bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advantages and disadvantages associated with the increased use of microwave energy in food preparation
Authors: BURNETT SALLY‐ANN , REES ANN MAREE
Published: July 2007

This paper reviews some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with the increased use of microwave energy which have been revealed in recent investigations. In the U.K., there have been many changes in household structure and in eating patterns. Lifestyles have changed as a result of the complex interaction between social, nutritional and technical developments. There are now many new products and a different mode of cooking and eating is used in which convenience is an important feature. Comparisons between households with and without microwave cookers showed a fundamental difference between time and energy used in food preparation and also between the part played by different family members in meal production. The changing roles within households and the nature of family‐eating patterns were evident. Experiments were carried out to quantify some of the observed differences between food cooked by conventional methods and by using microwave energy.

The microwave cooker was found to be an important domestic cooking appliance with potential for improving energy efficiency during cooking and providing convenience and increased leisure time but it must be realised that there are problems relating to product design and safety.
Ombudsman schemes for financial services in the U.K.: a consumer view
Authors: MITCHELL JEREMY
Published: July 2007

The ombudsman schemes that have been set up in the financial services sector in the U. K. are intended to meet the needs of consumers for rapid, effective and cheap redress. This paper examines the extent to which these schemes have fulfilled their objectives and draws up a balance sheet from the consumer viewpoint. Suggestions are made for the future development of the schemes. The paper is based on a speech given at the Office of Fair Trading Conference on Consumer Redress, Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London, January 1991.
Knowledge and attitudes of Bahraini adolescents towards obesity
Authors: MUSAIGER A. O. , MATER A. M. , ALEKRI S. A. , MAHDI A. E.
Published: July 2007

The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of Bahraini secondary students towards obesity. A multistage stratified sampling procedure was used to select 742 adolescents aged 14 to 19 years. The findings revealed that the knowledge of adolescents toward causes and complications of obesity was quite sufficient. However, adolescents were more likely to believe many food fads related to reducing weight. Lack of physical excercise, excessive food intake and heredity were the main reasons given by adolescents for obesity. Girls were more likely to depend on television (71—3%) and newspapers and magazine (55—6%) as sources of nutrition education than boys (66—7% and 44—8%, respectively). It was concluded that the school curriculum should include more information about nutritional problems prevalent in the community.
The shock of the new: a sociology of nouvelle cuisine
Authors: WOOD ROY C.
Published: July 2007

In recent years there has been a growth of sociological interest in food and eating. With a limited number of exceptions, this interest has not been translated into research into the cultural dimensions of specialist cuisines or the social context of dining outside the home. This paper offers a sociological analysis of nouvelle cuisine. Nouvelle cuisine presents an interesting focus for the sociologist concerned with the relationship between food and culture. It holds a culinary pre‐eminence amongst certain sections of the middle class and is claimed by many commentators to have revolutionized the provision of French haute cuisine in the commercial hotel and catering industry.
Packaging and design of consumer goods: a comparative study between Turkey and Jordan
Authors: ATEŠ HÜSEYIN , HAMDAN JAMAL
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study of packaging design is to examine the preferences of Turkish and Jordanian consumers living in the capital cities of both countries. A field survey was carried out to measure consumers' preferences, mostly for consumer goods, for colour or colour combinations of packages, and package sizes. The colour and size preferences show differences based on different cultures and economic conditions both in Turkey and Jordan. The study also investigates the influence of purchase frequency on package sizes. The conclusions will be beneficial to those who are planning and developing suitable marketing strategies for multinational companies.
Student evaluation of teaching effectiveness: an unresolved dilemma
Authors: COUCH ANNA SUE , MARTIN RUTH E.
Published: July 2007

Content analysis techniques were used to analyse the criteria used for student evaluation of teaching effectiveness in college and university home economics programmes. Student evaluation forms were obtained from 29 state institutions representing 21 states. The evaluation forms varied in length from seven to 36 objective items. Most provided for flexibility. including such options as add‐on items, open‐ended response format, and choice of forms. The evaluation criteria fell into six categories: course organization and content, course requirements, evaluation procedures, student participation, teaching skills, and global value of course. All of the institutions included items related to teaching skills. This was also the most heavily weighted factor, accounting for nearly 40% of the total evaluation. This is a significant finding, given that many college and university faculty have limited opportunities to develop teaching skills prior to beginning an academic career. Home economics administrators might use the results of the study to design faculty development programmes to help both novice and experienced faculty acquire or improve the skills on which they are being evaluated.
A comparison of produce prices in Costa Rica: farmers' markets, produce markets and supermarkets
Authors: DÍAZ‐KNAUF KATHERINE , VARGAS DAISY , AGUILAR FERNANDO , SOMMER ROBERT
Published: July 2007

Following a review of the history and organization of farmers' markets in Costa Rica, a comparison was made of prices offered to consumers at farmers' markets, produce markets and supermarkets in Costa Rica. Findings reveal there are substantial price savings to Costa Rican consumers that shop at local farmers' markets for fruit and vegetables compared to produce markets and supermarkets.
Perspectives of service consumers: their multiple roles and challenges
Authors: MARTIN CHARLES L.
Published: July 2007

The unique characteristics of services — i.e. intangibility, perishability, inseparability and heterogeneity — add risk, challenge and complexity to the tasks involved in being a service consumer. In response, service consumers assume six important roles, labelled: Targets, Partners, Quasi‐Employees, Service Itself, Reporters and Quality Inspectors. The successful implementation of these roles relies heavily upon consumer skills that vary from consumer to consumer. Implications of being a service consumer are discussed and specific recommendations are offered to service consumers.
The effect of water hardness on washing performance of built and unbuilt surfactants
Authors: UMBER JO J. , BROWN DONNA M. , CAMERON BRUCE A. , MEYER SONYA S. , POWELL JUDITH A. , SISCO BURTON R.
Published: July 2007

Five different surfactants were used at 2.0% concentrations. The most and least effective were found to be Synthrapol N and Ahcowet RS respectively; based on their rating of whiteness index. Synthrapol N and Ahcowet RS were evaluated with the addition of sodium carbonate, sodium tripolyphosphate and a 1:1 combination of the two builders. In both cases the addition of a builder improved the cleaning efficiency of the surfactant. Although each builder alone improved the cleaning efficiency, the combination of sodium carbonate and sodium tripolyphosphate improved efficiency at a lower total concentration.
The usage of media across product classes: the influence of demographics and psychographics
Authors: KHAN SAMINA , CHANG DANN , HORRIDGE PATRICIA E.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in the types of media used for four product classes, and to examine the effect of respondent's demographics and psychographics on the types of media. Eight hundred and four respondents were randomly selected from the population (8040) of five residential sections of Lubbock, Texas, by using systematic sampling. Different merchandise names representing the classes of product were listed in the questionnaire. The respondents were asked to rate each type of merchandise according to the order of media usage when they purchased the merchandise. One hundred and fifty‐two questionnaires were analysed by factor analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, and Friedman two‐way analysis of variance by ranks. Eight psychographic factors extracted by factor analysis were Traditional, Self‐confident, Satisfied with Finances, Satisfied with Friends, Living Optimist, Self‐conscious, Community Minded, and Homebody. Self‐conscious was the only factor to affect the consumers' usage of newspapers, television, radio, magazines and direct mail. In addition, the usage of television was affected by the Satisfied with Finances factor. The demographic variables of marital status, age, education, ethnic group, political outlook, occupation and social level influenced the usage of newspapers, magazines, radio, television and direct mail. The usage of television was affected by one's political affiliation. Income did not influence media usage. The findings indicated that the individual's usage of the newspapers, television, radio, magazines and direct mail was affected by the classes of products: convenience, preference, shopping and speciality goods.
Knowledge and preference of aromatic rice by consumers in East and South‐east Asia
Authors: HORI KOHJI , PURBOYO RAHMA BOEDI R. A. , AKINAGA YUKO , OKITA TAKUO , ITOH KIYOE
Published: July 2007

A survey on aromatic (scented) rice was conducted of 150 people in each capital in Indonesia, Philippines, Korea and Japan in order to ascertain if they are familiar with the rice and like the aroma. Many of the subjects in Jakarta and Manila know of aromatic rice, and they often eat it and even prefer it. However, people in Seoul and Tokyo do not know of the rice. One hundred and seventy‐five out of 246 persons (71%) in Kochi, Japan, know of the rice and over 60% of the subjects eat it. Most of the subjects who have eaten aromatic rice prefer the aroma. There is a great difference in the distribution of aromatic rice between East and South‐east Asia. Significant differences are also found between Jakarta and Manila in the distribution and preference of the rice.
Causes and effects of consumer bankruptcies: a cross‐cultural comparison
Authors: HIRA TAHIRA K.
Published: July 2007

Data for this study were collected during 1988 through surveys conducted in Canada, Japan, Scotland and the United States. The overall objectives of the study were to determine differences in factors influencing decisions to file bankruptcy, expectations from bankruptcy and impact of bankruptcy filing on debtor's life in each country. It was found that over 50% of debtors in all countries except the United States (46%) identified ‘too much borrowing’ as a reason for having to file for bankruptcy. Most of the debtors in each country agreed that bankruptcy provided a ‘fresh start’. In addition, U.S. and Canadian debtors also indicated that filing for bankruptcy had a positive influence on their health status, family relations and the employment status. The impact of bankruptcy for Japanese debtors was rather harsh, resulting in family problems, health problems, suicides and running away from home. To help reduce the growth in bankruptcy and halt repeat bankruptcies, a multi‐level effort focusing on lending practices, borrowing practices and bankruptcy procedures is needed.
The growth of product variety — a myth?
Authors: PANTZAR MIKA
Published: July 2007

The starring point for this article is the changing spectrum of goods and services, in the product variety as seen by the eyes of the individual facing the supply in the market. Apart from the fact that product variety is an interesting research object in itself, it would appear to have a distinct connection with numerous sketches characterising the ‘New era’. The article examines the historical change of product variety with the aid of empirical examples and points out a number of conflicting trends.
Consumer acceptance of beef with different levels of marbling
Authors: JEREMIAH L. E. , TONG A. K. W. , JONES S. D. M. , McDONELL C.
Published: July 2007

Beef striploin steak disappearance from the retail counters of six stores in three different Canadian provinces was monitored over two consecutive weekends. Beef consumers in three Canadian cities were subsequently interviewed and requested to evaluate steaks representative of four different marbling levels, both visually and organoleptically. There was a clear consumer preference at the point of purchase or visual assessment for steaks with traces of marbling, and discrimination against steaks with modest marbling, and a preference for steaks with slight marbling over steaks with small marbling. However, during organoleptic testing opposite preferences were evident. Therefore, most consumers desire both leanness and palatability in beef. However, these qualities are not necessarily coincidental.
Dairy product consumption in South Korea
Authors: WYNE MARIANNE , LEE MIN JUNE , MOON SOOJAE
Published: July 2007

The per capita daily consumption of dairy products increased approximately 2450% in South Korea from 1969 to 1987. The purpose of the present study was to determine the frequency with which urban South Koreans consume 10 common dairy products, and to find the socio‐economic group most responsible for the increase in dairy product consumption. Data were collected on the dietary patterns and socio‐economic backgrounds of 923 women, 880 children and 772 men in urban areas. This study showed that seven of 10 dairy products investigated were consumed evenly by both sexes, all age groups and income levels. However, three recently‐introduced products (i.e. cheese, ice cream and butter) were found to be consumed most frequently by young Koreans in the high income level.
The effectiveness of selected barrier fabrics in minimizing the light‐induced colour change of textile objects in storage
Authors: BELL JENNIFER A. , CARY RICHARD T.
Published: July 2007

A relatively inexpensive method for the temporary or permanent storage of textile objects is to place them inside fabric covers (e.g. rolled storage and garment‐bag storage), under fabric covers (e.g. flat storage), or behind fabric curtains (e.g. hanger storage behind a curtain). These barrier fabrics can minimize the harmful effects of light on textile objects in storage. This exploratory study examined the effectiveness of muslin, duck, and Gore‐TexTM barrier fabrics in minimizing the light‐induced colour change of textile objects in storage. The results indicated that muslin, duck, and Gore‐TexTM barrier fabrics significantly differ in their effectiveness in minimizing the light‐induced colour change of textile objects in storage. Several recommendations are provided for future investigations on this topic.
Country‐of‐origin effect in apparel choices: A conjoint analysis
Authors: LANG JANE QIN , CROWN E. M.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to determine Canadian consumers' beliefs about, and preferences for apparel products made in Canada, China and some other low‐cost nations. The importance of the country‐of‐origin of garments relative to other apparel attributes in consumers' purchase decisions was also examined. Information integration theory provided the theoretical foundation for a conjoint analysis of product ratings. A simulated purchase of fleece sweatshirts was designed to conduct the conjoint analysis experiment. Consumers' beliefs regarding various attributes of apparel products made in Canada, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and South Korea were also measured.

Significant differences were found in consumers' beliefs about garments made in different countries regarding quality, price, style and fit. Canadian clothing was perceived to be superior in quality, style and fit, but the most expensive. Results of the conjoint analysis indicated that Canada was the most preferred country‐of‐origin. The effect of country‐of‐origin on subjects' evaluations of sweatshirts, however, was less important than that of either quality or price. Beliefs about quality, price, style and fit of garments made in Canada, China and South Korea were found to be significantly related to subjects' utilities for sweatshirts made in such countries. Differences in beliefs and utilities were found among respondents differing in awareness of country‐of‐origin, ethnic background, age and education, but not among those who held different opinions about supporting domestic industries.
A survey of commercial laundry detergents – how effective are they? Part I: powders
Authors: BROWN DONNA M. , CAMERON BRUCE A. , MEYER SONYA S.
Published: July 2007

The effectiveness of 11 non‐phosphate containing powdered detergents and 12 phosphate containing powdered detergents, of varying formulations, in cleaning a standard soiled fabric in soft water (5 ppm) were evaluated. It was found that in soft water there were no differences between washing with either phosphate or non‐phosphate detergent. In general, washing with detergents which contained phosphates did give somewhat better results in warm water. Detergents that contained bleach as an additive did not result in a whiter fabric.
Purchases, food habits and waste management in households: exploring responses to local composting
Authors: SHANAHAN HELENA , SÄLJÖ ROGER
Published: July 2007

This exploratory study focuses on processes of food purchases, food habits and waste management in the household. The purpose of the study has been to investigate what influences the amount and type of waste generated in the household. Information was collected in 13 households in a residential area close to central Göteborg, Sweden, where a separation of waste and local composting experiment had just been launched. The households registered purchases, meals served, and weight of biodegradable waste, for 2 weeks. In‐depth interviews were also carried out. At a general level, environmental concern was found not to influence purchase behaviour. The results show that the households produced a higher level of biodegradable than non‐biodegradable waste. Variations between families were found to be considerable. There are clear indications that the experience of participation in the experiment which required local composting per se was a very powerful determinant for increasing the awareness in families of the relationship between consumption and the nature and quantity of waste produced.
Consumer perceptions of environmental marketing claims: an exploratory study
Authors: CUDE BRENDA J.
Published: July 2007

This paper reports the results of research which examined consumer perceptions of 10 environmental claims: degradable, biodegradable, no CFCs, safe for the environment, environmentally friendly, compostable, recycled, pre‐consumer waste, post‐consumer waste, and recyclable. Implications for policy makers and future research are identified.
Choosing durable goods for household production: economic efficiency of household durables
Authors: CHUNG YOUNG SOOK , MAGRABI FRANCES M.
Published: July 2007

A model of use‐utility of household durables was developed and estimated using survey data. The survey was conducted to identify attributes relating to the efficiency of kitchen work centres. Indexes for the most important attributes were developed and used to compare different selections of equipment. The impact of adding an equipment item was found to vary with the characteristics of the item, the degree of importance ascribed to attributes of the work center and specific functions performed there
Comparison of sensory evaluation of aromatic rice by consumers in East and South‐east Asia
Authors: HORI KOHJI , PURBOYO RAHMA BOEDI R. A. , JO MIAE , KIM SANGAE , AKINAGA YOKO , OKITA TAKUO , KANG MOONSUN
Published: July 2007

Quality of aromatic rice was compared by sensory evaluation with ordinary bland rice. Hieri, one of the varieties of aromatic rice planted in Japan was accepted by Indonesian people as well as the persons living in Japan, who are from South‐east Asia. Basmati, which has a strong aroma, was nor accepted by Japanese people who have not eaten aromatic rice before. They have the same degree of preference for Jasmine rice as Hieri. This research confirmed that the quality of Hieri is good.
Development of a home food production frequency scale
Authors: BEUTLER IVAN F. , HUDSON CAROLYN , OWENS ALMA J.
Published: July 2007

This paper reports on the development of a home food production frequency scale. The scale is survey based and consists of the summed score of six items answered on a five‐point Likert scale. Similar to other assessment scales that measure family characteristics such as family cohesion, adaptability or family stress, home food production frequency can be used as a convenient alternative to time‐use measures of home production. The scale's validity and reliability is assessed revealing considerable potential for its use to ascertain relationships between home food production activity and other family variables and to specify more fully empirical models in home economics research.
Determinants of household expected real income growth in the U.S.A.
Authors: CHANG Y. REGINA , HANNA SHERMAN
Published: July 2007

This study explores factors related to household income growth in a two‐period timeframe. using data from the 1983 and I986 Survey of Consumer Finances. Regression results explain 81% of the variation in household income. Household income in the first period, age, marital status, education, job status and occupation were found to be important determinants of various levels of household real income growth. Implications for consumer education, financial planning, family economics and welfare policy are discussed.
Credit card use and knowledge in Thailand
Authors: SANGSUTISEREE WANWANATH , LOWN JEAN M.
Published: July 2007

This study examined the relationship between demographic characteristics of Thai credit card holders and the extent of credit card use, the level of credit card knowledge and the consumer choice perspectives. Data were collected by phone interview from Bangkok Bank credit card holders. Chi‐square and Cramer's V were used to analyse the data. Only income and occupation were statistically related to credit card use. The results revealed that Thai credit card holders were not knowledgeable about credit card terms. They were influenced by environmental stimuli and society and group norms when they chose their credit card. They lacked sufficient information to make an informed choice when they applied for their cards. Implications for consumer educators and policy makers in developing nations are discussed.
Household expenditure on poultry and seafood in the U.S.A. ‐ a cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: NAYGA RODOLFO M.
Published: July 2007

This study investigates the determinants of household expenditures on poultry and seafood using the 1992 Consumer Expenditure Survey. Higher income and larger households with a better‐educated and older household head spend more on poultry, especially during the fourth quarter of the year, than others. Higher income and north‐eastern households with a non‐white and better‐educated household head spend more on seafood than others. Poultry expenditures are more sensitive to changes in household size than to changes in household income. In contrast, seafood expenditures are more sensitive to changes in household income than to changes in household size.
Consumer reasons for store ‘walkouts' and the impact on future store patronage
Authors: HATHCOTE JAN M.
Published: July 2007

This study addresses ‘walkouts’, one of the major issues identified by the Skaggs Institute of Retail Management for 1990–1993. Walkouts are dissatisfaction responses of consumers who enter a store with the intention of making a purchase but who eventually leave without doing so. A more severe situation occurs when the consumer becomes a store defector, one not willing to patronize the store in the future. Results of this study indicated that customers walked out three times more often because of poor merchandise assortment than for lack of, or discourteous, service. However, the consequences of poor merchandise assortments were less detrimental to the retailer/consumer relationship than poor service. Findings revealed that half of the consumers who walked out because of poor service indicated they would not shop in the store in the future ‐ store defectors.
The contribution of discretionary salt to total salt intake
Authors: FARRIMOND SUSAN , AINSWORTH PAUL , PIPER BRENDA
Published: July 2007

The aim of this research was to investigate sodium consumption in a group of people, compare this consumption with dietary reference values and to identify sources of sodium in the diet. Participants were given weighed salt pots which were used for 8 weeks and a fully weighed dietary survey was conducted by each subject. The average daily sodium consumption of each subject was calculated and compared with the reference nutrient intake (RNI). Daily sodium intake was found to vary considerably, ranging from 1213 mg (53 mmol) (76% of the RNI) to 10 569 mg (460 mmol) (661% of the RNI). Average daily sodium consumption was found to be 5175 mg (225 mmol), well above the RNI of 1600 mg (70 mmol). The average contribution from discretionary salt was 15.0%, from processed foods 76.5% and from naturally occurring sodium 8.4%. Males were found to consume more sodium than females and a moderate correlation between age and daily sodium intake was found.
College students' attitudes towards credit cards
Authors: XIAO JING J. , NORING FRANZISKA E. , ANDERSON JOAN G.
Published: July 2007

Based on previous studies and using an approach of tripartite classification of attitude, an instrument measuring college students' attitudes toward credit was carefully constructed. Its reliability and validity were tested. Chi‐square tests indicated that the factors associated with differences in attitude towards credit card use comprising three components ‐ affective, cognitive and behavioural included gender, academic major, living arrangement, number of credit cards owned, number of all cards (store cards, phone cards, and petrol cards) owned, time of using credit cards, and cosignment status. Implications for consumer credit educators and practitioners were specified.
Preference for agar‐agar pudding made from Indonesian palm sugar
Authors: HORI KOHJI , JO MIAE , PURBOYO RAHMA BOEDI R. A. , AKINAGA YUKO , OKITA TAKUO
Published: July 2007

Palm sugar is an important ingredient in Indonesian cuisine. This study was carried out to examine if this sugar affects the preference and the quality of Indonesian agar‐agar pudding. Brown sugar can be a possible substitute for palm sugar in preparing the pudding, but Indonesian people seem to prefer the colour and the aroma of palm sugar to those of brown sugar. Palm sugar seems to affect the textural properties of the pudding. The evaluation of colour, hardness, smoothness, saltiness and overall palatability of the palm sugar pudding by Japanese panellists was higher than that of the brown sugar pudding. Palm sugar may play an important role in the characteristics of Indonesian food.
The impact of conditions associated with maternal employment on the diet quality of young children
Authors: MOE JULIAN K. , JOHNSON RACHEL K. , KOLODINSKY JANE
Published: July 2007

Questionnaire and dietary intake data from employed mothers with pre‐school children were examined to discern the effects of employment‐related conditions on the diet quality of preschool children. These conditions included role satisfaction of the mother, household support and perceived quality of child care. Multivariate analysis showed few effects of these conditions on diet quality. Role satisfaction was positively correlated with dietary fat intake and maternal education level was negatively correlated with calcium intake. Overall, this study showed that working mothers were able to provide a sound diet for their children regardless of their numerous responsibilities.
The customer compatibility scale: measuring service customers' perceptions of fellow customers
Authors: MARTIN CHARLES L.
Published: July 2007

Customers forced to share the service environment may not react favourably to one anothers' behaviour or presence‐possibly jeopardizing customer satisfaction with the overall service experience and thereby risking future patronage. This study introduces a 19‐item customer compatibility scale that measures the extent of interaction between customers within a business's physical environment and whether it leads to satisfaction or dissatisfaction. An overview of the scale's development is presented, including evidence indicating the reliability and validity of the scale. Recommendations are made for future research, and practitioner applications of the scale are discussed.
Knowledge of iron nutrition by university students in Japan, Korea, Thailand and Indonesia
Authors: HORI KOHJI , JAROENKORNBURI SUMONCHAT , PURBOYO RAHMA BOEDI R.A. , KIM SANGAE , ISHIBASHI GENJI , KAI SUMIKO , KANG MOONSUN
Published: July 2007

Current advances in iron nutrition are remarkable. This study was carried out to determine the level of knowledge among the university and college students in Japan, Korea, Thailand and Indonesia. Although about 90% of the students participating in the study knew that iron deficiency causes anaemia, they have poor overall knowledge about iron nutrition. More Korean students believed that milk and its products are a good source of iron and the promoter for its absorption. This may be attributed to misunderstandings engendered by the mass media. Iron nutrition education in home economics classes at primary and junior high schools is important, and home economics teachers in South‐east Asia must emphasize this importance.
Consumer attitudes to ‘Healthy’ restaurants
Authors: POTTER JANE , WILLIAMS PHILLIP
Published: July 2007

This paper describes the results of a qualitative research study that sought the views of consumers about using restaurants as a setting for health promotion and, specifically, for providing low‐fat healthy food choices. As health promotion has evolved from a major focus on individual change toward a greater focus on the environments in which people live, work and recreate, restaurants in Australia are now being targeted as appropriate organizations for change. Consumers in this study expressed cautious interest in the idea. However, it was clear that their prime motivation for choosing a restaurant and a restaurant meal did not lie with healthy food considerations. Instead, issues such as cost, personal preference and hygiene appeared to be more important.
Responding to Agenda 21: purchase and waste behaviour and the introduction of weight‐based billing – a case study
Authors: ÅBERG HELENA , RENSTRÖM ÅSA , SHANAHAN HELENA , SÄLJÖ ROGER
Published: July 2007

In many societies unsustainable consumption patterns are currently being recognized as a critical problem receiving increasing public attention. Communities in many parts of the world are responding to United Nations Agenda 21 by attempting to increase public awareness about the necessity of increasing recycling, by increasing fees and taxes on products that are harmful to the environment, by introducing re‐use systems, and by changing legislation. These are just a few examples of the kinds of measures that are being employed in an attempt to move towards an ecocyclic society. This article reports a case study from a Swedish municipality, Varberg, and the focus is on the relationship between household routines related to purchases of everyday commodities and waste management. In 1994, Varberg introduced a weight‐based billing system for household waste and at the same time a green shopping campaign was launched by the authorities. The article reports findings from a study of 39 households, located in two different areas, a town area with rented apartments and a suburban area with owner occupied, one‐family houses. Data have been obtained through interviews and weighing of household waste. Results show that there are important differences between these areas with respect to awareness of the information launched in the campaign, knowledge of the goals of the campaign and in the manners in which dwellers felt affected by the message conveyed. Households in the suburban area, for instance, had a better knowledge of green labels and what they stand for. There are also clear differences in concrete actions that can be taken by those living in the two areas. In the area with rented apartments, weight‐based billing for the individual household is not possible, nor is composting a viable alternative. For the suburban families living in their own houses, there are a broad set of measures that could be taken to modify purchase behaviours and waste management towards more environmentally friendly alternatives.
A comparison of woven and nonwoven blankets: insulation properties and effects of laundering
Authors: EPPS HELEN H.
Published: July 2007

Woven and nonwoven blankets were compared before and after five launderings. Laundering was associated with enhanced thermal insulation effectiveness, which was related to structural changes. Both woven and nonwoven blankets provided improved thermal insulation after laundering, with the most significant improvements in thermal insulation occurring among the nonwovens. With respect to dimensional stability, structural changes, and thermal insulation, the nonwovens were found to be equivalent or superior to the wovens after five launderings.
Surface materials and dust
Authors: AULANKO MARJA
Published: July 2007

Indoor air is nowadays a very important issue. Dust has an essential effect on it. The aim of this study was to find out if surface materials differ from each other in becoming ‘dusty’. The research material consisted of eleven different surface materials: uncoated linoleum, linoleum with acrylic treatment, even homogeneous PVC, cork tile with PVC‐coating, plastic covering with polyurethane coating, ceramic tiles, laminate, varnished wood, glass, steel and painted hard‐wood plate. The specimens were put in five different places. They formed two groups. One group was dusted with a dry microfibre cloth, the other group with a slightly damp viscose cloth. The amount of dust on the surface was measured once a week. The test period was six weeks. The results showed that uncoated linoleum collects more dust than other materials, ft is evident that dry cleaning methods are no worse than damp ones if efficient tools are used.
Technology in the textile and clothing industries: implications for developing countries
Authors: BOYES RHEA , SLATER KEITH
Published: July 2007

Textile and clothing production has changed from a craft‐oriented skill to a mechanical means of mass‐production in the developed world since the Industrial Revolution, but has remained as an artisan‐based industry in the Third World. With the availability of modern techniques to developing nations, however, there is a risk that industrialization may eliminate this craft aspect. The end result of its appearance may well be a major loss, both of unique characteristics and of products prized for their originality by connoisseurs of fine textiles.
The relationship between nutrition knowledge and food behaviour among Finnish homemakers
Authors: PALOJOKI PÄIVI
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to understand how the different domains of nutrition knowledge are related to health‐oriented food behaviour and how both of these are related to socioeconomic factors. The studied population of homemakers (n = 647) answered a mailed questionnaire gathering socioeconomic data, food use data and data on nutrition knowledge. Items measuring both food behaviour and nutrition knowledge were chosen in the areas of fats and dietary energy because of their importance in the Finnish nutrition recommendations. The household context was chosen to increase the understanding of the knowledge‐behaviour relationship in everyday settings. The major findings were: nutrition ‐ related beliefs were the best predictors of health‐oriented food behaviour (h.o.f.b.); factual knowledge had only weak connections with h.o.f.b.; education and income had stronger connections with h.o.f.b. than factual knowledge; and the connection of practical knowledge oriented with childhood implied that a homemaker's food behaviour was linked with habits adopted from childhood.
Consumer behaviour reflected in store and clothing selection criteria: a pilot study in Canada and England
Authors: VAN DE VELDE J. , PELTON W. , CATON S. TURNBULL , BYRNE M.
Published: July 2007

Similarities and differences in selected clothing acquisition behaviour at two independent sites have been investigated using the Engel, Blackwell and Miniard consumer behaviour model as the conceptual framework. Similar clothing values orientations were found, supporting the assumption of a common Anglo‐root culture at both sites. The paper focuses on an outcome of the values issue, namely store selection criteria and clothing evaluative criteria used by university students in Winnipeg, Canada and Newcastle upon Tyne, U.K. Respondents at both sites rated the store selection criteria and clothing evaluative criteria in similar orders of importance. Significant Spearman rank correlation coefficients for store selection criteria (rs= 0‐95) and clothing evaluative criteria (rs= 0‐88) suggest that the common Anglo‐root culture of the Winnipeg and Newcastle participants has more influence on the alternative evaluative stage of the decision‐making process than marketing stimuli and strategies found at each site. When individual criteria were compared across sites, only three of the ten store selection criteria gave statistically different responses, while three of the 21 clothing evaluative criteria were found to be statistically different.
U.S. textile and apparel faculty members and their work environments
Authors: LINDBERG JUDITH , DICKERSON KITTY
Published: July 2007

The study examined textile and apparel faculty members' perceptions of their work environment in the context of demographic variables. A better understanding of current textile and apparel work environment perceptions can be used by faculty members to recruit new staff; increase the advancement, satisfaction and retention of current staff; and provide graduate students who are considering a position in higher education with realistic expectation. A total of 337 International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) members participated in the study by completing the Work Environment Scale and a demographic questionnaire. (The ITAA is a global organization of textile and apparel faculty members that is U.S. based but has members from most regions of the world.) Multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine whether a relationship existed between the work environment measures and demographic variables. A significant relationship was found between the perceptions of work environment and the demographic variables of academic rank, level of education and size of institution.
The effects of environmental attitude and fashion opinion leadership on textile recycling in the US
Authors: KOCH KATHRYN , DOMINA TANYA
Published: July 2007

This study explored consumers' use of existing textile recycling options and tested relationships between general environmental attitudes, fashion opinion leadership and textile recycling behaviour. Nearly 51·2% of consumer textile products end up in landfills each year. Therefore, recycling of post‐consumer textiles has implications for reducing the impact of consumer waste on the environment. The sample comprised a total of 277 male and female students from one Mid‐western university. Factor analysis, correlation analysis and t‐tests were the statistical methods used to analyse the data. Environmental attitude was found to be positively related to textile disposition method but not related to fashion opinion leadership. Gender differences were found for general environmental attitude as well as textile disposition method. These results have implications for consumer textile recycling initiatives. Suggestions for further study are given.
Contemporary outer dress and clothing market source use of Middle Eastern women
Authors: FORNEY JUDITH CARDONA , RABOLT NANCY J.
Published: July 2007

Contemporary Qatari women's outer dress and clothing market source use were explored using Hamilton's1 dress as a cultural subsystem metatheory. Data were gathered by interviewing 50 Qatari female nationals. Dependent variables were traditionalism of outer dress worn in public and private situations and clothing information and acquisition sources. Independent variables were demographic characteristics of age, education, socioeconomic status, work status and travel. Analyses included correlations and t‐tests. Outer dress was traditional in most public, but less so in private, situations. As age increased, clothing traditionalism increased. The most used market sources were store displays, TV, video, tailors and the suq. Store display use increased with age, while use of video, TV and salespersons increased as education decreased. Women travelled outside Qatar to acquire clothing and when travelling, most women wore non‐traditional outer dress. Findings were compared with a study completed in Saudi Arabia,2 Qatari women's contemporary outer dress was less traditional and they used both traditional and non‐traditional information sources and traditional acquisition sources more than Saudi women.
Changing risk perceptions and food‐handling practices of Oregon household food preparers
Authors: RAAB CAROLYN A. , WOODBURN MARGY J.
Published: July 2007

Results of 1986 and 1995/6 statewide random surveys were compared to assess changes in the risk perceptions and food‐handling practices of Oregon food preparers. The 1986 survey revealed that perishable foods (baked potatoes, hard‐boiled eggs, sliced turkey and cream pie) were often held at room temperature for longer than 2–3 h. Those who perceived greater food safety risks were significantly less likely to report temperature abuse of cream pie (P < 0·02) and baked potatoes (P < 0·001). Respondents reported serving raw and/or rare animal products (fish, milk, hamburger and pork) in both surveys. More food preparers perceived that serving undercooked foods was a ‘high’ risk in 1995/6 than in 1986. More (88%) also perceived that serving raw hamburger was a ‘high’ risk in 1995/6 than in 1986 (52%), possibly because of media coverage linking under‐cooked hamburgers to the E. coli 0157:H7 outbreak in the Pacific Northwest. Those who perceived a ‘high’ risk were less likely to serve raw fish (P < 0·038) and raw milk (P < 0·002). Significantly more females perceived raw milk to be a ‘high’ risk (P < 0·003). The risks of consuming both raw fish and raw milk were more likely to be underestimated, however. Food safety education is therefore needed to help food preparers to identify ‘high’ risk foods and to motivate them to minimize risks.
Partially defatted soy flour effects on sensory and physical characteristics of baked products
Authors: BANKS WILLIAM T. , WANG CHARLES , BREWER M. SUSAN
Published: July 2007

Physical and sensory characteristics of quick breads (e.g. muffins) formulated to contain 0%, 40%, 50% or 60% of partially defatted soy flour substituted for wheat flour were evaluated. As defatted soy flour levels increased, muffin batter linespread, baked volume, peak height at the crown and lightness (L* value) decreased while baked product air cell number, redness and yellowness (a* and b* values), crust surface unevenness, graininess, aftertaste, tenderness and moistness increased. Results indicate that partially defatted soy flour substituted for wheat flour at high levels in muffins adversely affected both physical and sensory characteristics.
The elderly food consumer: disadvantaged?
Authors: LEIGHTON CAROLINE , SEAMAN CLAIRE E.A.
Published: July 2007

Older consumers are an important subgroup of the population whose numbers are rising. Intense competition between retailers and changes in patterns of food shopping among consumers in general have led to research that focuses on factors that contribute to older people being disadvantaged. Research in Scotland has investigated the impact of the food retail sector on elderly people and results indicate that elderly people shop frequently and spend a considerable proportion of their income on food. Income, location, transport and the supermarket environment are all potential factors that can contribute to the disadvantage of older people.
Comparative analysis of synthetic fibres for marine rope
Authors: Terry Barb , Slater Keith
Published: July 2007

Abstract The applicability of ropes in marine situations may be investigated by attempting to match the conditions of use with the properties of fibres. Five commonly used fibres (nylon, polyester, polypropylene, Kevlar and Spectra) are examined in this paper. Properties important enough to be taken into account are strength (dry and wet), weight, elongation, abrasion resistance, sunlight degradation, exposure to sea‐water components and cost. It is clear that all five fibre types have advantages and drawbacks, and that the one with the optimum ratio of performance at minimum cost is nylon. Under specific conditions of use, however, each of them may be preferred, and the recommended approach is to examine the conditions under which a rope will be used. By comparing these conditions with the specific properties of each fibre type, it is possible to decide the one that best fits the intended end‐use. The possibility of choosing blends to provide an enhanced performance is also available.
Towards adopting a global perspective in the field of consumer studies
Authors: McGregor Sue L.T.
Published: July 2007

Abstract Using economic principles to explain the nuances of consumer decisions with global implications does not adequately capture the reality of modern consumption. Embracing a global perspective would enable consumer studies professionals to compensate for this shortcoming as it consists ‘of the information, attitudes, awareness, and skills which taken together, can help individuals understand the world, how they affect others, and how others affect them’ (p.19).1 As this paper explains the essence of a global perspective, it reinterprets a collection of economic principles towards global sensitivity. Six ideas are suggested to facilitate a dialogue among consumer studies professionals about practising from a global perspective.
In pursuit of quality ‐ the volume control for fabric goods is getting out of hand
Authors: Miller Jennifer
Published: July 2007

Abstract The paper discusses the application of quality control in determining the make‐up of textile goods as a result of the increase in production rates designed to meet the consumer demand for change. The downsizing and reskilling of manufacturing plants, coupled with the outsourcing and use of unskilled labour in the international marketplace, is replacing subjective skills. The impact of management practices associated with Quick Response, Just‐in‐Time and BS EN ISO 9000 are affecting the response rate of the manufacturer and the retailer to the consumer. In assessing suitability, technology is also progressively taking over in the prediction of the end use of a cloth and thus in the determination of production runs. The extent to which the unseen hand of the FAST and Kawabata systems of measurement are used most effectively is discussed.