bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing recall of childhood sexual abuse
Authors: Rogers Martha L.
Published: May 2007

Selective literatures providing perspective on recall of childhood sexual abuse memories are reviewed. These include known patterns of autobiographical memories in adulthood, metacognitive mechanisms, interpersonal influences, and automatic cognitive processing which can influence judgments and reports of memory recall in children and adults. Some factors in adult experience such as mood state, presence of emotional disorders, past and current relationships, and participation in psychotherapy which can influence autobiographical memory and recall of childhood events are delineated. Available studies directly exploring recovered memories of childhood abuse are considered in light of these studies. Finally, some applications to clinical work and suggestions for future research are outlined.
An ecological view of psychological trauma and trauma recovery
Authors: Harvey Mary R.
Published: May 2007

This paper presents an ecological view of psychological trauma and trauma recovery. Individual differences in posttraumatic response and recovery are the result of complex interactions among person, event, and environmental factors. These interactions define the interrelationship of individual and community and together may foster or impede individual recovery. The ecological model proposes a multidimensional definition of trauma recovery and suggests that the efficacy of trauma‐focused interventions depends on the degree to which they enhance the person‐community relationship and achieve “ecological fit” within individually varied recovery contexts. In attending to the social, cultural and political context of victimization and acknowledging that survivors of traumatic experiences may recover without benefit of clinical intervention, the model highlights the phenomenon of resiliency, and the relevance of community intervention efforts.
Elimination of posttraumatic symptomatology by relaxation and visual‐kinesthetic dissociation
Authors: Hossack Alex , Bentall Richard P
Published: May 2007

Five patients suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder and experiencing persistent intrusive imagery were treated with two sessions of relaxation training followed by two sessions of the visual‐kinesthetic dissociation technique. Outcome was monitored using a multiple baseline design. Despite the briefness of the intervention, three of the patients showed an almost complete reduction in the frequency of their intrusive images and substantial changes on other measures of psychopathology. One patient showed partial improvement and one patient showed no improvement at all.
The utility of the SCL‐90‐R for the diagnosis of war‐zone related posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Weathers Frank W. , Litz Brett T. , Keane Terence M. , Herman Debra S. , Steinberg Howard R. , Huska Jennifer A. , Kraemer Helena C.
Published: May 2007

A scale for assessing war‐zone‐related posttraumatic stress disorder (WZ‐PTSD scale) was derived from the Symptom Checklist‐90‐R by identifying items that best discriminated Vietnam theater veterans with and without PTSD (N = 202). The 25‐item WZ‐PTSD scale had excellent internal consistency, and signal detection analyses revealed that its diagnostic utility was comparable to or exceeded that of several established PTSD scales and measures of global distress. In a cross‐validation sample (N = 99), the diagnostic utility of the WZ‐PTSD scale was stable, whereas other PTSD scales performed more poorly. The WZ‐PTSD scale appears to be a valuable new measure of PTSD that can be particularly useful in archival data sets or in any situation where other PTSD measures are not available.
A century of controversy surrounding posttraumatic stress‐spectrum syndromes: The impact on DSM‐III and DSM‐IV
Authors: Kinzie J. David , Goetz Rupert R.
Published: May 2007

The authors describe historical clinical reports that preceded the development of criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and influenced the formation of PTSD in DSM‐IV These reports were identified from extensive search of 19th‐ and 20th‐century American and European medical literature. Relevant findings from the most representative reports are described and discussed. Since the mid‐19th century, clinical syndromes resembling PTSD have been described. However, understanding of PTSD has been complicated by questions of nomenclature, etiology, and compensation. Nomenclature placed PTSD syndromes under existing psychiatric disorders: traumatic hysteria, traumatic neurasthenia, or traumatic neurosis. Etiological issues have been concerned often solely with organic factors, pre‐existing personality impairments, intrapsychiatric conflicts, and social factors. Only after World War II and the concentration camp experiences did the role of severe trauma in PTSD become recognized. Even though controversy remains, much progress in understanding PTSD has been made.
The long‐term sequelae of sexual abuse: Support for a complex posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Zlotnick Caron , Zakriski Audrey L. , Shea M. Tracie , Costello Ellen , Begin Ann , Pearlstein Teri , Simpson Elizabeth
Published: May 2007

This study examined the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and symptoms of a newly proposed complex posttraumatic stress disorder or disorder of extreme stress not otherwise specified (DESNOS). Compared to 34 women without histories of sexual abuse, 74 survivors of sexual abuse showed increased severity on DESNOS symptoms of somatization, dissociation, hostility, anxiety, alexithymia, social dysfunction, maladaptive schemas, self‐destruction, and adult victimization. In addition, a logistic regression found that a complex of symptoms representing DESNOS was significantly related to a history of sexual abuse. Consistent with other studies, the results of this study provide support for the idea that symptoms of DESNOS characterize survivors of sexual abuse.
Psychological adaptation of anxiety disorder patients following repeated exposure to emergency situations
Authors: Somer Eli , Keinan Giora , Carmil Devora
Published: May 2007

Thirty one patients in treatment for anxiety disorders and 31 controls were interviewed within hours after both the first and second Iraqi missile attacks on Israel during the Gulf war. After the first attack patients did not report higher anxiety levels, nor were they more pessimistic about the war and their fate in the war than the control subjects. Anxiety disorder patients tended to be engaged in cognitive‐behavioral tactics for self‐calming, while control subjects clearly preferred to cope by interacting with their social and physical environments. Following the second missile bombardment, patients were more inclined to retain their initial levels of anxiety and pessimism, while controls seem to have better adapted and showed significant improvements in those variables. The results are discussed in terms of coping skills and vulnerability as factors influencing adaptation to prolonged emergency situations.
Program evaluation of an intervention approach for staff assaulted by patients: Preliminary inquiry
Authors: Flannery Raymond B. , Penk Walter E.
Published: May 2007

Crisis intervention procedures for emergency services personnel and healthcare providers are increasingly being utilized to address the psychological sequelae of acute stress during critical incidents. While anecdotal evidence suggests the efficacy of these approaches, more formal experimental inquiry has been limited. This brief report outlines one strategy for conducting program evaluation of a crisis intervention approach for staff who are assaulted by patients. This outcome design was implemented in multiple sites, even as the service was being delivered.
Appraisal of control and coping with air‐raids
Authors: Arambasic Lidija
Published: May 2007

This study investigated the appraisal of control (secondary appraisal) and coping as reactions to the air‐raids in the city of Zagreb. Coping was assessed with the Croatian version of Ways of Coping (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984) and secondary appraisal was operationalized as control over the occurrence and over the outcome/consequences of the air‐raid. The hypotheses that appraisal of low control would yield more emotion‐focused and passive coping, and that appraisal of high control would be linked with problem‐focused and active coping, were not confirmed. The results were interpreted in terms of so‐called emotional habituation. Additionally, some unique characteristics of the air‐raid were identified and explained as the key variables in the interpretation of the obtained results: an air‐raid is a very specific stressful situation, it is homogeneous in content, and it is a chronic and repeated stressor. The problems with generalization of these data to all stressful events were pointed out.
The impact of cohesive groups in the trauma recovery context: Police spouse survivors and duty‐related death
Authors: Violanti John M.
Published: May 2007

This paper examines the impact of surviving spouse social interactions on psychological distress following the death of a police officer. It was hypothesized that satisfactory interactions within the police work group would lower distress, and unsatisfactory interactions outside the police environment (justice system, media, community persons) would increase distress. Results indicated that increased quality of interactions with police groups lowered psychological distress scores. Despite increased satisfaction with groups outside of policing, spouse's distress still increased, suggesting that satisfaction with and support by police groups appears to ameliorate distress more effectively than others. These findings suggest that police agencies and personnel may be helpful to surviving spouses after the death of an officer and should formulate policy to provide long term contact and assistance.
Mental defenses and posttraumatic stress disorder: Assessment of criminal intent
Authors: Sparr Landy F.
Published: May 2007

Since its formal introduction into psychiatric nomenclature more than a decade ago, the diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has become firmly entrenched in the legal landscape. In part, this is because PTSD seems easy to understand. It is one of only a few mental disorders for which the psychiatric Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) describes a known cause. Since the diagnosis is usually based on patients' self‐report, however, it creates the possibility of distortion aimed at avoidance of criminal punishment, and, as a result, has achieved mixed success as a criminal defense. When providing expert testimony, mental health witnesses must take care to distinguish between mere PTSD and a causal connection between PTSD and the criminal act in question. PTSD has not only been used to abrogate or diminish responsibility, but also to arrange pre‐trial plea bargaining agreements or play a role in sentencing determinations. The author explores various uses and potential abuses of PTSD in criminal jurisprudence and offers suggestions regarding retrospective PTSD assessment.
The impact of the holocaust on the second generation: Norwegian Jewish holocaust survivors and their children
Authors: Major Ellinor F.
Published: May 2007

The entire population of Norwegian‐born Jews who survived the German concentration camps and their children was examined, and compared to Norwegian‐bom Jews who escaped to Sweden, and their children. An attempt is made to look for the symptoms described as a “second generation syndrome” by several authors. The present findings do not support the presence of serious psychopathology among the children of Norwegian‐bom Jewish survivors as a group, but indicate a certain degree of psychological vulnerability among these children. As adults, they are more often engaged in health/social care professions and organizations and also show signs of greater assimilation to their non‐Jewish surroundings than the comparison group.
Childhood abuse and subsequent sexual assault among female inpatients
Authors: Cloitre Marylene , Tardiff Kenneth , Marzuk Peter M. , Leon Andrew C. , Portera Laura
Published: May 2007

The relationship between a history of childhood abuse and subsequent sexual assault was assessed among 409 consecutive female inpatient admissions. A total of 45% of the sample reported a history of some form of childhood abuse and 22% reported at least one adulthood sexual assault. A hierarchical logistic regression indicated that, after controlling for sociodemographic and diagnostic variables, women with a history of childhood abuse were 3.1 times more likely to have experienced an adult sexual assault compared to those without abuse. There was a higher prevalence of adult sexual assault among women reporting only physical abuse or physical and sexual abuse than those reporting only sexual abuse, indicating the significance of physical abuse as a potential risk factor for adult sexual assault.
Vietnam combat exposure and recent drug use: A national study
Authors: Reifman Alan , Windle Michael
Published: May 2007

Traumatic life experiences may have long‐term adverse psychological consequences, including illicit drug use. We analyzed data from the 1985–1986 Centers for Disease Control Vietnam Experience Study to investigate this issue. Over 2,400 Vietnam veterans indicated the amount of combat to which they had been exposed, and reported on their drug use while in the Army and during the year interval prior to the interview. Combat exposure was significantly related to recent drug use, even when Army drug use and demographic factors were controlled statistically.
A profile of help‐seeking Australian veterans
Authors: Creamer Mark , Jackson Alun , Ball Richard
Published: May 2007

While considerable information is available regarding American Vietnam veterans, surprisingly little has appeared concerning veterans of other nationalities who served in the Vietnam war. This paper provides a preliminary profile of help‐seeking Australian veterans in order to afford a comparison with the available American data. Collected in the context of a review of the Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service (WCS), demographic data suggest that the client population is similar in many ways to that of the American posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Clinical Teams. Problems commonly reported by clients of WCS included posttraumatic stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and problems with pensions and benefits. A postal survey of a sub‐sample of current clients revealed a mean score on the Combat Exposure Scale of 19.27 and a mean score on the Mississippi Scale for PTSD of 118.43. Again, these findings are broadly comparable with those of American help‐seeking veterans.
Replication and extension of a risk profile for Amerasian youth
Authors: Webb John A. , McKelvey Robert S. , Strobel Roddy
Published: May 2007

The relationship between number of risk factors and symptoms of anxiety and depression was examined in a cohort of Vietnamese Amerasians, replicating a study done with a previous cohort. One hundred forty seven subjects awaiting U.S. placement completed the Hopkins Symptom Checklist, the Vietnamese Depression Scale, and a questionnaire which included items found to be risk factors for psychological distress among Amerasians. Number of risk factors was linearly related to symptoms of both depression and anxiety. Results are consistent with previous findings of the relationship between risk factors and symptoms of psychological distress. The profile may be helpful in anticipating which refugees may be at risk for future psychological distress, and thus be useful in preventively allocating scarce treatment resources.
Frequency and severity of panic attack symptoms in a treatment seeking sample of trauma victims
Authors: Falsetti Sherry A. , Resnick Heidi S.
Published: May 2007

This study assessed the frequency and severity of panic attack symptoms and panic attacks that develop in relation to the experience of traumatic events in 62 subjects seeking treatment for trauma‐related symptomatology. Results indicated a high incidence of panic attacks (69%). Many individuals also thought they were going crazy or losing control (72%) or having a heart attack (38%) within the 2 weeks prior to assessment. These findings indicate that similar to panic disordered patients, many trauma victims with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) not only experience physiological symptoms of panic, but are also fearful of these symptoms.
Antidepressant treatment, posttraumatic stress disorder, survivor guilt, and spiritual awakening
Authors: Khouzam Hani Raoul , Kissmeyer Perla
Published: May 2007

A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) had a major depressive episode that was responsive to treatment with the antidepressant fluoxetine. In contrast to the remission of other symptoms of depression, the associated feature of survivor guilt became more dramatically obvious. Individualized treatment of survivor guilt may be needed for patients with PTSD and major depression.
The role of the translator/interpreter in knowledge transfer environments
Authors: Cranefield Jocelyn , Yoong Pak
Published: May 2007

This paper reports on the results of a larger research project that investigated the factors impacting on inter‐organisational transfer in the New Zealand State Sector. Seven gatekeepers (boundary‐spanning individuals) from different organisations were interviewed about their experiences in facilitating knowledge transfer between a cross‐sector working group and their organisation. The context for the research was the Pathfinder Project, a project based around the development and transfer of an emergent knowledge model for strategic management, Managing for Outcomes (MfO). A range of factors that facilitated knowledge transfer were identified. Among these, translation and interpretation activities were found to be critical to successful knowledge transfer. Gatekeepers reported acting as translator/interpreter, an essential role which demanded specialised skills. The nature of this role is outlined, with reference to a staged model for knowledge transfer that emerged from the research project. The translator/interpreter role required gatekeepers to engage in active and continuous conversion of knowledge to meet the differing needs of a range of recipients. This helped to increase the overall absorptive capacity of participating organisations. Implications of these findings for research and practice are outlined. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Philadelphia's “mandamus evil”
Authors: Shenton Clarence G.
Published: May 2007

The city treasury of Philadelphia must pay millions of dollars annually to meet obligations over which, the city government has no control.
Recent tendencies in primary election systems
Authors: Merriam Charles E.
Published: May 2007

The writer, a keen practical observer of politics, believes that the direct primary has not yet had a reasonable test. It should be retained and certain other improvements introduced, notably the short ballot, the merit sqstem and the Massachusetts ballot, to insure satisfactory nominations.
The temperamental nature of personality
Authors: Endler Norman S.
Published: May 2007

Historically, the terms ‘temperament’, ‘character’, and ‘personality’ have been used to refer to what we now mean by the term ‘personality’. Temperament refers to the raw material out of which personality evolves. Personality is a person's coherent manner of interacting with himself/herself and with the environment. The concept of temperament has been prominent with Eastern European psychologists and with developmental psychologists in North America. A number of developmental theories of temperament are discussed, and differences and similarities between temperament parameters and personality parameters are described. The genetics of personality are presented and evaluated. Mechanistic and dynamic interactions are distinguished, and the multidimensional interaction model of anxiety and relevant research are discussed. A preliminary interaction model of anxiety, stress, and coping is presented. Finally, the temperamental nature of personality is discussed, and suggestions for possible rapprochements between personality and temperament are presented.
A basic information psychological parameter (BIP) for the reconstruction of concepts of intelligence
Authors: Lehrl Siegfried , Fischer Bernd
Published: May 2007

Adherents of the Galton paradigm favour the concept that the simple parameter ‘speed of information processing’ has a physiological basis and determines complex achievements assessed in intelligence tests as well as social success. These assumptions are supported by inter‐individual correlations. Further supporting evidence comes from total measurement where not only the information content of the stimuli is measured, but also the time to process them. This reveals an individually constant period during which 1 bit of information is processed. It is called the ‘basic period of information processing’ (BIP), which lasts 1/15 s (= 67 ms) in average adults (IQ 100) and is constant over the ranges from which target stimuli can be drawn and over varying modes of the signs (letters, numbers, musical notes, etc.). In representative samples of adults duration of BIP correlates with global IQ (r ≅ −0.60): We conclude that the BIP of an adult with an IQ of 122 is 50 ms and with an IQ of 78 twice as long (100 ms). We consider BIP to be a physiological and general determinant of intelligence, being measurable at a ratio or even an absolute scale level. Thus, it appears to be suitable as a building unit for reconstructing the rather fuzzy traditional concept of general intelligence.
Proximity to central tendency and usefulness in attaining goals as predictors of prototypicality for behaviour‐descriptive categories
Authors: Borkenau Peter
Published: May 2007

This study investigated determinants of the internal structure of categories of directed behaviours. For the categories Sport, Gardening, Craft, Making music, and Housekeeping, proximity to the category's central tendency and usefulness in accomplishing category‐specific goals were compared as predictors of prototypicality ratings. In a preliminary study, subjects suggested activities and goals for the five categories. In the main study, subjects estimated the prototypicality of these activities for the categories, their usefulness in attaining the category‐specific goals, and the similarity of the activities among each other. Family resemblance scores were derived from the latter ratings. It was found that family resemblance and usefulness in attaining category‐specific goals were about equally useful in predicting the actual prototypicality ratings.
A new typology of health behaviours for personality‐health predictions: The case of locus of control
Authors: Rosolack Tina K. , Hampson Sarah E.
Published: May 2007

Psychological investigations of the impact of personality on health behaviours have tended to emphasize fine distinctions among personality variables while failing to distinguish among different kinds of behaviours. For example, theoretical treatments of perceived personal control are quite sophisticated; in contrast, only one well‐known analysis of health behaviours exists. We propose four categories of health‐enhancing behaviours, which take into account contemporary views of the shift in health care from acute and physician‐directed actions to long‐term and patient‐directed efforts. In addition, we suggest that perceived control (we emphasize locus of control because of its generality and parsimony) is an important predictor variable when combined with other factors common to current models of health behaviour.
Change and stability of needs from middle adolescence to young adulthood in Swedish females
Authors: Holmlund Ulla
Published: May 2007

The Cesarec–Marke Personality Schedule, a Swedish inventory for the measurement of needs, was administered to a sample of females, aged 15, and readministered 10 years later. Longitudinal analyses showed that most dispositions changed significantly, although the changes were rather small. All traits were moderately stable over the 10‐year period.
Diurnal variation, morningness‐eveningness, and momentary affect
Authors: Caminada Hans , De Bruijn Frans
Published: May 2007

The research questions of this study are the following: To what degree can results such as those of Thayer and colleagues (1978a, 1985, 1986, 1988) concerning diurnal variation and differences between diurnal types, obtained for energetic and tense arousal, be (1) replicated, (2) extended to elation and pleasantness, and (3) generalized to positive and negative affect? With regard to energetic arousal, all results were in line with those of Thayer and colleagues. However, regarding tense arousal, there was an unexpected main effect for time of day. For energetic arousal, elation, pleasantness, positive affect, and negative affect, there was (a) a significant main eflect for time of day, (b) a quadratic trend for diurnal variation, and (c) a significant Diurnal Type × Time of Day interaction, There were no significant sex differences in diurnal variation. Two final hypothetical statements are made about the diurnal variation and differences between diurnal types with regard to state scales: (a) the diurnal variation of a state scale cannot be described with a quadratic function if that scale is completely unrelated to energetic arousal; and (b) the characteristic differences between morning types and evening types, especially when measured in the morning and in the evening, will not manifest themselves on a state scale if that scale is entirely unrelated to energetic arousal. Finally, the possible usefulness of the results of this study for practical applications and the development of theories are discussed.
An expedition in search of a fifth universal factor: Key issues in the lexical approach
Authors: De Raad Boele
Published: May 2007

It is argued that the fifth factor of the Big Five Model of personality traits cannot yet claim universal status. In order to identify a fifth factor within the lexical approach it is necessary to make full use of the potentialities of the psycholexical principles. Several flaws in the lexical enterprise are discussed, both regarding the theoretical delineation of traits and the operational—dictionary‐related—identification of trait descriptors. Hitherto largely implicit definitions of traits should be made explicit, and agreement should be reached about the theoretical width of the trait domain. Also, in order to obtain cross‐culturally comparable results, the procedural steps in the lexical search for trait terms should follow an agreed‐upon standard. None of the nominated fifth factors, for instance, Culture, Intellect, or Openness to Experience, has both proceeded from the lexical method and received unquestionable cross‐cultural affirmation.
Reflections on different labels for Factor V
Authors: Ostendorf Fritz , Angleitner Alois
Published: May 2007

Discrepancies among different versions of Factor V may be largely explained by differences in the personality definitions and the variable selections used in various national trait taxonomies. Like any other social category the fifth factor has fuzzy boundaries and its meaning depends on the number and prototypicality of the exemplars included in the category. Resulting from taxonomies of traits (Norman, 1967; Goldberg, 1990) or dispositions (Ostendorf, 1990) the Five‐Factor Model is not intended to represent or capable of representing the structure of all individual differences (e.g. attitudes, physical characteristics). Clear Intellect and Imagination versions of Factor V have only resulted from taxonomies including abilities and talents in their trait definition. The meaning of at least three of the Big Five would probably change if values—which we view as action prescriptions or behavioural intentions—were regarded as dispositions. Intellect, Imagination, and Creativity are the most prototypical attributes belonging to the core of Factor V. Comparisons among the various personality definitions and the procedures currently used in trait taxonomic research are needed to examine their effects on the replicability and the meaning of Factor V.
Causal attribution and self‐justification as explanations for the consensus expectation of one's social value orientation
Authors: Iedema Jurjen , Poppe Matthijs
Published: May 2007

This study focuses on explanations for the perceived consensus of one's own social value orientation. The prediction of the triangle hypothesis that the consensus expectation of individualistic and competitive people is higher than that of cooperative people was partially supported. Only individualists expected their own orientation more frequently of other people. According to a causal attribution explanation, it was expected that subjects' causal attributions for their own orientation to internal and external causes influenced their consensus expectations. Only attributions to internal causes differed significantly between subjects with different orientations and corresponded with their consensus estimates. Individualism was attributed least internally, cooperation most internally, and competition in between. Additionally, direct support for the effect of internal attributions on consensus expectations was found. Compared with subjects who attributed their own orientation more internally, subjects who attributed it less internally were more likely to expect their own orientation among other people. According to a self‐justification explanation, it was hypothesized that the consensus expectations of individualists and competitors would be higher when first their own social orientation was assessed and then the orientation they expected to predominate among others than in the reversed order. This hypothesis was not supported.
The effects of intelligence test preparation
Authors: van der Molen Henk T. , Nijenhuis Jan Te , Keen Gert
Published: May 2007

The first goal of this study was to investigate the effects of reading a book concerning intelligence tests and the effects of a specific test‐training programme on numerical and verbal intelligence tests. The second goal was to investigate to what extent the acquisition of test‐specific problem‐solving strategies affects the ability to solve items on different, but comparable tests (transfer). In the experimental design two factors were included: practice (pretest or no pretest) and (level of) preparation (none, book, or training), so there were six conditions. Each condition consisted of about 26 subjects, who had been randomly assigned to one of the conditions. The results showed a strong effect of preparation, especially for the numerical intelligence test and to a lesser degree for the verbal intelligence test. No practice or pretest effects were found. Positive transfer was demonstrated for the numerical test. The results for the verbal test were less clear. The implications for the predictive and construct validity are discussed.
Coping, life stress, and psychological and somatic distress
Authors: Higgins June E. , Endler Norman S.
Published: May 2007

Theory and research have focused on the relationships among coping processes, stressful life events, and psychological and physical distress. This study was designed to examine the relationship of stressful life events and three styles of coping—emotion oriented, task oriented, and avoidance oriented—to physical and psychological distress. Questionnaires measuring coping styles, recent life stressors, and both physical symptoms and psychological symptoms were completed by 205 undergraduates (101 males and 104 females). It was hypothesized that task‐oriented coping would negatively predict distress and that emotion‐oriented coping would positively predict distress. The relationships of two types of avoidance‐oriented coping (distraction and social diversion) to distress were also examined. Multiple regression analyses revealed that task‐oriented coping was negatively related to distress, but only for males. Emotion‐oriented coping was significantly positively predictive of distress for both males and females. The two subcomponents of avoidance‐oriented coping—distraction and social diversion—were differentially related to measures of distress. Life event stress positively predicted distress, both as an independent contributor of variance and in interaction with several coping styles.
Conceptualization and assessment of personality factors in depression
Authors: Flett Gordon L. , Hewitt Paul L. , Endler Norman S. , Bagby R. Michael
Published: May 2007

Research that relates personality to depression is one of the dominant themes in the clinical literature. The current paper examines this research from a critical perspective. It is argued that existing research is limited by (i) a failure to adopt a broad conceptual approach to the study of personality and depression; and (ii) the use of personality measures with questionable psychometric properties. Our observations lead us to suggest that greater adherence to established methodology and conceptual developments in the personality field will result in substantial improvements in research on personality and depression, and may ultimately provide a more accurate appraisal of the role of personality factors in depression. In addition to examining important issues, key directions for future research are discussed.
CBT for emotional distress of people with cancer: some personal observations
Authors: Greer Steven
Published: May 2007

The detrimental effect of a helpless coping response on the quality of life of cancer patients is well documented. Helplessness is significantly related to emotional distress. There is also evidence that this coping response is an independent prognostic factor associated with a significantly increased risk of disease recurrence and death. These findings highlight the need to develop specific strategies to enable patients to overcome helplessness. Recent research in patients with advanced cancer indicates that emotional distress appears to be caused by low levels of positive effect. Consequently, attention should be paid to the much neglected study of positive psychological states such as fighting spirit and resilience. In the meantime, some suggestions—based on clinical experience—of inducing and fostering positive effect in our patients are outlined. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrical Breakdown of Argon and Trimethylsilane in Low‐Pressure DC Discharges: The Surface‐States Equilibration Principle
Authors: Yasuda Hirotsugu
Published: May 2007

The fundamental steps in creating glow discharges of Ar and TMS are completely different. While the glow discharge of Ar is the physical transformation of Ar atoms caused by ionization, the glow discharge of TMS is the chemical transformation of molecules that yields hydrogen atoms and variety of chemically reactive species, mostly free radicals (species with an un‐paired electron), caused by the low‐energy electron‐impact dissociation. The distribution of electron temperature and electron density in the broken‐down gas phase of Ar is re‐examined in light of the breakdown process, and the concept of the reference energy state of the luminous gas phase is presented.

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Deposition and Characterization of Dielectric Thin Films from Allyltrimethylsilane Glow Discharges
Authors: Milella Antonella , Palumbo Fabio , Delattre James L. , Fracassi Francesco , d'Agostino Riccardo
Published: May 2007

Thin films with a dielectric constant in the range of 1.9–4.5 have been deposited under different experimental conditions from allyltrimethylsilane (ATMS) and oxygen fed glow discharges. The thermal stability of the coatings is evaluated from thickness loss during the annealing process at 400 and 450 °C. Extremely low values of dielectric constant can be obtained at low input power and oxygen flow rate. However, control over the annealing temperature must be gained in order to avoid excessive film matrix collapse with subsequent deterioration of dielectric properties. For the lowest dielectric constant of 1.9, thickness shrinkage of 11% has been detected. Deposition temperature is also found to strongly affect film dielectric constant and chemical composition while input power modulation does not improve the dielectric properties of the films.

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Plasma Modification of PDMS Microfluidic Devices for Control of Electroosmotic Flow
Authors: Martin Ina T. , Dressen Brian , Boggs Mark , Liu Yan , Henry Charles S. , Fisher Ellen R.
Published: May 2007

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) capillary electrophoresis microchips were modified using plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), resulting in modified electroosmotic flow (EOF) values. Octafluoropropane (C3F8) and acrylic acid (AA) plasmas were chosen as initial test systems for device modification. Argon plasma pretreatments were used to improve adhesion of the fluorocarbon (FC) and AA films. Contact angle measurements and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data demonstrated that the Ar/C3F8 plasma treatment of PDMS results in the deposition of a hydrophobic, crosslinked FC film, whereas the Ar/AA plasma treatment results in the deposition of a hydrophilic film with ionizable acid groups. The extent of plasma modification within the device channels was explored using scanning Auger microscopy and dye absorption measurements. EOF values were measured for plasma‐treated chips as a function of pH, and aging studies were performed to determine the durability of the plasma treatments. Results show that EOF is decreased in Ar/C3F8 plasma‐treated chips, and varies less with pH than untreated devices. Additionally, EOF measurements are constant for a minimum of 5 d. In contrast, EOF for Ar/AA plasma‐treated devices is dependent on pH. EOF measurements of C3F8 and AA treated chips without the Ar pretreatment are less stable, particularly in the AA case. In addition to improving adhesion, the Ar plasma treatment results in a decreased hydrophobic dye absorption into the PDMS, which is attributed to the physical crosslinking of the polymer by the Ar plasma.

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Helium Ion Irradiation of Polymer Films Deposited from TMS‐Ar Plasmas
Authors: Gelamo Rogério V. , Durrant Steven F. , Trasferetti Benedito C. , Davanzo Celso U. , Rouxinol Francisco P. M. , Bica de Moraes Mário A.
Published: May 2007

Polymer films synthesized from plasmas of a tetramethylsilane ‐ Ar mixture were modified by irradiation with 170 keV He ions at fluences ranging from 1 × 1014 to 1 × 1016 cm−2. As revealed by infrared spectroscopy, the ion beam produced intense bond rearrangements, such as the depletion of bonding groups (CH and SiH), and induced the formation of new ones, such as OH and SiO. From the nanoindentation measurements, a remarkable increase in the surface hardness of the films was observed as the ion fluence was increased. The increases in hardness were accompanied by an increase in the film compaction as shown by using a combination of RBS and film thickness measurements. From both hardness and infrared measurements it was concluded that, under the He ion bombardment, the polymer structure is transformed into a silicon oxycarbide network.

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The Effect of Temperature on the Removal of DCM using Non‐Thermal, Atmospheric‐Pressure Plasma‐Assisted Catalysis
Authors: Harling Alice M. , Wallis Anna E. , Whitehead J. Christopher
Published: May 2007

A non‐thermal, atmospheric‐pressure plasma has been used to study the effect of temperature on the plasma destruction of DCM in an air stream using a BaTiO3 packed‐bed reactor, co‐filled with TiO2 and γ‐Al2O3 catalysts. Comparisons have been made with plasma alone, catalysis alone and combined plasma/catalysis to determine any synergistic effects of combining plasma and catalysis. Plasma/catalysis is the most successful method for destroying DCM over 125–400 °C. TiO2 was more effective than γ‐Al2O3 for plasma/catalysis. The energy efficiency of plasma/catalysis processing compared to catalysis alone is considered by examining the input power required to achieve equivalent destructions, finding that an energy reduction of ≈30% can be achieved by plasma activation of the catalyst.

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Plasma Deposition of Permanent Superhydrophilic a‐C:H:N Films on Textiles
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Mokbul , Hegemann Dirk , Fortunato Giuseppino , Herrmann Axel S. , Heuberger Manfred
Published: May 2007

A new approach to permanent hydrophilic modification of material surfaces is demonstrated using the deposition of nanoscaled functional coatings in RF plasmas at low temperatures under rivaling deposition/etching conditions. The incorporation of nitrogen and the generation of free radicals in a‐C:H films yields a strong hydrophilic modification when the deposited surface is exposed to atmosphere. Dyeing of nanoporous a‐C:H:N films demonstrated a high coating quality and the incorporation of accessible amine functionalities within the coating. This combination of polar groups with a suitable texturing ensures long‐term mechanical stability of the coating.

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Surface Chemical Analysis of Plasma‐Deposited Copolymer Films Prepared from Feed Gas Mixtures of Ethylene or Styrene with Allyl Alcohol
Authors: Swaraj Sufal , Oran Umut , Friedrich Jorge F. , Lippitz Andreas , Unger Wolfgang E. S.
Published: May 2007

Plasma deposited styrene/allyl alcohol and ethylene/allyl alcohol copolymer films were prepared and characterized using XPS, NEXAFS and ToF‐SIMS. The relative partial flow rates of the co‐monomers are used as deposition process parameters to vary and all other process parameters were constrained to conditions optimized for retention of functional groups. By doing this it is possible to control certain chemical properties of the copolymer films such as unsaturation, oxygen and hydroxyl group relative surface contents. The aging behavior of the plasma copolymer films on air was studied, too. Non‐linear variations of relative oxygen contents, contents of COR species and contents of carbonyl species are obtained vs. variation of feed gas composition for both monomer combinations. The chemical character of the plasma copolymer films varies between the limits given by the respective plasma homopolymers. The observed non‐linear correlations are discussed in terms of approaches developed for classic radical copolymerization. The aging behavior of the different plasma copolymers films depends on the feed gas composition. Principally these aging phenomena known from plasma polymer aging studies of that respective monomer which dominates the character of the plasma copolymer are observed.

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The rise and fall of a market leader: Frozen foods in the U.K.
Authors: Heil Oliver , Geroski Paul , Vlassopoulos Tassos
Published: May 2007

This paper explores the nature of competitive assets that are based on control of part of a market's infrastructure using a case study of the U.K. frozen food market. Following an argument due to Stigler, the thesis of the paper is that such assets are inherently transitory, and that positions of market leadership based on them tend to erode. This argument is consistent with the experiences of Birds Eye during the post‐War period.
Globalization frustrated: The case of white goods
Authors: Baden‐Fuller Charles W. F. , Stopford John M.
Published: May 2007

This paper challenges the common view that mature industries are always ripe for global strategies. Based on data from the European Domestic Appliance industry, this paper shows how changing economic conditions can diminish the value of global strategies. Critical in these shifts were simultaneous rises in demand for variety (that eroded the benefits of scale and continental market share) and decreases in manufacturing scale (that permitted new supply options), which reduced the extent of the strategic market to national dimensions. They added complexity that decreased the profitability of the global players and increased that of national strategies. The fluctuating fortunes of leading firms are shown to have been caused primarily by choices of strategy, not by national factor costs.
Research notes and communications co‐ordinating mechanisms, consensus between marketing and manufacturing groups, and marketplace performance
Authors: St. John Caron H. , Rue Leslie W.
Published: May 2007

This exploratory study investigated the relationship among use of various co‐ordinating mechanisms, degree of consensus between marketing and manufacturing groups, and marketplace performance reputation. Consensus between marketing and manufacturing groups on key competitive strengths, company goals, and implementation actions was measured in 15 firms in the carpet industry. Those firms which made more frequent use of planning techniques (formal forecasting procedures, management‐by‐objectives linked to performance appraisal, and a written strategic plan) experienced higher levels of interdepartmental consensus. Consensus between departments was strongly related to marketplace performance reputation.
On the measurement of corporate diversification strategy: Evidence from large U.S. service firms
Authors: Nayyar Praveen R.
Published: May 2007

Actual, not potential, relatedness determines the results of diversification strategies. An external examination of a firm's businesses, products, markets and technologies permits an assessment of potential relatedness among its various businesses. Potential relatedness is, however, often not realized. Also, relatedness may be externally invisible. Hence, actual relatedness may diverge from externally measured potential relatedness. This paper provides evidence suggesting that measures of corporate diversification strategy based on internal data differ significantly from those based on externally available data.
Agreement between top management teams and expectations for post acquisition performance
Authors: Shanley Mark T. , Correa Mary E.
Published: May 2007

This paper addresses theoretical gaps in the relationships among decision maker agreement, social context, and performance. Agreement is considered a multidimensional construct that is embedded in a social context of intergroup relationships. Four dimensions of agreement are specified: (1) perceived agreement, (2) actual agreement, (3) accuracy, and (4) agreement with one's own organization. Understood this way, agreement is associated with success expectations. Empirical tests of hypotheses derived from this view are based on data concerning agreement on acquisition goals by the top management teams from two hospitals in the year following an acquisition. Results support a multidimensional view of agreement, the importance of the intergroup context, and the association of agreement and expectations for success.
Strategy implementation: A comparison of face‐to‐face negotiations in the peoples republic of China and the United States
Authors: Adler Nancy J. , Brahm Richard , Graham John L.
Published: May 2007

Crucial to every business alliance are the face‐to‐face negotiations that occur during the formulation and maintenance of the commercial relationship. Our study of American and Chinese businesspeople in simulated intracultural negotiations suggests both similarities and differences in style. For example, negotiators in both cultures were more successful when taking a problem‐solving approach. Alternatively, the Chinese negotiators tended to ask many more questions and to interrupt one another more frequently than their American counterparts. Such subtle differences in style may cause problems in Sino‐American negotiations, which may, in turn, sour otherwise fruitful commercial alliances.
Order of entry and performance in international markets
Authors: Mascarenhas Briance
Published: May 2007

The inter‐market and intra‐market orders of entry and their performance consequences are examined for an industrial product. First entrants consist typically of both multinational and local firms, while early followers are multinational firms, and later entrants are smaller, local firms. A strong order of entry‐market share relationship is observed in international markets. First entrants and later entrants outsurvive early followers. The analysis reveals a strategy for achieving both first‐entry into many markets and dominance within those markets. Simultaneous entry into multiple markets occurs infrequently and in mature stages of the product life‐cycle.