bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of flagging frequency to confidence intervals in the statistical regression approach for automated quality control of Tmax and Tmin
Authors: You Jinsheng , Hubbard Kenneth G.
Published: May 2007

With the widespread use of electronic interfaces in data collection, many networks have increased, or will increase, the sampling rate and add more sensors. The associated increase in data volume will naturally lead to an increased reliance on automatic quality assurance (QA) procedures. The number of data entries flagged for further manual validation can be affected by the choice of confidence intervals in statistically based QA procedures, which in turn affects the number of bad entries classified as good measurements. At any given station, a number of confidence intervals for the Spatial Regression Test (SRT) were specified and tested in this study, using historical data for both the daily minimum (Tmin) and maximum (Tmax), to determine how the frequency of flagging is related to the choice of confidence interval. An assessment of the general relationship of the number of data flagged to the specified confidence interval over a set of widely dispersed stations in the High Plains was undertaken to determine whether a single confidence factor would suffice, at all stations, to identify a moderate number of flags. This study suggests that using a confidence factor ‘f’ larger than 2.5 to specify the confidence interval will flag a reasonable number of measurements (<1%) for further manual validation and a single confidence factor can be applied for a state. This paper initially compares two formulations of the SRT method. This comparison is followed by an analysis of the percentage of observations flagged as a function of confidence interval. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Fresh threat: what's lurking in your salad bowl?
Authors: Powell Douglas
Published: May 2007

In North America in 2006, outbreaks of pathogenic Escherichia coli and Salmonella in spinach, lettuce and tomatoes sickened over 700 people and caused four deaths. These high‐profile cases are only the tip of the iceberg, however, and many people are affected by contaminated produce each year. Douglas Powell and Ben Chapman reveal why current food safety programmes in the USA have not eliminated contamination and suggest how an industry led by producers could spearhead programmes to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Inpatient treatment for war‐related post‐traumatic stress disorder: Initial findings on a longer‐term outcome study
Authors: Scurfield Raymond M. , Kenderdine Shawn K. , Pollard Richard J.
Published: May 2007

Symptom checklists and a follow‐up questionnaire were mailed to the first 180 graduates of an inpatient Post Traumatic Stress Treatment program. Eighty‐six of the 180 responded to the survey. Their responses were compared to measures obtained on them while they were inpatients at the treatment program. Significant differences were found on one symptom checklist, while positive trends toward symptom reduction were noted on another. Demographic characteristics of the respondents were dicusssed, as were responses to open‐ended questions regarding in what ways the program helped most and least. Changes in a positive direction were noted in the area of self‐esteem, interpersonal relationships, and symptoms of numbing and arousal. PTSD‐related intrusive symptoms had the least clear‐cut improvement. Implications of these findings for inpatient treatment and aftercare are reviewed, with suggestions for future applied research.
The effects of homicides and suicides on the population longevity of the United States
Authors: Waigandt Alex , Phelps LeAdelle
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this study was to analyze population longevity relative to homicide and suicide deaths in light of competing risks. Mortality data by age and sex derived from Vital Statistics and data from the U.S. Census were utilized to calculate life tables. The causes of death for this study were classified according to the Eighth Revision of the Internal Classification of Disease, Adapted (ICDA) (World Health Organization). The ICSA code for the causes examined in this study are homicides (E960–E987) and suicides (E950–E959). Calculations based upon public health data and cause deletion indicate a loss in population life expectancy due to homicide and suicide deaths of 0.70456 years for males and 0.2606 years for females. When the findings are translated to the life expectancy of the population in terms of time, a total of 1,305,805 person years per decade are irretrievably lost from suicide and homicide deaths.
Current psychiatric complaints of Dutch resistance veterans from world war II: A feasibility study
Authors: Op Den Velde W. , Falger P. R. J. , De Groen J. H. M. , Van Duijn H. , Hovens J. E. , Meijer P. , Soons M. , Schouten E. G. W.
Published: May 2007

As a first step in a nation‐wide study about psychiatric complaints in Dutch Resistance veterans, a feasibility study was conducted to test the instruments. The complaints of eight war victims, aged 61 to 73, were analyzed by means of questionnaires, a psychiatric survey, and a life history interview. All subjects met the DSM‐III‐R criteria for PTSD, with symptoms ranging from mild to very severe. The occurrence of manifest PTSD differed considerably over the years. Highly prevalent complaints included sleep disturbances, anxiety, and vital exhaustion. An increase in psychiatric complaints was often positively associated with the occurrence of stressful life events.
Development of a crime‐related post‐traumatic stress disorder scale for women within the symptom checklist‐90‐revised
Authors: Saunders Benjamin E. , Arata Catalina Mandoki , Kilpatrick Dean G.
Published: May 2007

A community sample of 355 adult women were administered the Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised and were assessed with structured interviews for a lifetime history of criminal victimization and Crime‐Related Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder. Using a criterion group classification approach, a 28‐item scale within the SCL‐90‐R was developed that successfully discriminated between the CR‐PTSD positive and negative respondents. Though replication and further research is needed, the developed scale may be of use for initial screening for CR‐PTSD as well as for ongoing clinical assessment and research purposes.
Serum testosterone levels in post‐traumatic stress disorder inpatients
Authors: Mason John W. , Giller Earl L. , Kosten Thomas R. , Wahby Victor S.
Published: May 2007

In a longitudinal clinical psychoendocrine study, serum testosterone levels (ng/dl) were measured at 2‐week intervals during the course of hospitalization in 34 male psychiatric inpatients in four diagnostic groups, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (endogenous type) (MDD‐E), paranoid schizophrenia (PS), and bipolar I disorder‐manic (BP), as well as in a group of normal male control subjects (CONT). A oneway analysis of variance revealed that the mean (±SE) testosterone levels were significantly higher (p < 0.0002) in the PTSD (578 ± 59), PS (571 ± 49), and CONT (494 ± 24) groups than in the MDD‐E (331 ± 47) and BP (351 ± 31) groups. The same group differences were significant in the first sample (p < 0.02), while in the last sample the values were significantly higher (p < 0.0004) in the PTSD (623 ± 66) and PS (566 ± 72) groups than in the CONT (482 ± 26), BP (353 ± 61), and MDD‐E (291 ± 52) groups. These preliminary findings, then, indicate that in spite of considerable depressive symptomatology, PTSD patients do not show the relatively low testosterone levels seen in major depressive disorder patients, but instead align more closely with the schizophrenic patients with regard to the pituitary‐gonadal system. There is also an indication that chronic basal testosterone levels in PTSD patients may be elevated in comparison with normal subjects. The possible link suggested by the psychoendocrine literature between testosterone levels and trait factors, particulary paranoid style, in these patient groups is considered, as is the potential application of these findings for multidimensional approaches to the development of improved biologic criteria for psychtric diagnosis.
Traumatic experiences in psychiatric outpatients
Authors: Davidson Jonathan , Smith Rebecca
Published: May 2007

Fifty‐four newly referred psychiatric outpatients were interviewed and a life history of severe traumatic experiences was taken. Forty‐four gave a positive history, 17 of whom developed symptoms of post‐traumatic stress (PTSS). Twelve met a past or current diagnosis of PTSD. Factors relating to the occurrence of PTSS included early trauma, more traumatic events, incest, perceiving the event as frightening, being physically injured, perceiving the event as being life threatening, seeing a physician, and being hospitalized. Age at trauma and differences between men and women are also discussed.
Assessment issues involving the families of trauma victims
Authors: Carroll Edward M. , Cannon Brooke J. , Foy David W. , Zwier Gail
Published: May 2007

This paper reviews the empirical literature on the clinically significant problems found within families containing a member with post‐traumatic stress disorder. Recommendations are made regarding specific instruments that can be useful for evaluating marital and familial adjustment. Assessment issues concerning the need to weigh historical relationship factors vis‐á‐vis the influences of a traumatized family member are discussed. A “multiple‐gating” model is presented for assessing different aspects of family dysfunction, and suggestions for future research and clinical directions are offered.
Prior life trauma, post‐traumatic stress symptoms, sexual disorders, and character traits in sex offenders: An exploratory study
Authors: Barnard George W. , Hankins Gary C. , Robbins Lynn
Published: May 2007

Fifty‐two residents in a forensic treatment center for convicted sex offenders were studied using a computer‐assisted assessment methodology regarding prior exposure to seven categories of major trauma, the subsequent occurrence of 15 PTSD criterion symptoms, the occurrence of sexual disorders and pathological character traits based on the DSM‐III‐R Axis II diagnostic criteria. This sample represented 43% of all individuals in such treatment in Florida during the study month. The results in terms of trauma exposure, PTS symptom, sexual disorders, and character traits are reported and discussed in relation to the relevant literature. A theoretical formulation based on object relations theory suggesting a causal link between trauma, narcissistic character pathology, adult PTSD, and sexual deviancy for some sex offenders is presented and related to the findings. The methodological limitations of the research and its implications for future research are explored.
Psychosocial correlates of fire disaster among children and adolescents
Authors: Jones Russell T. , Ribbe David P. , Cunningham Phillippe
Published: May 2007

This study examined the extent of children's and adolescents' psychosocial maladjustment associated with a natural disaster, namely, wildfire. The course of psychopathology was assessed six weeks after a major wildfire destroyed 420 homes. Victims' functioning relative to a comparison group from the same community, matched for age, gender, socioeconomic status, and fire insurance was examined. The major goal of this study was to assess systematically the short‐term mental health consequences of a wildfire disaster among children and adolescents. This goal was achieved through the use of standardized assessment procedures. The results of this study add useful information to the literature concerning the impact of disaster among children and adolescents and provide a methodological framework for future efforts in this area.
An unusual reaction to opioid blockade with naltrexone in a case of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Ibarra Paloma , Bruehl Stephen P. , Carlson Charles R. , Wilson John F. , Norton Jane A. , McCubbin James A. , Montgomery Thomas B.
Published: May 2007

An unusual behavioral and cardiovascular reaction was observed during opioid blockade with naltrexone in a 32‐year‐old male who met DSM III‐R criteria for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As part of an ongoing placebo‐controlled investigation of the effects of naltrexone on laboratory and ambulatory blood pressure reactivity, this participant reported experiencing feelings of rage, explosive behavior, and other unpleasant symptoms. When compared to all other subjects (N = 24), this individual showed significantly greater effects of naltrexone on blood pressure reactivity during the laboratory stressor. His ambulatory blood pressures, when compared to placebo, were significantly increased during the 24‐hr period following naltrexone. The unusual behavioral and cardiovascular responses following ingestion of naltrexone suggest an important role for endogenous opioids in adjustment to stress in this case of PTSD.
Inpatient PTSD treatment: A study of pretreatment measures, treatment dropout, and therapist ratings of response to treatment
Authors: Munley Patrick H. , Bains Dharm S. , Frazee James , Schwartz Lawrence T.
Published: May 2007

Pretreatment measures including demographic variables, adjustment index variables and psychological testing variables were studied in relationship to treatment dropout and therapist ratings of overall response to treatment among PTSD veterans in an inpatient PTSD program. Analysis comparing a group of fourteen veterans who dropped out of treatment early and a random sample of fourteen who successfully completed treatment showed no significant differences. Analysis comparing a group of 35 veterans who received the highest therapist ratings on response to treatment with a group of 35 veterans receiving the lowest ratings on response to treatment also showed no significant differences. Analysis of subgroups of patients who had completed the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI) and received high versus low therapist ratings showed one significant difference on the hypomania scale. Overall findings on the MMPI and MCMI appeared similar to other investigations of PTSD.
Stress reactions of school‐age children to the bombardment by scud missiles: A 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Schwarzwald Joseph , Weisenberg Matisyohu , Solomon Zahava , Waysman Mark
Published: May 2007

Follow‐up long‐term stress effects to bombardment by scud missiles were restudied 1 year following the Persian Gulf war in a group of 326 6th, 8th, and 11th grade children from areas hit and not hit by the missiles. Postwar stress reactions were assessed by a continuous global symptom score (Frederick and Pynoos, 1988) and by a dichotomous PTSD index. Overall, a large drop in stress reactions was obtained with lapse of time. Residual long‐term stress reactions were found to be associated with higher immediate (4‐week) stress reactions, a greater degree of exposure, and younger age. Results were discussed in relation to residual and evaporation of stress reaction effects as well as in terms of childhood resilience.
Lithium for irritability in post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Forster Peter L. , Schoenfeld Frank B. , Marmar Charles R. , Lang Ariel Janna
Published: May 2007

Irritability is often a problem for patients with Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We describe two cases that illustrate the use of lithium in the treatment of veterans with PTSD who complained of serious problems with irritability or angry outbursts. These cases are discussed in the context of evidence that lithium may be useful in other patients with disorders of impulse control. The evidence linking disorders of anger and impulse control to a dysregulation in neurotransmitter regulation, particularly in serotonergic pathways, supports a psychopharmacologic approach to treatment. These findings should lead to further study of the role of lithium in the treatment of this symptom complex in patients with PTSD.
From denial to recognition: Attitudes toward holocaust survivors from world war II to the present
Authors: Solomon Zahava
Published: May 2007

This paper discusses the complex attitudes of Israeli society and mental health professionals toward the surivors of the Nazi Holocaust. While the nascent state of Israel provided refuge for the Holocaust survivors and offered them a new identity and opportunity to rebuild their lives, it also demanded that they abnegate their former identities, their Holocaust experiences above all and repress all the emotional problems that the Holocaust created. In the nearly 5 decades since the first survivors arrived on Israel's shores with their accounts of barely imaginable horror society's attitudes toward the survivors have traced a tortured course, throughout which the views of the helping professions have mirrored, rather than led, those of the general public. This paper describes the process of change in attitudes and attempts to explain this process.
Attitudes of therapists toward Holocaust survivors
Authors: Ofri Irit , Solomon Zahava , Dasberg Haim
Published: May 2007

This study examined current feelings and attitudes toward Holocaust survivors in a sample of 205 Israeli mental health professionals. Subjects were asked to read two vignettes each describing an aged trauma victim who has recently applied for treatment. The first vignette presented a Holocaust survivor and the second a war veteran. The two “patients” were otherwise similar in background and clinical picture. After reading each vignette, subjects were asked to report their feelings toward the patient. Subjects also completed a detailed questionnaire that assessed attitudes on several issues related to the Holocaust. Feelings toward the Holocaust survivor were found to be more intense and more positive than feelings toward the combat veteran. Therapists' attitudes toward Holocaust survivors were also found to be highly and consistently positive. Compared to previous reports, they appear to reflect a change of heart in relation to the past. Therapist background variables were not found to play a major role in determining attitudes toward Holocaust survivors.
Oscillating between denial and recognition of PTSD: Why are lessons learned and forgotten?
Authors: Solomon Zahava
Published: May 2007

Consistent observations suggest that denial of PTSD and blaming of its victims are not isolated omissions or distortions but a pattern that spans over times, crosses national and cultural boundaries, and defies accumulated knowledge. This article traces the origins of these attitudes and offers three explanations: (a) mental health professionals are unable to transcend prevailing cultural and social norms; (b) they are “blinded” by professional theories; and (c) denial may stem from a fundamental human difficulty in comprehending and acknowledging our own vulnerability.
Post‐traumatic stress and associated disorders among Vietnam veterans: The significance of combat exposure and social support
Authors: Boscarino Joseph A.
Published: May 2007

The hypothesis is tested that individuals exposed to traumatic stress who currently have lower social support have higher rates of post‐traumatic stress and associated disorders. To test this, the current prevalence of five psychiatric disorders, including post‐traumatic stress, generalized anxiety, depression, alcohol abuse, and drug abuse, were studied among a random sample of veterans who served in Vietnam (N = 2,490) and a random sample of “era” veterans who did not (N = 1,972). Logistic regression was used to analyze each disorder, controlling for past combat exposure, current social status, childhood delinquency, military adjustment, and current social support. Combat exposure was the best predictor of post‐traumatic stress and was also associated with anxiety and depression, but not alcohol or drug abuse. Substance abuse was associated with childhood delinquency, and the best predictor of drug abuse was illicit Army drug use. Lower social support was associated with all disorders, except drug abuse. Although the causal nexus is not clear in this case, this study suggests that future research and clinical interventions should not overlook the significance of social support among victims of traumatic stress.
Treatment of Vietnam war veterans with PTSD: A comparison of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, biofeedback, and relaxation training
Authors: Silver Steven M. , Brooks Alvin , Obenchain Jeanne
Published: May 2007

Analyses of scaled self‐report data from Vietnam War veterans receiving inpatient treatment for Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder drawn during a program evaluation study suggested inpatient treatment as provided by the program resulted in significant improvement in the areas of Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Isolation, Intrusive Thoughts (of combat experiences), Flashbacks, Nightmares (of combat experiences), and Relationship Problems. Comparing the relative effects of the incremental addition of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Relaxation Training, and Biofeedback found that EMDR was for most problems the most effective extra treatment, greatly increasing the positive impact of the treatment program.
Childhood sexual abuse as a precursor to depression and self‐destructive behavior in adulthood
Authors: Boudewyn Arne Cornelius , Liem Joan Huser
Published: May 2007

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) as a predictor of depression and self‐destructive behaviors in adulthood was examined relative to other traumatic stressors in childhood and adulthood with special attention to sex differences. In a college sample of 173 men and 265 women, 16% of male (n = 28) and 24% of female respondents (n = 63) reported having been sexually abused as children. CSA, ranging from unwanted kissing and fondling to unwanted sexual intercourse, predicted depression, chronic self‐destructiveness, self‐harm ideation, acts of self‐harm, suicide ideation, and suicide attempts, for both men and women. The more frequent and severe the sexual abuse and the longer its duration, the more depression and self‐destructiveness reported in adulthood. Other stressors predicted these effects less consistently but their occurrence in combination with CSA contributed to the negativity of long‐term outcomes. Study results affirm previous findings of a relationshop between CSA and depression and self‐destructiveness in adult females and extend them to males.
Are rape memories different? A comparison of rape, other unpleasant, and pleasant memories among employed women
Authors: Tromp Shannon , Koss Mary P. , Figueredo Aurelio Jose , Tharan Melinda
Published: May 2007

The study examined empirically‐measured memory characteristics, compared pleasant and unpleasant intense memories as well as rape and other unpleasant memories and determined whether rape memories exhibited significantly more “flashbulb” characteristics. Data consisted of responses to a mailed survey of women employees of a medical center (N = 1,037) and a university (N = 2,142). Pleasant and unpleasant memories were differentiated by feelings, consequences, and level of unexpectedness. The most powerful discriminator of rape from other unpleasant memories was the degree to which they were less clear and vivid, contained a less meaningful order, were less well‐remembered, and were less thought and talked about. Few “flashbulb” characteristics discriminated among memory types. Implications for clinical work with rape survivors were discussed.
Posttraumatic stress associated with delayed recall of sexual abuse: A general population study
Authors: Elliott Diana M. , Briere John
Published: May 2007

This study examined delayed recall of childhood sexual abuse in a stratified random sample of the general population ( N = 505). Of participants who reported a history of sexual abuse, 42% described some period of time when they had less memory of the abuse than they did at the time of data collection. No demographic differences were found between subjects with continuous recall and those who reported delayed recall. However, delayed recall was associated with the use of threats at the time of the abuse. Subjects who had recently recalled aspects of their abuse reported particularly high levels of posttraumatic symptomatology and self difficulties (as measured by the IES, SCL, and TSI) at the time of data collection compared to other subjects.
Posttraumatic stress reactions in volunteer firefighters
Authors: Bryant Richard A. , Harvey Allison G.
Published: May 2007

Volunteer firefighters in NSW were surveyed for experiences of posttraumatic stress. Firefighters were asked to describe their experiences of stress and indices were obtained of psychological disturbance. Findings indicated that most firefighters felt that their safety had been threatened. One‐quarter of firefighters indicated that they experienced significant levels of posttraumatic stress, although many respondents attributed their stress to personal events. Posttraumatic stress was associated with multiple and recent critical incidents. Findings are discussed in terms of etiological factors of posttraumatic stress and the need for appropriate intervention.
Subjective versus objective sleep in Vietnam combat veterans hospitalized for PTSD
Authors: Woodward Steven H. , Bliwise Donald L. , Friedman Matthew J. , Gusman D. Fred
Published: May 2007

Twenty‐five Vietnam combat veterans with chronic severe posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) completed a sleep self‐report questionnaire on admission to an inpatient treatment program. Between 1 and 2 months later each spent 3 or more nights in the sleep laboratory. When self‐report and laboratory findings were compared, significant relationships were observed between sleep schedule items such as time‐to‐bed/time‐out‐of‐bed and polysomnographic measures of sleep. In contrast, global ratings of sleep quality were generally unrelated to polysomnographic measures. These findings may have implications for survey research assessing sleep quality in traumatized populations.
Modes of long‐term coping with trauma memories: Relative use and associations with personality among Vietnam veterans with chronic PTSD
Authors: Hyer Lee , McCranie Edward W. , Boudewyns Patrick A. , Sperr Edwin
Published: May 2007

Little is known about how individuals who develop chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) cope with recurring trauma memories, or how enduring personality characteristics influence such coping. Focusing on 110 hospitalized Vietnam combat veterans with chronic PTSD, this exploratory study assessed the relative frequency of using eight ways of coping with war memories, and associations between relative use of these strategies and eight dysfunctional personality styles. As a secondary issue, associations between coping strategies, combat exposure, and PTSD severity were also examined. Consistent with prior findings, these veterans predominantly used emotion‐focused and avoidant strategies to cope with war memories. Differing personality styles and relative use or nonuse of particular coping strategies were also associated in psychologically coherent ways. These preliminary findings are discussed in relation to methodologic and future research issues.
Examining comorbidity and posttraumatic stress disorder in a Vietnam veteran population using the MMPI‐2
Authors: Weyermann Andrea G. , Norris Fran H. , Hyer Lee A.
Published: May 2007

Examined the discriminant validity of the MMPI‐2 in assessing comorbidity in a posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Vietnam veteran population. The Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM‐IIJ‐R (SCID) was used to diagnose veterans and to classify them into four groups: PTSD Only, PTSD with mood disorders, PTSD with other anxiety disorders, and PTSD with mood and anxiety disorders. All groups had clinical elevations on scales F, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 0, PK, and PS, with peak elevations on scales 8, 7, and 2. The PTSD Only group's MMPI‐2 scores were not significantly lower than other groups' scores. The PTSD + Mood/Anxiety group was significantly more elevated on scales 2 and 7 than the PTSD Only and PTSD + Anxiety group but did not otherwise show significantly higher scale elevations than other groups. No significant differences existed between groups on scales F, L, K, PK, and PS. Implications of these results for PTSD and the current diagnostic system are explored.
Attention, arousal, and memory in posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Litz Brett T. , Weathers Frank W. , Monaco Valerie , Herman Debra S. , Wulfsohn Michael , Marx Brian , Keane Terence M.
Published: May 2007

Vietnam combat veterans with current posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with other Axis‐I disorders, or with no Axis‐I disorders completed a series of tasks designed to elucidate the psychophysiological parameters of information‐processing in PTSD. These tasks included a modified Stroop procedure (MSP), a standard Stroop procedure, a recognition memory task, and a threat rating task. Physiological responses were recorded throughout the study. Our data supported several predictions derived from information‐processing models of PTSD. PTSD subjects exhibited greater MSP interference to high threat words than both comparison groups, and a liberal response bias toward recognizing military‐related words. PTSD symptoms and threat reactions contributed to MSP interference effects for high‐threat words after controlling for medications, depression, and baseline physiological activity.
Dissociative responses in the immediate aftermath of the Oakland/Berkeley firestorm
Authors: Koopman Cheryl , Classen Catherine , Spiegel David
Published: May 2007

This study examined relationships between dissociative symptoms experienced in the immediate aftermath of the Oakland/Berkeley firestorm and contact with the fire, life events, demographic variables, and actions taken after learning about the fire. One hundred eighty‐seven participants completed self‐report measures about their experiences during and immediately following the fire. Dissociative symptoms were significantly related to contact with the fire, sex, and stressful life events. Also, dissociative symptoms were significantly related to engaging in certain activities, such as trying to get closer to the fire and going into blocked‐off areas and crossing police barricades. These results suggest that dissociative symptoms may merit special attention in intervention focusing on the immediate aftermath of disaster.
Time‐limited psychotherapy with Operation Desert Storm veterans
Authors: Ford Julian D. , Greaves David , Chandler Patricia , Thacker Barbara , Shaw David , Sennhauser Shirley , Schwartz Lawrence
Published: May 2007

Time‐limited psychotherapy conducted 2 to 9 months after demobilization was evaluated with Persian Gulf Theater veterans of Operation Desert Storm (ODS). Thirty five treatment‐seeking veterans were contrasted with 20 non‐treatment‐seeking ODS Persian Gulf veterans in a repeated measures design at pretest, posttest, and 6‐week followup assessments. In addition, psychotherapy participants at followup were contrasted with 80 non‐treatment‐seeking ODS Persian Gulf veterans from the same military units who were assessed one time at a comparable time point. Time‐limited psychotherapy was associated with sustained improved psychosocial functioning and reduced levels of psychiatric and stress‐related symptomatology.
An empirical evaluation of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with survivors of a natural disaster
Authors: Grainger Ruth Dailey , Levin Clifford , Allen‐Byrd Lois , Doctor Ronald M. , Lee Howard
Published: May 2007

Controlled studies of treatments effective with victims of natural disasters are almost nonexistent. This is a small study conducted under difficult conditions to test the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in treating trauma related reactions following Hurricane Andrew. The results were positive in that EMDR produced significant improvement over wait list controls in perceived posttraumatic avoidance behaviors and thoughts as measured by changes in the Impact of Event Scale and significant improvement in subjective aversive reactions to representative experiences of the hurricane. These results suggest and support other studies that EMDR can be an effective therapeutic intervention for trauma reactions.
Measurement of perceived disruption during rebuilding following hurricane andrew
Authors: Burnett Kent , Ironson Gail , Benight Charles , Wynings Christina , Greenwood Debra , Carver Charles S. , Cruess Dean , Baum Andrew , Schneiderman Neil
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a measure of perceived disruption during rebuilding following a disaster. Two eight‐item scales, which measured intensity of disruption during the entire repair phase (Intensity‐RP) and intensity of disruption during the past month (Intensity‐PM) were developed and administered to 135 survivors of Hurricane Andrew. At 9 to 12 months postdisaster, Intensity‐RP and Intensity‐PM were both significantly associated with scores on the Global Severity Index of the SCL‐90‐R, and with scores on the Impact of Event‐Intrusion Scale; Intensity‐PM alone was significantly associated with PTSD scores. Regression analyses indicated that each scale contributed significant unique variance in predicting mental health symptoms, even after controlling for relevant demographic and initial disaster exposure variables.
Highly Conductive Polypyrrole Copolymers?
Authors: Lienkamp Karen , Wegner Gerhard
Published: May 2007

In a recent publication by Akar and co‐workers (Eur. Polym. J. 2006, 42, 2361), it was claimed that bulk polypyrrole with a conductivity of 4 000 S · cm−1 was obtained by a simple chemical synthesis. If reproducible, this would be a quite revolutionary result for the polymer electronics community. In this communication, we report that this result is not reproducible, and demonstrate, by comparison to literature results, that it is also not plausible.
Living Radical Polymerization as a Tool for the Synthesis of Polymer‐Protein/Peptide Bioconjugates
Authors: Nicolas Julien , Mantovani Giuseppe , Haddleton David M.
Published: May 2007

Combinations of synthetic and natural macromolecules offer a route to new functional materials. While biological and polymer chemistry may not be natural bedfellows, many researchers are focusing their attention on the benefits of combining these fields. Recent advances in living radical polymerization have provided methods to build tailor‐made macromolecular moieties using relatively simple processes. This has led to a plethora of block copolymers, end‐functional polymers and polymers with a whole range of biological recognition abilities. This review covers work carried out until late 2006 combining living radical polymerization with proteins and peptides in the rapidly‐expanding field of bioconjugation.

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Corporate plant location under uncertainty: Divergence between the interests of ownership and management
Authors: McDonough Carol C.
Published: May 2007

This paper expands current knowledge of location decision‐making under uncertainty by analyzing instances where the corporate goal of profit maximization diverges from the managerial decision‐maker's goal of maximizing personal profit. With illustrations based on alternative decision‐making criteria, the paper demonstrates that a corporate manager acting in his own self interest may select a plant site that does not maximize corporate profits. The trend for US corporations to select suburban locations, despite the cost advantages of older urban areas, is illustrative of this divergence between the objectives of ownership and management.
The multiproduct firm: Demand relationships and decision‐making
Authors: Hill Stephen
Published: May 2007

If a firm produces more than one product, the price of one may affect the demand for others. Examination of this relationship reveals that for the profit maximizing firm the price differential between products is determined by differences in costs, differences in own price and cross price elasticities and the relative revenue from each product. The introduction of advertising results in an optimal advertising budget for each product that is the weighted sum of own and cross advertising elasticities divided by the average cost per advertisement.
Internal control technologies within industrial organizations
Authors: Beck Paul J.
Published: May 2007

Previous studies of industrial organizations have examined the effects of formal monitoring controls on employee‐performance. The present study extends existing research by analyzing the firm's ability to rely upon alternative internal control strategies and by including opportunities for employee‐collusion. In particular, we model formal and informal monitoring activities and investigate their combined effect upon employees' incentives to collude. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis is performed to determine the relative efficiencies of various types of internal controls.
A microcomputer‐based decision‐support system for manpower planning
Authors: Wegner Trevor
Published: May 2007

The paper reviews the field of manpower‐planning modelling in South Africa and the UK. Thereafter the design of a microcomputer‐based simulation manpower model is discussed. The output generated is designed to assist the manpower planner in making more effective and efficient manpower decisions. The emphasis of the modelling approach is on decision support where the intention is to enhance the quality of the information base upon which the final decisions are taken by the manpower planner.
On the use of risk analysis for the evaluation of industrial R&D expenditures
Authors: Sarnat Marshall
Published: May 2007

This paper focuses on a particular aspect of the R&D decision process, i.e. the screening of alternative projects at the firm level. A review of the traditional methods of risk analysis, based on two‐parameter measures of risk and return, strongly suggests that they are unable to capture the essential skewed nature of R&D decisions due to the underlying assumption of normal distributions. Fortunately, the availability of alternative models based on ‘distribution free’ methods has significantly increased our ability to evaluate highly skewed returns. This paper sets out, in some detail, the case of using one such model, the stochastic dominance paradigm, to screen R&D proposals.
The characteristics of technically orientated firms: Evidence from the unlisted securities market
Authors: Crook J. N. , Allen D. E.
Published: May 2007

The results of a survey of the research, design and development activity of firms listed on the UK Unlisted Securities Market are reported. The significance of different corporate objectives, types of market structure, forms of rivalry, different groups as project initiators, and techniques of project evaluation, is reported. Technically progressive firms could not be distinguished from less technically progressive firms using univariate tests. Multiple discriminant analyses indicated that technically progressive firms operate in markets where products characteristics and advertising are significant forms of rivalry, the growth rate of profits is more important as a corporate objective and the significance of interdepartmental committees as an initiating group is higher than for less technically progressive firms. The latter firms judged price competition and the objective of achieving a target level of units sold as more significant than the former group.
An explanation of why shareholders' losses are so large after drug recalls
Authors: Marcus Richard D. , Swidler Steve , Zivney Terry L.
Published: May 2007

Recent studies show firms suffering drug recalls experience security losses many times larger than any reasonable measure of their direct cost. We discover that the implied standard deviation of stock returns from the Black‐Scholes option pricing model significantly increases after a drug recall. The implied standard deviation provides a good proxy for the stock's ex ante beta. The higher systematic risk after a product recall must raise the discount rate used by investors. After a recall, stock prices are reduced in line with the lower expected future earnings and are further reduced because of a higher discount rate.
A principal–agent analysis of pension policy
Authors: McMillan Henry
Published: May 2007

This paper presents a principal‐agent model of pension policy in a world with permanent pension plans and no taxes. Firm managers, as agents of stockholders, choose pension policy to maximize their own welfare. Stockholders, aware of this self‐interested behavior, select the optimal linear risk‐sharing compensation program to induce conformance of manager actions to stockholder intersts. The paper develops the optimal linear risk‐sharing compensation program and pension policy. The comparative static changes in pension policy for a simple case are found and compared to the empirical findings of other researchers. It is argued that the principal‐agent hypothesis provides an explanation for the heretofore unexplained empirical regularities of those studies.
X‐inefficiency and market power
Authors: Ashton R. K.
Published: May 2007

This paper argues that dominant firms (those firms which, according to the theory, can tolerate inefficiency) face a number of external and internal constraints which force them to act more like the competitive firm assumed in neoclassical theory.
A deterministic analysis of change in international unit labor costs: Import implications for US industry
Authors: van Loggerenberg Bazil J.
Published: May 2007

United States industry faces an import threat in the domestic market because foreign exporters achieve lower growth in their unit labor dollar cost. A deterministic analysis of the sources of change over the decade 1974–84 shows that although most foreign trade partners experienced a higher rate of growth in hourly labor compensation than the United States, they discounted this cost disadvantage by achieving more than offsetting cost reductions from growth in labor productivity and in the foreign currency to US dollar exchange rate.
A trucker's dilemma: Managerial behavior under an operating‐ratio standard
Authors: Giordano James N.
Published: May 2007

A model of an individually regulated trucking firm is extended to reflect collective regulation by the operating‐ratio method as conducted for many years by the ICC. The game‐theoretic extension predicts that managers will not respond to a required operating ratio, in cartel‐like manner, by increasing expenses in pursuit of higher profit. This result undermines the Commission's stated belief that an operating‐ratio standard, even when applied collectively, imparted such an incentive. An empirical test supports the conclusion that tighter regulation, measured by higher achieved operating ratios, did not invite increased employment of the variable factors. On the contrary, tighter regulation is found inversely related to the employment of all factors and, implicitly, to industry output. Deregulation of entry and rates was thus a more likely source of improved managerial efficiency than merely switching from an operating ratio to a return‐on‐equity standard, as tbe Commission did in 1978.
The two stages of an equity carve‐out and the price response of parent and subsidiary stock
Authors: Klein April , Rosenfeld James , Beranek William
Published: May 2007

This paper provides evidence that an equity carve‐out is usually the first stage of a two‐stage process either to dispose of parent interest in a subsidiary or eventually re‐acquire the subsidiary's publicly traded snares. Both the initial carve‐out announcement and subsequent sell‐off announcement yield, on average, significantly positive abnormal returns to parent shareholders. In contrast, the parent's price response to a re‐acquisition of subsidiary shares is, on average, insignificantly positive. Both sell‐off and re‐acquisition announcements have a strong positive impact on subsidiary share prices. These gains, however, are offset by the subsidiaries' below‐average return performance preceding the second event.
Corporate restructuring and incentive effects of leverage and taxes
Authors: John Teresa A.
Published: May 2007

Recent empirical studies have indicated that mergers are value enhancing, yet the theoretical aspects of merger gains have not been as well explored. This paper presents a theoretical analysis of mergers. In the model of the firm presented, outstanding risky debt gives rise to agency costs of underinvestment which are offset by the benefit of debt‐related tax shields. The trade‐off specifies the optimal leverage for a firm. Within this framework, we then consider whether and under what circumstances firm value could be enhanced by a merger. Under a fairly broad set of assumptions it is shown that most firm combinations ‘improve’ investment incentives and increase the value of debt‐related tax shields. Mergers between optimally financed firms result in a merged firm that is also optimally financed, but such mergers are not synergistic. Nevertheless, firm value may be increased if mergers are undertaken in tandem with a refinancing program to bring the combined firms from suboptimal to optimal debt levels.
Dynamic competitive retail pricing behavior with uncertainty and learning
Authors: Coughlan Anne T. , Mantrala Murali K.
Published: May 2007

When competing retailers lack full information about rivals' decision processes, how will dynamic pricing behavior vary from patterns observed in more traditional static or full‐information models? We investigate this question in a dynamic alternating‐moves duopoly model. Retailers update (linear) conjectures about rivals' future prices in a Bayesian fashion. We show that as observed and expected prices converge, a pricing equilibrium is always achieved, whether or not the conjectured and actual values of the slope of the rival's best response function are consistent. Assuming specific parameter values, we compare equilibrium prices and associated profits in our Bayesian learning model with those obtained under the assumptions of static Nash behavior, collusive behavior and dynamically optimal behavior with full information. We apply the notions of strategic substitutability and strategic complementarity to the analysis and find that when products are strategic complements, conjectures of higher rival price responsiveness lead to higher steady‐state prices and profits. The reverse is true for strategic substitutes. We also find that learning about a rival's behavior proceeds more quickly, the less intensely related in demand are products. We find, in general, that equilibrium pricing patterns and profits can vary considerably from those in full‐information environments, but that even with grossly wrong beliefs about rival behavior, competing retailers are still attracted to an equilibrium. The analysis suggests not only the value of investigating lessthan‐full information situations but also the potential incremental value of signalling greater or less aggressiveness than truly characterizes one's behavior as a strategic option.
A cost function study of the providers of TVA power
Authors: Claggett E. Tylor
Published: May 2007

This paper examines these TVA power distributor issues: distribution of nonelectric utilities, municipal versus co‐operative distributors, effects of high urbanization, marketing and customer recruiting (M&CR), conservation and load management (C&LM) programs, and service area boundary changes. A translog cost model is the basis for the analyses. The conclusions are: (1) TVA distributors experience electrical distribution inefficiencies when they distribute water and electricity, but when they also distribute gas, there are no additional effects; (2) TVA co‐operatives enjoy electrical distribution cost advantages over TVA municipals; (3) the TVA municipals that serve the five largest metropolitan areas of the Tennessee River Valley have the highest electrical distribution costs; (4) M&CR efforts benefit TVA distributors; (5) the many TVA‐sponsored C&LM programs produce varied fiscal effects for TVA distributors; (6) there are both diseconomies and economies to scale given proportional increases in output components brought about by hypothetical increases in TVA distributor service areas.