bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Executive function and ADHD: A comparison of children’s performance during neuropsychological testing and real-world activities
Authors: Lawrence Vivienne , Houghton Stephen , Douglas Graham , Durkin Kevin , Whiting Ken , Tannock Rosemary
Published: June 2007

Objective: Current understanding of executive function deficits in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is derived almost exclusively from neuropsychological testing conducted in laboratory settings. This study compared children’s performance on both neuropsychological and real-life measures of executive function and processing speed.

Method: The Stroop and Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) were selected as neuropsychological measures, whereas route tasks in a videogame and at the zoo were used to index real-life measures. Participants comprised a community sample of 22 unmedicated boys with ADHD individually matched on age and IQ with 22 normally developing control boys.

Results: There were no group differences in executive function on the Stroop or zoo tasks, but the ADHD group exhibited deficits in set-shifting as assessed by the WCST (perseverative errors and responses) and videogame play (fewer challenges completed). Also, the ADHD group showed slowed processing speed on the Stroop (slower color naming) and zoo activity (longer time to complete task), as well as a slower rate of acquisition of the sorting rule on the WCST (more trials to complete first category). Efficient and flexible videogame play (number of challenges completed) was related positively to efficacy on the Stroop (number of items named correctly in the interference and two control conditions) and inversely related to set-shifting problems on the WCST (perseverative responses and errors). Also, problems in goal-directed behavior at the zoo (number of deviations from designated route) were related to problems in set-shifting on the WCST (perseverative responding).

Conclusions: Children with ADHD exhibit impairments in executive function and processing speed in real-world activities as well as in neuropsychological testing. Cognitive deficits detected by standardized neuropsychological testing are related to performance difficulties in real-world activities.
National trends in concomitant psychotropic medication with stimulants in pediatric visits: Practice versus knowledge
Authors: Bhatara Vinod , Feil Michael , Hoagwood Kimberly , Vitiello Benedetto , Zima Bonnie
Published: June 2007

Objectives: (1) To examine U.S. national trends in the use of concomitant pharmacotherapy with the stimulant class of psychotropic drugs in youth; and (2) to present these trends in the context of (a) extant safety and efficacy data, and (b) overall trends in concomitant pharmacotherapy with psychotropic drugs for youth.

Methods: Prescribing data for youths under age 18 years from National Ambulatory Medical Surveys from 1993 to 1998 were analyzed. The visits were categorized into monotherapy (only one psychotropic prescribed) and concomitant pharmacotherapy (>1 psychotropic prescribed). The proportions of these groups were computed as a percentage of all visits during which a psychotropic medication was prescribed. Differences in proportions between surveys were analyzed to determine trends.

Results: Between 1993-94 and 1997-98, the proportions of visits for concomitant pharmacotherapy in association with the stimulant class increased nearly five-fold. This increase paralleled an overall increase in the proportion of visits involving prescription of more than one psychotropic medication among youth.

Conclusions: The growth in concomitant pharmacotherapy with the stimulants class has out-paced the increase in safety/efficacy data to inform the use of this practice, resulting in a mismatch between trends in prescribing and growth in knowledge. A simultaneous trend of note is the overall increase in the use of concomitant pharmacotherapy with all psychotropic drugs in youth. Controlled trials are particularly needed to support commonly used combinations of stimulants with antidepressants in youth. In the absence of definitive data, clinical guidelines based on expert consensus and limited data are available and are useful.
ODD, ADHD, Versus ODD+ADHD in Clinic and Community Adults
Authors: Gadow Kenneth D. , Sprafkin Joyce , Schneider Jayne , Nolan Edith E. , Schwartz Joseph , Weiss Margaret D.
Published: June 2007

Objective: To seek evidence for the validity of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) as a behavioral syndrome in adults. Method: Two samples of adults, mental health outpatient clinic referrals ( N = 490) and community controls ( N = 900), completed a Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders—referenced rating scale and a brief questionnaire (social, educational, occupational, and treatment variables). Participants were separated into four groups: ODD-only, ADHD-only, ODD+ADHD, and NONE. Results: In general, the three symptom groups were more severe than the NONE group; the ODD+ADHD and NONE groups were the most and least severe, respectively; and there were clear differences between the ODD-only and ADHD-only groups. The pattern of group differences was generally similar in both samples. Conclusion: Findings support the distinction between ADHD and ODD symptom presentations in adults, and the notion that the comorbid condition is a unique clinical entity, both of which are consistent with the child literature. Nevertheless, additional research with larger samples of patients will be necessary to establish ODD as a potential behavioral syndrome in adults. (J. of Att. Dis. 2007; 11(3) 374-383)
Relations Between the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) and the Children's Memory Scale (CMS)
Authors: Riccio Cynthia A. , Garland Beth H. , Cohen Morris J.
Published: June 2007

Objective: There is considerable overlap in the constructs of attention and memory. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA), a measure of attention, to components of memory and learning as measured by the Children's Memory Scale (CMS). Method: Participants ( N = 105) were consecutive referrals to an out-patient facility, generally for learning or behavior problems, who were administered both the TOVA and the CMS. Results: Significant correlations were found between the omissions score on the TOVA and subscales of the CMS. TOVA variability and TOVA reaction time correlated significantly with subscales of the CMS as well. TOVA commission errors did not correlate significantly with any CMS Index. Conclusion: Although significant, the correlation coefficients indicate that the CMS and TOVA are measuring either different constructs or similar constructs but in different ways. As such, both measures may be useful in distinguishing memory from attention problems. (J. of Att. Dis. 2007; 11(2) 167-171)
Monitoring Quality of Life in Adults With ADHD
Authors: Landgraf Jeanne M.
Published: June 2007

Objective: To develop and evaluate a questionnaire, the ADHD Impact Module for Adults (AIM-A), to dimension quality of life for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Method: Six multi-item AIM scales were developed and evaluated in 317 participants enrolled in an open-label trial. Multitrait scaling analysis and correlations between the AIM-A and the ADHD Rating Scale were evaluated. Differences in scale scores based on severity (clinician rated), subtype, previous medication experience, and sensitivity to change were examined, and F statistics were compared for the AIM-A and the ADHD Rating Scale. Results: 100-80% scaling successes were observed for the AIM-A scales. Alpha coefficients were ≥.83. Significant correlations were observed (range: .494 to .200). The AIM-A discriminated based on severity, subtype, and medication experience ( p ≤ .01) and was sensitive to change ( n = 23, p ≤ .001). Conclusion: Psychometric findings are encouraging. Future efforts will examine validity and responsiveness in larger clinical samples with different therapeutic interventions. (J. of Att. Dis. 2007; 11(3) 351—362
Psychiatric Comorbidity in ADHD Symptom Subtypes in Clinic and Community Adults
Authors: Sprafkin Joyce , Gadow Kenneth D. , Weiss Margaret D. , Schneider Jayne , Nolan Edith E.
Published: June 2007

Objective: To compare psychiatric comorbidity between the three symptom subtypes of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Inattentive (I), Hyperactive-Impulsive (H), and Combined (C), in adults. Method: A clinic sample ( N = 487) and a nonreferred community sample ( N = 900) completed a DSM-IV-referenced rating scale and a questionnaire (social, educational, occupational, and treatment variables). Participants were assigned to one of four groups: ADHD:I, ADHD:H, ADHD:C, and NONE. Results: All three ADHD symptom groups reported more severe comorbid symptoms than the NONE group; the ADHD:C and NONE groups were the most and least severe, respectively; and there were clear differences between the ADHD:I and ADHD:H groups. The pattern of group differences was similar in both samples. Conclusion: ADHD symptom subtypes in adults are associated with distinct clinical correlates. The diversity of self-reported psychopathology in adults who meet symptom criteria for ADHD highlights the importance of conducting broad-based evaluations. (J. of Att. Dis. 2007; 11(2) 114-124)
Growing Out of ADHD
Authors: Young Susan , Gudjonsson Gisli H.
Published: June 2007

Objective: The objective is to ascertain whether people in partial remission (IPR) or in full remission (IR) of their ADHD symptoms continue to have neuropsychological deficits and clinical and psychosocial problems. Method: IPR and IR groups are compared with fully symptomatic ADHD patients and normal controls. Results: The results show a decline across the patient groups indicating that symptom remission is associated with improvement in neuropsychological, clinical, and psychosocial problems. The two symptomatic (ADHD and IPR) groups have the most marked psychosocial and drug-related problems, and they seem to continue to attempt to access help by presenting to adult psychiatric services. However, the IR group continues to have neuropsychological problems in comparison to the normal controls. Conclusion: Neuropsychological functioning, clinical, and psychosocial problems seem to be closely associated with ADHD symptoms and improve steadily with remission. However, some residual problems persist for which the patients seek psychiatric help. ( J. of Att. Dis. 2008; 12(3) 162-169)
Neurologic Monitoring During Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Murkin John M.
Published: June 2007

Strategies for basic and advanced neuromonitoring techniques are reviewed. Cerebral hyperthermia during rewarming and unrecognized jugular venous obstruction are associated with cerebral compromise and can be readily detected and avoided. The strengths and limitations of transcranial Doppler and electroencephalographic monitoring are reviewed, as is use of noninvasive cerebral optical spectroscopy and jugular venous oximetry. The potential for reduction in perioperative stroke by using epiaortic scanning to detect and avoid otherwise nonpalpable atherosclerotic plaque, is also reviewed.
The Thoracic Surgical Patient: Initial Postoperative Care
Authors: Amini S. , Gabrielli A. , Caruso L. J. , Layon A. J.
Published: June 2007

Thoracic surgery patients require complex perioperative care. Accurate preoperative screening of pulmonary conditions can only partially predict the requirement of postoperative mechanical ventilation. In general, extensive lung resections are associated with significant gas exchange abnormalities. In this group of patients, a mechanical ventilation strategy protective from barotrauma and volutrauma and a conservative use of intraoperative and postoperative fluid limit the inevitable increase of extravascular lung water and gas exchange impairment. A wise use of pulmonary vasodilatatory and bronchodilating drugs and airway manipulation including suctioning and bronchoscopy can also significantly affect postoperative respiratory dysfunction and hospital stay. A number of acute postoperative complications have been described specifically related to the type of surgery or pleural space suctioning devices. The role of the intensivist is to maintain a low index of suspicion for such complications, when acute hemodynamic or pulmonary deterioration occurs and be prepared to immediately correct them or alert the thoracic surgeon. In general, when these roles are observed, thoracic surgery can be safely performed with a low perioperative mortality.
Endovascular Repair of the Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Santamore David C. , Saldanha Christalene L. , Santamore William P.
Published: June 2007

Since the early 1 990s, endovascular surgery has provided another treatment option for the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Its shorter postoperative recovery time, absence of an abdominal incision, and avoidance of aortic cross-clamping gives endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair its appeal. New vascular grafts are being developed that may expand the number of eligible candidates. This less-invasive form of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair still provides the anesthesiologist with several challenges. The procedure has been performed under general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and local anesthesia with monitored anesthesia care. The potential benefits of one anesthetic type over another for endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair have not yet been fully explored. Several intraoperative complications, including acute aortic rupture and misdeployment of the stent graft, can necessitate conversion to an open laparotomy. Endovascular repair in the short term compares favorably to open surgical repair with a reduction in morbidity, blood loss, and hospital stay. Still, endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is a relatively new corrective modality, and long-term controlled trials comparing it with open repair have not yet been reported. As more research into the technique is performed, new strategies for endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair may further increase the options available to patients.
Evolving Strategies for the Prevention and Treatment of Coronary Restenosis
Authors: Dee Sandra V. , Samady Habib
Published: June 2007

Percutaneous coronary intervention has become an increasingly attractive alternative to medical therapy and surgical revascularization for the treatment of coronary artery disease. Over 1.5 million interventional procedures are performed annually worldwide, with the rate of procedures performed continuing to rise dramatically. Restenosis following percutaneous coronary intervention occurs at rates of 20% to 40% and has remained the Achilles heel of the procedure. Numerous early attempts at the prevention of restenosis with oral pharmacologic agents, such as antithrombotic therapies, lipid lowering agents, vasodilators, and growth factor inhibitors, failed to show benefit in clinical trials. The introduction of intracoronary stents resulted in a 30% reduction in restenosis rates by abolishing the early vessel recoil following angioplasty. However, as more complex lesions underwent percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting, rates of “in-stent” restenosis remained high (20% to 30%). With technologic advances and greater understanding of vascular pathobiology, novel therapeutic strategies, such as local delivery of ionizing radiation, immunosuppressive agents, and gene therapy, have been deployed to prevent coronary restenosis. In addition, a number of mechanical and radiation-based strategies have been used to treat those patients who develop restenosis. This review considers these emerging strategies for the prevention and treatment of restenosis.
Genetically Determined Procoagulant States and Heparin Use
Authors: McBane Robert D.
Published: June 2007

The propensity for both arterial and venous thrombotic disorders involves a genetic predetermination that operates In concert with environmental factors or triggers. Appropriate clinical assessment and therapeutic recommendations for patients with thrombosis requires a thorough knowledge of genetic variables that influence this propensity. This review focuses on the pathophysiology, natural history, and molecular biology of defined thrombophilic risk factors relevant to the care of patients with thrombotic disorders.
The Blood-Brain Barrier and Blood-Cerebral Spinal Fluid Barrier
Authors: Moody Dixon M.
Published: June 2007

An intact blood-brain barrier and normal production, circulation, and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid are critical for normal brain function. Minor disruptions of barrier function are without clinical consequences. Major disruptions accompany most significant acute brain injuries. The anatomic location of the blood-brain barrier is the endothelial cells of arterioles, capillaries, veins, and the epithelial cell surface of the choroid plexus. However, endothelial cells require the presence of glial cells to maintain barrier function. During cardiopulmonary bypass, several factors may result in a temporary disruption of the barrier; the most important are systemic inflammatory response and focal ischemia due to emboli. Lacking a lymphatic system, the brain depends on the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid to remove the products of metabolism, and the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid depends on a vascular systolic pulse wave to drive this fluid antegrade along the brain paravascular spaces. Although it is not possible to identify this paravavscular space histologically, its presence is confirmed by tracer methods.
Aortic Arch Atheroma: Stroke Reduction in Cardiac Surgical Patients
Authors: Djaiani George N.
Published: June 2007

Cardiac surgery is increasingly performed on elderly patients with extensive coronary artery abnormalities who have impaired left ventricular function, decreased physiologic reserve, and multiple comorbid conditions. Considerable numbers of these patients develop perioperative neurologic complications ranging from subtle cognitive dysfunction to more evident postoperative confusion, delirium, and, less commonly, clinically apparent stroke. Magnetic resonance imaging studies have elucidated that a considerable number of patients have new ischemic brain infarcts, particularly after conventional coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Mechanisms of cerebral injury during and after cardiac surgery are discussed. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography and epiaortic scanning for detection of atheromatous disease of the proximal thoracic aorta is paramount in identifying patients at high risk from neurologic injury. It is important to recognize that our efforts to minimize neurologic injury should not be limited to the intraoperative period. Particular efforts should be directed to temperature management, glycemia control, and pharmacologic neuroprotection extending into the postoperative period. Preoperative magnetic resonance angiography may be of value for screening patients with significant atheroma of the proximal thoracic aorta. It is likely that for patients with no significant atheromatous disease, conventional coronary artery revascularization is the most effective long-term strategy, whereas patients with atheromatous thoracic aorta may be better managed with beating heart surgery, hybrid techniques, or medical therapy alone. Patient stratification based on the aortic atheromatic burden should be addressed in future trials designed to tailor treatment strategies to improve long-term outcomes of coronary heart disease and reduce the risks of perioperative neurologic injury.
Optimizing Cardiac Fatty Acid and Glucose Metabolism as an Approach to Treating Heart Failure
Authors: Lopaschuk Gary D.
Published: June 2007

Despite the recent introduction of new therapeutic approaches to treat heart failure, mortality from heart failure remains high, and patients still frequently experience progression of contractile dysfunction and ongoing left ventricular enlargement. Therefore, new treatments are needed for heart failure that work independently of mechanisms already targeted. Emerging evidence suggests that the failure of the myocardium in heart failure is affected by alterations in the energy substrate metabolism. In particular, there is now evidence that in the failing heart, shifting metabolism away from a preference for fatty acids toward more carbohydrate oxidation can improve contractile function and slow the progression of pump failure.
Evaluation and Community Prevention Coalitions: Validation of an Integrated Web-Based/Technical Assistance Consultant Model
Authors: Feinberg Mark E. , Gomez Brendan J. , Puddy Richard W. , Greenberg Mark T.
Published: June 2007

Community coalitions (CCs) have labored with some difficulty to demonstrate empirical evidence of effectiveness in preventing a wide range of adolescent problem behaviors. Training and technical assistance (TA) have been identified as important elements in promoting improved functioning of CCs. A reliable, valid, and inexpensive method to assess functioning of CCs has been developed and is tested in this article in the context of Pennsylvania's Communities That Care (CTC) model. A CC Web-based questionnaire was developed and administered to more than 79 communities (867 participants) and the validity and reliability were assessed through multiple means, including the use of a companion TA implementation feedback questionnaire completed by TAs assigned to each of the sites. Results indicated adequate to good psychometric properties on internal reliability of the Web-based questionnaire, moderate construct validity across different reports of functioning, and relative stability throughout the course of 1 year. Implications for a variety of community prevention coalitions interested in a relatively low-cost, user friendly, and suitable methodology for evaluating coalition functioning are discussed. In addition, areas of application for future research including linking coalition functioning with the quality and nature of technical assistance, levels of risk and protective factors, and large data sets of youth risk factor and problem behavior data are highlighted.
The Myth of Peer Influence in Adolescent Smoking Initiation
Authors: Arnett Jeffrey Jensen
Published: June 2007

The widespread belief that peer influence is the primary cause of adolescent smoking initiation is examined and called into question. Correlational and longitudinal studies purporting to demonstrate peer influence are analyzed, and their limitations described. Qualitative interview studies of adolescent smoking initiation are presented as depicting the more complex role of the peer context. Finally, a new model of the role of peers in smoking initiation is offered, with an emphasis on how adolescents' characteristics lead to the selection of their friends, who then provide a peer context that may or may not support smoking.
Developing School-Based BMI Screening and Parent Notification Programs: Findings From Focus Groups With Parents of Elementary School Students
Authors: Kubik Martha Young , Story Mary , Rieland Gayle
Published: June 2007

School-based body mass index (BMI) screening and parent notification programs have been advanced as an obesity prevention strategy. However, little is known about how to develop and implement programs. This qualitative study explored the opinions and beliefs of parents of elementary school students concerning school-based BMI screening programs, notification methods, message content, and health information needs related to promoting healthy weight for school-aged children. Ten focus groups were conducted with 71 participants. Parents were generally supportive of school-based BMI screening. However, they wanted assurance that student privacy and respect would be maintained during measurement and that BMI results would be provided to parents in a neutral manner that avoided weight labeling. They also believed that aggregate results should be disseminated to the larger school community to support healthy change in the nutrition and physical activity environments of schools. Implications for practitioners and researchers are discussed.
Who Benefits From Community-Based Participatory Research? A Case Study of the Positive Youth Project
Authors: Flicker Sarah
Published: June 2007

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) has evolved as a popular new paradigm in health research. This shift is exciting, yet there is still much to discover about how various stakeholders are affected. This article uses a critical social science perspective to explore who benefits from these changes through an analysis of a CBPR case study (The Positive Youth Project). Two major categories of beneficiaries emerged: the research itself and the partner-stakeholders. The benefits, however, were not gained without substantial human resource investment, nor were they necessarily equitably spread. Participation costs included heavy demands of time, an added burden of work, frustration with the process, missing other opportunities, risking loss of anonymity, and loss of control. Care needs to be taken to ensure that concrete benefits accrue for all project partners and costs are minimized. Another way of framing benefits is to look at the community capacities built to address future health and social issues.
The Radio Communication Project in Nepal: A Culture-Centered Approach to Participation
Authors: Dutta Mohan Jyoti , Basnyat Iccha
Published: June 2007

Considerable research has been conducted on the topic of entertainment-education (EE), the method of using entertainment platforms such as popular music, radio, and television programming to diffuse information, attitudes, and behaviors via role modeling. A significant portion of the recently published EE literature has used the case of the Radio Communication Project (RCP) in Nepal to demonstrate the effectiveness of EE and to argue that EE campaigns can indeed be participatory in nature. In this project, we apply the culture-centered approach to examine the discursive space created by the RCP and its claim of being participatory. A critical examination of RCP discourse brings forth an alternative lens for approaching EE and its participatory claim.
Predicting Willingness to Engage in Unsafe Sex and Intention to Perform Sexual Protective Behaviors Among Adolescents
Authors: Myklestad Ingri , Rise Jostein
Published: June 2007

This article examines the sociocognitive processes contributing to intention to use contraception and willingness to engage in unsafe sex, using extended versions of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the Prototype/Willingness model (Gibbons & Gerrard, 1995, 1997). Data were obtained from a questionnaire delivered to all the pupils in ninth grade ( N = 196) at three schools in Oslo. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to predict intention and willingness. The results showed that subjective norm was the most important predictor of intentions for girls, whereas moral norm was most important for boys' intentions and willingness. Prototypes were the most important predictor for girls' willingness. Implications of the findings are discussed.
On the Use of the Coefficient of Variation as a Measure of Diversity
Authors: Bedeian Arthur G. , Mossholder Kevin W.
Published: June 2007

The coefficient of variation (V ) is a statistical measure commonly used for comparing diversity in work groups. It has been employed by organizational researchers to index the relative internal variability of top-management teams, task groups, boards of directors, departments, and other social aggregates on numerous dimensions. Commenting on its widespread application, this article reviews cautions and pitfalls associated with its use for this purpose. Research implications associated with using V are also discussed.
Enhancing Team Mental Model Measurement with Performance Appraisal Practices
Authors: Webber Sheila Simsarian , Chen Gilad , Payne Stephanie C. , Marsh Sean M. , Zaccaro Stephen J.
Published: June 2007

Little dispute exists with regard to the conceptual and practical contributions of team mental models (TMMs) to team-related research and applications, yet the measurement of TMMs poses great challenges for researchers and practitioners. Borrowing from performance appraisal practices, this article presents a new method for assessing TMMs that is user-friendly and allows for the measurement of both TMM accuracy and similarity. The extent to which TMM similarity and accuracy indices predict team performance in a field setting is examined. Contributions to team research and practice are discussed.
Correlates of Response Outcomes among Organizational Key Informants
Authors: Gupta Nina , Shaw Jason D. , Delery John E.
Published: June 2007

Response rate research among individual respondents is applied to key-informant methodology in organizational research. Five organizational samples (two industry-specific samples and three cross-industry samples) are examined to assess the extent to which research procedures, informant characteristics, and organizational characteristics affect response outcomes. Three response outcomes are of interest: response rates (proportion of sample participating), response speed (number of days to respond), and amount of missing data. Response rates in the five samples ranged from 19% to 71%. Research procedures are related to response outcomes, but the data are mostly suggestive and not conclusive with respect to the relationships of informant and organizational characteristics to response outcomes. Implications of these results for key-informant methodology are discussed.
Validation of a New General Self-Efficacy Scale
Authors: Chen Gilad , Gully Stanley M. , Eden Dov
Published: June 2007

Researchers have suggested that general self-efficacy (GSE) can substantially contribute to organizational theory, research, and practice. Unfortunately, the limited construct validity work conducted on commonly used GSE measures has highlighted such potential problems as low content validity and multidimensionality. The authors developed a new GSE (NGSE) scale and compared its psychometric properties and validity to that of the Sherer et al. General Self-Efficacy Scale (SGSE). Studies in two countries found that the NGSE scale has higher construct validity than the SGSE scale. Although shorter than the SGSE scale, the NGSE scale demonstrated high reliability, predicted specific self-efficacy (SSE) for a variety of tasks in various contexts, and moderated the influence of previous performance on subsequent SSE formation. Implications, limitations, and directions for future organizational research are discussed.
Theoretical and Mathematical Constraints of Interactive Regression Models
Authors: Rogers William M.
Published: June 2007

Theoretical and mathematical issues related to the study of interaction effects are discussed. Constraints imposed by the theoretical expectation of ordinal or monotone interactions are defined by the general concept of inversion values. The mathematical constraints implied by these values are demonstrated by the derivation of a general formula. Further definitions related to this general formula are discussed for qualitative and quantitative variables. It is argued that interaction effects of substantial magnitude may not be routinely detected in behavioral science because many interactive theories may be implicitly ordinal. Levels of predictability common to behavioral science make such effects mathematically nonexistent, and thus impossible to detect. To have strong ordinal moderation, there must be a strong effect to be moderated.
The Organizational Imagination: From Paradigm Wars to Praxis
Authors: Mir Raza , Mir Ali
Published: June 2007

The authors use the insights of C. Wright Mills and his book The Sociological Imagination to argue for a more socially engaged organizational research. Although epistemological and methodological discussions about organizational research have opened up a space for alternate and critical theorizing, management scholarship needs to continue its search for effectiveness by developing an organizational imagination. This imagination will allow researchers to make linkages between history, structure, and individual lives in the service of an intellectual and political transformation. It will therefore push the boundaries of organizational theory to include an active engagement with the institutional forces that seek to contain and domesticate it.
The Development of an Individual-Level Teamwork Expectations Measure and the Application of a Within-Group Agreement Statistic to Assess Shared Expectations for Teamwork
Authors: Eby Lillian T. , Meade Adam W. , Parisi Anthony G. , Douthitt Shane S.
Published: June 2007

Two studies were conducted to develop a measurement system for assessing individual-level and shared team-level expectations for teamwork. Study 1 provided initial reliability and validity evidence using traditional scale development techniques and demonstrated how the individual-level measure could be applied to the team level using a within-group agreement statistic. Study 2 used intact teams and provided additional validity evidence by replicating the measure’s factor structure and demonstrating the relationship between the individual- and team-level construct and several team-related variables. Implications for future research and methods for studying teams are discussed.
Conservative Choice, Service Failure, and Customer Loyalty: Testing the Limits of Informed Choice
Authors: Cranage David A.
Published: June 2007

Previous research has suggested that an informed choice maintains or increases loyalty as a result of causing customers to share the responsibility for service failures. The research, however, was only with risky choices— high payoff with high chance of service failure. For example, a table with a good view, but in demand and in a busy section, may have slow service. Does an informed choice maintain or increase loyalty when the alternative chosen is a conservative choice—low payoff with low chance of service failure? If the effect is because of empowerment alone, it should not extend to a conservative choice because the information indicated a low chance of failure. However, if the effect is also from a respect for disclosure the effect should extend because a failure outcome does not change the fact of disclosure. The studies, one in the lab and one in the field, test this suggestion.
Using brand awareness and brand image in tourism channels of distribution
Authors: Woodward Tracy
Published: June 2007

Brand awareness and brand image influence strategies of distribution channel management, particularly push and pull strategies within the channel. Thus, this research investigates brand awareness and brand image issues within tourism distribution channels. The eight major Australian domestic tour wholesaler brands were measured for the brand awareness of end consumers and travel agents. Also, brand image held in the minds of travel agents was researched. This research demonstrates that a combination of push and pull strategies could be used by domestic tour wholesalers to send appropriate messages to both travel agents and end consumers. This combination may be more effective than either strategy on its own because intangibility, heterogeneity, perishability and ownership issues affect the supply and demand of tourism services.
Determining the importance of US convention destination attributes
Authors: Chacko Harsha E. , Fenich George G.
Published: June 2007

This paper examines meeting planners’ rating of seven US convention cities not only as overall destinations but also on specific city attributes that are important in site selection. Regression analysis showed that promotional appeal of the city had a significant effect in the overall ratings of destinations. In addition, results suggested that different attributes are significant for different cities in explaining their convention, exposition and meeting-site attractiveness.
Japanese tourism satisfaction: Gold Coast versus Hawaii
Authors: Reisinger Yvette , Turner Lindsay
Published: June 2007

The Gold Coast region is one of the major tourism destinations for Japanese tourists to Australia. Hawaii in the USA is the major competitive destination to the Gold Coast for attracting Japanese tourists. The objective of this study was to identify the factors in Japanese tourists’ satisfaction with destination attributes in Hawaii and the Gold Coast, and to determine whether these factors vary. A survey of 300 Japanese tourists departing from Hawaii was compared with a survey of 363 Japanese tourists departing from the Gold Coast. Both surveys were collected over the period August 1998 to March 1999. Twenty-seven elements of satisfaction with destination choice were factor analysed and compared between the Gold Coast and Hawaii. Conclusions from these analyses are discussed and suggestions made regarding the need to make a comparison of satisfaction based on multiple destination factors rather than on individual factors.
Revisiting the heavy-user segment for vacation travel marketing
Authors: Litvin Stephen W.
Published: June 2007

Usage segmentation is a tool utilised by many travel marketers, and many place great emphasis upon the heavy-user segment. This paper looks at heavy vacation travellers’ demographics, psycho-graphics and their adoption of new Internet technologies, and finds, as a delineated segment, that these travellers share many characteristics and differ markedly from the light user. The key finding of the paper, however, is that the long-held axiom that marketers should focus the majority of their efforts on the heavy-user segment may no longer be sound advice, as vacation travel eÂgaliteÂ has given greater importance to the balance of the population.
Predicting travel patterns of senior citizens: How the past may provide a key to the future
Authors: Lohmann Martin , Danielsson Johanna
Published: June 2007

Given the projected growth of the senior citizens market, designing specific marketing strategies to meet the prospective needs of elderly tourists will become increasingly important. There has been an implicit assumption that there will be a close relationship between the travel behaviour of today’s seniors and those of future ones. This paper reports on a re-analysis of results of the German annual travel survey (Reiseanalyse), and suggests that such an assumption might be misleading. Tourist demand and travel behaviour are not necessarily determined by age, but by generation. For the last third of the life cycle, the travel behaviour of a particular generation seems to be quite rigid, and does not change significantly because of factors such as retirement. The results of this analysis show that travel propensity, or patterns of tourist behaviour, remain the same up to 20 years for a given generation. Therefore, understanding the future travel behaviour of senior citizens is perhaps not as difficult as it might first appear. In conclusion, the actual travel behaviour (including expectations, motivations and aspirations) of people aged between 55 and 65 years in 2000 allows a prediction of prospective travellers aged 65 to 75 years in the year 2010. Such an approach supplies reliable data for the design of future marketing strategies and suitable products.
Establishing a new eco-tourism business on the Great Barrier Reef: A feasibility study
Authors: Abubakar Binta
Published: June 2007

This paper considers the feasibility of setting up a tourism-focused glass-bottom boat business on Magnetic Island, Townsville, Australia. The success of a tourism venture is dependent on an understanding of the market. However, it is not unusual for tourist destinations and businesses to commence operations and undertake promotion without first establishing the size of the market and the overall viability of the venture. This paper reports on a survey of domestic and international visitors to Magnetic Island with respect to the feasibility of setting up a low environmental impact glass-bottom boat business. The survey established that while such a business would be viable on Magnetic Island, from other perspectives the business might not be. Four alternative options are considered.
The North American cruise market and Australian tourism
Authors: Miller Allan R. , Grazer William F.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this paper is to propose new itineraries in Australia for cruise companies that market to North American passengers. The current status of the North American cruise market is explored to include discussions of the cruise lines, cruise ships, relevant passenger characteristics and specific market segments.

The industry is strong and recovering from the events of 11th September, 2001. However, cruise lines have deployed their ships from Middle Eastern destinations into the Caribbean and Alaskan markets, which have become saturated. New itineraries and destinations have to be developed.

Three recommendations are made for new Australian cruise itineraries. These recommendations are proffered with a discussion of the status of cruising in Australia.
Managing customer behaviour dynamics in the multi-channel e-business environment: Enhancing customer relationship capital in the global hotel industry
Authors: Louvieris Panos , Driver John , Powell-Perry Jan
Published: June 2007

Managing the dynamics of customer behaviour in the rapidly emerging multi-channel e-business environment is complex. Establishing an enduring and profitable dialogue with a customer requires that online relationship management applications can accommodate the channel variety in the customer’s e-communications portfolio, including their buyer behaviour dynamics. With reference to the global hotel industry, this paper considers the impact of Internet multi-channel access on the customer decision-making process; how differences in buyer behaviour and loyalty level influence the relationship management process; and the implications of effectively managing buyer behaviour and the provision of multi-channel customer accessibility for competitive advantage.
An investigation into the key factors necessary for the development of iconic touring routes
Authors: Hardy Anne
Published: June 2007

In recent years, the concept of developing themed touring routes or self-drive trails has been given much attention. Consequently many have been developed, particularly in Australia and the USA. Themed touring routes have been advocated as opportunities to link regional communities together, form partnerships, encourage tourism development along commonly travelled routes, provide a more satisfactory tourism experience and maximise economic benefits to local business people by encouraging longer stays and greater spending in the region. Ultimately, touring routes can develop into tourist icons, such as the Cascade Loop in Washington State and the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail in the USA. This paper uses these two case studies to determine the key factors for the successful development of touring routes. It proposes that there are ten, including community involvement, an understanding of the drive tourist, the development of attractions, effective interpretation and signage and infrastructure.
East versus West: A comparison of online destination marketing in China and the USA
Authors: Feng Ruomei , Morrison Alastair M. , Ismail Joseph A.
Published: June 2007

The internet is playing an increasingly important role in destination marketing. To explore the current situation of online marketing in major destinations, this study compared destination marketing organisation (DMO) websites in the USA and China. By applying a modified balanced scorecard approach, website marketing strategies, web page designs, marketing information and technical qualities were evaluated. The main purpose was to determine similarities and differences among the official DMO websites in the USA and China. Four tiers of DMO websites were evaluated: state tourism offices and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) in the USA, and provincial and city tourism administrations in China. US DMO websites were found to be superior to those in China in terms of marketing strategies and information, and US CVB sites received the highest evaluations.

Based on the evaluation results, recommendations were made on how DMOs can improve their websites to develop them into more effective destination marketing tools.
Managing a health-related crisis: SARS in Singapore
Authors: Henderson Joan C.
Published: June 2007

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a new and potentially fatal virus, the discovery and spread of which created a tourism crisis in parts of Asia in 2003. Based on an analysis of secondary data, this study deals with the outbreak of the disease in Singapore and shows the adverse impact on international arrivals and domestic leisure activity. Responses by the public and private sectors of the industry to the severe problems faced are assessed, and government is seen to have the especially difficult tasks of managing the spread of the disease and trying to protect and promote tourism at the same time. Insights are provided into good practice during such difficult circumstances, although recovery appears to depend on the progress of any epidemic as much as on the strategies employed.
Bridging the research-practice gap: A reflective account of research work
Authors: Mulhall Anne , Le May Andrée , Alexander Caroline
Published: June 2007

A growing body of knowledge attests to the idea that research is socially constructed. As such, researchers and the context of research may affect the types of questions which are posed, the methodologies used and the interpretation of the results. In nursing this has led to calls for a greater espousal of reflexivity by researchers, and a plea for a more open and critical reporting of the `process' of research. This study is a response to this plea. It describes the process by which the authors of a study which examined the culture of research in three NHS trusts, reflected on, and attempted to expose, hitherto hidden factors which affected the work. The methods used were bracketing, reflective diaries and a post-analysis reflective discussion. Thematic analysis of these data indicated that several factors related to both the experience and the background of the authors, and the context of the study affected its course. The reflective process was also valuable in unearthing certain `taken for granted knowledge' which, if acted on earlier, would have improved the rigour of the work. The authors advocate that researchers and funders need to reflect in a more structured way on the studies that they pursue. Furthermore, this open style of reporting may assist in bridging the gap between academics and practitioners by illustrating some of the dilemmas, uncertainties and contingencies which affect most research projects.
Changing aspect of nurses' work environment A comparison of perceptions in two hospitals in Sweden and the UK and implications for recruitment and retention of staff
Authors: Nolan Mike , Lundh Ulla , Brown Jayne
Published: June 2007

Concerns about the recruitment and retention of nursing staff are apparent in many healthcare systems. This paper describes a study which used a common methodology to assess nurses' perceptions of their work environment and changes over the past 12 months in the UK and Sweden. A census survey of all qualified nursing staff was undertaken in a large teaching hospital in Sheffield and Jonkoping, Sweden. Analysis of results reveal similar concerns with a perceived fall in the quality of nursing care, and increased demands in terms of workload at a time when staffing levels are being reduced. Although there were common trends, Swedish nurses were far less likely than their English counterparts to feel that they had opportunities to act autonomously, to develop their skills, and to access continuing professional education. The need for remedial action to enhance nurses' work environment and to increase their autonomy is highlighted.