bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Fabrication, Sterilization and Mediators - Blood Compatibility of Polyurethanes
Authors: Sunny M.C. , Sharma Chandra P.
Published: January 2008

The possible changes in the surface and physical properties of polyether urethane urea (PEUU) implants, including their interaction with blood, due to the different preparation methods, sterilization techniques and long term storage in different environmental conditions have been investigated by conducting the studies of mechanical properties, contact angle, platelet adhesion and protein adsorption. Considerable variations in the mechanical properties have been observed for the PEUU grafts stored in different conditions. Changes in platelet adhesion and albumin adsorption have also been observed in the case of samples that underwent different sterilization methods. The effect of mediators like bromelain, an enzyme present in pineapple juice, on albumin adsorption and platelet adhesion on PEUU surfaces have been investigated. It seems the presence of pineapple juice increases the adsorption of albumin and reduces the adhesion of platelets on PEUU surfaces.
A New Biodegradable Elastin-Fibrin Material; Its Use in Urological, Digestive and Cardiovascular Surgery
Authors: Rabaud M. , Elie J.Y. , Lefebvre F. , Ducassou D. , Mettetal P. , Le Guillou M. , Collet D. , Périssat J. , Fradin D. , Fontan F.
Published: January 2008

A new original artificial connective matrix mainly made of elastin and fibrin-like product is used to reinforce damaged tissues and to close and restore a loss of substance in several domains of surgery: all sites in the digestive system and urinary tract; besides, it can substitute for the pericardium in iterative heart operations. In all cases, the original tissue is restored ad integrum while the biodegradable material disappears completely, without any complications.
Effect of Pretreatment with Epoxy Compounds on the Mechanical Properties of Bovine Pericardial Bioprosthetic Materials
Authors: Tingfei Xi  , Fuying Liu  , Baoshu Xi
Published: January 2008

Early failures of bovine pericardial heart valves are due to leaflet perforation, tearing and calcification. Since glutaraldehyde fixation has been known to produce marked changes in leaflet mechanics and has been linked to development of calcification, bovine pericardium fixed with the four hydrophilic )oxy formulations and their mechanical properties are studied in this paper. 'e measured the thicknesses, shrinkage temperatures, stress relaxations and press-strain curves of bovine pericardiums after different treatments with (1) on-treatment (fresh), (2) glutaraldehyde (GA), (3) epoxy compounds followed by e posttreatment with GA (EP 1#, EP 2#), and (4) epoxy compounds (EP 3# id EP 4#). Results of this study showed that the hydrophilic epoxy compounds e good crosslinking agents. There are no significant differences of shrinkage mperature and ultimate tensile stress among all tissue samples pretreated th GA, EP 1# and EP 2#. However, the stress relaxations of tissue-samples etreated with epoxy compounds followed by the posttreatment with GA (EP and EP 2#) are significantly slower than that pretreated with GA, and the ains at fracture of EP 1# and EP 2# are also significantly larger than that of GA or epoxy compounds. These facts show that the bovine pericardium pretreated with the epoxy compound followed by the posttreatment with GA (EP 1# and EP 2#) possesses greater tenacity and potential durability in dynamic stress.
Biostability of a Non-Ether Polyurethane
Authors: Capone Christopher D.
Published: January 2008

A new type of medical grade polyurethane elastomer, based upon an ether-free macroglycol, has been developed by VASCOR, Inc. Prior research conducted by others has indicated that an ether-free urethane should be inherently immune to biodegradation and environmental stress cracking. Specimens of the experimental polyurethane, along with positive and negative control materials, were formed into tubing, mounted on mandrels, and implanted in rabbits. After being exposed to the in vivo environment for six months, the specimens were explanted and examined with scanning electron microscopy. No indication of degradation was observed in the experimental polymer or negative control specimens, whereas severe microcracking was seen in most of the positive control specimens.
Modern Wound Dressings: A Systematic Approach to Wound Healing
Authors: Szycher Michael , Lee Steven James
Published: January 2008

The advent of modern wound care management constitutes one of the most innovative applications of medical device technology. The foundation for wound care recent advances has been built upon the developments achieved in polymer technology over the last three decades. New and unique materials have been engineered to provide properties with significant technical and clinical benefits.

These new wound care products were made possible by the convergence of three interrelated disciplines: (1) more complete understanding of the underlying principles of dermal wound healing processes, (2) new elastomeric polymers capable of being fabricated into protective dressings, and (3) advances in breathable adhesive technology.

The following discussion provides a critical review of the current status of technology and the worldwide opportunities for improved wound management products. Particular attention is focused on the clinical applications of the newer, breathable dressing products, which approximate a temporary synthetic artificial skin.
Fibrin Sealant Adhesive Systems: A Review of Their Chemistry, Material Properties and Clinical Applications
Authors: Sierra David H.
Published: January 2008

Fibrin sealants (FS) are the most successful tissue adhesives to date. They have many advantages over adhesive technologies such as cyanoacrylates and marine adhesives in terms of biocompatibility, biodegradation and hemostasis. There are several commercial products in Europe but none in the United States due to the current regulatory stance against pooled plasma blood products. Blood banks and interested investigators have implemented single-and patient autologous-donor production methods with some success. This article will review the history of FS research and development and describe the chemistry of fibrin(ogen) and the production of commercial and research products. Fibrin sealant and purified fibrin characterization is compared and contrasted. The material and adhesive properties are described, and a survey of the clinical applications in which FS has been used is included as well.
Polyethylene-Starch Extrudates as Erodible Carriers for Bioactive Materials: I. Erodibility and in vitro Dye Release Studies
Authors: Krishnan Padmanaban G. , Julson James L. , Robison Deborah J. , Pathak Yashnvant V.
Published: January 2008

The objective of the present investigation is to develop and evaluate polyethylene-starch based carriers for sustaining the release of bioactive materials. Polyethylene-starch carriers were prepared by incorporating various amounts of corn starch 0, 40, 80, and 100% in polyethylene beads with and without dye. Acid orange dye was incorporated (1%) to study release patterns and the effect of starch (%) on release. The granulated mixtures were extruded to form uniform dispersions of starch and polyethylene throughout the extrudate. The extrudates obtained were studied for SEM surface characterization before, during, and after release studies to study the erosion process. In the case of 100% starch, 80% of the matrix was eroded in 5 weeks, while with 40% and 80% starch, erosion was less than 20%. The dye release studies showed that release could be sustained well over 12 weeks, depending on the starch (%) incorporated. The erosion process was studied using scanning electron microscopic techniques, which showed gradual erosion of starch particles, leaving a polyethylene skeleton. These materials show promising potential for use as carriers for bioactive materials.
Evaluation of Various Reinforcements for Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers
Authors: Andreopoulos A.G. , Evangelatou M.
Published: January 2008

Various reinforcements have been evaluated according to their effect on the mechanical properties of a silicone elastomer used for the preparation of maxillofacial prosthetic compositions. Emphasis was given to silica reinforcing fillers since fibrillar reinforcements [e.g., short aramid, glass or high modulus polyethylene (UHMPE)] seemed not to improve mechanical properties. An optimal behaviour at filler concentration 35% was determined. As a measure of the crosslinking density, the swelling of specimens immersed in various solvents, at 25°C, was also investigated.
In vitro Investigation of Blood Compatibility of Ti with Oxide Layers of Rutile Structure
Authors: Huang Nan  , Chen Yuan-Ru , Luo Jia-Ming , Yi Jin  , Lu Rong  , Xiao Jing  , Xue Zhen-Nan , Liu Xiang-Huai
Published: January 2008

Structure characteristics of titanium oxide layer on titanium matrix were investigated by Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS), Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) and X-ray diffraction. It has been identified that the titanium oxide layers had rutile structure. The blood compatibility of the titanium oxide layers of different thickness was studied by blood clotting time measurement. It was shown that as the thickness of the titanium oxide layers increased, blood compatibility of these layers was obviously improved.
Adaptive Transparent Film Dressings
Authors: Dabi Shmuel , Haddock Teresa , Hill Arthur S.
Published: January 2008

Transparent film dressings have many of the attributes of the ideal wound dressing. However, currently available film dressings are deficient in their ability to handle varying levels of wound exudate. The permeability of polymeric films to water vapor is discussed and techniques are described to produce films in which the moisture vapor permeability is a function of the moisture in the environment. Illustrations are provided showing the variation of permeability with relative humidity and water contact. The unique properties of coextruded films are illustrated and the responsiveness of such a film dressing to varying conditions at the wound are discussed.
In vitro Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Efficacy and Biocompatibility of a Silver-Coated Central Venous Catheter
Authors: Jansen B. , Rinck M. , Wolbring P. , Strohmeier A. , Jahns T.
Published: January 2008

Central venous catheter infection presents an important problem in modern medicine, leading sometimes to a life-threatening situation for the patient as well as contributing to prolonged hospital stay and to an increase in costs. We have evaluated the in vitro biocompatibility and antimicrobial activity of a silver-coated polyurethane catheter designed for use as a colonization. resistant, antiinfective catheter. Due to a comparatively low silver release, the catheter performed well in cell toxicity and blood compatibility tests as well as in acute toxicity tests done with mice. The antimicrobial activity was tested in stationary and dynamic bacterial adherence experiments using S epidermidis, E. coli and R aeruginosa as test strains. The silver-coated polyurethane catheter showed good ability to prevent microbial colonization of the catheter surface. Currently a clinical trial of the silver-coated catheter is under investigation.
Latino Communities in the United States: Place-Making in the Pre-World War II, Postwar, and Contemporary City
Authors: Irazábal Clara , Farhat Ramzi
Published: January 2008

Scholarship on Latino communities in the United States has yet to catch up with the rapid growth of this ethnic population in the country. Understanding the Latino urban experience and developing plans to better respond to both the needs of Latino communities and their integration within society is not only relevant, but also urgently necessary. Using the city of Los Angeles as a main lens, in addition to a general look at the urban Southwest, we contribute to the scholarship on the subject with a review of literature on Latino communities. We structure the review as an assessment of the various challenges and opportunities for urban Latinos in the pre-war, postwar, and contemporary city. Focusing on space, culture, economy, and governance, we chart the various roles both the private and public sectors play in meeting these challenges. Our reading of the literature shows that particular government actions in the economic and governance domains in the past had positive impacts on Latino integration, and we call for a similar effort today in addressing contemporary challenges. We conclude by suggesting that future planning scholarship on Latino communities engage the wider urban studies literature, focus on emerging forms of urbanization, and call on planners to sustain increased academic and practical interest in the topic.
An Examination for Efficient Applicability of the Land Readjustment Method at the International Context
Authors: Turk Sevkiye Sence
Published: January 2008

Land readjustment (LR) is an important technique for urban land development in both developed and developing countries. This technique is used for both development of new areas and reorganization of structured areas in urban regions. The efficient application of LR may provide a planned urban development, production of a serviced urban plot, a supply of technical infrastructure and service areas for public use, a significant ease in the solution of ownership problems, the supply of subdivisions with good standards, the possibility of readjustment of land ownership and plot borders, and other benefits. However, the efficient application of LR is contingent on certain basic conditions. In this article, the basic conditions are defined and examined for the successful and efficient application of the LR method within the frame of international literature. The provision of benefits expected from LR rests on the availability of LR models that include the foregoing basic conditions.
Drape Analysis using Imaging Techniques
Authors: Robson Dean , Long Christina C.
Published: January 2008

Many textile properties have traditionally been assessed using subjective methods dependent upon one or more of the human senses. It is generally accepted that these methods can be unreliable, and the development of more reliable and consistent objective measurement systems is a key objective for textile scientists.

In this study, the application of an imaging system to the detailed objective measurement of the drape profiles of a range of wool fabrics, captured from a traditional drape tester, is investigated. Image processing and analysis software techniques are successfully implemented to enable, by the measurement of a number of key parameters, a full and automatic characterisation of the drape profiles reflecting visual impression. Drape coefficient values gathered via the instrumental technique correlate strongly with those established using the traditional cut and weigh approach. Strong parameter relationships are identified, and it is established that a three parameter combination of drape coefficient, number of nodes and variation in node severity would be required to enable good discrimination between the drape profiles of the fabric range under study.
Clothes Hangers: From Business Tool to Consumer Convenience, 1852-1936
Authors: Farrell-Beck Jane , Rhodes-Murphy Alyson , Richardson Meredith I.
Published: January 2008

Clothes hangers came into use in the United States in the late nineteenth century as a tool for apparel businesses to use in display, inventory management, and promotion of apparel. Hangers and related fixtures expedited dramatic changes in retail practices-including the trend toward self-service and detailed inventory records. Dry cleaners also utilized hangers as they developed their services in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Owners and employees of such businesses patented many of the types of hangers in use to the present day. Business adopters of hangers helped to persuade consumers to switch from folded to hanging storage by the 1920s. This exemplified American enthusiasm for systematic management of their homes and represented a "lifestyle" change inaugurated by retailers.
Personal Values, Beliefs, Knowledge, and Attitudes Relating to Intentions to Purchase Apparel from Socially Responsible Businesses
Authors: Dickson Marsha A.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of the study was to provide initial understanding of female consumers' decisions to purchase from socially responsible apparel businesses, operationally defined as the U.S. Department of Labor's Trendsetters. The relationships between three major groupings of variables were explored including the following: (a) consumers' personal values, beliefs, and knowledge, (b) attitudes relating to socially responsible apparel business practices, as well as product-specific attitudes, and (c) intentions to purchase apparel from socially responsible businesses. For the 219 women surveyed, only product-specific attitudes were related to intentions to purchase from socially responsible apparel businesses. However, greater knowledge and concern about issues in the apparel industry, as well as beliefs about the U.S. apparel industry and perceived effectiveness, were related to greater support for socially responsible businesses. Suspicion about business practices intended to solve apparel industry problems was related to beliefs about foreign apparel businesses and societal values. Implications for government and industry initiatives involving consumers in the elimination of sweatshops are discussed.
Perceptions of Retail Supervisors' Ethical Behavior and Front-line Managers' Organizational Commitment
Authors: Mize Kelly J. , Stanforth Nancy , Johnson Christine
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between front-line managers' perceptions of their supervisors' ethical behavior and front-line managers' organizational commitment, and the relationship between front-line managers' perceptions of their supervisors' view of ethical dilemmas, front-line managers' own view of ethical dilemmas and perceptions of their supervisors' ethical behavior. Respondents were 99 front-line managers working in a large suburban mall. Multiple regression was used for data analysis. Results revealed a significant relationship between the front-line managers' perceptions of their supervisor's ethical behavior and the front-line managers' organizational commitment. Other relationships were not found to be significant. The results suggest that front line managers' perceptions of their supervisors' ethical behavior may be influential in subordinates' organizational commitment. Those supervisors perceived as less ethical may experience less organizational commitment from subordinates.
Benefit Segmentation of Catalog Shoppers Among Professionals
Authors: Kim Youn-Kyung , Lee Jinkook
Published: January 2008

A nationwide sample of professionals who use retail catalogs (n = 493) was segmented based on benefits sought. Using a cluster analysis, three distinct segments of catalog users were identified: Convenience Seekers, Product Seekers, and Inactive Shoppers. Full profiles of these benefit segments were developed based on personal (demographics and lifestyle) and situational (purchase for self vs. for others; gifts vs. non-gifts) variables. Convenience Seekers, who tended to use catalogs out of convenience, were more likely to be married professionals with highest levels of self-confidence and fashion-consciousness and to use clothing catalogs most frequently for both themselves and others. Product Seekers, who exhibited interest in product-related benefits (e.g., quality, variety, price, and ease of return), tended to be married professionals and most price-conscious. Inactive Shoppers, displaying the lowest importance level for all identified benefits, tended to be married male professionals with lowest levels of fashion-consciousness and self confidence and to use catalogs least frequently. Strategic implications for catalog retailers were drawn from the findings.
Female Business Owners In Apparel Manufacturing: An Integrative Perspective
Authors: Horridge Patricia E. , Craig Jane S.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate Brush's (1992) integrative perspective of female business owners. The sample included 22 women apparel-manufacturing owners purposively chosen to participate in on-site interviews. A 36-item interview schedule was used to assess business owners' current business practices, provide information about their family, and to characterize their career as a business owner in apparel manufacturing. A Windows version of NUD*IST 4 was used to analyze the data. These women perceived being their own boss as a benefit and measured success in non-economic terms. Motives for business creation were personal fulfillment and professional achievement. They expressed regret about ownership if spouses were reported as unsupportive or if children were in the home. Brush's (1992) integrative perspective was validated, in part. These women perceived themselves in a network of work and family relationships.
Men's Head and Facial Hair in the Far West: 1873 to 1899
Authors: Pedersen Elaine L.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to explore adopted facial and head hair styles of nineteenth century men in the far west from 1873 to 1899. A content analysis of historical photographs was completed The sample of 571 politicians was selected because legislative photographs were documented. Primary and secondary sources were analyzed to investigate factors that may have influenced the hair styles, including the question of individual or group behavior. Findings were not consistent with the literature. Differences were discerned in facial and head hair styles among the decades. During the decade known for nonconformity greater variation was found, particularly among facial hair styles. Whereas personal independence appears to have influenced hair style choices somewhat, political independence did not.
Trousers Developed from the ASTM D5586 and the Canada Standard Sizing for Women's Apparel
Authors: Campbell Lorna D. , Horne Lena
Published: January 2008

A theory of product performance and consumer satisfaction was applied to examine the instrumental and expressive outcomes associated with prototype trousers developed from the Canada Standard Sizing (CSS) size code M18 and the ASTM D5586 size code MPl6. Instrumental outcomes are positive or negative judgments of a product based on consumers' reactions to the physical aspects of a product. Expressive outcomes refer to positive or negative judgments of a product based on consumers' personal or emotional reactions to a product. A convenience sample of 20 women aged 56 to 89 years participated in a two-week wear test followed by face-to-face interviews. The results showed that (a) the participants' measurements were similar to the ASTM MP16 measurements; (b) although participants were satisfied with the ASTM prototype trouser, there was no significant difference in overall satisfaction; (c) participants tended to associate both prototype trousers with instrumental outcomes.
Toward a Contextual Social Psychology of Clothing: A Synthesis of Symbolic Interactionist and Cognitive Theoretical Perspectives
Authors: Kaiser Susan B.
Published: January 2008

This paper proposes an interdisciplinary, conceptual framework for the study of clothing behavior, based upon a synthesis of major concepts from cognitive social psychology and symbolic interactionism. Cognitive theorists regard clothes as cues that may be selected by perceivers to understand observed persons. A symbolic interactionist approach places more emphasis on the role of dress in social communication, with consideration for both wearers' and perceivers' viewpoints. The two conceptual approaches are not mutually exclusive, and they share common concerns for perceivers' evaluations of other persons and situations. A contextual social-psychological study of clothing would allow researchers, using multi-methodological approaches, to test hypotheses that consider social and cognitive dimensions of dress in interpersonal situations.
Attitudes, Practices, and Preferences of Pesticide Users Toward Protective Apparel
Authors: DeJonge Jacquelyn Orlando , Vredevoogd Janet , Sweeney Henry Maureen
Published: January 2008

As a contribution to advancing the adoption of protective apparel, this study examines the relationship between attitudes and behavior of farmers who use pesticides and their preference in protective apparel. A mailed questionnaire to certified pesticide users provided the data for analysis. Rogers and Shoemaker's attributes of innovation (relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability) provided the framework for both attitudinal and behavioral question development. Attitude toward protection was found to be the greatest influence in behavior. Because fruit growers held the highest beliefs in protection and also took more action for protection, they would be most likely to be receptive to new ideas in pesticide protection. Education and age variables were influenced by the fact the majority of fruit growers fell into the older and less educated groups. Garments preferred recommended by all respondents were the traditional shirt, pants, and hat. Comfort was an important value influencing garment preference of all except fruit growers.
Cognitive Strategies to Describe Warm and Cool Appearances
Authors: DeLong Marilyn Revell , Cerny Catherine
Published: January 2008

Analysis of apparel was considered from the viewpoint of how consumers conceptualized experiences with the product. The objective was to determine where commonalities occurred in how 100 female subjects described a warm or cool appearance. Subjects responded to two pairs of openended questions and a nine-point scale of 41 word pairs. A paired t-test was used to compare differences in response to the word pairs for a warm and cool context. Differences significant at .001 occurred for 36 of the 41 word pairs and at 01 for 2 word pairs. Subjects also differentiated between a warm or cool appearance by using a limited number of common categories in open responses and well-defined, parallel response patterns.
Efficacy of Four Cleaning Solutions in Removing Smoke Damage From Apparel Fabrics
Authors: McLellan Cloud Rinn , Bondurant Lynn A. , Keith Nancy K.
Published: January 2008

A study was conducted to determine the efficacy of selected cleaning solutions in removing visible and odorous smoke damage from dress-weight apparel fabrics of 100% polyester, 65/35% polyester/cotton, 50/50% polyester/cotton, and 100% cotton. The cleaning solutions tested involved the use of a powder detergent, a liquid detergent, a powder detergent combined with liquid bleach, and a dry-cleaning solution.

The use of liquid detergent or powder detergent combined with chlorine bleach successfully removed visible and odorous smoke damage from the fabrics tested. Powder detergent and dry cleaning were the least effective in removing visible smoke damage but successfully removed odor damage. The results suggested home methods of smoke damage removal may be useful for consumers for which other methods are ineffective or unavailable.
Retail Buyers of Apparel and Appliances: A Comparison
Authors: Francis Sally K , Brown Daniel J.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine relationships among selected variables from a model of industrial buying behavior in the study of retail buying and to compare apparel and appliance buyers. One hundred-twenty apparel buyers and 126 appliance buyers responded to a mailed questionnaire. A factor analysis generated factors for Product Fashionability, Vendor, Negotiations, Supply, and Brand Name. Further analyses revealed that both groups of buyers relied on personal selling as an information source and were loyal to past vendors. Apparel purchases were characterized as "new task," appliance purchases as "routine." Apparel buyers emphasized quality, good delivery, styling, steady source of supply, and fair prices in making purchases; appliance buyers emphasized quality, steady source of supply, fair prices, good delivery, and brand. The results of this study seem to indicate that apparel buyers need awareness of and skill in purchase negotiations. Retail buyers need to read additional sources of information and should be encouraged to make greater use of trade publications. Educators who provide training and employers in the retail industry should recognize the differences in buying tasks depending on the line of merchandise. Finally, variables from a model of industrial buying behavior were found to be useful for further study of retail buying behavior.
Characteristics of Liquid Ammonia Treated and Sodium Hydroxide Mercerized High Wet Modulus Rayon and Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Cheek Lenore , Ladisch Christine M.
Published: January 2008

Dyeing characteristics of Avril IHWM Rayon, Avril III HWM rayon and of cotton fabrics were compared. Although there was little difference in the quantity of dye exhausted onto fabrics of the three fibers, the Avril I fabrics appeared to be darker than the Avril III or cotton fabrics, while the fabrics of Avril III were deeper in shade than the cotton fabrics. The higher visual color yield of the HWM rayon fabrics was attributed to differences in the morphological structures of the fibers. Mercerization and liquid ammonia treatment were shown to improve the dyeability of all three fibers. While mercerization had adverse effects on performance characteristics such as dry and wet breaking strength, tear strength, and flex abrasion resistance of HWM rayon fabrics, liquid ammonia treatment did not degrade these fabrics. Cotton fabric properties were improved by application of both treatments. Implications of the study are that HWM rayon fabrics can be safely treated with liquid ammonia but that mercerization is not an appropriate treatment for such fabrics.
Perceived Importance of Selected Skills to a . Group of Discount Store Buyers
Authors: Kean Rita C.
Published: January 2008

Attention towards continuing professional development has been cited as a means of improving motivation and performance of retail store buyers. This study assessed the perceived importance of selected skills to a group of discount store buyers, using education, experience and store volume as variables. Opportunities for skill development by their employers were also examined.

Fifty-seven buyers (41 %) from discount chain stores within the United States responded to a mailed questionnaire. Most were 3 1 to 45 years old, had attended college, had seven to fifteen years experience, and were employed by retail organizations whose sales volume was between $1,000,000.00 and $500,000,000.00.

Results indicated even though the discount store buyers felt the use and development of selected skills highly important, minimal opportunity existed within the retail organization for skill development. Recommendations were made to stores to implement more training opportunities in order to provide development of skills the buyers deemed important.
A Multivariate Method of Classif in Bod Form Variation for Sizing Women's Apparel
Authors: Salusso-Deonier Carol J. , DeLong Marilyn R. , Martin Frank B. , Krohn Karl R.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to develop a multivariate method for structuring a sizing system for women's apparel. The I 977 suvey of U.S. Army women was the data base. The sample was limited to 1217 subjects who were White or Black and 17-3 5 years old. The methodology underlying PS 42-70, the current U.S. sizing standard, was studied relative to recent changes in body form classification, apparel production, and merchandising which support development of multivariate methodology. Examination of PS 42-70 as a classification system for the sample showed inadequate proportioning of overall body dimensions, particularlyshoulder breadth and body segment lengths. The experimental method used components 1 and 2 to summarize body form variation as the relationship between body thickness and length. A Principal Component Sizing System (PCSS) was constructed by partitioning the distribution of principal components 1 by 2 into 26 sizes. A per subject comparison of "goodness of fit" of PS 42-70 and PCSS showed PCSS consistently closer to subjecfs' overall body proportions than PS 42-70. The multivariate relationship between body thickness and length is fundamental to body form and size variation. Our results indicate that PCSS better represents that relationship for the sample studied.
Clothing and Personal Equipment Used by Fruit Growers and Workers When Handling Pesticides
Authors: Keeble Vera B. , Norton Marjorie J. T. , Drake Charles R.
Published: January 2008

Fruit growers and workers were surveyed to determine the types of protective clothing and equipment they would wear while mixing and applying Parathion and Captan; their knowledge of pesticide hazard; and the relationships between knowledge of hazard, demographic data, and clothing and equipment choices. The data indicate that the growers and workers often do not wear recommended clothing and equipment when handling pesticides. The majority of the sample would normally wear work shirts and pants for mixing and spraying either pesticide. Nearly 50 percent of the respondents would wear waterproof gloves and respirators when handling Parathion. A statistically significant relationship was found between respondents' knowledge of the relative hazard of Parathion and the use of protective clothing. Growers and workers rating Parathion as "very hazardous" would use more protective clothing and equipment than would those giving Parathion a lower rating. The results suggest that agencies with major responsibilities for training and advising growers and workers on pesticide safety should give greater emphasis to the protective gear needed for pesticides with varying toxicities.
The Use of a Microcomputer to Teach Color Concepts: Effectiveness and Relationship Between Attitudes and Learning Styles
Authors: Offerjost Janet L. , Terry Lucille M.
Published: January 2008

The purposes of this project were to develop a microcomputer-assisted instruction (MCAI) lesson on color concepts, evaluate it's effectiveness, and determine whether relationships existed between achievement and attitudes or preferred learning styles. Students enrolled in an introductory college level course in design and clothing construction completed the MCAI lesson, a pre- and post-test, an Attitude Measure, and a Learning Style Preference Inventory. Results indicated that the MCAI lesson was effective in increasing the knowledge of students about the specific color concepts included in the lesson. Furthermore, a relationship existed between achievement and student attitudes. The attitude subset which contributed to predicting the posttest score was clarity of the lesson. High correlations were also found between clarity and two other subsets: (1) instructional value, and (2) freedom and responsibility felt. Generally the more positive the attitude, the higher the posttest score was. No significant relationship was found between achievement and preferences for particular learning styles.
Cyclical Fashion Movement: Women's Day Dresses: 1860-1980
Authors: Belleau Bonnie D.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate cyclical fashion movement via women's day dresses from 1860 to 1980. A sample of 489 illustrations of garments was drawn from periodicals based upon a set of explicit criteria. The instrument utilized was designed to pinpoint long term changes in fashion cycles. Data were analyzed using cross-tabulations, time series analysis, and Spearman's rank order correlation. Results from cross-tabulation indicated that there were substantial cyclical changes in skirt length, waist emphasis, and silhouette of women's day dresses for the selected time period. This was further supported by the time series and correlation analyses. The data suggest a series of regularly recurring cyclical changes in women's day dresses. It was concluded that if such cycles continue in a similar pattern, then some degree of predictability for future cycles may be present.
Daily Clothing Selection: Interrelationships Among Motivating Factors
Authors: Kwon Yoon-Hee
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this investigation was to test the interrelationships among motivating factors that influence an individual's daily selection of clothes. The motivating factors were classified in two ways. First, they were broken into temporal clothing functions (weather, social activity, practicality, mood, and physical self), and constant factors such as clothing orientation and personality dimensions. Instruments for temporal clothing functions and clothing orientation were developed by the experimentor. Four sub-scales of Shostrom's Personality Orientation Inventory (POI) (Spontaneity, Self-Actualization, Self Regard, and Feeling Reactivity) were adopted for the instrument of personality dimensions. These motivating factors were also classified into exogenous factors (weather, social activity, practicality, and physical self) and endogenous factors (mood, clothing orientation, and personality dimensions).

The final survey, consisting of three major sections, was administered to 105 female students in a midwestern university. Multiple regression analysis, analysis of variance, and Spearman's correlation were used for the statistical analyses.

The results of the statistical analyses indicated that there was a varying degree of correlation between the five temporal clothing functions and the clothing orientation factors. The multiple regression results of the five temporal clothing functions and the four sub-scales of the POI indicated that the coefficients of the "spontaneity" sub-scale were significant for the weather and social activity functions, but not significant for the other temporal clothing functions. Three other sub-scales of the POI showed no bearing on any of the five temporal clothing functions. The multiple regression analysis to test the relationships between exogenous and endogenous factors indicated that mood function (representative of endogenous factors) was significantly influenced (affected) by the weather and physical self functions. The findings in general concur with the presupposition that motivation for clothing selection was multidimensional in its characteristics and the factors were all interdependent.
Comparative Performance of Multilayer Window Treatments Containing Natural and Synthetic Fiber Components
Authors: Horridge Patricia , Woodson Eleanor , Khan Samina
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to test the performance of 48 experimental multilayer window treatments with respect to overall thermal resistance (R-value), both initially and as a function of time after 150-2400 uses. Following the R-value testing and analysis of commercially available multilayer treatments, the experimental treatments were constructed with the following variables: (1) fiber content and number of layers of batting, (2) fiber content of face and back fabric, and (3) stitching pattern.

The results of the study indicate that window treatments can significantly reduce thermal energy losses from window areas. Analysis of the variables indicated that there was little difference with regard to R-value between the two face fabrics. Both cotton and polyester proved to be good insulators. The fiber content or doubling the thickness of the batting materials did not appreciably increase the R-value. Of the stitching patterns, edge provided the highest and onion the lowest R-value. The initial R-values of the treatments were not affected significantly after 2400 uses or the equivalent of daily operation for more than six years.
Dress and Physical Attractiveness of Women in Job Interviews
Authors: Johnson Kim K. P. , Roach-Higgins Mary Ellen
Published: January 2008

This study was an investigation of the independent and combined influence of physical attractiveness and dress on impressions thatfemale and male hiring agents form about the personality characteristics of females applying for either male or female dominated jobs. Three hundred college campus recruiters served as subjects. Each subject received a questionnaire with a photograph of a job applicant attached and a written request to rate the applicant on 26 personality characteristics using a five point scale. Data were subjected to factor analysis, analyses of variance and the Scheffe Test. Results indicated the dress of the applicants exerted a consistent influence on subjects'ratings. The physical attractiveness of the applicant, type of job applied for, and the sex of the hiring agent had only a slight effect on ratings.
Contemporary Saudi Arabian Women's Dress
Authors: Rabolt Nancy J. , Forney Judith C.
Published: January 2008

Traditional female dress and clothing market sources in Saudi Arabia were explored in relation to demographic variables. Data were gathered by interviews of 60 female nationals in Saudi Arabia. Demographic variables of age, education, marital status, socio-economic status, work, and travel were investigated as independent variables. Dependent variables included traditional clothing worn in public and private situations and the use of clothing market information and acquisition sources. Also descriptive information on traditional dress was obtained. Analyses included correlations and t-tests. Results indicated that traditional female outer dress is strongly prevalent in Saudi Arabia and was reflected in most situations investigated. Women who traveled, worked, and had a higher socio-economic status wore less traditional dress. Travel, work, education, age, and socio-economic status affected market information sought and market acquisition sources utilized regarding clothing.
Information Search in the Purchase of Employment Apparel: A Synthesis of Two Theories
Authors: Shim Soyeon , Drake Mary Frances
Published: January 2008

This paper is designed to synthesize two theories of consumer information search process and to extend recent research by the authors on information search strategies used by employed women for the purchase of employment apparel. The main objective is to offer an integrated explanation for the processes which produce dfferent search patterns used by employed women for the purchase of employment apparel. While speculative, it provides one possible schematic that captures the interaction of consumers, product, and situational characteristics and information search patterns by utilizing systematic/heuristic theory and active/passive search theory within an integrative explanatory framework. This information contributes to theory development about search strategies among consumers.
Computer Technology Use by Louisiana Apparel Manufacturers
Authors: Belleau Bonnie D. , Didier Jacqueline T.
Published: January 2008

This study was designed to investigate computer technology use by Louisiana apparel manufacturers. The project stemmed from a growing supply of package software programs for apparel design and related apparel development/production functions intended for use with personal computers. Apparel manufacturers operating within the state were identified using a telephone survey to obtain information regarding current use of computer technology. Results indicated that, of the 43 companies identified, six of the firms operate under parent companies, while the remaining 37 are independently owned. Products made form a large array including sportswear, uniforms, dresses, and jeans in men's, women's, and children's sizes. The small to mid-sized companies, individually owned and still accomplishing many of their design/production functions manually, cannot afford to invest millions of dollars in mainframe or minicomputer systems. These companies are primary targets for assistance with computer technology transfer. Higher education can assist such firms to become more responsive to merchandisers with quick response.
The Influence of Dress on Students' Perceptions of Teacher Characteristics
Authors: Butler Sara , Roesel Kathy
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of a female teacher's clothing style on student perceptions of teacher characteristics, including approachability, knowledge, respect, and overall acceptability. High school students were provided with photographs of a teacher model dressed in four clothing styles and were asked to select one of the photos for each of 20 statements designed to reflect teacher characteristics. Chi square results revealed differences between the clothing styles on 19 of the 20 statements.
Natural, Synthetic, and Blended Fiber Contents: An Investigation of Consumer Preferences and Perceptions
Authors: Forsythe Sandra M. , Thomas Jane Boyd
Published: January 2008

Although fiber content is one of the most important factors influencing consumers' clothing purchase decisions, little research has been conducted to substantiate a preference for natural, synthetic, or blended fiber contents or to link perceptions offibers with any particular market segment. For this study a sample was taken of 177 female apparel shoppers from three regional malls in a southeastern state. The objectives were to examine fiber content preferences and perceptions among female apparel consumers and the relationship between fiber content preference and perceptions and demographic variables. Findings confirmed that the female apparel shoppers studied had definite fiber content preferences for various items of apparel; however, these preferences were not generally related to demographic characteristics. The respondents had well defined perceptions of the fiber contents studied and, with the exception of the polyester/cotton blend, these perceptions seemed to be consistent across demographic variables.
Clothing and Human Behavior from a Social Cognitive Framework Part II: The Stages of Social Cognition
Authors: Lennon Sharron J. , Davis Leslie L.
Published: January 2008

This paper represents Part II in a two-part paper which integrates theory and research in social cognition with research in clothing and human behavior. Part II addresses the three stages of social cognition (pre-processing, processing, and post-processing) and factors which affect each of these three stages. Existing research in clothing and human behavior is interpreted within this framework and suggestions are made for future research.
Effect of Dress, Cosmetics, Sex of Subject, and Causal Inference on Attribution of Victim Responsibility1
Authors: Lewis LaCinda , Johnson Kim K.P.
Published: January 2008

This study investigated the influence of dress, cosmetics, sex of subject, and causal inference on attribution of a rape victim's responsibility. Six hundred ten university students served as subjects. Each subject received a questionnaire with a photograph attached, a vignette of a bogus rape victim and a responsibility scale. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and the Neuman-Keul's test. Results indicated that both dress and causal inference exerted a significant influence on subject's attribution of victim responsibility. Subjects attributed more responsibility for the rape to victims appearing in the most provocative dress than those victims appearing in provocative or least provocative dress. Those subjects who indicated they believed victim ability or effort may have contributed to the rape attributed more responsibility to the victim than those individuals who indicated the situation or chance contributed to the rape. Results are discussed in terms of attribution theory.