bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some Factors Associated with Substance Abuse among Secondary School Students in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Singh H. , Mustapha N.
Published: May 2005

This study attempts to investigate factors associated with involvement in substance abuse in Trinidad and Tobago, through a survey of 1603 secondary school students, aged fourteen to eighteen years. Analysis of the data using the Chi-square test indicates a significant association ( p < .001) between involvement in substance abuse and the following factors: grades at school, importance of religious involvement, amount of spending money obtained, confidence placed in parents/peers, parental involvement in alcohol consumption and educational expectations. Generally, the study indicates that youth less committed to traditional values, show a greater tendency to be involved in substance abuse. Involvement also appears to be associated with low self esteem and low educational expectations.
Folsom Fluted Projectile Points East of the Great Plains and Their Biogeographical Correlates
Authors: Munson Patrick J.
Published: May 2005

It is widely, although erroneously, assumed that Folsom Fluted projectile points are confined to the Plains of western North America. Projectile points morphologically identical to the western forms are relatively common throughout the upper Mississippi drainage basin as far east as eastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana. Their distribution east of the Plains coincides closely with the distribution of both prairie-like vegetation and bison at ca. 11,000 B.P., suggesting a similarity in the adaptations of both the eastern and western participants in the Folsom Tradition.
The Effect of Financial Satisfaction on Female Suicide Attitudes in China
Authors: Stack Steven , Cao Liqun
Published: May 2005

Previous research on the correlates of suicide attitudes has neglected gender specific analysis as well as research on other nations. In particular, the influences of female financial satisfaction on female suicide attitudes has been neglected. The present study explores the impact of financial satisfaction on female suicide attitudes using a national sample of 321 Chinese women. Controlling for alternative predictors of approval of suicide, the greater the financial satisfaction, the less the approval of suicide. The findings are related to a strain theory of deviant behavior attitudes and recent developments in Chinese society which foster financial dissatisfaction. A separate analysis of 507 Chinese men suggests that men and women in China follow a similar etiology of suicide attitudes.
Educational Technology and the Teaching of History: Promise, Practice, and Possibilities
Authors: Butler Judy D. , Clouse R. Wilburn
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this article is to review how the myriad of tools catalogued under the rubric of technology is being used by history teachers. The research reviews the promises made by technology to educators, current practice regarding the use of technology in the classroom, and the possibilities in store for creative and innovative teachers. The article emphasizes the use of interaction technologies and emphasizes the globalization of education. The research recognizes the need for “just in time learning models” and the development of “worldwide learning environments.” These new environments for social sciences must move toward an educational process that can transmit through time, space, culture, age, and diverse value systems.
Death Anxiety Scales: A Dialogue
Authors: Lester David , Templer Donald
Published: May 2005

Death anxiety scales have established themselves as the most frequently used type of instrument in studies of attitudes toward death-related topics. Two researchers who have contributed significantly to the development and utilization of this approach discuss its origins, uses, results, limitations, and future, along with comments regarding the place of death anxiety scales in their own lives and careers. David Lester is the author of the first critical survey of death anxiety measures, and has developed his own scales and conducted numerous studies in the realms of suicide as well as the fear of death [1]. Donald Templer developed his Death Anxiety Scale (DAS) in response to Lester's critique of existing measures [2, 3]. The DAS has been used extensively by Templer and his colleagues as well as many other researchers.
Teaching Unit Revision Instrumentation
Authors: Poole Richard L.
Published: May 2005

The topic of this article is the development of an instrument which is designed to aid the unit developer in the revision of elementary and secondary school units. In preparation for this, a teaching unit is defined, and its nature and composition are described.

The instrument development activity starts by acknowledging the constraints of data type, unit production, resource limitation and unit variation which confront the developer. It is continued by specifying some of the desirable characteristics which such instruments should have: namely, relevancy, practicality, and interpretability. And it is concluded by the production of an instrument which incorporates these characteristics, which is entitled, “Lesson Check.”
Construction of Geometric Analogy Problems by Young Children in a Computer-Based Test
Authors: Applegate Brooks
Published: May 2005

The two purposes of this study were a) to explore how young children structure and solve geometric analogy problems in a computer-based test, and b) to compare this performance to the same item stems in a paper-and-pencil form. Twenty-four kindergarten and twenty-four second-grade children were required to construct solutions to analogy problems that were presented on a microcomputer. Half of the sample was academically gifted. These kindergartners were also tested with a paper-and-pencil version of the test to examine for possible differences between the two testing methods. Second graders were only tested with the computer version. Statistical analysis for the computer-based test focused on how these young children constructed responses to geometric analogy problems, and the error patterns committed by each age group. Analyses showed a strong linear decrease in performance as the item information load increased, but this effect was more pronounced for the kindergartners than for the second graders. Analyses also provided some evidence that changing the items from a paper-and-pencil response selection format to a constructed response format alters which component of the item carries the greatest weight in determining overall item performance. This study also investigated the crossover effects of computer-based testing on paper-and-pencil testing and vice versa in the kindergarten subjects. It was found that there was a positive effect on the post-test computer-based performance when pretested with the paper-form, but a negative effect on paper-form post-test performance when pretested with the computer form.
Cognitive Processes and Technical Writing: Developmental Foundations
Authors: de Beaugrande Robert
Published: May 2005

A brief overview of methods relating language education to psychological theories and models is provided. Strengths and weaknesses of behaviorist and mentalist approaches are surveyed, followed by an outline of a recently developing cognitive-process approach. The approach is then illustrated with an individual case study from the University of Florida writing program, with special consideration of the concerns of technical writing on the topic of automobile repair instructions. It is argued that specific tendencies carry over from speech habits that are partly supportive and partly contrary to success in learning the skills of technical writing. Consequently, appropriate training should be able to alleviate the contrary tendencies, provided we take into account the operations of writing.
Psychiatric Treatment of Chronic Somatizing Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Roskin Gerald , Mehr Anita , Rabiner Charles J. , Rosenberg Conrad
Published: May 2005

Somatization is a very common condition although these patients are usually seen by general medical practitioners rather than mental health professionals. In a pilot demonstration study, chronic somatizers were significantly improved in a group psychotherapy treatment modality. The somatization was ameliorated and their functioning was significantly improved. Our findings strongly suggest that these patients should be clearly conceptualized as psychiatric and would respond well to traditional psychiatric treatment modalities.

As we move towards a National Health Insurance type of health care system, dealing appropriately with this problem becomes extremely important, considering the fiscal drain these patients impose on the health care system and the degree of symptomatic and functional improvement possible with an adequate psychiatric approach.
Psychoanalysis Applied to Medicine: A Personal Note
Authors: Balint Enid
Published: May 2005

The psychoanalyst has much to contribute to medicine, more through the teaching of observational skills and an appreciation of relationships than through the teaching of psychoanalytic technique or language itself. The analyst can promote tolerance in the physician of the unusual, an examination of the impediments of habitual ways of working and seeing, and a facility in the patient to “be himself.” Attention to the unusual, as illustrated through experience in training-cum-research seminars, can enhance the doctor's satisfaction with his professional life while offering improved care to his patients. When psychoanalyst, physician and patient interact in their roles as people, there is hope of an improved quality of human existence for all.
Individual Variability in Muller-Lyer Illusion Difference Thresholds: Moderating Influences of Hypnotic Susceptibility in Waking and Hypnosis
Authors: Atkinson Richard P.
Published: May 2005

This study investigated the differential influences of hypnotic susceptibility on Muller-Lyer illusion difference thresholds in waking and hypnosis using the psychophysical method of constant stimuli. As assessed by the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility, Form A (HGSHS:A) and the Group Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale, Form C (GSHSS:C), sixteen high (scores = 9–12) and sixteen low (scores = 0–3) hypnotizables participated. In counterbalanced sessions of waking and hypnosis, each subject was sequentially exposed to 110 computer-generated Muller-Lyer illusion pairs of comparison stimuli and a standard stimulus. Difference thresholds for high and low hypnotizables did not differ significantly in waking, but were significantly lower for high than low hypnotizables in hypnosis. Difference thresholds were also significantly lower for high hypnotizables in hypnosis than in waking. Low hypnotizables performed similarly in waking and hypnosis.
To Pee or Not to Pee: Reconsidering the Need for Urinalysis
Authors: Yacoubian George S. , Urbach Blake J.
Published: May 2005

While urinalysis is used regularly as a tool to validate self-reported recent drug use, past research has been inconclusive in evaluating concordance between the two measures. In the current study, urinalysis results for cocaine and opiates are compared to self-reported three-day cocaine and opiate use with data collected through Houston's Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (ADAM) Program between 1990 and 1999. Separate analyses are conducted for each year during the decade. Kappa statistics indicate that the strength of agreement between the two drug use measures is consistent over time. These findings suggest that the need for urinalysis should be reconsidered.
International Trade Agreements: Hazards to Health?
Authors: Shaffer Ellen R. , Brenner Joseph E.
Published: May 2005

Since the 1980s, neoliberal policies have prescribed reducing the role of governments, relying on market forces to organize and provide health care and other vital human services. In this context, international trade agreements increasingly serve as mechanisms to enforce the privatization, deregulation, and decentralization of health care and other services, with important implications for democracy as well as for health. Critics contend that social austerity and “free” trade agreements contribute to the rise in global poverty and economic inequality and instability, and therefore to increased preventable illness and death. Under new agreements through the World Trade Organization that cover vital human services such as health care, water, education, and energy, unaccountable, secret trade tribunals could overrule decisions by democratically elected officials on public financing for national health care systems, licensing and training standards for health professionals, patient safety and quality regulations, occupational safety and health, control of hazardous substances such as tobacco and alcohol, the environment, and affordable access to safe water and sanitation. International negotiations in 2003 in Cancun and in Miami suggested that countervailing views are developing momentum. A concerned health care community has begun to call for a moratorium on trade negotiations on health care and water, and to reinvigorate an alternative vision of universal access to vital services.
Suicide among Carpenters: A Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Stack Steven
Published: May 2005

Previous Work On Broad Occupational Groups Has Noted That Suicide Rates Are Higher Among Manual Workers Than Nonmanual Workers. However, it is not clear if this is due to occupational strains per se, or the covariates of manual worker status such as gender, and marital strain. The present study explores suicide risk among a group of skilled manual workers: carpenters. Data are taken from the U.S. Public Health Service Annual Mortality Detail File tapes for 1990. A bivariate analysis finds that carpenters are 1.996 times more likely than the rest of the working age population to die of suicide. However, once controls are introduced for gender, race, marital status and other socio-demographic variables, carpenters are only 1.15 times more at risk of suicide than the working age population. The results are consistent with those of an earlier study of laborers. While working class occupations are marked by suicide risk, the risk may be due more to the covariates of these occupations than the occupations themselves.
The Relationship between Imagery and Self-Efficacy in Competitive Athletes
Authors: Mills Kayley D. , Munroe Krista J. , Hall Craig R.
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this study was to examine whether a relationship exists between self-efficacy and the use of imagery by athletes involved in individual sports. It was expected that athletes who were high in self-efficacy would more likely use imagery than those who were low in self-efficacy. Fifty varsity athletes involved in wrestling, rowing, and track and field completed both the Sport Imagery Questionnaire [1] and a self-efficacy questionnaire. Results revealed that athletes who are high in self-efficacy in competition situations tend to use more motivational imagery than their low self-efficacy counterparts. No such differences were found for cognitive imagery use in competition, or for the use of either motivational or cognitive imagery in practice.
The Fire Areas of Santa Rosa Island: An Interpretation
Authors: Wendorf Michael
Published: May 2005

The fire areas—or hearths—of the California Channel Islands, especially Santa Rosa Island, may be the oldest evidence of man in the Americas. The brick-red fire areas, dated at more than 40,000 years to 10,000 years ago, often contain charred mammoth bone and, rarely, possible stone tools.

Though some of the fire areas may be hearths, recent research indicates that natural fires produce similar fire areas. Burned tree stumps and roots can redden the adjacent soil and resemble hearths. It is likely that most of the Pleistocene fire areas were caused by burned vegetation.
Nature and Provenance of Red Pipestone from the Wittrock Site (130B4), Northwest Iowa
Authors: Gundersen James N. , Tiffany Joseph A.
Published: May 2005

Five pipestone specimens from the Wittrock Mill Creek culture site were evaluated by x-ray powder diffraction analysis. While their mineral compositions were very similar to one another, they are not among the varieties of “catlinite” pipestone types occurring at Pipestone National Monument, a commonly assumed source of all pipestone. Pipestone types like the Wittrock specimens were found in outcrop and cores from south central Minnesota.

Because several pipestone samples from abandoned river-terrace gravel quarries and gravel bars immediately adjacent to the site produced the same kaolinite-rich quartzose variety of pipestone materials recovered archaeologically, the conclusion is that the Wittrock Village inhabitants obtained pipestone raw materials locally.

These results are discussed with respect to resolution of archaeological problems not the least being when prehistoric groups abandoned the use of local source materials in favor of “catlinite” materials now exposed at Pipestone National Monument.
An Analysis of the Dynamics of a Distance Course
Authors: Barkhi Reza , Brozovsky John
Published: May 2005

The recent developments in telecommunications have created low-cost facilities for remote communication and interaction. Academic institutions are investigating the potential of this technology for distance education to create virtual classrooms. In a virtual classroom, students are dispersed geographically and their interaction with the course professor and other students is facilitated via electronic screen monitors that facilitate two-way audio-video interaction. Although this technology is being promoted to reach students who cannot be residents on campus, the dynamics of this technology on education is not well understood. This article reports the results of a study that compares the dynamics of a traditional classroom with a virtual classroom facilitated by two-way audio-video technology. The results indicate the Video-Mediated ( VM) students are not more inhibited to ask questions in class than are their Face-to-Face ( FtF) counterparts. The VM students use e-mail to ask questions while the FtF students ask questions more by visiting the professor's office. Both VM and FtF students rate the way lectures are delivered to be equally appropriate. Finally, FtF students interact with their group members to work on group projects in a face-to-face mode while students in a VM class use e-mail and phone to interact with their group members to work on collaborative joint projects. Although on most measures FtF and VM students do not differ substantially, both VM and FtF students perceive FtF interaction to be more appropriate for resolving conflicts on group projects. We also investigated outcome measures between the two FtF and VM groups. The Face-to-Face students did as well as Video-Mediated Students on midterms but the overall performance that consists of midterm grades, assignments, and group projects was better for FtF students than for VM students. Implications of the findings will be discussed.
The Prediction of Chronic Pain Outcome by Psychological Variables
Authors: Brennan Anne F. , Barrett Curtis L. , Garretson Henry D.
Published: May 2005

Followup telephone interviews were conducted with fifty-four former patients of a multidisciplinary clinic for the evaluation of chronic pain. Interviews were conducted between thirteen and fifty-five months following initial evaluation at the pain clinic. Followup levels of pain and physical disability were compared with the following measures obtained at initial evaluation: levels of pain and physical disability and scores on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ), and Zung Depression Inventory (ZDI). In general, both physical disability measures and psychological test scores obtained at initial interview were related to followup measures. However, when the predictive value of initial pain and physical disability was accounted for, psychological test scores tended not to produce further significant increment in predictability. These findings are interpreted to mean that the predictive value of these psychological tests stems less from their reflection of a psychological state or attitude with respect to pain, and more from their tendency to reflect ongoing level of pain, disability, and other pain sequelae. The results support the hypothesis that scores on these psychological tests are, at least in part, a reflection of the actual pain and disability and may not be subject to the same clinical interpretations that scores obtained from a psychiatric sample would be.
The Relationship between Direct and Indirect Measures of Death Anxiety
Authors: Handal Paul J. , Peal Ronald L. , Napoli John G. , Austrin Harvey R.
Published: May 2005

Using a multimethod, multilevel approach to assess death anxiety, this study investigated the relationship between direct measures, the relationship between indirect measures, the relationship between direct and indirect measures and the relationship between direct measures and the variables of age, social desirability and repression–sensitization (R-S) for males and females. Direct measures were significantly and meaningfully related to one another and to R-S; no significant relationship was found between any two indirect measures for either males or females; no consistently significant results were found between direct and indirect measures or between direct measures and age and social desirability for either males or females. Discussion focused on overreliance on statistically significant correlations to the neglect of predictive power; establishing cutoff scores for direct measures; establishing the reliability and validity of indirect measures.
Tai Chi Chuan, an Alternative Form of Exercise for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for Older Adults in the Community
Authors: Chen W. William , Sun Wei Yue
Published: May 2005

Thirty-six men and women age fifty or older participated in a study to examine the health effects of Tai Chi Chuan on older adults in a community setting. Participants in the experimental group ( n = 23) received thirty-two one-hour sessions of Tai Chi Chuan instruction in sixteen weeks. Health effects were determined by measuring heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, anxiety, and flexibility. Results of data analysis indicated participants received training in Tai Chi Chuan had a greater improvement in flexibility and muscle relaxation than participants who did not receive training. In addition to retaining improved flexibility and muscle relaxation, participants in the experimental group also showed significant improvements in blood pressure, anxiety scores at the follow-up session. These results appear to support the beneficial effects of practicing Tai Chi Chuan for health promotion and disease prevention for older adults in the community.
Turned On/Switched Off: Exploring Children's Engagement with Computers in Primary School
Authors: Selwyn Neil
Published: May 2005

Beneath the renewed political emphasis on computer use in primary (K-6) schools the place for the pupil has been somewhat taken-for-granted. Indeed, the current U.K. National Grid for Learning initiative is founded on the underlying assumption that children will quickly and effortlessly adapt to using new technologies. This article, therefore, explores the perceptions and views of primary school children in explaining, discussing, and rationalizing their use (or otherwise) of computers in the primary classroom. Based on focus group interview data with 267 pupils from five schools in South and Mid-Wales, the article presents four recurring themes which children used to understand and describe their engagement with computers in school. These are broadly grouped into: (1) the speed and ease of work-processes when using computers; (2) the extending or curtailing of learners' abilities when using computers; (3) freedoms and restrictions of the finished product when using computers and, finally, (4) concerns over originality and authenticity when using computers. From this basis the article goes onto discuss possible ways of more effectively presenting computers to pupils in classroom settings through both policy and practice.
Control over Death: The Canadian Case
Authors: Labovitz Sanford
Published: May 2005

A replication of Phillips' “death control study” (of famous Americans) was carried out on two Canadian groups-one defined as famous and the other as non famous. It is hypothesized that at least some people can exert control over their death dates and that such control is oriented toward important social dates, in this instance, their birth dates. It is expected, therefore, that death rates decrease prior to birth dates and increase after them. The results support the hypothesis with one exception: the death rate for the famous Canadians, although increasing substantially after the birth dates, did not decrease prior to them.
What Computer Experience to Expect of Technical Writing Students Entering a Computer Classroom: The Case of Purdue Students
Authors: Sullivan Patricia
Published: May 2005

Computers in technical writing classes are growing in popularity because professionals increasingly use computers for writing reports and because the computer can aid in producing more visually sophisticated documents. Yet, we do not know what computer experience students bring with them to the computer classroom, a lack of knowledge that makes the task of integrating the computers into the classroom more cumbersome. This article presents the results of a survey of Purdue University students' knowledge of, use of, and attitudes toward computers as they enter the technical writing class. It contrasts the technical students with upper division humanities students and draws conclusions about the documentation requirements and the appropriate computer use goals for the Purdue students surveyed. Finally, suggestions are made about how to use a survey of this type.
Curricular Analysis Using a Relational Data Base in Health Profession Education
Authors: Sady Helen M. , Smith Timothy A. , Kaplan Alan L. , Packer Merrill W.
Published: May 2005

In the initial rush to enter the computer age, many institutions and individuals have purchased microcomputers. By far the greatest professional use of these systems has been word processing, budgetary management, and database management. This article describes a curriculum management system for a College of Dentistry developed for a microcomputer that uses a commercially available relational data base. The application can be duplicated using generally available microcomputer hardware of sufficient capability and a relational data base with an appropriate capacity. Academic Deans and Curriculum Committees in health professions' schools may find the system a great aid in organizing and monitoring their curricula.
On the Thread of Discourse: Homogeneity, Trends, and Rhythms in Texts
Authors: Hogenraad Robert , Bestgen Yves
Published: May 2005

The rich variety of literary material can usefully be described by quantitative content analysis. Usually, such a description proceeds by segmenting the text into large aggregates that take no account of original word order. A more fine-grained analysis can be obtained by taking word order into account. The latter analysis is closer to the linear nature of the text as narrative and also closer to the true nature of language itself. PROTAN, a computer-aided content analysis system, takes care of all the operations that result in the tagging of text words into an appropriate category (here called a dictionary); meanwhile, the original sequential order of the tagged words is kept unchanged within the text. Trend analyses and time-series analyses can then be performed on the condition that pertinent categories can be shown to be non-randomly distributed throughout the text (non-homogeneity). The corpus reported upon in this article is made up of two sets of texts. The first set consists of seven reference texts—mostly short stories—to serve as foil for a second set of eighteen texts written and distributed by a Belgian terrorist group during 1984 and 1985. The results point first to the psychological significance of whether texts are homogeneous or not on a given dictionary. They point secondly to the pertinence of content rhythms for describing texts. Compared to the reference texts, the eighteen target texts are more orderly in more ways. This is in opposition to the opinion generally held by public authorities.
Transitions as Speech Acts
Authors: Fesmire Alice Ann
Published: May 2005

Current treatment of teaching transitions relies on an approach which presents students with lists of transitions to insert at unspecified places in the text. In addition, some textbooks and composition handbooks advise students to be “subtle” and warn against explicitly stating their purpose. This advice exists in spite of the fact that many professional writers are often explicit about the effect they intend in writing their transitions. Since handbook authors have failed to offer a general theory of how to write effective transitions, I propose that speech act theory can explain the function of transitions in terms of the illocutionary and perlocutionary effect of explicit performatives. An analysis of various samples shows that published writers regularly use explicit performatives in scientific, business, technical and academic writing. This analysis offers specific implications for improving handbook explanations and for instructing student writers in writing effective transitions by determining the illocutionary force of the specific speech act underlying each transitional device.
Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual College Students: Risk, Resiliency, and Retention
Authors: Sanlo Ronni
Published: May 2005

While some colleges and universities acknowledge the presence of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB)—or sexual minority—students on their campuses, few institutions gather and maintain data on the numbers or needs of sexual minority students. As a result, many sexual minority students in higher education tend to be invisible; therefore, their presence and experiences are known only anecdotally. This article proposes to examine the lives and experiences of sexual minority college students to provide an understanding of the students' language, behaviors, and stressors, and how those areas affect students' academic achievement and success in college.
Toward Plain Language: A Guide to Paraphrasing Complex Noun Phrases
Authors: Jordan Michael P.
Published: May 2005

Complex noun phrases, although key elements in technical writing for linguistically mature readers, also present major comprehension difficulties for others. This article establishes many important ways of paraphrasing complex noun phrases into simpler structures, and identifies the differences in meaning, style, is tone, and emphasis created by the paraphrases. Whereas many complex noun phrases at the start of the sentence can be easily paraphrased, those at the end of the sentence or embedded within the sentence present greater challenges. Similarly restrictive post-modifiers are easier to paraphrase than those that define. The principles are applied to a short legal text.
The Relationship between Students' Information-Processing Styles and Logo Programming
Authors: Bradley Carol A.
Published: May 2005

This study explored the relationships among information-processing styles, Logo programming, academic achievement and cognitive abilities. Drawing and writing activities were used to identify top-down and bottom-up processing styles of students in grades two through six during a 15-session Logo programming course. Processing style was related to Logo success, academic achievement and cognitive ability. Top-down processing, as measured by the writing activity, was positively related to Logo programming success, field independence, holistic tendencies, and general academic achievement. In addition, Logo success and academic achievement were positively correlated. Implications and future research considerations are discussed.
Time and Distance: The Journey for Medical Care
Authors: Shannon G. W. , Skinner J. L. , Bashshur R. L.
Published: May 2005

Time and distance, the two common measures of travel, are examined as they relate to the use of various types of medical service facilities, using correlation and regression analysis. Different conclusions about the relative accessibility of health care facilities for selected sub-population groups result from the use of each measure separately. Differences in travel patterns to hospitals and those to physicians and dentists are observed when measured by time alone or by linear distance alone. Methodologic and health care implications are discussed.
Using an Act-Based Merit-Index to Predict Between-Year Retention
Authors: Reason Robert D.
Published: May 2005

This study examined the efficacy of an ACT-based merit index (ACT-index) in predicting the first-to-second-year retention of undergraduate college students. The ACT-index quantifies the relationship between students' ACT Composite score and the average ACT Composite score of their high school classmates. Higher education policy makers have proposed the use of merit-indices, similar to the one examined in this article, to predict retention as a way to increase diversity and combat anti-Affirmative Action trends. Results indicated that the ACT-index, although a significant predictor of retention, failed to predict retention as well as the ACT-Composite score. Evidence, however, indicates that further exploration into retention models that utilize merit-indices is warranted. Policy implications of these findings are discussed.
The Future of Primary Care in a Managed Care Era
Authors: Starfield Barbara
Published: May 2005

Health care reform in the United States and elsewhere raises many questions about equity and effectiveness of health services. Although the impetus has been cost containment, the reforms have often been justified on the grounds that they will enhance primary care. In this article, health care reform efforts are divided into two types: market-driven, demand-based systems versus systems predicated on meeting population health needs. The two “scenarios” are contrasted with regard to their likely impact on the attainment of primary care characteristics: first-contact care, longitudinality, comprehensive services, and coordination. Since the ultimate outcome of these reforms cannot be predicted, there is compelling need for evaluating them as they proceed.
Dream Reports and Autobiographical Memory
Authors: Botman Harvey I. , Crovitz Herbert F.
Published: May 2005

Two experiments investigated autobiographical memory by studying dream reports. The continuity of autobiographical memory in the waking state and in sleep was demonstrated via Crovitz and Schiffman's retention function. The retention function was found to hold for vivid memories of dreams and vivid memories of waking experiences. It was also found to hold for waking events referenced in dream reports. In addition, the incidence of day residues was examined. About half of the dream reports collected included references to waking events of the previous day. The results were discussed in light of Freud's theory of dreams and cognitive theories of memory.
College Student's Thoughts about Leaving the University: The Impact of Faculty Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Lundquist Cara , Spalding Rebecca J. , Landrum R. Eric
Published: May 2005

College students at a large Western university ( N = 729) were surveyed about 19 potential faculty attitude and behavior items and the items relative impact on student's thoughts about leaving the university. Three issues have a significant impact on predicting student thoughts about leaving the university: faculty members being supportive of student needs, returning telephone calls and e-mails in a timely fashion, and being approachable. The magnitude of the impact of these items on student retention also varies as a function of gender and year in school. Faculty members need to be aware of the impact their attitudes and behaviors have in students' decisions to leave the university.
Performance and Simulated Performance Test Results as a Function of Instruction by Still and Motion Visuals
Authors: Jeon Unna H. , Branson Robert K.
Published: May 2005

This study evaluates the effectiveness of three different media in teaching a specific motor skill. Validated lessons utilizing three different media — motion/sound, slide/sound, and story boards — were used to teach basic manipulations of the M203 Grenade Launcher. Written and performance tests, derived directly from the instructional objectives, were used to evaluate the learning.

As evaluated by the performance test, learners using motion film performed significantly better than those using either slides or workbooks, and required significantly less time. Written tests, however, failed to detect this difference.

These results suggest that much previous research comparing media may have been inconclusive due to defects in experimental design, such as using a written test to measure motor skills taught by visual media.
The Plato IV CAI System: Where is it Now? Where Can it Go?
Authors: Eastwood Lester F. , Ballard Richard J.
Published: May 2005

The University of Illinois' PLATO IV system is an exciting, versatile computer-aided instruction (CAI) system. However, it needs more development before it can grow from an experiment into a widely accepted teaching aid, used day-to-day in the schools. Cost is a major obstacle in the path of PLATO's growth.

This article studies each component of the PLATO system—the computer hardware, the courseware, the student terminal, and the distribution network. The discussions of each component point out cost-determining factors. One component which offers an opportunity for cutting costs is the distribution network.
The Legacy of Daniel E. Berlyne
Authors: Cupchik Gerald C.
Published: May 2005

Daniel Berlyne was a respected researcher and founder of modern experimental aesthetics who died in 1976 at the age of fifty-two. This article examines his intellectual development in the context of reminiscences about childhood and educational experiences in England. His first publication, “‘Interest’ as a psychological concept” [1], is compared with one of his last publications, “Behaviourism? Cognitive Theory? Humanistic Psychology?—To Hull with Them All!” [2]. Consistent themes and attitudes which emerge are historical erudition, a preference for thought over observation, and for integrative theories about motivational issues. Paradoxically, Berlyne expressed a concern for “ordinary phenomena” but rejected some topics as inappropriate to scientific study and opted for operational definitions. The foundation of these diverse attitudes and themes are sought in an interview which Berlyne gave in 1973. His erudition, intellectual independence and work skills are traced to childhood experiences. Of special importance was the conflict between idealistic humanism and science which was resolved at Cambridge in a radical “conversion” to positivist methodology and behaviorism. This helps to account for some of Berlyne's narrow ideas about science and psychology.
Myths as Barriers to Health Care Reform in the United States
Authors: Geyman John P.
Published: May 2005

The U.S. health care system is deteriorating in terms of decreasing access, increased costs, unacceptable quality, and poor system performance compared with health care systems in many other industrialized Western countries. Reform efforts to establish universal insurance coverage have been defeated on five occasions over the last century, largely through successful opposition by pro-market stakeholders in the status quo. Reform attempts have repeatedly been thwarted by myths perpetuated by stakeholders without regard for the public interest. Six myths are identified here and defused by evidence: (1) “Everyone gets care anyhow;” (2) “We don't ration care in the United States”; (3) “The free market can resolve our problems in health care”; (4) “The U.S. health care system is basically healthy, so incremental change will address its problems;” (5) “The United States has the best health care system in the world”; and (6) “National health insurance is so unfeasible for political reasons that it should not be given serious consideration as a policy alternative.” Incremental changes of the existing health care system have failed to resolve its underlying problems. Pressure is building again for system reform, which may become more feasible if a national debate can be focused on the public interest without distortion by myths and disinformation fueled by defending stakeholders.
Factors Influencing Success in a Junior High Computer Programming Course
Authors: Bitter Gary G. , Lu Mei-Yan
Published: May 2005

Factors contributing to the prediction of success for junior high school students in completing a computer programming course indicated that analytic and quantitative factors of students' cognitive abilities were relevant for prediction of success in a computer programming class. Deductive ability and verbal aptitude were also found to be significant in students' success in a computer programming course.
The Resurrection of the Body
Authors: Sleeper Ralph W.
Published: May 2005

A critical examination of the empirical grounds of the notion of bodily resurrection as it relates to conceptions of human nature and the meaning of death. The contrasting traditions embodied in Apollonian and Dionysian approaches to death are distinguished and analyzed, with particular attention to the conceptions of nature and the role of the human body. A third tradition, represented by Augustinian Christianity, is discovered to offer a reconciliation and possible synthesis of Apollonian and Dionysian views. The idea of bodily resurrection contained in this third tradition is analyzed and found to offer an interpretation of death in which death is viewed as neither an “escape” from life nor as a “threat” to it. It is concluded that this approach to death is empirically sound and philosophically defensible quite independently of theological considerations.
A Case for Government Ownership of Primary Care Services in New Zealand: Weighing the Arguments
Authors: Crampton Peter , Starfield Barbara
Published: May 2005

Primary care services provide continuing and coordinating care, cater to most health care needs, and serve as a point of first contact with the health system. This article addresses the issue of government ownership of primary care. Ownership confers governance responsibility (ultimate control) for an organization, and accountability for its actions. Primary care organizations can be classed as government owned and operated or privately owned and operated, the latter with or without community governance. The authors address two policy questions: Does the ownership form of a primary care organization matter? What ownership frameworks should be used to guide policy-making? Arguments for and against government ownership are examined from political and economic perspectives, informed by a governance framework. Government ownership of primary care may solve problems associated with private for-profit ownership that are related to lack of control of strategic assets, lack of direct political accountability, contracting, and market failure, but it may raise potential problems of lack of responsiveness to minority and local needs and capture by interest groups. In response to the problems associated with government ownership, community-governed private nonprofits have an essential role as a vehicle for indigenous self-determination, catering for minority populations, experimenting with policy options, and providing public goods particularly for minority populations. The authors argue that private organizations that lack community governance have a lesser role.
Physicians' Knowledge of Dietary Fat and Advice to Patients
Authors: Chitwood Connie , McIntosh William Alex , Kubena Karen S.
Published: May 2005

A mailed survey of 239 Texas physicians selected by a stratified random sample was completed in 1990 (response ratio = 39.5%) concerning physician's background in nutrition, nutrition knowledge, and recommended treatments to patients with hypercholesterolemia. Twenty-one percent reported taking a nutrition seminar and 41 percent read a nutrition text during the past year. Less than a third had taken a nutrition course after medical school; half had taken such a course during medical school. Over 46 percent achieved a perfect score on nine knowledge questions regarding dietary fat. Only 35 percent identified the latest American Heart Association nutrition education effort. Seventy-four percent said they ate chicken or fish instead of red meat three or more times a week. Over 80 percent selected exercise, weight reduction, and low fat diets as the most important treatment types. Physicians continue to have limited knowledge of nutrition and should be encouraged to make greater use of dietitians as consultants.
Citizen Involvement in Community Health Promotion: A Role Application of CDC's Patch Model
Authors: Hanson Patricia
Published: May 2005

In response to the need for population-based strategies for health promotion, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have been conducting “The Planned Approach to Community Health” (PATCH) since 1984. PATCH is a demonstration process to strengthen the collective capacities of states and communities to plan and deliver community health promotion programs targeted at community-determined priorities. Drawing upon lessons learned from mobilizing citizens in an upstate New York population of 9000 households, the five elements of the PATCH process: 1) coalition building, 2) data collection, 3) problem specification and priority setting, 4) intervention planning and implementation, and 5) evaluation, are illustrated.
A PLEA for an Initiative to Strengthen Family Medicine in Public Health Care Services of Developing Countries
Authors: Unger Jean-Pierre , Van Dormael Monique , Criel Bart , Van der Vennet Jean , De Munck Paul
Published: May 2005

An analysis of standards for the best practice of family medicine in Northern European countries provides a framework for identifying the difficulties and deficiencies in the health services of developing countries, and offers strategies and criteria for improving primary health care practice. Besides well-documented socioeconomic and political problems, poor quality of care is an important factor in the weaknesses of health services. In particular, a patient-centered perspective in primary care practice is barely reflected in the medical curriculum of developing countries. Instead, public sector general practitioners are required to concentrate on preventive programs that tackle a few well-defined diseases and that tend to be dominated by quantitative objectives, at the expense of individually tailored prevention and treatment. Reasons for this include training oriented to hospital medicine and aspects of GPs' social status and health care organization that have undermined motivation and restricted change. A range of strategies is urgently required, including training to improve both clinical skills and aspects of the doctor-patient interaction. More effective government health policies are also needed. Co-operation agencies can contribute by granting political protection to public health centers and working to orient the care delivered at this level toward patient-centered medicine.