bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twentieth-century Theories on Combat Motivation and Breakdown
Authors: Wessely Simon
Published: March 2006

All the combatant nations of the first world war struggled to deal with the problem of large-scale casualties that could not be ascribed to simple physical injury. After a brief flirtation with medical explanations (‘shell-shock’) these were soon realized to be psychological in nature, but not until the end of the war was there much consensus on whether these represented a psychological response to the stressors of industrial warfare, or alternatively a failure of motivation or even masculinity. Simultaneously combat motivation was seen within a moral framework that emphasized duty, patriotism, leadership and character. It was these latter virtues, or lack of them, that gradually came to explain combat breakdown, and not the psychological theories, even if modern narratives tend to overlook this. If a person had sufficient character, leadership and training, breakdown was unlikely even under the harshest conditions. By the end of the second world war, new thinking and research, mainly from the American forces, now downplayed the importance of ideological and personal factors, and instead concluded that the most powerful motivation for combat (as opposed to enlistment) came from the role of the small group—‘men fight for their buddies’. Breakdown was still seen as the reserve side of combat motivation, most likely when the small group disintegrated, although ultimately even the most robust could succumb after prolonged combat exposure. However, provided that the individual was previously of normal personality, this would be short lived. Long-term illness was still almost entirely attributed to vulnerabilities acquired by inheritance or during childhood. Combat breakdown could also be made chronic by the influence of secondary gain, and so medical labels for combat breakdown were avoided, treatment was by reassurance and return to duty, and compensation was discouraged where possible. It was not until the aftermath of the Vietnam war that views on combat motivation and breakdown began to diverge. As a result of the efforts of American psychiatrists opposed to the Vietnam war a new medical label, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), was introduced in 1980. It was now believed that not just transient, but also chronic, mental disorders could be caused by combat, even in those previously of robust disposition, and that the necessity for a diagnosis and compensation overcame concerns about illness reinforcement and secondary gain. Social explanations for breakdown based on group psychology largely disappeared, to be replaced by a framework based almost entirely on individual responses to trauma, although the role of predisposition quickly needed to be rediscovered. In contrast, the military continue to insist on the importance of small group psychology in explaining motivation to fight, and are distrustful of either ideological or individual explanatory models.
The Backyard as a Dialect Boundary
Authors: Schreier Daniel
Published: March 2006

This article shows that individuals in groups with tight-knit and dense social networks display considerable variation, despite the fact that they share a set of common social characteristics. Drawing on case studies from Tristan da Cunha English, spoken on a South Atlantic island, interindividual variation is traced in two members of the same family, who have identical social backgrounds and are in frequent face-to-face contact with each other. Results from a quantitative analysis of four selected variables and the evaluation of a perceptual dialectology study are interpreted in terms of their relevance for accommodation theory, social network theory, and mobility-related effects on language change. The study thus examines the role of individual variation and seeks to provide explanations for individuation (i.e., unexpected patterns of language usage on a micro level in single speakers), outlining its general relevance for sociolinguistic theory.
Structure and Properties of Model Polybutadienes and HIPS: Effect of Rubber Microstructure on HIPS Dynamic Mechanical Properties
Authors: Rivera Marvin R. , Herrera N. Rafael , Ríos G. Leonardo
Published: March 2006

High impact polystyrene (HIPS) series was synthesized by the mass-suspension process using polybutadiene (PB) rubbers with different cis-1,4, trans-1,4, and vinyl-1,2 isomers content. The HIPS were characterized by TEM, GPC, DMA, and DSC analyses. It was found that the dynamic mechanical properties of HIPS strongly depend upon the microstructure of PB used as a modifier due to the different tendency of PB isomers to promote grafting, cross-linking, and crystallization. The DMA for HIPS synthesized from high cis and high trans rubbers show additional relaxations at the low temperature region. The DSC results for gels extracted from these HIPS exhibited melting endotherms confirming the existence of crystalline domains.
Structure and Properties of Natural Rubber-Organoclay Nanocomposites Prepared by Grafting and Intercalating Method in Latex
Authors: Liu Lan , Luo Yuanfang , Jia Demin , Fu Weiwen , Guo Baochun
Published: March 2006

The nanocomposites of natural rubber (NR) and organoclay with unsaturated carbon-carbon double bonds (C1/4C) on interlayer surfaces (USMMT) are prepared by the grafting and intercalating method in latex in the presence of butyl acrylate (BA) monomer. The conversion, grafting efficiency, and grafting percentage of BA onto NR and USMMT are determined. The structure and morphology of the nanocomposites are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmitted electron microscopy (TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and swelling experiments. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites are measured. The results show that graft copolymerization of BA monomer onto NR molecular chains can take place with high conversion, grafting percentage, and grafting efficiency. At the same time, BA can intercalate into the interlayer galleries of USMMT and polymerize in situ together with C1/4C bonds on the interlayer surfaces. As a result, the interlayer spacing of organoclay is increased and the interfacial combination between the silicate layers and rubber is strengthened. The results of XRD and TEM demonstrate the formation of the nanocomposites of NR-M-USMMT. The glass transition temperatures of the nanocomposites are higher than that of the NR vulcanizate. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites are remarkably improved compared with those of the NR and NR-USMMT vulcanizate.
Retaining Pathological Gamblers in Cognitive Behavior Therapy Through Motivational Enhancement
Authors: Wulfert Edelgard , Blanchard Edward B. , Freidenberg Brian M. , Martell Rebecca S.
Published: March 2006

Treatment for pathological gambling is in its infancy. Several cognitive and behavioral interventions have shown promise, but high attrition and relapse rates suggest that gamblers requesting treatment are not uniformly committed to change. This article describes an exploratory study with 9 severe pathological gamblers—in their majority horse race bettors—who were recruited from a community treatment center. The gamblers were treated with a hybrid intervention consisting of motivational enhancement and cognitive behavior therapy. All gamblers were retained in treatment and during a 12-month follow-up period. This retention rate was significantly higher than that of a control group of gamblers who received treatment as usual in the same community setting. Of the gamblers who received the experimental treatment, 6 maintained total abstinence during the 12-month follow-up period, 2 were significantly improved, and 1 remained unimproved. In addition to changing their gambling behavior, many clients made successful lifestyle changes. The possible benefits of combining a motivational intervention with cognitive behavior therapy are discussed.
The impact of atypical antipsychotic medications on long-term memory dysfunction in schizophrenia spectrum disorder: a quantitative review
Authors: Thornton Allen E. , Van Snellenberg Jared X. , Sepehry Amir A. , Honer William G.
Published: March 2006

This meta-analytic review examines the ef.cacy of antipsychotic medications in ameliorating schizophrenia-related long-term memory (LTM) impairments. Twenty-three studies were reviewed that compared schizophrenia spectrum patients treated (a) with atypical versus typical antipsychotic medications, or (b) with various atypical treatments. In 17 atypical versus typical trials aggregating 939 participants, superior overall (verbal and nonverbal) LTM was detected in patients assigned to atypical trials. However, this difference was small (effect size estimate (ES) 0.17; 95% Con.dence Interval (CI) 0.04 to 0.31) and speci.c to certain atypical treatments. Relative to typical antipsychotic trials, LTM superiority was marginally signi.cant for risperidone trials (ES 0.20; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.44) and signi.cant for olanzapine trials (ES 0.29; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.49). In contrast, clozapine trials did not produce a LTM advantage over typical trials (ES 0.06; 95% CI 0.35 to 0.23). Due to the lack of available studies, the effect of quetiapine was indeterminate. Direct comparison between atypical trials revealed a similar effect pattern. A marginally signi.cant superiority in overall LTM was detected for risperidone and olanzapine compared to clozapine (ES 0.28; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.59), which reached signi.cance for verbal LTM (ES 0.36; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.67). Finally, the bene.cial impact of antipsychotic medications emerged as a function of differences in the anticholinergic properties of the treatment arms being compared.
Differential experiences of the psychobiological sequelae of ecstasy use: quantitative and qualitative data from an internet study
Authors: Rodgers Jacqui , Buchanan Tom , Pearson Carol , Parrott Andy C. , Ling Jon , Heffernan Tom , Scholey Andrew B.
Published: March 2006

Previous work provided preliminary evidence that different patterns of use among ecstasy users may impact on perceived side-effects. Participants recruited via an ecstasy-related bulletin board differed in their responses compared to those recruited via other means. The present investigation compares self-reports of psychobiological dif.culties among ecstasy users recruited either via a bulletin board or by alternative methods. Qualitative data included reports of any negative or positive changes attributable to ecstasy use and reasons for cessation of use. An Internet-based design was utilized and 209 volunteers completed the study, 117 of whom were recruited via a bulletin board devoted to discussion of ecstasy. Psychobiological dif.culties attributable to ecstasy use varied, with mood .uctuation the most common. Differences between the two groups in the extent to which these problems were reported was found. Bulletin board recruits were less likely to report anxiety or poor concentration, but more likely to report tremors/twitches. For the whole sample, lifetime use was associated more with psychobiologial problems, although this pattern was stronger and more pervasive for the nonbulletin board participants. Bulletin board recruits were more aware of possible negative psychological effects and were more likely to report adopting harm reduction strategies. From the qualitative data three negative consequences of use were identi.ed, the most common of which was ëpsychological problemsí. In support of the quantitative .ndings the likelihood of reporting psychological problems increased with lifetime exposure to ecstasy in both recruitment conditions but interestingly this did not appear to impact on reasons for cessation of use. Participants also reported a number of effects that they regarded as bene.cial. Future research should also take these aspects of use into account.
Ecstasy (MDMA, MDA, MDEA, MBDB) consumption, seizures, related offences, prices, dosage levels and deaths in the UK (1994–2003)
Authors: Schifano Fabrizio , Corkery John , Deluca Paolo , Oyefeso Adenekan , Ghodse A. Hamid
Published: March 2006

In the last decade, a global trend of escalating ecstasy (MDMA, MDA, MDEA, MBDB) use was observed. Mentions on medical death certificates, last year's ecstasy use, number of drug offenders, seizures, prices and dosage levels figures were used for this descriptive and correlational study. Figures (1994ñ2003) were taken from the UK General Mortality Registers, from the Home Office Statistical Bulletins, from the British Crime Survey and from those reported to both the National Crime Intelligence and Forensic Science Services. A total of 394 ecstasy deaths mentions were here identified from the UK; in 42% of cases ecstasy was the sole drug mentioned. Overall, number of fatalities showed a year-peryear increase and positively correlated with: prevalence of last year's use ( p<0.01); number of offenders ( p<0.01) and number of seizures ( p<0.01) but negatively correlated with ecstasy price ( p<0.05). Price negatively correlated with: prevalence of last year's use ( p<0.001) and number of seizures ( p<0.01); but positively correlated with average MDMA dosage per tablet ( p<0.01). MDA, MDEA and MBDB accounted for a significant proportion of tablets only up to 1997, but not afterwards. Increasing production with a concomitant decrease in ecstasy price may have facilitated an increase in consumption levels and this, in turn, may have determined an increase in number of ecstasy deaths mentions. Only medical death certificates and not coroners' reports at the end of their inquests were here analysed; no data were available in respect of other drugs use and toxicology results.
Vasopressin and oxytocin secretion in response to the consumption of ecstasy in a clubbing population
Authors: Wolff K. , Tsapakis E. M. , Winstock A. R. , Hartley D. , Holt D. , Forsling M. L. , Aitchison K. J.
Published: March 2006

Despite the common use of MDMA (ecstasy) in the UK, the mechanism underlying associated potentially fatal cerebral oedema is unclear. We used a new experimental approach working directly with clubbers to perform a study on 30 (17 male) experienced clubbers (mean 6.6 years of clubbing). Pre and post-clubbing measurements were performed to compare plasma levels of pituitary hormones (vasopressin, oxytocin), plasma and urine osmolality, urinary pH, and plasma sodium and urea. Ecstasy consumption was con.rmed by using urinary drug screening preand post-clubbing. MDMA was detected in the urine samples of 17 subjects, three of which tested positive during pre-clubbing tests. Mean plasma vasopressin concentration increased in the MDMA group (1.28 ± 0.29 to 1.43 ± 0.41 pmol/l), but fell in other participants (1.23 ± 0.42 to 1.16 ± 0.0.34 pmol/l). Similarly, mean plasma oxytocin concentrations increased after ingestion of MDMA (2.02 ± 0.29 to 2.43 ± 0.24 pmol/l), but fell in the group that did not use MDMA (2.17 ± 0.36 pmol/l to 1.89 ± 0.37 pmol/l). There was a significant group by time interaction for plasma osmolality and plasma sodium ( p= 0.001 and p= 0.003, respectively) and between change in urinary osmolality ( p< 0.001) and MDMA use, with the pattern of change being consistent with the induction of inappropriate vasopressin secretion (also known as SIADH) by MDMA. This report demonstrates SIADH in ecstasy-using ‘clubbers’, which has important clinical implications.
Memory function and serotonin transporter promoter gene polymorphism in ecstasy (MDMA) users
Authors: Reneman Liesbeth , Schilt T. , de Win Maartje M. , Booij Jan , Schmand Ben , den Brink Wim van , Bakker Onno
Published: March 2006

Although 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy) has been shown to damage brain serotonin (5-HT) neurons in animals and possibly humans, little is known about the long-term consequences of MDMA-induced 5-HT neurotoxic lesions on functions in which 5-HT is involved, such as cognitive function. Because 5-HT transporters play a key element in the regulation of synaptic 5-HT transmission it may be important to control for the potential covariance effect of a polymorphism in the 5-HT transporter promoter gene region (5-HTTLPR) when studying the effects of MDMA as well as cognitive functioning.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of moderate and heavy MDMA use on cognitive function, as well as the effects of longterm abstention from MDMA, in subjects genotyped for 5-HTTLPR. A second aim of the study was to determine whether these effects differ for females and males.

Fifteen moderate MDMA users (55 lifetime tablets), 22 heavy MDMA β users (δ 55 lifetime tablets), 16 ex-MDMA β users (last tablet δ 1 year ago) and 13 controls were compared on a battery of neuropsychological tests. DNA from peripheral nuclear blood cells was genotyped for 5-HTTLPR using standard polymerase chain reaction methods.

A signi.cant group effect was observed only on memory function tasks ( p 0.04) but not on reaction times ( p 0.61) or attention/ executive functioning ( p 0.59). Heavy and ex-MDMA β users performed signi.cantly poorer on memory tasks than controls. In contrast, no evidence of memory impairment was observed in moderate MDMA users. No signi.cant effect of 5-HTTLPR or gender was observed.

While the use of MDMA in quantities that may be considered ëmoderateí is not associated with impaired memory functioning, heavy use of MDMA use may lead to long lasting memory impairments. No effect of 5-HTTLPR or gender on memory function or MDMA use was observed.
MDMA polydrug users show processspecific central executive impairments coupled with impaired social and emotional judgement processes
Authors: Reay J. L. , Hamilton C. , Kennedy D. O. , Scholey A. B.
Published: March 2006

In recent years working memory de.cits have been reported in users of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ecstasy). The current study aimed to assess the impact of MDMA use on three separate central executive processes (set shifting, inhibition and memory updating) and also on ëprefrontalí mediated social and emotional judgement processes. Fifteen polydrug ecstasy users and 15 polydrug non-ecstasy user controls completed a general drug use questionnaire, the Brixton Spatial Anticipation task (set shifting), Backward Digit Span procedure (memory updating), Inhibition of Return (inhibition), an emotional intelligence scale, the Tromso Social Intelligence Scale and the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX). Compared with MDMA-free polydrug controls, MDMA polydrug users showed impairments in set shifting and memory updating, and also in social and emotional judgement processes. The latter two de.cits remained signi.cant after controlling for other drug use. These data lend further support to the proposal that cognitive processes mediated by the prefrontal cortex may be impaired by recreational ecstasy use.
Self-reported ecstasy use: the impact of assessment method on dosage estimates in recreational users
Authors: Bedi Gillinder , Redman Jennifer
Published: March 2006

While research has associated recreational ecstasy use with negative outcomes, there remain a number of methodological limitations of human studies. The present study examined the impact of self-report methodology on lifetime ecstasy dosage figures using three estimation methods: a single question estimation, a context-based timeline method and a quantity–frequency method. We used a repeated measures design, testing 38 participants aged over 18 years who reported using ecstasy on ten or more occasions. Methodology was found to impact on estimations made, with the timeline method producing higher figures than the single question. While single question and timeline estimations were positively correlated, there was no relationship between either of these methods and the quantity–frequency method. The present findings are in keeping with indications in the alcohol and other drug literature that the use of contextual memory cues increases accuracy of recall as indicated by higher estimations, and that quantity–frequency methods may not adequately assess variability in lifetime drug-use patterns.
Problematic versus non-problematic ecstasy/MDMA use: the influence of drug usage patterns and pre-existing psychiatric factors
Authors: Soar K. , Turner J. J. D. , Parrott A. C.
Published: March 2006

Recreational ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine; MDMA) use has been increasingly associated with a number of psychiatric symptoms and psychological problems. However, previous studies assessing possible psychopathological effects have not identified whether users consider their ecstasy use ‘problematic’ or not. In addition, research has generally failed to address the potential role of premorbid psychiatric status. This study aimed to assess whether premorbid psychiatric history and/or patterns of ecstasy use would be associated with the degree of selfreported problems attributable to ecstasy. Problematic ecstasy users (n 53) who had reported problems attributable to their ecstasy use were compared with non-problematic ecstasy users (n 62), polydrug controls (n 62) and illegal drug-naive controls (n 111) on a recreational drug use questionnaire; a questionnaire, which ascertained personal and family psychiatric histories, and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Problematic ecstasy users exhibited significantly higher scores on a number of dimensions of the BSI compared to illegal drugnaive and/or polydrug controls. Problematic ecstasy users also exhibited significantly elevated scores on somatization, depression, anxiety and negative psychobiology compared to non-problematic ecstasy users. BSI scores for the non-problematic ecstasy users did not differ from polydrug or illegal drug-naive controls. Problematic ecstasy users reported significantly higher levels of ecstasy use, including lifetime consumption, average dosage and binge consumption compared to non-problematic ecstasy users. Additionally, a greater number of problematic ecstasy users reported personal and family psychiatric histories compared to controls and non-problematic ecstasy users. This study demonstrates two distinct ecstasy using groups: non-problematic ecstasy users who are not showing signs of psychopathology and problematic ecstasy users who are showing evidence of a range of symptoms. This data therefore partially supports the link between ecstasy dosage and negative psychological sequalae, but highlights the importance of the need to consider ecstasy-related attributions, pre-existing mental health status and vulnerability.
Support for Emergency Department Screening for Intimate Partner Violence Depends on Perceived Risk
Authors: Witting Michael D. , Furuno Jon P. , Hirshon Jon Mark , Krugman Scott D. , Périssé André R. S. , Limcangco Rhona
Published: March 2006

Emergency department (ED) screening for intimate partner violence (IPV) faces logistic difficulties and has uncertain efficacy. We surveyed 146 ED visitors and 108 ED care providers to compare their support for ED IPV screening in three hypothetical scenarios of varying IPV risk. Visitor support for screening was 5 times higher for the high-risk (86%) than for the low-risk (17%) scenario. Providers showed significantly more support for the need for ED IPV screening than visitors. Controlling for confounding by gender, race, experience with IPV, hospital, and marital status did not affect comparisons between groups. These responses indicate greater support for IPV screening in the ED for high-risk than for low-risk cases, particularly among visitors.
The Relationships Among Self-Blame, Psychological Distress, and Sexual Victimization
Authors: Breitenbecher Kimberly Hanson
Published: March 2006

The primary purpose of this investigation is to assess the factor structure of survivors’ attributions for previously experienced sexual assaults. Two hundred twenty-four female survivors of sexual assault responded to measures assessing attributions for past assaults, perceived avoidability of future assaults, frequency of past victimizations, and psychological distress. Factor analysis of the attributions measure suggested five underlying factors: perpetrator blame, characterological self-blame, situational factors and/or chance blame, behavioral self-blame, and societal blame. Results indicated that characterological self-blame, but not behavioral self-blame, was associated with negative outcomes, including increased psychological distress and increased frequency of past victimization. Although behavioral self-blame was associated with perceived avoidability of future assaults, it was not associated with lower psychological distress or reduced frequency of past victimizations.
Cross-Validation of the Risk Matrix 2000 Sexual and Violent Scales
Authors: Craig Leam A. , Beech Anthony , Browne Kevin D.
Published: March 2006

The predictive accuracy of the newly developed actuarial risk measures Risk Matrix 2000 Sexual/Violence (RMS, RMV) were cross validated and compared with two risk assessment measures (SVR-20 and Static-99) in a sample of sexual ( n= 85) and nonsex violent ( n= 46) offenders. The sexual offense reconviction rate for the sex offender group was 18% at 10 years follow-up, compared with 2% for the violent offenders. Survival analyses revealed the violent offenders were reconvicted at twice the rate compared to sexual offenders. The RMV significantly predicted violent recidivism in the sex and combined sex/violent offender groups. Although the RMS obtained marginal accuracy in predicting sexual reconviction in the sex offender group, none of the scales significantly predicted sexual reconviction. An item analysis revealed four factors not included in the risk scales that were significantly correlated with sexual and violent reconviction. Combining these factors with Static-99, RMV, and RMS increased the accuracy in predicting sexual reconviction.
A Lifetime of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Zink Therese , Jacobson C. Jeff , Pabst Stephanie , Regan Saundra , Fisher Bonnie S.
Published: March 2006

Little is known about how older women cope in long-term abusive intimate relationships. Understanding their coping strategies may give insight into how to further support their effective coping efforts. Interviews were conducted with 38 women older than age 55 years. Grounded theory analysis demonstrated that women who remained in their abusive relationships employed mainly cognitive (emotion-focused) strategies to find meaning in a situation that was perceived as unchangeable. By reappraising themselves, their spouses, and their relationships they refocused energies in certain roles, set limits with their abusers, and reached out to others (friends, family, and community organizations). Some women appeared to thrive, others merely survived, but all maintained the appearance of conjugal unity.
The Traumatic Impact of the September 11, 2001, Terrorist Attacks and the Potential Protection of Optimism
Authors: Ai Amy L. , Evans-Campbell Teresa , Santangelo Linda K. , Cascio Toni
Published: March 2006

This study examined the impact of the September 11 terrorist attacks on graduate and undergraduate students and the role of optimism in posttraumatic distress. A sample of 457 students who attended courses at three schools of social work (Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Washington) participated in the study. A quarter of them had a known person as an immediate victim of the attacks. Multivariate analysis showed that posttraumatic stress disorder symptom scores were positively related to personal loss and two types of previous trauma reactivated by the attacks, and levels of initial negative emotional response. Optimism and its interaction with personal loss were inversely associated with posttraumatic stress disorder symptom scores.
Telecommuting and the Contestability of Choice
Authors: Hylmö Annika
Published: March 2006

This study examined the legitimization of work location choices at a government agency in the early stages of implementing a voluntary telecommuting program. Legitimization is a complex socially constructed practice and process within a given organizational culture. Three broad legitimacy lenses (pragmatic, moral, and cognitive legitimacy) provided the framework for analyzing interviewed members’ discourse and described organizational messages. The analysis revealed a textured account of workplace justification that exposed significant challenges facing organizations attempting to implement new forms of work. The results show that although organizational messages focusing on employee wellbeing were largely supported and served to pragmatically legitimize employee choices, perceived degree of communicative interaction with stakeholders such as colleagues, clients, and family members served as claims that supported and contested various forms of legitimacy.
What's All The Buzz about?
Authors: Carl Walter J.
Published: March 2006

Although the influential role of word-of-mouth communication has been known for decades, a more recent phenomenon is the emergence of explicit organizational efforts to stimulate “buzz” (contagious talk about a brand, service, product, or idea). Buzz marketing organizations either pay people, or seek volunteers, to try new brands and then have agents “talk them up” among their social networks. This article contends that the practice of buzz marketing is usefully framed within the study of everyday communication, which has shown considerable growth in the field of communication studies over the past decade. This framework provides a reliable scientific source and basis on which to base further claims about the effectiveness and ethics of buzz marketing.
Freedom, Entrepreneurship and Economic Progress
Authors: Clark J.R. , Lee Dwight R.
Published: March 2006

All countries have people with an entrepreneurial spirit, but in far too many of them their talent and drive lie fallow. We argue that the most fertile soil for the seeds of entrepreneurship consists of the freedom and informed discipline that characterise market economies. In markets, freedom and informed discipline reinforce each other in ways that allow entrepreneurial failures to be tolerated through a process of restraint and knowledge creation, which converts them into engines of economic progress. Unfortunately, when economies become overly politicised, entrepreneurial ventures can become suppressed, not because of their failures, but because of their successes.
The Mating Strategies and Mate Preferences of Mail Order Brides
Authors: Minervini Bibiana Paez , McAndrew Francis T.
Published: March 2006

Two studies explored the mating strategies and mate preferences of mail order brides (MOBs) from three different countries. In the first study, 48 Colombian MOBs were compared with 44 single Colombian women who were not MOBs on a variety of attitudinal and demographic characteristics. Both groups also identified qualities that they wished to communicate about themselves to a prospective mate, qualities that they most desired in a mate, and qualities that they believed were most highly sought after by a prospective mate. In the second study, the expressed mate preferences of 60 MOBs from Colombia, Russia, and the Philippines were compared. With only minor cross-cultural variability, both studies confirmed the importance of characteristics such as commitment, ambition, and sexual fidelity that have been identified in previous studies of female mate choice. The results are discussed within a framework of evolutionary explanations for mate preferences in human females.
Is the Effect of National Wealth on Academic Achievement Mediated by Mass Media and Computers?
Authors: Barber Nigel
Published: March 2006

Could the educational advantage of wealthy countries be due to their mass media and computers? The 1999 Third International Mathematics and Science Study math and science scores and 2001 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study reading scores were used to investigate whether cross-national differences in academic achievement would be positively related to information exposure (newspapers, TV, computers). Math, science, and reading scores were positively correlated with national income and mass media. Regression analyses controlling for mass media exposure and educational quality found, however, that national income per capita was unrelated to math or science achievement. Educational advantages of wealthy countries are thus evidently mediated by their information technologies.
Race, Place, and Information Technology
Authors: Mossberger Karen , Tolbert Caroline J. , Gilbert Michele
Published: March 2006

Technology inequalities based on race and ethnicity present a paradox. African-Americans and Latinos have lower rates of access and skill, even controlling for socioeconomic factors. Yet African-Americans, and to a lesser extent, Latinos, also have more positive attitudes toward information technology than similarly situated whites. Because attitudes cannot explain lower rates of access and skill, we hypothesize that racial segregation and concentrated poverty have restricted opportunities to learn about and use technology. Using hierarchical linear modeling and multilevel data to control for both community-level socioeconomic and demographic characteristics and individual-level factors, we find that disparities among African-Americans are due to place effects rather than race. Ethnicity still exercises an independent influence for Latinos. These findings contribute to our understanding of the “digital divide,” and to research on the effects of concentrated poverty.
Who Supports Local Growth and Regional Planning to Deal with Its Consequences?
Authors: Wassmer Robert W. , Lascher Edward L.
Published: March 2006

Using 1989 and 2002 California survey data, this article offers a multivariate statistical analysis of factors that determine individual support for further growth in one's county as well as support for regional coordination of local land-use decisions. Women and residents of higher per capita income counties were more likely to believe that their county had reached its growth limit. In 2002 we also found that aging changes one's opinion on this issue. Additionally, people who believed “sprawl” to be a very important issue in their region in 2002 were more likely to favor a state mandate requiring the regional coordination of local land uses.
Attributes Associated with Success as Perceived by Managers in Three Levels of Multidepartment Management in Acute Care Hospitals
Authors: Williams John A. , DeMicco Frederick J. , Shafer E. L.
Published: March 2006

This research identified personal attributes for success as perceived by three distinct levels of management in contracted managed services within acute care hospitals. From the researcher-designed survey, factor analysis results demonstrated that the successful multi-department manager has vision; is creative; acts as a mentor; has the ability to develop new ideas; possesses honesty, ethical behavior, and dependability; has leadership abilities to develop subordinates; builds and leads teams; and delegates. ANOVA was employed to test whether the three levels of management responded differently to the survey questions concerning attributes necessary for success. Managers of five or more departments considered leadership attributes far more important to success than did managers of one to two departments. Managers of three to four departments placed significantly more importance on analyzing and admitting mistakes than did managers of one to two departments and managers of five or more departments.
Cross-Cultural Differences in Travel Information Acquisition among Tourists from Three Pacific-Rim Countries
Authors: Chen Joseph S.
Published: March 2006

To address the deficiencies of cross-cultural research in the realm of tourist information search behavior, this study investigates external information sources used by tourists of Pacific-rim countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Australia. The data drawn from a series of in-flight surveys of Japanese, South Korean, and Australian tourists to the United States between January and December 1997 were analyzed. Correspondence analyses were employed to compare tourists’ information research behavior among the tourists of the study countries. The resulting data reveal the differences that provide theoretical support for expanded research in the area of cross-cultural behavior and highlight the need for managers to consider possible differences in the development of promotional strategies when enticing potential Japanese, South Korean, and Australian tourists to the United States.
Training Techniques and Tools: Evidence from the Foodservice Industry
Authors: Harris Kimberly J. , Bonn Mark A.
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study is to investigate current issues with regard to the usage of training techniques, tools, and technology in the foodservice industry. In addition to this, the study seeks to gain an understanding of strengths and weaknesses associated with current training techniques, tools, program implementations, and solutions to training problems. Also investigated were recommendations for improved training by those who are involved in or directly conduct training as a profession. Specifically, this study examines issues related to diversity in the workforce by surveying trainers, training directors, human resource directors, and vice presidents in the foodservice industry. The study’s results suggest that current training programs continue to be traditional in format and lack the diversity needed to improve the quality of communication and overall effectiveness.
Customer Service Behavior and Attitudes among Hotel Managers: A Look at Perceived Support Functions, Standards for Service, and Service Process Outcomes
Authors: Susskind Alex M. , Borchgrevink Carl P. , Brymer Robert A. , Kacmar K. Michele
Published: March 2006

A model of customer service behavior and outcomes was proposed and tested among managerial-supervisory personnel (N = 250) from 11 hotel properties within six large national and international hotel companies. Confirmatory factor analyses yielded a reliable approach to examine elements of customer service and outcomes in a service-based setting. Specifically, organizational support was represented by two independent dimensions of coworker support and supervisory support. A dimension of standards for service was presented and validated as a central mediating factor in the perception of service processes, along with customer (guest) orientation, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover intentions as outcome measures in a path model of customer service behavior.
The Final Opportunity: The Effectiveness of a Customer Relations Call Center in Recovering Hotel Guests
Authors: Mount Daniel J. , Mattila Anna
Published: March 2006

This exploratory study examined the impact of call centers on the processes of handling customer complaints. The main objective was to examine how this “final opportunity” might influence guest return intentions and perceptions of the hotel chain. The results of a phone survey suggest that positive customer responses to call center interactions might depend on the complaint responses and the perceived resolution of complaints. Full reimbursement and partial compensation had a significant positive impact on the intent to return and on chain image measures. Moreover, referral associations such as the chain studied here might need to pay careful attention to the way in which lack of ability to fix the problem is communicated to the customer. Finally, in the minds of customers, unresolved complaints are easily equated with a failure in service recovery. These double failures to reestablish the company’s reliability tend to have a negative impact on the company’s image and customer behaviors.
Meeting Planners’ Perceptions of Relationship Quality
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , Hiemstra Stephen J.
Published: March 2006

Hotel salespeople involved in the marketing of meeting facilities often negotiate with meeting planners. In this situation, relationship quality between the salesperson and the meeting planner is important in assessing the possibility of a long-term relationship. The purpose of this study is to identify meeting planners’ perceptions of their relationship with hotel salespeople during the meeting planning negotiations. The study offers a research model of relationship quality, and tests this model empirically using a quantitative method based on a survey of meeting planners’ perceptions. Major hypotheses are tested with 300 meeting planners (a 29.2% response rate). The findings indicate that salespersons’ expertise, power, and willingness play important roles in determining a good quality of relationship perception in meeting planners’ minds. The findings also indicate that a good quality relationship is a predictor of establishing an intention of a long-term relationship. In addition, salespersons’ rapid turnover is found to be a problem in building good relationship quality.
Determining a Firm’s Linear Market Position: In Search of an Effective Methodology
Authors: Reich Allen Z.
Published: March 2006

As the environment has become more dynamic, management has been forced to compete at consistently higher levels. One area where management and researchers have apparently not maximized their intellectual capital is on the topic of positioning. Positioning is determining how the firm wants to be viewed relative to major competitors. The primary focus of existing efforts on positioning has been the use of positioning/perceptual maps to determine a firm’s multiattribute/multidimensional position. Although these maps do provide quality data, they ignore the fact that consumers also holistically rank competing firms on a linear or hierarchical continuum. The objectives of this article include proposing a typology and a methodology for measuring a firm’s linear market position. In addition, the author desires to begin a dialogue that would lead to a valid, reliable, and commonly used means of measuring a firm’s position.
The Relationship between Restaurant Service Quality and Consumer Loyalty among the Elderly
Authors: Fu Yao-Yi , Parks Sara C.
Published: March 2006

In the United States, the number of elderly is increasing much faster than the overall population of the country. Although this growth presents the restaurant industry with new opportunities, there is evidence that two of three senior patrons express dissatisfaction with service because of mistreatment by restaurant employees. No quantitative research has addressed the influence of service quality on older diners’ behavioral intentions. This study statistically analyzed the relationship between service quality dimensions and restaurant loyalty among elderly customers. An on-site survey was conducted at two family-style restaurants using the SERVQUAL instrument. The major findings were that friendly service and individual attention were more important factors than tangible aspects of service in influencing elderly customers’ behavioral intentions. The results of this study will help restaurant operators improve the specific service quality dimensions that enhance return business.
Analysis of Return on Hotel Investment: A Comparison of Commercial Hotel Companies and Casino Hotel Companies
Authors: Jang SooCheong (Shawn) , Yu Larry
Published: March 2006

This study examines the performance of commercial hotels and casino hotels in the United States from 1994 to 1998. It analyzes the relationship between hotel performance and type of hotel company. Using financial data from the hotel and casino section of the Value Line Data File, independent sample t tests and ANCOVAs were used for analysis. The performance of commercial hotel companies and casino hotel companies, including operational and capital return components, is examined and analyzed. The findings reveal that type of hotel company has no relationship with performance and that casino hotel companies show higher effectiveness in using assets to generate revenue. It is also evidenced that debt ratio has a close relationship with the return from operations, particularly from commercial hotel operations.
The Impact of Participation in Activities while on Vacation on Seniors' Psychological Well-Being: A Path Model Application
Authors: Wei Sherrie , Milman Ady
Published: March 2006

This article extends earlier research regarding the relationships between senior travelers' participation in activities while on vacation, their overall satisfaction with their travel experiences, and their psychological well-being. A path model was developed to depict the direct and indirect relationships between these variables by using a sample of senior tourists traveling on North American escorted tour itineraries. Whereas the direct effect accounted for 98% of the relationships between the senior tourists'levels of participation in activities and their psychological well-being, the indirect effect was negligible. The study concluded that senior tourists'activity levels were significantly related to their psychological well-being, but their satisfaction with the tours was not.
A Review of Theoretical Debates on the Measurement of Service Quality: Implications for Hospitality Research
Authors: Ekinci Yuksel
Published: March 2006

The complexity of the factors defining service quality has led to the development of multidimensional models, which are divided into two schools of thought: the North American and the Nordic European. The aim of this article is twofold. First, it reviews some of the key is - sues raised in relation to the theoretical formations of these two schools of thought. Second, it outlines further research areas in the hospitality industry.
The Interactive Effect of Superior-Subordinate Relationship and Budget Participation on Managerial Performance in the Hotel Industry: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Mia Lokman , Patiar Anoop
Published: March 2006

The focus of this study was to investigate the association of managerial performance with the interactive effect of superior-subordinate relationship (SSR) and participation in budgeting in the hotel industry. The participants in the study were 52 department managers working in large and luxury hotels in Australia. Mailed questionnaires were used to collect the data. Managerial performance was assessed following Mahoney et al., who conceptualized the variable in terms of overall performance and using eight subdimensions of performance. Unlike previous studies, which focused only on the overall dimension of managerial performance, this study tested its model with respect to both the overall and the different subdimensions of managerial performance. The results reveal that the interactive effect of department managers'SSR and their participation in budgeting is positively associated with the overall and four of the eight subdimensions of their performance. The implications of the results are discussed in the article.
Hotel Revenue Management With Group Discount Room Rates
Authors: Schwartz Zvi , Cohen Eli
Published: March 2006

The question of how large a discount a hotel can offer to a group while still maintaining its contribution margin cannot be addressed by the well-known discount grid model for hotel room rates. This article outlines a theoretical framework and suggests a set of equations for use by hotel executives to evaluate the discount rate the hotel offers to groups wishing to stay in the hotel. The model addresses numerous realistic factors such as sold-out situations, multiple market segments (room rates), reserved room blocks, type of group contract, group no-shows, overbooking, and income from other group (and group guest) activities.
Religious Identity And Residents’ Attitudes Toward Heritage Tourism Development: The Case Of Nazareth
Authors: Uriely Natan , Israeli Aviad , Reichel Arie
Published: March 2006

The study examines the impact of religious affiliation on residents’ attitudes toward tourism development and economic growth that were anticipated in the city of Nazareth prior to the year 2000 celebrations. The attitudes of Christian and Muslim Arab residents of Nazareth and the Galilee area were investigated regarding the economic role of tourism in Nazareth, the celebrations planned for the year 2000, and the existing problems that might affect these celebrations. The findings suggest that identification with the heritage promoted for tourism should be considered as a determinant of residents’ attitudes toward heritage tourism development.