bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of ‘disaster preparedness’ educational programme for pregnant women
Authors: Yasunari T. , Nozawa M. , Nishio R. , Yamamoto A. , Takami Y.
Published: August 2011

YASUNARI T., NOZAWA M., NISHIO R., YAMAMOTO A. & TAKAMI Y. (2011) Development and evaluation of ‘disaster preparedness’ educational programme for pregnant women. International Nursing Review58, 335–340

Purpose:  The objective of this study is the development and evaluation of the usability of an educational programme that teaches disaster preparedness to pregnant women.

Methods:  This intervention study examined an intervention group that attended an educational programme and a control group that did not. The subjects were pregnant women in their second trimester. The programme was developed with prior studies and evaluated by self‐administered questionnaires that asked about disaster preparedness. The questionnaire was administered twice to the participants in both groups: to the intervention group just before the childbirth class and 1 month after the class, and to the control group at the time of their maternity examination and 1 month afterwards. Two hundred twenty‐six members of the intervention group and 262 members of the control group responded to both questionnaires. Of these, 99 of the intervention group and 104 of the control group were primiparous without disaster experience, and the programme was evaluated by comparing these two groups. Effects due to the disaster experience were also analysed within the intervention group.

Results:  Among primiparous without disaster experience, an intervention effect was found in items concerning awareness modification (five of six items) and behaviour modification (three of seven items). The intervention effect was particularly pronounced in a comparison of primiparous without disaster experience.

Conclusions:  An intervention effect was found among the pregnant women who took the programme. In particular, it was statistically significant among primiparous without disaster experience, which suggests that the programme should be shaped to reflect this subject demographic.
Quality control parameters on a large dataset of regionally dissected human control brains for whole genome expression studies
Authors: Trabzuni Daniah , Ryten Mina , Walker Robert , Smith Colin , Imran Sabaena , Ramasamy Adaikalavan , Weale Michael E. , Hardy John
Published: August 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 275–282.

We are building an open‐access database of regional human brain expression designed to allow the genome‐wide assessment of genetic variability on expression. Array and RNA sequencing technologies make assessment of genome‐wide expression possible. Human brain tissue is a challenging source for this work because it can only be obtained several and variable hours post‐mortem and after varying agonal states. These variables alter RNA integrity in a complex manner. In this report, we assess the effect of post‐mortem delay, agonal state and age on gene expression, and the utility of pH and RNA integrity number as predictors of gene expression as measured on 1266 Affymetrix Exon Arrays. We assessed the accuracy of the array data using QuantiGene, as an independent non‐PCR‐based method. These quality control parameters will allow database users to assess data accuracy. We report that within the parameters of this study post‐mortem delay, agonal state and age have little impact on array quality, array data are robust to variable RNA integrity, and brain pH has only a small effect on array performance. QuantiGene gave very similar expression profiles as array data. This study is the first step in our initiative to make human, regional brain expression freely available.
The Rhaetian flora of Rögla, northern Scania, Sweden
Authors: POTT CHRISTIAN , MCLOUGHLIN STEPHEN
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  Rögla is the northernmost locality yielding Mesozoic plant fossils in Scania, southern Sweden, and is one of the northernmost Rhaetian assemblages in Europe. The assemblage consists of over 500 specimens collected 50–60 years ago, of which 139 yielded identifiable plant remains referable to 15 plant species; another 19 specimens are tentatively assigned to four species because of their fragmentary preservation. The flora includes sphenophytes, ferns, cycads, bennettitaleans, seed ferns of uncertain alliance, conifers and some leaf remains that are tentatively assigned to ginkgophytes based on their epidermal anatomy. The species‐level composition of the assemblage is consistent with a Rhaetian age and is similar to well‐known floras from nearby Höganäs and Bjuv, except for the absence of cycads belonging to Nilssonia, which are very common in most other Scanian floras. The fossil assemblage is interpreted to derive from multi‐storey vegetation occupying moist habitats on a coastal plain. Strong affinities are evident with the coeval floras of Jameson Land, Greenland, reinforcing the concept of a distinctive North Atlantic floristic sub‐province at the close of the Triassic.
Reassessing Residential Preferences for Redevelopment
Authors: Bader Michael D. M.
Published: August 2011

While scholars argue that redevelopment and gentrification result in large part from the unique preferences of middle–class residents moving to neighborhoods after decades of flight, almost all of this evidence is extrapolated from the behavior of residents already living in redeveloped neighborhoods. I argue that understanding the consequences of redevelopment, particularly urban policies advocating redevelopment, requires measuring the preferences for redeveloped neighborhoods among the broader metropolitan population. Using data from a representative sample of Chicago metropolitan area adults, I find that homeowners and renters differ in their patterns of preferences for redeveloped neighborhoods: city or suburban residence is more important for homeowners while race is a much stronger factor among renters. This reassessment of preference patterns highlights the potential for redevelopment policies to fall short of intended goals to attract investment and alleviate racial segregation.
Endovascular Treatment of Cerebral Aneurysms at a Low‐Volume Community Hospital Practice: Management Strategies, Complications, and Outcomes
Authors: Invergo Darbi , Gordhan Ajeet
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Our institution serves a population of 160,000 and performed 14.4 endovascular cerebral aneurysm interventions annually, averaged over a 5‐year period. The purpose of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms at a lowvolume center.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort analysis of 56 patients harboring 64 aneurysms requiring 72 procedures over 62 months. Aneurysm morphology, procedure‐related adverse events and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty‐two ruptured (34.4%) and 42 unruptured (65.6%) aneurysms were treated in 12 males (mean age 61.1 years), 44 females (mean age 61.8 years). The procedure‐related morbidity and mortality was 6.9% (5 of 72) and 1.3% (1 of 72 procedures), respectively. Modified Rankin Scale score was 0 or 1 in 87.9% of all discharges (61.9% in the ruptured group, 100% in the unruptured group). This score was between 2 to 5 in 7.6% (23.8% ruptured, 0% ruptured) and 6 in 4.3% of patients. Seventy‐two percent of aneurysms demonstrated complete occlusion initially, 23.0% had residual neck filling, and 4.9% had residual aneurysm filling.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular coil embolization at a small volume nonspecialized community center is feasible with satisfactory procedural risk and clinical outcomes.
Quantification of Target Population for Ultrasound Enhanced Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Nolte Christian H. , Doepp Florian , Schreiber Stephan J. , Gerischer Lea M. , Audebert Heinrich J.
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Insonation of the occluded target vessel (sonothrombolysis) has been reported to increase the effect of intravenous thrombolysis in ischemic stroke. Its use has predominantly been described in middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions. Sufficient insonation conditions are a mandatory precondition. The impact of these limitations on eligibility rates for sonothrombolysis has not been reported so far.

METHODS

Consecutive patients treated with rt‐PA and examined by either CT‐ or MR‐angiogram before treatment and by transcranial color‐coded duplex sonography (TCCS) during inhospital stay were identified retrospectively at three hospitals from ongoing data registries.

RESULTS

One‐hundred and seventy‐nine patients (age [years], median [IQR]= 75 [65‐83]; 42% female; NIH Stroke Scale [NIHSS], median [IQR]= 10 [6‐17]) were analyzed. MCA occlusions were detected in 39% of patients (N= 69) with 48 (27%) occlusions in the proximal M1‐segment and 21 (12%) in a distal M2‐segment. Arterial occlusions others than MCA were seen in an additional 9% (N= 16). TCCS (without contrast agent) revealed sufficient bone windows in 70% of patients with MCA occlusions (N= 48) corresponding to 27% of all patients treated with thrombolysis.

CONCLUSION

Conventional sonothrombolysis is restricted to a minority of stroke patients suitable for intravenous thrombolysis. Extending the applicability by utilization of ultrasound contrast agents and targeting non‐MCA‐occlusions warrants further evaluation.
Childhood maltreatment and clinical outcomes of bipolar disorder
Authors: Daruy‐Filho L. , Brietzke E. , Lafer B. , Grassi‐Oliveira R.
Published: August 2011

Daruy‐Filho L, Brietzke E, Lafer B, Grassi‐Oliveira R. Childhood maltreatment and clinical outcomes of bipolar disorder.

Objective:  Adverse life events, especially early trauma, play a major role in the course and expression of bipolar disorder (BD). The aim of this article is to present a systematic review about the impact of childhood trauma on the clinical course of BD.

Method:  A computer‐aided search was performed in Medline, ISI database, EMBASE, PsychInfo, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, and Databases of Thomson Reuters at April 2011, supplemented by works identified from the reference lists of the first selected papers. Two investigators systematically and independently examined all articles, selecting those according inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results:  Four hundred fifteen articles were identified, of which 19 remained in the review after exclusion criteria were applied. In general, childhood maltreatment predicted worsening clinical course of BD. After assessing the quality of the data and of the measurements, childhood maltreatment can be strongly associated to early onset of disorder, suicidality, and substance abuse disorder in patients with BD.

Conclusion:  Data suggest that childhood abuse and neglect are risk factors associated with worsening clinical course of BD. The conclusions should be interpreted with caution because all the studies included are cross‐sectional and the majority are showing inconsistencies regarding childhood trauma as independent variable and how it is assessed.
Induction of a stress response in Lactococcus lactis is associated with a resistance to ribosomally active antibiotics
Authors: Dorrian James M. , Briggs Deborah A. , Ridley Michael L. , Layfield Robert , Kerr Ian D.
Published: August 2011

The acquisition of multidrug resistance in bacteria underlies the failure of antimicrobial therapy, and the emergence of pathogens that are resistant to almost the entire armoury of antibiotics. Among the proteins that can mediate or contribute to the drug‐resistance profile in Gram‐positive bacteria is a subset of ATP‐binding cassette proteins that are comprised of a tandem‐repeated nucleotide‐binding domain. In this study, we expressed one of these NBD2 proteins, LmrC, in an antibiotic‐sensitive Gram‐positive host strain (Lactococcus lactis) and demonstrated the acquisition of resistance to ribosomally active antibiotics. Mutation of key catalytic residues suggested that the resistance profile was the result of a cellular response, rather than being a function of the NBD2 protein itself. This observation was confirmed by 2D SDS/PAGE, which demonstrated that the expression of the NBD2 protein induced a stress response in L. lactis. A model combining this stress response induction and the acquisition of antibiotic resistance is proposed.
A kinetic model linking protein conformational motions, interflavin electron transfer and electron flux through a dual‐flavin enzyme – simulating the reductase activity of the endothelial and neuronal nitric oxide synthase flavoprotein domains
Authors: Haque Mohammad M. , Kenney Claire , Tejero Jesús , Stuehr Dennis J.
Published: August 2011

NADPH‐dependent dual‐flavin enzymes provide electrons in many redox reactions, although the mechanism responsible for regulating their electron flux remains unclear. We recently proposed a four‐state kinetic model that links the electron flux through a dual‐flavin enzyme to its rates of interflavin electron transfer and FMN domain conformational motion [Stuehr DJ et al. (2009)[6] FEBS J276, 3959–3974]. In the present study, we ran computer simulations of the kinetic model to determine whether it could fit the experimentally‐determined, pre‐steady‐state and steady‐state traces of electron flux through the neuronal and endothelial NO synthase flavoproteins (reductase domains of neuronal nitric oxide synthase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, respectively) to cytochrome c. We found that the kinetic model accurately fitted the experimental data. The simulations gave estimates for the ensemble rates of interflavin electron transfer and FMN domain conformational motion in the reductase domains of neuronal nitric oxide synthase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, provided the minimum rate boundary values, and predicted the concentrations of the four enzyme species that cycle during catalysis. The findings of the present study suggest that the rates of interflavin electron transfer and FMN domain conformational motion are counterbalanced such that both processes may limit electron flux through the enzymes. Such counterbalancing would allow a robust electron flux at the same time as keeping the rates of interflavin electron transfer and FMN domain conformational motion set at relatively slow levels.
A New Genus and Species of Damsel‐Dragonfly (Odonata: Isophlebioidea: Campterophlebiidae) in the Middle Jurassic of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: PETRULEVIČIUS Julian Fernando , HUANG Diying , NEL André
Published: August 2011

The campterophlebiid new genus and species Ctenogampsophlebia reni is described from the Middle Jurassic of Inner Mongolia, China. It shows close similarities with the Lower to Middle Jurassic genera Gampsophlebia, and Petrophlebia, with closed and short subdiscoidal cells, confirming the attribution of these two other genera to the Campterophlebiidae.
New Bivalved Arthropods from Mid‐Cambrian Kaili Biota of Southeastern Guizhou, Southwest China
Authors: YUAN Jinliang , PENG Jin , ZHAO Yuanlong
Published: August 2011

Bivalved arthropods are very important elements in Mid‐Cambrian Kaili Biota. Three genera, Alicaris, Pseudoarctolepis, and Forfexicaris, are herein recorded for the first time, including three new species: Alicaris kailiensis sp. nov., Forfexicaris reticulata sp. nov., and Pseudoarctolepis semicircularis sp. nov., of which Alicaris kailiensis sp. nov. could be assigned to crustaceomorphs; the other two forms are grouped as proschizoramians. These forms provide important information about the distribution and species diversity of a poorly‐known element of Cambrian fauna, and also bridge the biotic evolutionary gap between Early Cambrian Chengjiang Biota in Southwest China and Mid‐Cambrian burgess shale biota in North America.
Spatial Distribution and Longitudinal Variation of Clay Minerals in the Central Indian Basin
Authors: VALSANGKAR Anil B.
Published: August 2011

Grain size and clay mineral distribution up to 45 cm depth in the silty clay sediments from 26 box cores from 10° to 16° S along four longitudes (73.5°‐76.5°E) were studied for understanding spatial variability in the Central Indian Basin (CIB). It was observed that the average sand content in the basin is 3.8%, which decreases systematically and longitudinally to 0.3% towards south. The average illite and chlorite major clay mineral abundance also decrease southwards along the four longitudes from 10°S, and show the limit of influence of the Ganges‐ Brahmaputra river's supply up to 10° S. However, the average clay content increases from west to east in the basin, and southwards along 73.5°E and either side of the 76.5°E fracture zone (FZ), which strongly suggests the possibility of clay supply due to circulation of Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW) from the south through the FZ. The distribution of four clay minerals along 73° and 76.5° E FZ in the CIB shows dissimilar trends of increase and decrease, and indicate a mix environment in the basin. This study indicates that the FZ in the CIB has an important role in controlling the distribution of clay minerals.
Physical Properties, Morphology and Petrological Characteristics of Pumices from the Central Indian Ocean Basin
Authors: KALANGUTKAR Niyati G. , IYER Sridhar D. , ILANGOVAN Dandaydayudapani
Published: August 2011

About 400 pumice clasts collected from the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) were studied for their morphology and were classified based on their shape and size. A majority of the samples range between <1 cm and 36 cm and in the Zinggs shape diagram plot in the equant and oblate fields. The Corey Shape Factor for most of the samples is close to 0.7, which is common for volcaniclastic material. The physical properties such as density, specific gravity, void ratio, porosity, moisture content and degree of saturation, were determined for 30 pumice samples. Density varies from 0.21 to 0.74 g/cm3 specific gravity 1.84 to 3.27, void ratio 2.21 to 10.67, porosity 67% to 91%, moisture content during sinking 0.44 to 2.35 and degree of saturation varies from 26.5% to 86%. Binocular and electron microscopy studies reveal that 60% of the vesicles are elongated, 30% are spherical and 10% are fibrous. Petrography of the pumices exhibits vitrophyric texture with phenocrysts of feldspars and clinopyroxenes. X‐ray diffractrogram and mineral analyses confirm plagioclase to be a major phase, while quartz and orthoclase are not uncommon. Todorokite is commonly present in the ferromanganese oxide coating present over some of the pumices. This paper also delves into some details concerning the controversial origin of the pumices and glass shards in the CIOB.
Geochronology and Petrogenesis for the Protolith of Biotite Plagioclase Gneiss at Lianghe, Western Yunnan
Authors: CONG Feng , LIN Shiliang , ZOU Guangfu , XIE Tao , LI Zaihui , TANG Fawei , PENG Zhimin
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we report an integrated study of U‐Pb age and Hf isotope compositions of zircons from biotite plagioclase gneiss at Lianghe in western Yunnan. The zircons preserved inherited core and rim texture. Igneous zircon grains and rims yielded a weighted mean 206Pb/238U age of 120.4±1.7 Ma, their εHf (120 Ma) values were mainly negative ranging from –13.9 to –10.7, with Hf model ages between 1.9 Ga and 2.0 Ga, some zircons had positive εHf (120 Ma) values ranging from 0.2 to 2.1. The inherited cores showed the wide variations in the U‐Pb age of 375–1315 Ma. One of them showed the εHf (506 Ma) value of –4.2, it was similar to the gray gneiss of old crust, which εHf (500 Ma) values were negative ranging from –4.5 to –3.3. Combining geological feature and geochemical data, we concluded that the protolith of biotite plagioclase gneiss was old crust‐derived tonalitic magma during the early Cretaceous.
Palynological Analysis of Amber‐Bearing Clay from the Lower Cretaceous of Central Lebanon
Authors: AZAR Dany , DEJAX Jean , MASURE Edwige
Published: August 2011

An amber‐bearing lignitic layer of sandy clay from the Lower Cretaceous of Central Lebanon (Mderej‐Hammâna) yielded a well‐preserved, moderately variegated palynoflora, which origin is mixed between land plants and marine microflora. Its detailed analysis led to fulfill its inventory, to propose a paleoenvironmental reconstruction, and to draw the paleoclimate which prevailed over the region: an estuarian area under a rather humid, temperate climate; a variety of ferns grew near the shore‐side and in the inward land. A tiny piece of amber containing angiospermous pollen grains of stratigraphical interest allows a precise dating. The marine microflora, poorly diversified, includes chitinous foraminifer linings and dinoflagellate cysts, among which Early Aptian guide taxa are present; their occurrence slightly narrows the stratigraphical range indicated by some palynological taxa which are related to land plants.
Paired Measurements of Foraminiferal δ18O and Mg/Ca Ratios of Indian Monsoons Reconstructed from Holocene to Last Glacial Record
Authors: MAHESH Badanal , BANAKAR Virupaxa , BURR George
Published: August 2011

The effect of seasonally reversing monsoons in the northern Indian Ocean is to impart significant changes in surface salinity (SS). Here, we report SS changes during the last 32 kyr in the Lakshadweep Sea (southeastern Arabian Sea) estimated from paired measurements of δ18O and sea surface temperature (SST) using Globigerinoides sacculifer, an upper mixed layer dwelling foraminifera. The heaviest δ18OG.sacculifer (–0.07±0.08‰) is recorded between 23 and 15 ka, which could be defined as the last glacial maximum (LGM). The δ18OG.sacculifer shift between the LGM and Holocene is 2.07‰. The SST shows an overall warming of 2°C from the LGM to Holocene (28°C to 30°C). However, coldest SSTs are observed prior to LGM, i.e., ∼27 ka. The SS was higher (∼38 psu) throughout most of the recorded last glacial period (32.5–15 ka). This high salinity together with generally lower SSTs suggests a period of sustained weaker summer or stronger winter monsoons. The deglacial warming is associated with rapid reorganization of monsoons and is reflected in decreased salinity to a modern level of ∼36.5 psu, within a period of ∼5 kyr. This indicates intensification of summer monsoons during cold to warm climate transition.
A 2200‐year Record of Seabird Population on Ganquan Island, South China Sea
Authors: XU Liqiang , LIU Xiaodong , SUN Liguang , YAN Hong , LIU Yi , LUO Yuhan , HUANG Jing
Published: August 2011

Geochemical characteristics of a 107 cm long sediment profile, collected from Ganquan Island, South China Sea, were analyzed. Based on concentrations of bio‐elements (Cu, Zn, Cd, Ba, As, Se, P), 210Pb and AMS14C dating, we reconstructed seabird population of Ganquan Island over the past 2200 years. Seabirds inhabited this island more than 2200 years ago, and their population displayed remarkable fluctuations with two peaks around 2100–1850 yr BP and 900–300 yr BP, respectively. The seabird population change profile on Ganquan Island is similar to that on Dongdao Island over the past 1800 years. We examined the relationship between the seabird population and climate, and found it quite complicated. The seabird population did not reach the maximum during the Medical Warm Period (MWP) with relatively high average temperature; however, it remained near the peak value for about 600 years during the climatic transition period and the Little Ice Age (LIA), indicating that a relatively cool climate is favorable for seabirds on Ganquan Island.
Serum C‐reactive protein concentrations in healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs
Authors: Wong Valerie M. , Kidney Beverly A. , Snead Elisabeth C.R. , Myers Sherry L. , Jackson Marion L.
Published: August 2011

Background: C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive marker for inflammation in people and dogs. In people, an association between CRP concentration and atherosclerosis has been reported. Atherosclerosis is rare in dogs, but the Miniature Schnauzer breed may be at increased risk for developing this vascular disease. It is not known if CRP concentrations in Miniature Schnauzer dogs differ from those in other dog breeds.

Objectives: Our objectives were to validate an automated human CRP assay for measuring CRP in dogs and compare CRP concentrations in healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs with those in non‐Miniature Schnauzer breeds.

Methods: Sera from 37 non‐Miniature Schnauzer dogs with inflammatory disease were pooled and used to validate a human CRP immunoturbidimetric assay for measuring canine CRP. Blood was collected from 20 healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs and 41 healthy dogs of other breeds. Median serum CRP concentration of healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs was compared with that of healthy non‐Miniature Schnauzer dogs.

Results: The human CRP assay measured CRP reliably with linearity between 0 and 20 mg/L. CRP concentration for healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs (median 4.0 mg/L, minimum–maximum 0–18.2 mg/L) was significantly higher than for the healthy non‐Miniature Schnauzer dogs (median 0.1 mg/L, minimum–maximum 0–10.7 mg/L); 17 of the 20 Miniature Schnauzer dogs had values that overlapped with those of the non‐Miniature Schnauzer dogs.

Conclusions: Median CRP concentration of Miniature Schnauzer dogs was slightly higher than that of other breeds of dogs. A relationship between higher CRP concentration in Miniature Schnauzer dogs and idiopathic hyperlipidemia, pancreatitis, and possible increased risk for atherosclerosis remains to be determined.
The significance of work: an empirical study
Authors: WILLIAMS R. S. , MOREA P. C. , IVES J. M.
Published: August 2011

Data are presented from a pilot investigation with managers and students. The Q‐sort and a simple questionnaire were used to enable the individuals to express what importance their work had for them and to suggest what satisfactions they wished to obtain at work.
Job design and worker satisfaction: a challenge to assumptions*
Authors: BAKER SALLY H. , HANSEN RICHARD A.
Published: August 2011

Some recent job redesign efforts in the United States, introduced to counter worker dissatisfaction and low productivity, represent a shift from more traditional but still prevalent models of worker–employer relations. This paper presents data from a study of blue‐collar and white‐collar semi‐skilled American workers which challenge two basic assumptions of these newer efforts: (a) that small changes in job design (here conceptualized as ‘destructuring’ work roles) are sufficient to affect worker satisfaction; and (b) that matching employees' work orientations (here, their ‘tolerance for structure’) with the nature of their jobs (its degree of ‘structure’) will improve worker satisfaction. The concepts ‘structure’ and ‘tolerance for structure’ are discussed in operational terms. Our findings indicate that modest differences in the structure of jobs are not systematically related to job satisfaction and that there is no interaction between these workers' orientations and the nature of their jobs which influences satisfaction within this range of jobs.
The impending crisis in job redesign
Authors: BLACKLER F. H. M. , BROWN C. A.
Published: August 2011

While job redesign ideas are currently attracting widespread interest, threats to their future acceptability can be identified. First, concerning relevant analysis and research, a confusion of terminology exists in the field and the practical implications of job redesign theory may not be fully understood. While considerable rhetoric has been associated with presentations of job redesign ideas, research designs have been weak with the claimed results of particular exercises confounded to an unknown extent by extraneous variables. The field is ripe for a disenchantment which might involve a loss of the insights previously gained. Second, concerning general approaches to the field, little effort has been made to explore the value implications of evaluation procedures commonly used. Redesign exercises are studies in managerial terms of their success in providing more humane but also in essence more efficient ways to utilize ‘human resources’. A convergence of organizational and individual requirements is assured. This leaves unexamined, and may even support, structural organizational arrangements perhaps as psychologically debilitating as simplified work. To overcome such problems a distinctively psychological approach should be followed and new research designs employed. Models of personality and human potential should be further developed, with current job design and organizational practices examined exclusively in terms of them.
Instructional strategies in industrial training and rehabilitation
Authors: DALLOS RUDI , WINFIELD IAN
Published: August 2011

The problem of applying appropriate teaching strategies for individual learning disabilities is analysed particularly in relation to industrial rehabilitation and training schemes. An approach has been developed whereby research evidence from the psychology of individual differences, educational technology and training is collated to produce Instructional Strategy Templates (ISTs). These serve to guide Rehabilitation and Training Instructors towards the adoption of the most suitable teaching strategies available for specific learner characteristics.
An improved tabular format for task analysis
Authors: SHEPHERD A.
Published: August 2011

One reason for Annett, et al.'s technique of hierarchical task analysis not being more widely adopted is that would‐be analysts have failed to understand the concept of ‘redescription’. It is argued that the original tabular format proposed for recording such analyses has not facilitated this understanding. For example, the table does not enable easy examination of the redescription of a superordinate operation, nor is there a clear separation between the basic task analysis and hypotheses proposed to ensure operator competence. A revised format is proposed to overcome these objections and is illustrated using a complex planning task.
Leadership research: choosing gods and devils on the run*
Authors: McCALL MORGAN W.
Published: August 2011

The accumulated research, while contributing substantially to our understanding of complex leadership processes, has not yet produced an integrated body of knowledge. Still plagued by definitional ambiguity, a proliferation of terms, and contradictory research findings, the mountain of evidence has left many unanswered questions.

Traditional approaches to leadership have focused primarily on the relationship between the leader and the group. Studies of what managers actually do—as opposed to what they should, could, or say they do—suggest that the leader–system relationship may be a more fruitful focus. The nature of managerial work, as reflected by observed behaviour, can be a valuable guide for designing future leadership research and training.
Assessing group change under conditions of anonymity: a problem in personnel research
Authors: GREEN SAMUEL B. , FEILD HUBERT S.
Published: August 2011

Applied researchers are sometimes confronted with the problem of analysing pretest–post‐test data when pairwise information for individual subjects is not available. A dependent t test should be computed; however, when the data cannot be paired, the investigator is faced with performing an independent t test. In order to solve the problem, three methods are offered. When there are missing post‐test data, other analytical alternatives are given.
Longitudinal change in preferred age of retirement*
Authors: EKERDT DAVID J. , ROSE CHARLES L. , BOSSE RAYMOND , COSTA PAUL T.
Published: August 2011

It has been observed that among workers there is an inverse relationship between the proximity of retirement and its attractiveness. This study analysed the longitudinal change, over the ten years between two sampling times T1 and T2, in preferred retirement age for a series of age cohorts. The sample included 1458 males aged 35–81 at T2. Cohort means at T1 and T2 and an additional residual change score both showed a similar trend in the direction of older workers preferring a later retirement age over time. The shift to a preference for later retirement was estimated to occur in the early 50s. This preference for later retirement was seen as an attempt to delay the status changes of retirement, and not as a rejection of retirement or an absolute preference for work. The data also showed a longitudinal change in social values toward a more favourable appraisal of retirement among all age cohorts.
The discriminant validity of work alienation and work satisfaction measures
Authors: SEYBOLT JOHN W. , GRUENFELD LEOPOLD
Published: August 2011

The attitudes of work alienation and work satisfaction have had separate, although parallel, study in the behavioural science literature. Operational measures of the attitudes are examined to determine if in fact they are separate attitudes, or merely different terms for the same construct. The results reveal that when studying specifically job‐related variables, the measures of the two attitudes are extremely similar. In fact, they appear to be differentially related only to level of formal education and this is true only for certain occupational levels. The results suggest that the considerable overlap found between the measures of the two variables argues for a re‐operationalization of work alienation as a structural or objective state of being, not an evaluative, subjective reaction.
Interviewers' evaluation of applicant characteristics: Differences between personnel and non‐personnel managers
Authors: KEENAN A.
Published: August 2011

Interviewers engaged in graduate recruitment were asked to rate the importance of 12 characteristics which applicants might possess. Factor analysis of the responses produced four main factors. These were labelled ‘achievement motivation’, ‘well informed about the job and company’, ‘quality of references’, and ‘academic performance’. When personnel managers were compared with non‐personnel managers, the former placed greater emphasis on both achievement motivation and being informed about the job applied for, but attached less importance to academic performance. The results are discussed in terms of possible differences in the work‐related values of these two groups of managers.
A review of occupational preference and choice research using expectancy theory and decision theory
Authors: MITCHELL TERENCE R. , BEACH LEE ROY
Published: August 2011

Expectancy theory and decision theory are described as models that can be used to predict occupational preference and choice. The empirical research using these models is reviewed and found to be highly supportive. Every investigation showed considerable support for the model being tested. The implications for practice and further research are discussed.
The effect of a I6 PF response set on assessors' judgements
Authors: ELLIOTT A. G. P.
Published: August 2011

To explore the effect of faked responses on assessors' judgements 12 experienced subjects (psychologists and personnel officers) were asked to rate six 16 PF profiles. These comprised three pairs, in each of which one profile was distorted to the extent of a selection set found in earlier research. The ratings for the three distorted profiles were significantly better than those for the undistorted. It is concluded that faking on 16 PF may affect judgements based on the test.
Time and money for vocational rehabilitation of clients with psychotic and psychoneurotic disabilities
Authors: WALLS RICHARD T. , TSENG M. S. , ELLIS WILLIAM D.
Published: August 2011

A random USA national sample of 300 psychotic and 300 psychoneurotic clients, with half the sample closed ‘rehabilitated’ and the other half closed ‘non‐rehabilitated’, was investigated in connection with two time variables (months in rehabilitation process and training) and two cost variables (dollars for all services and facilities) in vocational rehabilitation process. As compared to psychotic clients, psychoneurotic clients tended to require more time in vocational rehabilitation process and training and less money for rehabilitation facilities. Rehabilitated clients were found to be in the vocational rehabilitation process for less time than non‐rehabilitated clients. There were no appreciable differences between the psychotic and psychoneurotic groups on such outcome variables as work status at closure, occupational level at closure, and weekly earnings at closure. The findings suggest that different strategies are used to bring these clients differing in dysfunctional reactions to similar desirable outcomes.
Retraining and other factors associated with job finding after redundancy
Authors: WARR PETER , LOVATT JERRY
Published: August 2011

Six months after closure of their steelworks, 1655 ex‐employees were interviewed. The main purpose of the study was to evaluate a programme of retraining provided to assist redundant people to obtain new work. Job finding was seen to be associated with a combination of retraining, age and work orientation. Ex‐employees who had received pre‐closure training reported a stronger preference for their new jobs than did non‐trainees, but there were no differences between these groups in post‐redundancy wage levels. Job‐seeking behaviour was also examined and compared to the patterns described in earlier studies. Recommendations were made for retraining procedures in future redundancy situations.
Significance of work and personality
Authors: RIM Y.
Published: August 2011

This study's aim was to investigate preferences for different work functions between men and women employees according to their Protestant Ethic (PE) orientation and personality.

It was found that men with high PE values most preferred Self‐realization and Intrinsic work satisfaction. The Economic function was least important to them. Men with low PE values most preferred Self‐realization and Social contact; their least important functions were Security and Power.

Women high on PE preferred Social contact and Self‐realization and Security. All women subjects ranked Patterning of time and Power as the least preferred functions of work.

Three work functions—Social contact, Patterning of time and Power were most important for men and women high on neuroticism and extraversion. Two additional functions were significantly more important for high N, high E men only: Economic and Social position.
The potential of cross‐lagged correlation analysis in field research
Authors: CLEGG C. W. , JACKSON P. R. , WALL T. D.
Published: August 2011

Some problems of investigating causal relationships when undertaking field research are outlined. The potential of cross‐lagged correlation analysis in this context is assessed by describing the technique, its underlying assumptions and its previous use in applied occupational research. A method for evaluating the technique using simulated data is described. Preliminary findings using this approach show that cross‐lagged correlation analysis is a viable technique under relatively straightforward conditions. Nevertheless, further work needs to be done before it is sufficiently well understood to give a high level of confidence in conclusions based on the technique.
Accident‐reporting systems: A basic problem area in industrial society
Authors: ADAMS N. L. , HARTWELL N. M.
Published: August 2011

This paper examines accident‐reporting and information‐processing systems associated with industrial accidents. Detailed analyses were made of semi‐structured interviews with personnel from a number of plants in the steel industry, supplemented by a wider ranging series of discussions in other industries and organizations. Some suggestions are made for dealing with a number of specific problems identified. The major problem revealed is a composite one, its essence being that accident‐reporting systems have not been designed as information systems, but have grown in a relatively unplanned way to meet individual needs and preferences as these arose. Criteria for a more effective accident‐reporting system are proposed.
Using computers in careers guidance in schools
Authors: WATTS A. G.
Published: August 2011

Seven computer systems have been developed in Britain to date to support careers guidance in schools. Their functions and features are compared, and an assessment is made of the relative merits of the computer as against alternative means of performing the same functions. There is also a discussion of the implitions of the computer for the role of the counsellor, and of the relative advantage of batch and interactive usage. Decisions about the use of computers should derive from, rather than be allowed to determine, the aims and objectives of guidance. Potentially, however, computers could play a significant part in sustaining the trend from a diagnostic‐and‐advisory approach to guidance work to a counselling‐and‐careers‐education approach.
Using a computer with a careers education model of guidance: The Interactive Careers Guidance System
Authors: BUTLER ALUN , DOWSEY MIKE
Published: August 2011

Traditionally, careers guidance has been concerned with promoting occupational satisfactoriness rather than satisfaction. Today, more emphasis is placed upon the life of the individual than the characteristics of the occupation. With more variables being brought into play, career choice has become more difficult. Careers advisers are expected to be not only organizers and disseminators of information, but also counsellors in group and individual situations. The computer can help with the first in order to give more time for the second. The joint research project between the Education Department of Cheshire County Council and the IBM UK Scientific Centre ran from September 1973 until June 1974. Since then, further field trials have taken place, over two years of regular usage have occurred and further developments have been made to the original program. This paper describes the philosophy and development of the system, reports on the two field trials and gives recommendations for the use of the computer in the guidance process in schools.
Computer applications in the careers service of a large city
Authors: HEGINBOTHAM H.
Published: August 2011

The proper application of vocational guidance principles is of great importance in the public careers service. This paper describes ways of increasing the efficiency of the Careers Service through the development of computer‐based services. Two of these developments, computer‐scoring of aptitude tests and computerized vacancy information circulation, are already in operation, while the third, an occupational guidance information system, is being adapted for British use.
An empirical examination of the stereotype accountant based on Holland's theory
Authors: ARANYA NISSIM , MEIR ELCHANAN I. , BAR‐ILAN AVRAHAM
Published: August 2011

This study proposes a theoretical framework for the characterization of the stereotype accountant based on J. L. Holland's theory (1973). Contrary to other works on the subject, the purpose of this paper is to trace the stereotype accountant in the framework of an inclusive theory of professional stereotypes. Empirical evidence is presented which contrasts accountancy students with psychology students in both vocational interests and inclinations towards conformity and adherence to socially accepted values.
An alternative approach to using biographical data for predicting job success
Authors: MATTESON MICHAEL T.
Published: August 2011

An experimental technique for developing scoring keys for a biographical inventory was applied to the analysis of responses on a questionnaire completed by applicants for refinery operating jobs. The technique differed from more traditional empirical methods used to key biographical data in that it was not dependent on item–criterion relationships. The chief aims were to determine whether relatively independent and homogeneous keys could be constructed with this method and whether the resulting keys were useful in predicting job success. The analysis yielded 12 keys which were relatively independent and homogeneous. The results tentatively suggested that such keys may be comparable in predictive power to empirically derived keys which are less easily interpretable.
Evaluating the effectiveness of careers guidance: A review of the British research
Authors: WATTS A. G. , KIDD JENNIFER M.
Published: August 2011

British studies of the effectiveness of careers guidance are reviewed in three groups: studies of diagnostic accuracy, studies of the effectiveness of diagnostic guidance interventions, and studies of the effectiveness of developmental guidance interventions. Methodological limitations are noted, and particular attention is paid to the paucity and inadequacy of the studies in the latter group, despite the trend towards a more developmental approach to careers guidance in recent years. The problem of finding adequate criterion measures is discussed.
Test‐skill interaction errors in the assessment of nurses' clinical proficiency
Authors: BOREHAM N. C.
Published: August 2011

The accuracy of tests of clinical proficiency in nursing depends not only on the nature of the test instrument used, but also on the type of skill being assessed. A task analysis of the nursing assignment of caring for a patient receiving peritoneal dialysis reveals that it involves a diverse range of skills. Four types of practical examination commonly used in nursing—self‐report, simulations, the ward‐based examination and continuous assessment—are each relatively sensitive to some of these skills, and relatively insensitive to others. Different types of test are sensitive to different types of skill. Hence, no one test technique can be expected to sample adequately all aspects of performance in the nursing task investigated, and so the whole range of techniques should be used, successful performance in individual tests being interpreted as necessary but not sufficient evidence of mastery.
Stress, anxiety and work: A longitudinal study
Authors: CHERRY NICOLA
Published: August 2011

Nervous strain at work amongst a sample of 1415 men, all 26 year old members of the National Survey of Health and Development, was found to relate both to their predisposition to anxiety and to their own report of day‐to‐day activities in their job. Level of work was the dominant factor in the analysis, men in high‐level jobs being more likely to report nervous strain than men in manual work. Susceptibility to anxiety and specific work factors (supervising, teaching, contact with people, driving, skilled machine work) made approximately equal contributions to the rate of reported strain, after allowance for the level of work. Little evidence was found that stressful jobs were held by particularly anxious men and it was concluded that predisposing and precipitating factors made largely independent contributions to the report of nervous strain at work in this sample of workers.
Human Resource Accounting: Some aspects which require psychologists' attention
Authors: SWANN H. V.
Published: August 2011

For some years, a body of literature on the topic of Human Resource Accounting has been building up in the accounting journals. The response from psychologists to the idea of valuing the human resource has been very limited despite the fact that it was a psychologist, Likert, who can be considered to have been one of the significant influences in the field.

An unfortunate feature of the Human Resource Accounting approach has been the emergence of strong pro‐ and anti‐camps. This paper attempts a piecemeal survey of some of the aspects of Human Resource Accounting and argues that a selective picking from this field could be the justified concern of many occupational psychologists.
Supervisors' reactions to flexible working hours
Authors: SCHEIN VIRGINIA E. , MAURER ELIZABETH H. , NOVAK JAN F.
Published: August 2011

The study examined the reactions of 63 supervisors within 12 work units of a large eastern United States insurance company to a 4 month experimental flexible working hours programme. The supervisors perceived a positive impact on productivity of their units, employee honesty, unit administration, employee time handling and employee work habits. Some possible negative consequences and areas for future research are discussed.