A Rejoinder to Forman on AHP,with Emphasis on the Requirements of Composite Ratio Scales*

In an earlier paper [11], the problems of rank reversals and invalid composite priorities in AHP were addressed by modifications to the AHP procedure. That solution was subsequently criticized [5]. In this paper, we rebut these criticisms, and we show how rank reversals in AHP can arise merely from the process of normalizing local priorities.     

Predictors of Treatment Outcome Among Asian Pathological Gamblers (PGs): Clinical,Behavioural, Demographic,and Treatment Process Factors

Research on predictors of treatment outcome among pathological gamblers (PGs) is inconclusive and dominated by studies from Western countries. Using a prospective longitudinal design, the current study examined demographic, clinical, behavioural and treatment programme predictors of gambling frequency at 3, 6 and 12-months, among PGs treated at an addiction clinic in Singapore. Measures included the Hospital anxiety and depression scale, gambling symptom assessment scale (GSAS), personal well-being index (PWI), treatment perception questionnaire and gambling readiness to change scale. Treatment response in relation to changes in symptom severity, personal wellbeing and abstinence were also assessed. Abstinence rates were 38.6, 46.0 and 44.4 % at 3, 6 and 12-months respectively. Significant reductions in gambling frequency, GSAS, and improvement in PWI were reported between baseline and subsequent outcome assessments, with the greatest change occurring in the initial three months. No demographic, clinical, behavioural or treatment programme variable consistently predicted outcome at all three assessments, though treatment satisfaction was the most frequent significant predictor. However, being unemployed, having larger than average debts, poor treatment satisfaction and attending fewer sessions at the later stages of treatment were associated with significantly poorer outcomes, up to 1-year after initiating treatment. These findings show promise for the effectiveness of a CBT-based treatment approach for the treatment of predominantly Chinese PGs. Clinical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed. Taken together, the findings suggest early treatment satisfaction is paramount in improving short-term outcomes, with baseline gambling behaviour and treatment intensity playing a more significant role in the longer term.     

Evaluation of a family-based substance abuse prevention program targeted for the middle school years

A family-based substance abuse prevention program was evaluated which emphasizes family cohesion, school and peer attachment, self-esteem, and attitudes about adolescent use of alcohol and tobacco. The program was implemented in rural communities and targeted families with students entering middle or junior high school. Baseline surveys were conducted with students and parents in four schools and were readministered one year later. Because the program was voluntary, a quasi-experimental design was used to compare participants (29 students and 28 parents) and nonparticipants (268 students and 134 parents). Analyses of covariance indicated that student participants, as compared to nonparticipants, had higher family cohesion, less family fighting, greater school attachment, higher self-esteem, and believed that alcohol should be consumed at an older age at the one year follow-up. There were fewer significant results for parent participants. Strategies for involving parents in prevention programs are discussed.     

模糊满意关系上的决策

在许多决策问题中,备选方案上的二元优先关系是模糊的。本文分析了基于二元模糊优先关系上的奥尔洛夫斯基(Orlovsky)算法。该算法中,具有最大的不劣于程度的元是最佳元,因此算法存在一些缺陷。本文提出了一种新算法。新算法中,具有最大满意程度的元是最佳元。新算法弥补了 Orlovsky 算法的缺陷。     

人类学与散居人口研究:侨乡研究中的一些注意事项

探讨如何在侨乡研究中运用多学科方法.在研究位于大陆的侨乡村庄和他们散居在海外的亲属之间关系的时候,有必要考虑这些华人群体在互动过程中的空间和时间问题.因此,对地理空间和历史时间的超越要求一种结合人类学和散居人口研究的方法,以便理解侨乡研究中不断遇到的新的社会关系的出现和兴起的过程.     

A study on IUD retention by curve-fitting

In order to estimate the demographic impact of IUD, there is a need for estimating IUD retention rates beyond the period of actual observation. This article describes a mixed exponential function for this purpose. With this function of IUD retention, it is possible to estimate the “life expectancy” and “half-life” of an IUD. Another important concept is the “cut-off date”, introduced in estimating the “life expectancy” because in practice no IUD will be worn by a woman forever.     

21世纪我国会计师事务所发展的新趋势

21世纪我国的会计师事务所将会呈现出一些新的趋势 ,即 :事务所的规模逐步扩大 ,并向国际化方向发展 ,组织形式逐步趋于合理化 ,业务范围趋于多样化 ,人才结构趋于多元化 ,服务方式趋于网络化。     

Least Absolute Regression Revisited

We describe a method for fitting a least absolute residual (LAR) line through a set of two–dimensional points. The algorithm is based on a labeling technique derived from linear programming. It is suited for interactive data analysis and can be carried out with graph paper and a programmable hand calculator. Tests conducted with a Pascal program indicate that the algorithm is computationally efficient.