bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Health Status of International and American University Students: Implications for Health Education
Authors: Adeyanju Matthew , Tricker Ray , Spencer Rita
Published: May 2005

The study examined the differences between a sample of 311 international and 251 American university students relative to their self-perceived health status, health attitudes, behaviors, and locus of control using the International Student Health Inventory (ISHI). More specifically, the study compared demographics, current health history, health care obtained by students within the university milieu, health locus of control, wellness attitudes and behaviors. The study addressed the rationale for student health care professionals to improve health services for the international students. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated that sociocultural (external) and self-perceived (internal) stressors may influence both groups' health status and care. American students experienced more common minor stress-related illnesses/ailments than international students. Both groups indicated they functioned more from an internal health locus of control. Healthiest and poorest wellness attitudes were reported by the international male and American male students respectively. No observed differences were noticed on the groups' wellness behaviors.
The Role of Threat and Efficacy in AIDS Prevention
Authors: Witte Kim
Published: May 2005

Studies examining the role of fear, threat, and efficacy, in promoting protective-health behavior changes have yielded diverse results. These constructs were examined in a theoretically-based 3 (low, moderate, high threat) × 2 (low, high efficacy) factorial experiment promoting condom use to prevent HIV-transmission. Pre-screened sexually-active college students not involved in long-term relationships ( N = 146) served as subjects. As predicted, when threat of AIDS was high and condom efficacy low, people failed to use condoms; when both threat and efficacy were high, people reported more condom use. The more fearful people were of AIDS, the more they denied its threat and the more manipulated they felt. Overall, the results indicated that threatening messages can motivate behavior change, as long as the recommended response is portrayed as effective. This study is useful for public health practitioners in that specific and practical guidelines for campaign message development are offered.
Survival of the Fittest? The Democratization of Hospital Administration in Quebec
Authors: Eakin Joan M.
Published: May 2005

In 1973 the Canadian Province of Quebec “democratized” its hospital boards of directors by replacing their traditional lay community or religious members with individuals more representative of the hospitals' major interest groups. In the province's English-speaking hospitals, patients, community organizations, physicians and nonprofessional hospital employees elected representatives to boards that were formerly comprised mostly of business executives. After a brief description of the social organization of the former “elite” boards and their role in the distribution of power within hospitals, the paper demonstrates how the “elite” board members and hospital administrators retained control despite “democratization.” Several theoretical explanations for this outcome are critically examined in the light of these empirical findings. One suggestion is that the “elite” administration survived democratization because it was “fitter” in terms of ability to influence the hospitals' major economic and political constraints.
Substance Use and Abuse among Deviant and Non-Deviant Adolescents in Israel
Authors: Barnea Zipora , Teichman Meir , Rahav Giora
Published: May 2005

The study examined the hypothesis that the use of psychoactive substances is strongly associated with social deviance. Patterns of alcohol and drug use among two samples of deviant adolescents were investigated and compared to patterns of use among a sample of non-deviant youths. The participants were as follows: ninety-seven juvenile delinquents, inmates in institutions, aged twelve through eighteen; 184 detached youth, aged twelve through eighteen, who are in treatment programs of the Departments of Youth Advancement, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Welfare; and a nationwide representative sample of 8151 high school students, aged twelve through eighteen. Substance use was measured by three self-report indices: frequency of use during the last year, use during the last month, and use during the last week. The results clearly indicate that psychoactive substance use is concentrated among Israeli groups of deviant adolescents. These adolescents use all types of substances, licit as well as illicit, at rates considerably exceeding those found among high school students. However, a great similarity was found between the deviant groups of adolescents and the high school students in several personality correlates (sensation seeking, anxiety, depressive mood and learned resourcefulness) of substance use, and to a much lesser degree in its interpersonal correlates (perceived closeness to parents and to peers). The results' implications for prevention are discussed.
Depression following Myocardial Infarction: A One Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Travella Javier I. , Forrester Alfred W. , Schultz Susan K. , Robinson Robert G.
Published: May 2005

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to examine the course and clinical correlates of depression during the first year after myocardial infarction.

Method:

A group of seventy patients hospitalized for the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) were assessed for the presence of mood disorders during their hospital admission and at three, six, nine, and twelve months follow-up. Patients were evaluated and diagnosed using the Present State Examination and DSM-III criteria. Impairment in activities of daily living was measured by the Johns Hopkins Functioning Inventory and impairment in social functioning was measured by the Social Functioning Examination.

Results:

A total of twenty-four patients met DSM-III criteria for major depression at some time during the study (18 in the acute stage, 6 during follow-up). There were two patients with minor depression (dysthymia) at intake and six developed minor depression during the follow-up period. The median duration of major depression was 4.5 months. Patients with depression at intake had greater impairment in activities of daily living than non-depressed patients. Depressions lasting more than six months were more likely to be anxious depressions than those lasting less than six months. After the acute MI period, there was a consistent relationship between the existence of depression and impaired social functioning.

Conclusions:

This is a pilot study and needs further replication due to the low rate of follow-up participation. However, these data suggest that there may be two types of depression following MI: an acute depression associated with greater functional impairment, and a prolonged depression that may be associated with inadequate social support.
The Selection and Training of Primary Health Care Workers in Ecuador: Issues and Alternatives for Public Policy
Authors: Mangelsdorf Karen R.
Published: May 2005

This article employs quantitative analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of the community health worker (CHW) training program used by the Ministry of Public Health in Ecuador. The study first assesses CHW knowledge in the areas of prevention, maternal-child health, first aid, and treatment of common illnesses. The analysis reveals that CHWs retained less than 50 percent of what they learned one year after graduation. Demographic factors accounted for some variance in performance. Higher levels of community organization were associated with improved CHW knowledge. The presence of a health committee was also an important factor. The second phase of the study was designed to assess the community impact of the program. Surprisingly, neither the demographic characteristics of the health worker nor his or her level of competence affected the impact of the program on the community, as measured by patient satisfaction, utilization indices, and adoption of preventive health behaviors. It was the characteristics of the beneficiaries themselves that accounted for the variance in community impact. These results yield some important implications for public health policy in Ecuador.
Severe Cardiovascular Side Effects of Olanzapine in an Elderly Patient: Case Report
Authors: Lee Tien-Wen , Tsai Shi-Jen , Hwang Jen-Ping
Published: May 2005

Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is often regarded as a safe choice for psychosis management [1]. We hereby report an aged case that presented with conscious depression, bradycardia, hypotension, miosis and hypothermia. Olanzapine was thought to be the offending agent. His condition improved with supportive therapy.
The Hospice Environmental Survey (HES): Pilot test of A new Measurement Instrument
Authors: Taylor Jean H. , Perrill Norman K.
Published: May 2005

The Federal Register states that a hospice must furnish a “homelike atmosphere” and private space for families both during and after terminal illness [1]. A hospice inpatient unit, “Hospice House,” was designed and implemented to meet that requirement [2]. The Hospice Environmental Survey (HES) was originated as an evaluation instrument to measure the mandated “homelike atmosphere” and to provide a baseline for future investigations [3]. The objective of the HES was to obtain a measure of the user's perception of the “homelike atmosphere” and the overall environmental impact provided by Hospice House. The HES was distributed to Hospice House users at the end of the first year of operation. In this article we present the HES instrument, methodology, and pilot study data.
Stability and Change in Patterns of Coping with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Frazier Leslie D.
Published: May 2005

This study examined how Parkinson's disease patients cope with disease-related stressors over time. Of interest was whether patterns of coping would support a dispositional model of coping (i.e., stability) or a contextual model of coping (i.e., change). The influence of stability and change in coping on mental and physical health outcomes was also examined. As expected, results showed that as the disease progressed, severity and distress increased and quality of life decreased. There was no change overall in the symptoms perceived as most stressful or the coping strategies employed to manage them. However, stability within individuals was associated with poorer mental and physical outcomes, whereas change in coping strategies was associated with more optimal outcomes. Evidence supporting both models of coping was found, and the potential applications of these findings for psychosocial intervention are discussed.
Gender Differences in Attitudes to Death among a Group of Public Health Students
Authors: Da Silva Anthony , Schork M. Anthony
Published: May 2005

This study indicates that there are significant differences between males and females regarding the perception of death and death-related issues. The implications of these findings are analyzed in terms of death education courses as well as death-related counseling. These results also suggest that the very process of dying may be differentially experienced by males and females.
On-Line Computer Testing: Implementation and Endorsement
Authors: Gwinn John F. , Beal Loretta F.
Published: May 2005

An interactive computer testing and record keeping system was implemented for a large self-paced anatomy and physiology course. This system including security procedures, is described and results of exploratory research axe presented on student preference for on-line testing, test anxiety, attitude and achievement. This required testing program included immediate feedback, second attempts, and retests. When correlates of achievement, test anxiety, and computer attitudes were investigated, we found that over time there was a slight reduction in realistic computer attitudes and a slight increase in general test anxiety. Students reported more facilitating anxiety with computer administered tests and more debilitating anxiety with paper and pencil tests. Strengths and weaknesses of such testing for faculty and for students is discussed. Suggestions are presented for properly integrating a computer testing program into a course.
Parameters of Grieving in Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Stirtzinger Ruth M. , Robinson Gail Erlick , Stewart Donna E. , Ralevski Elizabeth
Published: May 2005

Objective:

The study's objective was to determine the quality and severity of grief after spontaneous abortion and to statistically determine the effect of significant demographics and social variables such as age, number of previous losses and the effect of perceived family support on the grief experienced.

Methods:

Two hundred and ninety-four women who had experienced a miscarriage within the last year were the participants. One hundred and seventy-five had miscarried three months prior to participation in the study; one hundred and nineteen had miscarried one year previously. Ninety-five percent of women approached consented to participate. Standardized psychometric tests and Likert Scales measured elements of grief such as depression, self-esteem, perceived guilt and stress at two time periods in the first year after loss.

Results:

Women in both time periods after miscarriage had mean depression scores in the “clinical risk for depression” or “in need of treatment” range, i.e., pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. A majority of women showed negative emotions like self blame and stress. Younger women with multiple miscarriages showed more depression in the early time period after miscarriage than older women ( p < .05). However, at one year younger women had the least depression. Marital and family conflict correlated positively with depressive symptomatology ( p < .05).

Conclusions:

Women assessed in the first year after spontaneous abortion show grief characterized by perceived stress and high levels of depressive symptoms including self-blame. Marital or family problems increase emotional risk to a woman after miscarriage.
Ecological Characterization as a Foundation for Prediction of Plains Village Tradition Site Locations in Central South Dakota
Authors: Archer Steve , Zimmerman Larry J. , Tieszen Larry L.
Published: May 2005

Upland Plains Village archaeological sites in Central South Dakota located by pedestrian survey were described in terms of physiography and vegetation. Randomly selected, non-archaeological sites were similarly described and served to define the universe of sites available for habitation along the east bank of the Missouri River/Lake Francis Case Reservoir. Physiographic differences between actual and “simulated” archaeological sites suggested that several factors were important in predicting the location of upland archaeological sites. These included location in Agropyron smithii dominated plant communities with less than 5° of slope, and southern exposure. The model accounts for nearly 70 per cent of all variability associated with location and distribution of archaeological sites.
Replication of the Factor Structure of a Questionnaire about Dreams and its Relation to Creativity
Authors: Livingston Glenn , Levin Ross
Published: May 2005

Replication of Livingston and Levin's [1] factor analysis of Domino's [2] Questionnaire About Dreams was attempted utilizing a population of 106 graduate students screened for adequate dream recall. Results indicated that the questionnaire produced two dominant factors roughly corresponding to educated and mystical beliefs regarding dream origin. Although the items which comprised these factors were exactly those previously reported by Livingston and Levin, the percentage of variance accounted for was considerably smaller than that found in the earlier study. Furthermore, neither factor correlated significantly with creativity measures derived from a modified Wallach-Kogan [3] battery, nor with Rotter's [4] locus of control inventory. Consistent with previous research, item analysis of the QAD again failed to discriminate creative from non-creative individuals. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that the QAD may not be a valid research instrument.
Personality Factors and Sandtray Expressions
Authors: Lusebrink Vija B.
Published: May 2005

The present study investigated the relationships between different criteria of personality factors as measured by the NEO Personality Inventory and sandtray expressions of normal adult subjects. Several of the quantitative sandtray rating criteria correlated significantly with the Neuroticism and Openness factors. The Neuroticism facets of Impulsivity and Hostility were related to the amount of space used and the presence of fences; Anxiety was related to the amount of space used and Vulnerability to the use of fences. The Openness factor correlated with the number of archetypal figures used and the total amount of figures present in the constructions. The use of archetypal figures correlated significantly with the Value facet of the Openness factor, and the total number of objects used to the Aesthetics facet. The correlations of the lexically based NEO-PI with the imagery based sandtray expressions imply the commonalities of these two modes of expression for the two personality styles.
Fechner's Experimental Aesthetics and the Golden Section Hypothesis Today
Authors: Höge Holger
Published: May 2005

Gustav Theodor Fechner started his “aesthetics from below” with an investigation of the golden section hypothesis because he was fascinated by the fact that a mathematic proportion should directly correspond to pleasingness. Thus, the golden section hypothesis fitted in his psychophysical approach, assuming that there is a correspondence between physical properties of stimuli and the sensations they cause. However, Berlyne believed that even minute variations in instruction or experimental arrangements may cause differences in the proportions preferred [1, p. 300]. Different from many investigations in the field the experimental manipulation to be reported here was to give different verbal criteria to our subjects. One of our experiments followed Fechner's method of production—i.e., subjects had to draw rectangles—and the other one was done using the method of choice—i.e., subjects had to sort rectangles. The results show that different criteria lead to different proportions in the material produced and sorted, respectively. Thus, preference judgements seem to be the outcome of a process of information processing by using both sources of information: the physical arrangement of the stimuli and the cognitively represented concept of the subject. However, under both conditions no preference for the golden section was found.
Targeting Motivation—Adapting Flow Theory to Instructional Design
Authors: Chan Tom S. , Ahern Terence C.
Published: May 2005

Flow theory identifies several structural variables that can be manipulated by an instructional designer. Modifying these variables may cause an increase in the likelihood that a learner will be motivated to continue with the lesson. While some researchers suggest activity contents, such as challenge and goal and induce flow experience [1], others hypothesize flow is enhanced by vividness and interactivity of the presentation [2]. This study investigates the effect of activity content, its presentation, and the interactions between the two on flow experience (intrinsic motivation) in instructional activity. The results suggested that the activity content has major influences on motivation, but presentation is a double-edge sword. Hypermedia presentation adds appeals to instructions that motivate students if they are used appropriately. When the content relevance is complicated, complex presentations can be distracting. Consequently, hypermedia elements should be used sparingly at the beginning of a lesson when challenges are high and students are unfamiliar with the material. As the lesson progresses it could be used gradually as the content challenges are reduced.
Silent Barter
Authors: Ryan Joan
Published: May 2005

Although death itself is a human universal, the process of dying is a cultural variable. This paper examines the process of dying in a Squamish Indian society, a Plains Indian society, and an Irish society. It shows that the concepts and processes surrounding death are mediated by a plethora of socioeconomic, political, and religious factors. The case examples also show that the process of dying has several stages which span many years before death and continue long after. Essential to participation in these cultural processes is the enculturation of appropriate and specific behaviors, values, and ideologies.
Studies of Superobesity: I. Psychological Characteristics of Superobese Patients
Authors: Castelnuovo-Tedesco Pietro , Schiebel Douglas
Published: May 2005

Close study of twelve superobese women revealed the following principal characteristics. None had a serious psychiatric illness, but most showed moderate personality disturbances with predominant passive-aggressive traits. Depressive features, though common, were not severe. Food typically had been used to allay feelings of emotional deprivation present since early childhood and historically associated with the unstable marriages of these patients' parents. The label “oral character” is not sufficient to provide even a capsule description; stubbornness, defiance, needs for autonomy and wariness of entangling relationships as well as conflicts over exhibitionism also were prominent. These characteristics contribute to the traditional reputation of the obese as “difficult” patients and deserve greater attention to help improve the effectiveness both of standard medical management and of psychotherapy.
The Relative Instructional Efficiency of Small Group Computer-Based Training
Authors: Shlechter Theodore M.
Published: May 2005

Sixty-four subjects participated in three experiments which examined the relative instructional effectiveness of using small group CBT. For experiments 1 and 3, twelve subjects were assigned to either a group training condition (4 per terminal) or an individual training condition (1 per terminal). Eight subjects were assigned to one of the two training conditions in Experiment 2. The group training subjects consistently completed the courseware more quickly and with less difficulty than did the individual training condition subjects. Also, the group training subjects' learning was shown to be more resistant to forgetting. Finally, cooperative learning was prevalent with the group training subjects. This investigation thus documented the relative instructional efficiency of small group CBT for a procedural learning task.
Adolescent Health-Related Behaviors in Postwar Lebanon: Findings among Students at the American University of Beirut
Authors: Shediac-Rizkallah Mona C. , Soweid Rema A. Afifi , Farhat Tilda M. , Yeretzian Joumana
Published: May 2005

This study presents the findings of a survey of health risk behaviors of entering students at the American University of Beirut as a first attempt to examine adolescent health behaviors in postwar Lebanon. The final sample used for analysis included 954 students. The most frequently occurring risk behaviors were unhealthy dietary patterns, lack of seat belt use, lack of exercise, and poor oral hygiene. Also common were physical fighting, smoking, and alcohol use. Sexual activity, drug and sedative use, and suicide ideation were least common. Gender was a main influencing factor. Eighty-nine percent of students reported two or more risk behaviors. Interpretation of our data in comparison with studies from the United States and other Middle Eastern countries showed both areas of similarities and areas of differences. Results point to the need for health promoting interventions, particularly in the policy area.
Effects of Learning Style and Training Method on Computer Attitude and Performance in World Wide Web Page Design Training
Authors: Chou Huey-Wen , Wang Yu-Fang
Published: May 2005

The present study compared the effects of two training methods on computer attitude and performance in a WWW page design program by a field experiment. Results indicated that the instruction-based approach outperformed in the skill-based test of WWW page design functions, whereas the example-based approach reported significantly higher computer attitude. An interaction between personal learning style (decomposed into information perception and information processing) and training condition was reported. Implications for training interventions are discussed.
Communicative Practices in the Workplace: A Historical Examination of Genre Development
Authors: Zachry Mark
Published: May 2005

Although studies of actual communication practices in the workplace are now commonplace, few historical studies in this area have been completed. Such historical studies are necessary to help researchers understand the often complicated origins of genre conventions in professional discourse. Historical research that draws on contemporary genre theory helps address this void. A genre perspective is particularly valuable for helping researchers trace a given type of document's emergence and evolution. This perspective also provides a way of accounting for the connections between communicative practices and the other activities that occupy the attention of workplace organizations. To illustrate what this perspective brings to historical research in professional communication, I examine the development of communicative practices at a national production company that relied on texts to mediate its organizational activities across geographically dispersed locations.
Psychosocial Aspects of Oncology: Challenges and Problems of Research in a Radiotherapy Center of a Community Hospital
Authors: Hyland Joseph M. , Novotny Elizabeth , Coyne Lolafaye
Published: May 2005

This paper describes the vicissitudes of psychosocial research in a radiotherapy center. The project described evaluates the efficacy of counseling techniques in patients with early stage breast cancer receiving radiotherapy. The problems involved are discussed. They include the effects of: 1) introducing a psychosocial program into a medical setting; 2) research, specifically psychological, on staff and treatment in a nonresearch center; 3) asking patients to participate in a project the relevance of which is not immediately apparent; and 4) working under such conditions on the research itself. Conclusions and recommendations derived from this experience are made.
Microworlds and Direct Manipulation Environments: The Case of Newtonian Mechanics
Authors: Stevenson Ian
Published: May 2005

This article probes some transitions from naive realism to formal mathematical modeling, using a Direct Manipulation Environment (DME) for Newtonian Mechanics. It takes the form of a case study of two pre-university students as they work on a system of connected particles using the DME Interactive Physics (Knowledge Revolution). The article analyses the ways in which students developed an argument to account for the system's behavior. A discussion follows which examines the interplay of mathematical reasoning, modes of interaction with technology, and setting, in the process of formal mathematical modeling. Throughout the article, comparisons are made between the direct manipulation metaphor and interpretations of the microworld notion to aid analysis.
Families and Support Networks among African American Oldest-Old
Authors: Perry Charlotte M. , Johnson Colleen L.
Published: May 2005

This article examines the demographic profile of oldest-old African-Americans who reside in the San Francisco Bay Area. Family life and social support available from adult children, relatives, and friends are explored as they vary by gender. Bivariate analyses indicate that females receive more help from relatives and friends, and males receive more help from immediate family members. Parent and childless respondents were compared for instrumental supports. The childless received support from a variety of helpers, whereas, the parents received help from family or the formal sector. Overall, fewer family members were available to assist the oldest-old with community living, although many were able to redefine relationships and increase the numbers of helpers available to assist them. These findings indicate that the principle of substitution operates among some segments of the older African American population, primarily those who are childless. This pattern was more evident among females than among males.
The Importance of Interpretation in Historical Archaeology
Authors: Harrington J. C.
Published: May 2005

There is a growing concern over the lack of adequate interpretation in reports on the excavation of historic sites, particularly on contract projects. This paper points out the importance of interpretation as an integral part of archaeological research. As a possible aid in securing better reports, interpretation, beyond simple identification, is divided into three levels, each calling for some degree of personal judgment, ranging from immediate inferences to broad generalizations. Examples of recent archaeological reports illustrating different levels of interpretation are described, and ways of securing more adequate interpretation are discussed, with special reference to contract archaeology.
Psychological Morbidity Associated with Local Recurrence of Breast Cancer
Authors: Jenkins P. L. , May Vivienne E. , Hughes L. E.
Published: May 2005

Twenty-two individuals who had suffered from local recurrence of breast cancer were interviewed to determine psychosocial morbidity. Psychometric assessment using the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale was conducted prior to clinical evaluation including a structured interview, the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Lifetime and current psychiatric diagnoses were established. Ten (45%) of the recurrence group had current psychiatric illness (anxiety and depression) at the time of local recurrence, a similar prevalence to that described by others at mastectomy. Previous psychiatric illness and trait neuroticism are predictive of vulnerability to psychiatric morbidity at local recurrence. These results suggest that a significant proportion of patients with local recurrence suffer from major depressive illness.
The Technical Communicator as Corporate Spokesperson: A Public Relations Primer
Authors: Troester Rod , Warburton Terrence L.
Published: May 2005

A survey of CEOs, corporate spokespersons, and media representatives suggests that the evolving roles and responsibilities of corporate spokespersons may result in greater opportunities for technical communicators in corporate public relations. However, these opportunities require communication principles and skills that have not traditionally played a strong role in technical communication education. This essay discusses these requisite considerations so they can be more explicitly addressed in the contemporary technical communication curriculum.
Storage Behavior in the Northeast: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Bursey Jeffrey A.
Published: May 2005

The storage of foodstuffs is generally considered to be a precondition of horticulture and sedentism. Possible forms of storage facilities documented either in the ethnohistoric records for the Northeast or suggested in the archaeological literature are described and discussed. Alternative functional interpretations are also considered but, in all cases, the role for use as storage facilities is argued to be at least as convincing as the alternative functions. Possible uses of this data in more broadly based applications are also considered.
Socio-Medical Determinants of Hospital Utilization in Quebec, Canada, 1970–1975
Authors: Wan Thomas T. H. , Broida Joel
Published: May 2005

The relationship between ambulatory physician use and hospitalization was studied using aggregate data in the Province of Quebec, Canada. The analysis showed that the introduction of health insurance covering physician services had a negligible influence on hospitalization. The average length of short-term hospital stays was determined by the proportion of aged population, the proportion of English speaking persons, and the prior level of hospitalization in the medical market areas. Overall, hospital discharge rates remained very constant during the period of six years (1970–1975). There were, however, reductions in hospitalization for infectious diseases, diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs, respiratory diseases, and diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, and increases in the hospitalization rates for neoplasms, circulatory system disorders, musculoskeletal conditions, congenital anomalies, and perinatal morbidity and mortality.
The Evolution of CAI in an Advanced Finance Course
Authors: Hocking Ralph T.
Published: May 2005

The field of Finance is neither ill-suited to CAI applications, nor is it automatically oriented toward computers. Because of this unique position of Finance, the historical evolution of CAI for one Advanced Finance course appears to be of interest and will be presented in this article. This evolution begins with the computer literate instructor trying to adapt the noncomputer-oriented text problems for solution by canned programs running on a mainframe. Next comes the early microcomputer with the first spreadsheet solutions, in addition to the canned programs. The latest phase in this evolution has a text with computer-oriented support materials and more computer literate students using currently popular spread sheet systems.
Abortion Policy and Women's Health in Developing Countries
Authors: Dixon-Mueller Ruth
Published: May 2005

The World Health Organization estimates that almost half a million women in developing countries die in pregnancy and childbirth every year. Unsafe induced abortion is responsible for perhaps one-quarter of these deaths. In this article, the author reviews the legal, medical, and social contexts in which women in developing countries resort to clandestine abortion. Despite intensified international concern with reducing high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity, national policy makers and participants at international conferences on maternal health–with a few important exceptions–have not recommended that safe, legal services for terminating unwanted pregnancies be offered as an essential element of basic reproductive health care. United States international policy on funding abortion-related activities in maternal health and family planning programs is especially restrictive. A new policy approach is clearly needed if unacceptably high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality in many countries are to be reduced.
Supporting Technology Integration within a Teacher Education System
Authors: Schaffer Scott P. , Richardson Jennifer C.
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this case study was to examine a teacher education system relative to the degree of performance support for the use of technology to support learning. Performance support was measured by the presence of factors such as clear expectations, feedback, tools, rewards, incentives, motivation, capacity, skills, and knowledge within the system. Major stakeholders within the teacher education system at the target institution included teacher education faculty, teacher education students, and cooperating teachers in local schools. While results were specifically interpreted relative to the requirements of teacher education students, several areas of performance support were found to be required within and across stakeholder groups. Results of the study are discussed with a particular focus on the degree of alignment of supports across the system. Recommendations for the allocation of system resources related to technology integration are also discussed.
Onchocerciasis in Osse, Ondo State, Nigeria: Effectiveness of Motivational Strategies in Sustaining Compliance with Community Ivermectin Therapy
Authors: Manafa O. U. , Awolola T. S. , Isamah A. N.
Published: May 2005

A study in human Onchocerciasis was undertaken in four endemic communities in Ondo State, Nigeria. In-depth interviews were conducted on peoples' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Onchocerciasis aetiology, treatment, prevention, and symptoms. These were complemented by key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Based on this information, an educational program was set up which included the training of selected villagers (motivators) and community intervention organized by these motivators. Evaluation used a control group where intervention was focused on other health problems in the area. Onchocerciasis education took place only with the intervention group. At the start of the project, peoples' knowledge about Onchocerciasis, its cause, treatment, prevention, and symptoms were varied and only a small proportion could link the bite of the blackfly to Onchocerciasis. The educational intervention achieved a high level of participant satisfaction which was expressed in continuous attendance at workshops and keeping appointments with motivators. The intervention helped to bring a significant improvement in the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the respondents. The knowledge of Onchocerciasis aetiology increased to 79.8 percent, 71.5 percent, and 74 percent from 48.5 percent, 48.7 percent, 34 percent, and 45 percent pre-intervention in the four study areas used. The project demonstrated that a community-based health education can be effective in Onchocerciasis control.
George Washington Carver and the Art of Technical Communication
Authors: Gresham Stephen
Published: May 2005

The achievements of great men like George Washington Carver are often perpetuated by myth; but more often they are simply overshadowed by the stature of the man himself. Such is the case with Carver.

Thus, this article seeks to identify Carver's achievements as a technical communicator through a brief analysis of some of the technical bulletins he wrote while directing the Agricultural Experiment Station at Tuskegee Institute.
An Investigation of Manipulative Models on the Learning of Programming Loops
Authors: Upah Sylvester , Thomas Rex
Published: May 2005

In this study of the learning of programming, two computer-based simulations (manipulative models) of program loops were compared with a computer-based tutorial combined with paper-and-pencil exercises. For the treatment group, one simulation was used prior to and one following classroom instruction on the WHILE-DO and REPEAT-UNTIL looping constructs. For the control group, the tutorial preceded classroom instruction, which was followed by the paper-and-pencil exercises. Students using the manipulative models were more successful in applying their knowledge of loops to a situation requiring transfer, but were no more successful on problems requiring interpretation or direct application. Previous programming experience did not produce a measurable effect on student performance on looping problems.
Ideology and Injury Prevention
Authors: Whitman Steven , McKnight John L.
Published: May 2005

Data from a recently completed study of head injuries reveal that many of these injuries, and deaths from these injuries, result from interpersonal violence and automobile accidents. Such injuries are normally difficult to prevent. In this study it was found that much of the interpersonal violence involves family members and many of the vehicle accidents, especially those that result in death, happen to pedestrians. Prevention thus becomes even more difficult.

Based upon these data and observations, five categories of prevention strategies are generated and evaluated. It is determined that the four strategies usually within the domain of traditional prevention (inaction, education, legislation, and design alterations) are not likely to prevent many head injuries or injuries in general. A fifth category is thus recommended. This category requires meaningful involvement of people into work that impacts on the social and political reality of their lives.

The prevailing ideology of prevention offered by the health professions is considered and is found to be in opposition to our fifth prevention category. The implications of this opposition are examined and the search for improved health is considered in this context.
Potential Psychodynamic Factors in Physician-Assisted Suicide
Authors: Dinwiddie Stephen H.
Published: May 2005

A number of assumptions underlying the debate over physician-assisted suicide (PAS) deserve closer scrutiny. It is often implicitly assumed that decisions as to the competency of the patient to request PAS can be accurately made, and that the treating physician's values and intrapsychic conflicts can be successfully separated from the decision to accede to or reject the patient's request. This article argues that in such an emotionally-laden decision, such factors may play a significant role, and that even were PAS to gain widespread acceptance, ignoring them may lead to errors in classifying patients either as appropriate or inappropriate for PAS.
Operationalizing Pattern Approaches to Consciousness: An Analysis of Phenomenological Patterns of Consciousness among Individuals of Differing Susceptibility
Authors: Pekala Ronald J. , Bieber Stephen L.
Published: May 2005

Pattern differences in subjective experience, as assessed by a self-report inventory, the Phenomenology of Consciousness Inventory (PCI), were compared across low, low-medium, high-medium, and high hypnotically susceptible individuals during hypnosis and eyes-closed. A hierarchical factor analytic approach was utilized that allowed for the determination of pattern differences among PCI dimensions as a function of hypnotic susceptibility. The factor analyses found that the four suspectibility groups were “pattern equivalent” during eyes-closed, partially pattern dissimilar during hypnosis, and partially pattern dissimilar when comparing hypnosis against eyes-closed. The nature of these results support previous analyses [1] which compared pattern structure differences as a function of correlational matrices. The results suggest the complementarity of Bieber's [2] and Pekala's [3] approaches for assessing pattern differences in consciousness and are congruent with the theorizing of Tart [4], Izard [5], and the PDP researchers on the importance of pattern structure changes in understanding states of consciousness.
Effects of Coping Styles on College Persistence Decisions among Latino Students in Two Year Colleges
Authors: Lesure-Lester G. Evelyn
Published: May 2005

Despite a high college dropout rate for Latino students, much remains unknown about college persistence decisions of these students. The present study examined the influence of stress management styles on college persistence decisions of Latino students. The Persistence/Voluntary Dropout Decisions Scale and the Cope Inventory were administered to 111 students enrolled in two-year colleges. Results of this study identified different types of persistence decisions for Latino students and showed how they were positively versus negatively associated with specific dispositional coping styles. Ways to enhance the college retention of Latino students were discussed.
Decreased Interpretation of Nonverbal Cues in Rape Victims
Authors: Giannini A. James , Price William A. , Kniepple Janet L.
Published: May 2005

The ability to receive nonverbal facial cues was tested in twelve female victims of multiple nonserial rapes and matched controls. Subjects attempted to interpret nonverbal messages transmitted by male and female senders who were covertly taped while involved in a gambling task. Rape victims had significantly decreased ability to interpret the nonverbal facial cues of both male and female senders.
The Influence of Error Correction Procedures and Question Type on Student Achievement in Computer Assisted Instruction
Authors: Schloss Patrick J. , Sindelar Paul T. , Cartwright G. Phillip , Schloss Cynthia N.
Published: May 2005

Recent research investigating the effectiveness of computer assisted instructional modules with varying ratios of higher cognitive and factual questions has shown that the ratio of higher cognitive to factual questions in and of itself may not influence student achievement. Whether higher cognitive and factual questions interact with error correction procedures to enhance achievement remains unanswered. In the present investigation, 2 (question type, Le., higher cognitive vs. factual) X 2 (error response, i.e., re-presentation of instruction vs. instructions to try again) X 4 (test, i.e., higher cognitive items included in module, novel higher cognitive items, factual questions included in module, and novel factual items) split plot factorial (two within and one between factor) analyses of variance were used to determine whether question type and/or error response differentially affected subsequent responses to factual and higher cognitive questions. The results indicated that simply allowing a student to try again was superior to re-presenting content for the factual question modules. This finding is discussed with reference to the cognitive demands of the tasks, both anticipated and observed.
Understanding Income Inequalities in Health among Men and Women in Britain and Finland
Authors: Rahkonen Ossi , Arber Sara , Lahelma Eero , Martikainen Pekka , Silventoinen Karri
Published: May 2005

The aims of this study were to investigate whether the relationship between income and self-perceived health is similar for men and women in two contrasting welfare states, Britain and Finland; whether the relationship between income and health is accounted for by employment status, education, and occupational social class; and whether the association differs when using alternative ways of measuring income: gross individual and net household equivalent income. Among British and Finnish men, low household and low individual income were related to poor health, even after adjusting for employment status, education, and social class. The adjusted relationship between individual income and health was stronger for British than Finnish men. Among British and Finnish women, net household equivalent income was strongly related to health, but after adjusting for employment status, education, and social class this relationship became weaker for British women and practically disappeared for Finnish women. For British women the association between income and health differed strongly depending on the income measure used; gross individual income had almost no effect on health. These results indicate that the association between health and income has no threshold in the sense that only people in poverty have poorer health than others. In further studies of income and health, household equivalent income should be used as the principal measure of income with adjustments for employment status, and men and women should be studied separately.
Article Titles as Tools of Communication
Authors: Aziz Abdul
Published: May 2005

With the volume of journal and magazine articles as great as it is, anything that will clarify article content will be appreciated by readers. This paper deals specifically with article titles. It shows how a title should contain maximum information in a minimum of words. Several examples from scientific articles are provided.
Cross-National Studies of the Impact of Levels of Living on Economic Growth: An Example
Authors: Scott W.
Published: May 2005

The paper describes a study carried out at the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development to discover a few of the conditions that in six developing countries affected the linkage between certain social levels or “inputs,” such as the level of education and health and educational and health services, on the one hand, and economic growth, on the other. The conditions that were found to be important, to various degrees, and that should be considered in subsequent analysis (and policy making) of the relationships of levels of living to economic growth include the structure of production, selected aspects of the social structure, and the nature and distribution of the social characteristics themselves.