumatology].

OBJECTIVE: To determine if systematic use of metoclopramide associated with opioids (Morphine sulfate SR) decreases the incidence of nausea and vomiting (N&V), established adverse effects of opioids. METHOD: Open randomised study with 132 patients treated for non malignant pain (71 women, 61 men, mean age 53.4 years). One group (n = 76) was treated with morphine alone; the other (n = 56) with morphine plus metoclopramide. Mean duration of therapy: 6 days; mean dosage: 60 mg/d RESULTS: In the 2 groups, N&V were present in the first 72 hours. The frequency of N&V in the morphine group was 38.1% (conform with the literature). The systematic use of metoclopramide decreases the frequency of N&V: p < 0.005. However the use of morphine > 60 mg/d decreases N&V: p = 0.036. High dosages of morphine can have an antiemetic effect by interaction with the mu receptors in the antiemetic center and not in the trigger zone which has an emetic effect. CONCLUSION: The systematic use of metoclopramide with opioid therapy for non malignant pain in rheumatology decreases the risk of nausea and vomiting.

Aged↗

PubMedDate not supplied