bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aortic Size Distribution in the General Population: Explaining the Size Paradox in Aortic Dissection
Authors: Paruchuri Vijayapraveena , Salhab Kahled F. , Kuzmik Gregory , Gubernikoff George , Fang Hai , Rizzo John A. , Ziganshin Bulat A. , Elefteriades John A.
Published: May 2015

Background: Current guidelines recommend a diameter of 5-5.5 cm as the threshold for surgery on the ascending aorta. However, a study from the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection showed that nearly 60% occurred at <5.5 cm (the ‘aortic size paradox') - leading to a debate whether the size threshold should be lowered. However, the study showing dissection at small size had no knowledge of the population at risk. Herein, we aim to calculate the relative risk of aortic dissection at sizes <5.5 cm by analyzing both the number of occurring dissections (numerator) and the population at risk at each aortic size (denominator). Methods: Using a publicly available database of 3,573 multiethnic subjects (46% male, mean age 60.7 years) from the general population, we plotted a distribution curve of ascending aortic size (by magnetic resonance imaging). The relative risk of aortic dissection was calculated by dividing the proportion of dissections occurring at each size (numerator) by the proportion of aortas of that same size in the general population (denominator). Results: The mean ascending aortic diameter of the reference population was 3.2 cm (±0.4 cm). The largest diameter was 4.9 cm in women and 5.0 cm in men. The proportion of subjects with an aorta <3.5 cm was 79.2%, that of subjects with 3.5-3.9 cm was 18.0%, that of subjects with 4.0-4.4 cm was 2.6%, and that of subjects with ≥4.5 cm was 0.22%. The relative risk of dissection in those categories was found to be 0.055, 2.5, 4.9, and 346.8, respectively. Patients with an aorta ≥4.5 cm were 6,305 times more likely to suffer aortic dissection than those with an aorta <3.5 cm. Conclusions: The normal aorta is deceptively small, most commonly <3.5 cm. The aortic size paradox is a byproduct of the very large number of patients in small size ranges. This study fully supports current recommendations for surgical intervention at 5-5.5 cm.
Prognostic Value of Coronary Artery Stenoses, Markis Class, and Ectasia Ratio in Patients with Coronary Artery Ectasia
Authors: Zhang Yan , Huang Qiao-Juan , Li Xiao-Lin , Guo Yuan-Lin , Zhu Cheng-Gang , Wang Xiao-Wei , Xu Bo , Gao Run-Lin , Li Jian-Jun
Published: May 2015

Objectives: To assess the prognostic value of coexisting coronary artery disease (CAD), Markis class, and ectasia ratio for major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with coronary artery ectasia (CAE). Methods: A total of 512 consecutive patients with angiographically proven CAE were enrolled. Coronary ectasia extent was graded using the Markis class, and ectasia severity was assessed based on the ectasia ratio. Patients were followed up for a median of 34.6 months. Results: In the current study, 76 cases had isolated CAE, while the remaining 436 cases had coexisting CAD (mixture CAE). Males (84.4%) were predominantly affected, and the right coronary artery (55.1%) was most commonly involved. During follow-up, 86 overall major adverse cardiovascular events were diagnosed. Kaplan-Meier analysis failed to reveal any differences between isolated and mixture CAE in both cumulative and event-free survival analyses (p = 0.429 and p = 0.277, respectively). Moreover, when patients were divided into 4 groups according to Markis class (type I-IV) or 2 groups based on the ectasia ratio (1.5-2.0 and >2.0), there was no significant difference in survival outcomes among the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In this follow-up study with a relatively large sample, the survival rate of patients with CAE appeared to be independent of coexisting CAD and ectasia extent and severity.
Effects of Retinal Angiography on Optical Coherence Tomography Measurements
Authors: Jo Young-Joon , Lim Hyung-Bin , Lee Soo-Hyun , Kim Jung-Yeul
Published: May 2015

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of retinal angiography, using fluorescein and indocyanine green dyes, on optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements. Methods: In total, 76 eyes from 76 consecutive patients were included. Macular cube 512 × 128 combination scanning and optic disc 200 × 200 scanning using spectral-domain (SD)-OCT were performed twice, before and after retinal angiography, with fluorescein or indocyanine green. Signal strength, regional retinal thickness of the 9 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study subfields, total macular volume, and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness obtained before and after angiography were compared. Repeatability was also investigated. Results: Comparing the results of OCT measured before and after retinal angiography, there was no statistically significant difference in any parameter assessed. The interclass correlation values for each measurement were all >0.808 (range 0.808-0.999). Conclusion: Retinal angiography using fluorescein and indocyanine green dyes has no significant effect on OCT measurements.
Contribution of Neutrophil Activation in the Differentiation of Urine Infection and Contamination in Pregnant Women
Authors: Şahin Kazım , Dilek Aziz Ramazan , Güvendağ Güven Emine Seda , Yazıcı Zihni Açar
Published: May 2015

Background: Urinary tract infections are among the most common bacterial infections of humans. Urine culture is the gold standard for asymptomatic bacteriuria and pyuria is not always present in bacteriuria, nor is it specific for bacteriuria. Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine neutrophil activation and the contributions of this activation in the differentiation of infection and contamination. Methods: The serum and urine myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels of 50 pregnant females with symptoms suggesting UTI and 25 healthy non-pregnant control subjects were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method and the obtained values were compared with the results of urine microscopy and urine culture. Results: The leukocyte count in urine was significantly higher in group 1 (infection) and group 2 (contamination) when compared with the control group (group 1 mean: 18.2; group 2 mean: 14.2; control mean: 4.8; ANOVA test, p ≤ 0.00). According to the obtained ELISA values, a statistical difference in the levels of urine MPO between the patient and control groups was seen (p ≤ 0.00). There was no statistical difference among the groups for serum MPO levels (p ≥ 0.451). Conclusion: The study findings suggest that standardized measurement techniques such as dipstick screening assay for urine MPO level may be useful in differentiating infection and contamination, especially in pregnant patients.
Fetal Therapy for Isolated Aqueductal Stenosis
Authors: Emery Stephen P. , Greene Stephanie , Hogge William Allen
Published: May 2015

Aqueductal stenosis (AS) is a form of noncommunicating hydrocephalus, which causes increased intracranial pressure secondary to obstruction of the aqueduct of Sylvius. Relief of intracranial pressure in the fetus by ventriculoamniotic shunting may diminish or even prevent permanent neurologic injury. Shunting was attempted in the 1980s but was abandoned due to technical difficulties. Given the advances in prenatal diagnosis and fetal intervention over the last 3 decades, we believe that an evidence-based reevaluation of the option is timely and appropriate. The aim of this review article is to discuss the clinical significance of the diagnosis of AS, current management strategies, current diagnostic capabilities, new shunt technology, and barriers to progress. Finally, we will advance a research agenda that will provide evidence-based management recommendations.
Improving Patient Outcomes with Regorafenib for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer - Patient Selection, Dosing, Patient Education, Prophylaxis, and Management of Adverse Events
Authors: Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Arnold Dirk , Kubicka Stefan , Prasnikar Nicole , Vogel Arndt
Published: May 2015

Regorafenib is the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for metastatic colorectal cancer. In 2 phase III trials, regorafenib significantly improved progression-free and overall survival in patients who had been previously treated with fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-based chemotherapy, an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy, and, if (K)RAS wild type, an anti-epidermal growth factor receptor therapy. Its safety profile is in line with other multikinase and/or tyrosine kinase inhibitors approved for different indications. Commonly reported adverse events specifically associated with regorafenib include hand-foot skin reaction and hypertension, whereas others such as fatigue, diarrhea, and liver dysfunction may occur during both targeted and cytotoxic treatments. These adverse events frequently occur within the first cycles of treatment, are transient, and decrease in incidence over time. Patient selection, education, and management, as well as close communication between oncologists or trained nurses and patients, are essential for prevention and mitigation of treatment toxicity as is rapid implementation of dose modifications and temporary discontinuations. Effective management of adverse events enables patients who are responding to stay on treatment for a substantial period of time and thereby receive the full benefit of regorafenib therapy. This review aims to provide guidance around prophylaxis and management of regorafenib-associated adverse events.
The Effects of Climate Change on Cardiac Health
Authors: De Blois Jonathan , Kjellstrom Tord , Agewall Stefan , Ezekowitz Justin A. , Armstrong Paul W. , Atar Dan
Published: May 2015

The earth's climate is changing and increasing ambient heat levels are emerging in large areas of the world. An important cause of this change is the anthropogenic emission of greenhouse gases. Climate changes have a variety of negative effects on health, including cardiac health. People with pre-existing medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease (including heart failure), people carrying out physically demanding work and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. This review evaluates the evidence base for the cardiac health consequences of climate conditions, with particular reference to increasing heat exposure, and it also explores the potential further implications.
Activating PPARα Prevents Post–Ischemic Contractile Dysfunction in Hypertrophied Neonatal Hearts
Authors: Lam Victoria H. , Zhang Liyan , Huqi Alda , Fukushima Arata , Tanner Brandon A. , Onay-Besikci Arzu , Keung Wendy , Kantor Paul F. , Jaswal Jagdip S. , Rebeyka Ivan M. , Lopaschuk Gary D.
Published: May 2015

Rationale:

Post–ischemic contractile dysfunction is a contributor to morbidity and mortality after the surgical correction of congenital heart defects in neonatal patients. Pre-existing hypertrophy in the newborn heart can exacerbate these ischemic injuries, which may partly be due to a decreased energy supply to the heart resulting from low fatty acid β-oxidation rates.

Objective:

We determined whether stimulating fatty acid β-oxidation with GW7647, a peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-α (PPARα) activator, would improve cardiac energy production and post–ischemic functional recovery in neonatal rabbit hearts subjected to volume overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy.

Methods and Results:

Volume-overload cardiac hypertrophy was produced in 7-day-old rabbits via an aorto-caval shunt, after which, the rabbits were treated with or without GW7647 (3 mg/kg per day) for 14 days. Biventricular working hearts were subjected to 35 minutes of aerobic perfusion, 25 minutes of global no-flow ischemia, and 30 minutes of aerobic reperfusion. GW7647 treatment did not prevent the development of cardiac hypertrophy, but did prevent the decline in left ventricular ejection fraction in vivo. GW7647 treatment increased cardiac fatty acid β-oxidation rates before and after ischemia, which resulted in a significant increase in overall ATP production and an improved in vitro post–ischemic functional recovery. A decrease in post–ischemic proton production and endoplasmic reticulum stress, as well as an activation of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase isoform 2 and citrate synthase, was evident in GW7647-treated hearts.

Conclusions:

Stimulating fatty acid β-oxidation in neonatal hearts may present a novel cardioprotective intervention to limit post–ischemic contractile dysfunction.
Auricularia thailandica sp. nov. (Auriculariaceae, Auriculariales) a widely distributed species from Southeastern Asia
Authors: Bandara Asanka Ranjana , Chen Jie , Karunarathna Samantha , Hyde Kevin D. , Kakumyan Pattana
Published: May 2015

Auricularia is an important genus among the jelly fungi due to its popular consumption and medicinal properties. A new species of Auricularia, A. thailandica is described from fresh collections made from the Philippines, Thailand and Southern China based on morphological and molecular characters. Auricularia thailandica differs from other species by having short and loosely arranged abhymenial hairs on the basidiomata and in the different size of the zones in a cross section of the basidiomata. The species is found to be widely distributed in Southeastern Asia. Phylogenetic relationships were inferred based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. The new species is introduced with full description and illustrations.
Two new species of Aspidistra (Asparagaceae) from Guangxi, China: A. chunxiuensis and A. longshengensis
Authors: Lin Chun-rui , Huang Xin-Yi , Pan Bo , Xu Wei-Bin , Liu Yan
Published: May 2015

Two new species, Aspidistra chunxiuensis and A. longshengensis, discovered in Guangxi Zhuangzu Autonomous Region of southern China, are described and illustrated. The first taxon is similar to A. grandiflora in the shape of the flower, but differs by leaf blade broadly ovate to ovate-oblong, base suborbicular; the perigone lobes shorter, 30–35 mm long; stigma upper surface flat, white, with 6 radial, purplish red, 4-fork-tipped lines from center to margin. The second taxon has close relations to A. pingtangensis in the shape of flower, but mainly differs by the perigone purplish red, lobes larger, 3–4 × 2–3 mm, adaxially shallowly verruculose from lobes to the upper part of the tube, stamen inserted at the middle of the tube.
Microchilus dressleri, a new name for Microchilus campanensis Kolan. (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Kolanowska Marta
Published: May 2015

A large number of studies on the Neotropical orchid genus Microchilus Presl (1827: 94) resulted in  over 130 new specific epithets within this taxon since 2002 (eg. Ormerod 2002, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013). The name of a new species described in 2014 based on material collected in Panama was identical with the previously published Microchilus campanensis Ormerod (2009: 120). A new name for Microchilus campanensis Kolanowska (2014: 185) is hereby proposed.
Phylogeny and taxonomic revision of the subgenus Velleius Leach (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylininae)
Authors: ZHAO ZONG-YI , ZHOU HONG-ZHANG
Published: May 2015

The subgenus Velleius Leach, 1819 of the genus Quedius Stephens, 1829 is a small and very distinctive group in the subtribe Quediina (Staphylinidae: Staphylininae) with pectinate antennal segments and larvae living in nests of Vespa species. This paper reviews the taxonomy of all Velleius species and analyzes the phylogeny of this group. Two new species, Quedius (Velleius) sagittalis sp. nov. from Shaanxi, China and Q. (V.) rectilatus sp. nov. from Guangdong, China, are described. Q. (V.) simillimus (Fairmaire,1891) syn. nov. is proposed as a new synonym of Q. (V.) pectinatus (Sharp, 1874). Phylogenetic result shows that all nine Velleius species can be divided into two clades and both have strong tree supports of Bremer/Bootstrap/Jackknife values.
Representation of Snow in the Canadian Seasonal to Interannual Prediction System. Part I: Initialization
Authors: Sospedra-Alfonso Reinel , Mudryk Lawrence , Merryfield William , Derksen Chris
Published: May 2015

The ability of the Canadian Seasonal to Interannual Prediction System (CanSIPS) to provide realistic forecast initial conditions for snow cover is assessed using in situ measurements and gridded snow analyses. Forecast initial conditions for snow in CanCM3 and CanCM4 employed by CanSIPS are determined by the response of the Canadian Land Surface Scheme (CLASS) used in both models to forcing from model atmospheric fields constrained by assimilation of 6-hourly reanalysis data. These snow initial conditions are found to be representative of the daily climatology of snow water equivalent (SWE) as well as interannual variations in maximum SWE and the timing of snow onset and snowmelt observed at eight in situ measurement sites located across Canada. The level of this agreement is similar to that of three independent gridded snow analyses (MERRA, the European Space Agency’s GlobSnow, and an offline forced version of CLASS). Total Northern Hemisphere snow mass generated by the CanSIPS initialization procedure is larger for both models (especially CanCM3) than in MERRA, mostly because of higher SWE in regions of common snow cover. Globally, the interannual variability of initial SWE is found to correlate highly with that of MERRA in locations with appreciable snow. These initial values are compared to SWE in freely running CanCM3 and CanCM4 simulations produced without data assimilation of atmospheric fields. Differences in climatological SWE relative to MERRA are similar in the freely running and assimilating CanCM3 and CanCM4 simulations, suggesting that inherent model biases are a major contributor to biases in CanSIPS snow initial conditions.
Roles of Western and Eastern Boundary Reflections in the Interannual Sea Level Variations during Negative Indian Ocean Dipole Events
Authors: Wang Jing , Yuan Dongliang
Published: May 2015

The equatorial wave dynamics of sea level variations during negative Indian Ocean dipole (nIOD) events are investigated using the LICOM ocean general circulation model forced with the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast reanalysis wind stress and heat flux from 1990 to 2001. The work is a continuation of the study by Yuan and Liu, in which the equatorial wave dynamics during positive IOD events are investigated. The model has reproduced the sea level anomalies of satellite altimeter data well. Long equatorial waves extracted from the model output suggest two kinds of negative feedback during nIOD events: the western boundary reflection and the easterly wind bursts. During the strong 1998–99 nIOD event, the downwelling anomalies in the eastern Indian Ocean are terminated by persistent and strong upwelling Kelvin waves from the western boundary, which are reflected from the wind-forced equatorial Rossby waves over the southern central Indian Ocean. During the 1996–97 nIOD, however, the reflection of upwelling anomalies at the western boundary is terminated by the arrival of downwelling equatorial Rossby waves from the eastern boundary reflection in early 1997. Therefore, the negative feedback of this nIOD event is not provided by the western boundary reflection. The downwelling anomalies in the eastern basin during the 1996–97 nIOD event are terminated by easterly wind anomalies over the equatorial Indian Ocean in early 1997. The disclosed equatorial wave dynamics are important to the simulation and prediction of IOD evolution.
Systems Pastoral Care
Authors: Pattison E. Mansell
Published: May 2015

Contemporary pastoral care has been more clinical than pastoral with a resulting deflation of parish-based pastoral functioning. Social psychiatry confronts pastoral care with a general system theory, a model of preventive medicine and functional skills that begin with group and family therapy and proceed to the skills of organizing new social systems, gaining entry into existing social systems and doing rehabilitation via ecological or social system psychotherapy. Were pastoral care to be designed on the model of preventive medicine it would become systems pastoral care. Leaders would be trained to deal with social systems at many levels and to function as enablers — enabling the church to become a center of moral enquiry, a center for personal learning and growth, for human sustenance and nourishment and for human reparation. The pastor would not do all this himself but would craft a social system that functions preventively at many levels.
Ministering to the Depressed Person
Authors: Smith William A.
Published: May 2015

The depressed persons whom a pastor meets in his daily work often express their pain at having lost faith in God. In addition to referral, a pastor may help the depressed person discover the resources of a “naked faith,” the capacity to hold on in the hope of a spiritual death and rebirth. Much more can be done, and done best by the pastor. First he may gather together the depressed person's entire family and interpret to them the meaning of depression, effecting thereby a kind of “family absolution” for the suffering person. He may also tap the resources of those with whom the depressed person has positive relationships. By gathering them into a supportive group around the depressed person, the pastor actualizes the church as both an inspirational and a healing reality.
The Practice of Ministry
Authors: Lee Ronald R.
Published: May 2015

Ferment in the ministry today requires an understanding of ministry that focuses upon the effect on the lives of people of what a minister does rather than upon the role functions he performs. The practice of ministry may be defined, therefor, under four categories: (1) the minister as a guarantor of continuity, (2) the minister as a celebrator of change, (3) the minister as a negotiator of structure, and (4) the minister as a facilitator of meaning. Any concept of ministry must be linked to an empirical understanding of man as a developing person, and Erikson's schema serves the purpose well. Whatever model of ministry one employs, it must be flexible in dealing with the realities of change.
The Use of Encounter Groups in the Church
Authors: Foster Arthur L.
Published: May 2015

A teacher-researcher defines and describes encounter groups as a powerful spiritual resource for contemporary churches. He cites a recently completed research project which illustrates actual use of such groups and the training of leadership. Encounter groups are viewed positively, although their potential for misuse is recognized. The concept of the house-church is articulated as a translation into concepts of church and ministry of the learning from encounter and from the human potential movement generally.
Family Counseling and the Minister
Authors: Leslie Robert C. , Veldhuizen John F.
Published: May 2015

The appropriateness of family counseling for the minister is discussed by a seminary professor in terms of its family context, its ecological orientation, its varied emphases, its active intervening role, its courageous confronting of reality, and its expectations of effecting change. A simulation of family counseling, as presented by a minister who is a family therapist, is described and analyzed in terms of thirty-seven principles which were illustrated.
Eskimo Youth: Culture and Conflict
Authors: Turco Ronald
Published: May 2015

The author attempts to relate some of his experiences in dealing with Eskimo youth in Alaska. He approaches this particularly by dealing with three outstanding issues noted in such youth: anger, suspiciousness and depression. Some discussion about the resolution of these issues by the use of group therapy is brought forward.
A Song of Thanksgiving: Betweeen the Rock and the Hard Place
Authors: Ciampa Ralph C.
Published: May 2015

This poem was written in the mood of those Psalms which appear to have been created by persons who made a vow in time of crisis: If God would deliver them, they would not fail to declare his faithfulness before the congregation at the next festival. The crisis was the culmination of over three years training in pastoral care: My appearance before the Certification Committee of the ACPE Region for Acting Supervisor Status. The festival occasion was a chapel service at Union Theological Seminary in Virginia.
Consumer Protection Issues in CPE
Authors: Parker Duane
Published: May 2015

Recently attention has been focused on consumer protection issues in industry, business, and other areas of our life. Attention is now being focused on consumer protection issues in education. This article applies principles of consumerism to CPE. It is hoped that the readers will be stimulated to evaluate their clinical pastoral education experience from a consumer protection point of view.
An Objective Evaluation of an Eleven-Week Supervised Pastoral Education Program
Authors: Grant Gerald
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine through the use of objective tests, whether there were significant conceptual changes as well as changes in attitudes, interests, values, understanding, and ways of relating among 14 students who had followed an eleven-week supervised pastoral education program at the Montreal Pastoral Institute during the summer of 1972.

Pre- and post-training scores for The Adjective Check List (ACL), The Sixteen Personality Questionnaire (16PF), and The Semantic Differential showed that the ACL was the most useful instrument in detecting positive significant changes (8 scales beyond the five-percent level). On the 16PF, only two factors showed a significant difference and on The Semantic Differential, only one of the nine concepts was significantly different.

The reasons for individual changes were related to highly personalized factors; the pre-training MMPI scores were helpful in determining the processes operating to produce changes—especially on the ACL.
Survey of the Response to Behavioral Psychology in Recent Religious Literature
Authors: Huckaby Phillip
Published: May 2015

Behavioral psychology is a major orientation within both the academic and therapeutic communities. Its successful application to a wide range of human problems has been demonstrated. The impact of behavioral psychology upon the practice of ministry, especially in pastoral counseling, Christian education and church management, has been negligible. The theological response has been mostly limited to reviews of Skinner's Beyond Freedom and Dignity. The reasons for this paucity of response are unclear but the dominance of Freudian and Rogerian psychology is significant. There are currents in pastoral counseling and the practice of ministry which may point to a greater openness toward behavioral psychology.
State Licensing and Pastoral Identity
Authors: Myers Robert L.
Published: May 2015

The following paper delineates issues related to state licensing for pastoral counselors from the perspective that pastoral counseling is a function of ministry, and accountability is appropriately to the denomination or faith group of the pastoral counselor. It highlights the issue of state licensing on the one side, and the question of ordination on the other. A two-pronged appeal is made to pastoral counselors to be more involved in the educating and informing tasks in relationship to denominations and faith groups, and, when possible, to work for adequate legislation to exempt pastoral counselors from mandatory licensing.
By What Authority?
Authors: Prest A. Patrick L.
Published: May 2015

Professor and Chairman, Program in Patient Counseling, School of Allied Health Professions, Medical College of Virginia-Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; Member of the Behavioral Science Study Committee of the Virginia Commission for Professional and Occupational Regulation, 1975–76
Bringing Together Psychology and Theology: Reflections on Ministry to the Bereaved
Authors: Jernigan Homer L.
Published: May 2015

A “clinical” approach to the understanding of persons and their experience is basic to effective pastoral work. A comprehensive “clinical” approach needs to include analysis of the interactions of persons with significant aspects of their environment. A comprehensive approach to the understanding of the experience of bereaved persons, for example, needs to include analysis of psychological, social, and cultural aspects of such experience. Then, theological reflection can be a way of “putting it all together” in the light of the goals and resources of ministry. Pastoral psychology is important but is only one discipline among others which can contribute to the understanding of the tasks of ministry.
The Clergy as a Mental Health Resource: Parts I and II
Authors: Bell Roger A. , Morris Robert R. , Holzer Charles E. , Warheit George J.
Published: May 2015

Parts I and II of this article contain some of the results of a recent research project conducted in an area of mid-Florida. The group surveyed was predominantly parish clergy. This article gives some indication of the results of this survey as it speaks to the issue of the clergy as a mental health resource. There is a good deal of serendipity data that spin off from the central theme. The article has immediate relevance for clinical pastoral education supervisors, parish clergy, and others in the field of health care delivery.
Privileged Communications: When Psychiatrists Envy the Clergy
Authors: Foster Leila M.
Published: May 2015

Although in many states the clergy enjoy certain legal protection of privileged communications that psychotherapists do not, their legal position may have many limitations. Pastoral counselors need to join with other mental health professionals in securing a broadly defined psychotherapist-patient privilege for therapeutic communications.
The Pastoral Counselor in a Community Mental Health Center
Authors: Rice Cecil A.
Published: May 2015

The present paper describes the work of the pastoral counseling department at Trinity Mental Health Center, Framingham, Massachusetts. In doing this it presents a model of the pastoral counselor's role in a state or community mental health center that differs in many important respects from others that have appeared in the literature. It differs in that (1) it views the pastoral counselor as a psychotherapist who is more similar to than different from psychotherapists from other parent professions; (2) it views psychotherapists as the new priests of our culture.
Pastoral Care and Chronic Disaster Victims: The Buffalo Creek Experience
Authors: Jordan Craig
Published: May 2015

A concern for the demands of the Law and for the message of the forgiveness of sins does not characterize the way most modern, progressive, clinically educated pastors tend to view or practice their ministry with troubled persons. But if our pastoral care is to become more fully responsive and responsible to our theological heritage, and more profoundly related in a Christian way to the persons we serve, it will be necessary to recover the centrality of the doctrine of Law and Gospel in pastoral care and counseling. This article attempts to show why and how it might be done.

This article focuses on the threefold nature of chronic disaster trauma in the Buffalo Creek context and the pastoral care response to it. The introduction sketches the events of the disaster and the living conditions of the past years. Attention is then centered on unresolved grief, disaster trauma, and loss of community. Case material is used to portray features of these various forms of disaster hurt and to show the interrelatedness of psychic, social, and religious issues. The paper then portrays the pastoral care response to disaster victims. The style of ministry is described, and the assumptions of the ministry are listed. Conclusions are then made on the basis of the experience of the past two years. These conclusions emphasize the need for a comprehensive pastoral care effort which is attentive to social issues in disaster as well as intrapsychic ones and is sensitive to the cultural and religious setting.
Exilic Children
Authors: Council Raymond J.
Published: May 2015

The focus of this article is upon children during the period of their initial incarceration in a correctional setting. It looks at their experience of separation and the anxiety which it generates, describing the experience in terms of the juvenile anger, self-effacement and aloofness. Some appropriate pastoral responses are suggested.
The Influence of the Alcoholic Parent on Episcopal Seminarians' Ministry to Alcoholics
Authors: Van dyke Platt Nancy , Moss David M.
Published: May 2015

This study conducted at five Episcopal seminaries with 45% return offers data relevant to training seminary students in the parish ministry to alcoholics and their families. The concern is: number of persons entering ministry who, having alcoholic parents, will find counseling an alcoholic difficult and who may have potential drinking problems themselves. Survey data is woven together with principal aspects of education, including theory and personal experience.
Differences in Style of Pastoral Counseling as a Function of Religious Beliefs and Attitudes toward Human Nature
Authors: Malony H. Newton
Published: May 2015

A model for considering differences in styles of pastoral care is herein proposed. Whether these styles are a function of personality, situational, group, or longevity issues, is questioned. Two investigations are reported. The first studied the extent to which pastoral style could be identified across pastoral tasks. A group of persons who sought pastoral counsel could not identify pastors who counseled frequently. The second studied the extent to which more effective pastoral counseling was related to attitudes toward human nature and religious beliefs. The data suggest that effective pastoral counseling is not related to differences in religious beliefs but is a junction of an optimistic view of human nature. Previous counseling training is likewise a determinant. Discusses these results in light of methodological and theoretical considerations. Suggests that current theological positions need to be systematically related to styles of pastoral care.
The “Robin Hood” Policy: Ethical and Practical Issues Growing Out of the Use of Fee Scales in Pastoral Counseling Centers
Authors: Hinkle John E.
Published: May 2015

The commonly held view that pastoral counseling centers have or should have financial policies similar to those maintained in parish settings is inadequate. A major difference concerns the funding of ministry in each situation, especially as this funding relates to charging fees for services. The sliding fee scale (the Robin Hood Procedure) is an attempt to reconcile resulting disparities, but ethical and financial difficulties are present in this approach. These difficulties suggest a re-evaluation of underlying priorities as well as specific procedures. An alternative approach using the Cost of Delivered Services concept as the basic unit seems promising.
A Tribute to Ernie
Authors: Aist Clark S. , Hall Charles E.
Published: May 2015

I was sitting in a seclusion room, my world broken in pieces. I had cracked up just before going into battle. I knew where I was—Saint Elizabeths Hospital—the end of the line. This Chaplain came to visit me. We talked for a while about what had happened, my family, my faith—and suddenly for the first time I began to cry. Then he did a remarkable thing. He held out his arms and embraced me tightly as I sobbed maybe for fifteen minutes. I don't remember much of what he said, but I will never forget him. They called him Chaplain Ernie Bruder.
Ministers in Trouble: A Study of 140 Cases Evaluated at the Menninger Foundation
Authors: Bradshaw Samuel L.
Published: May 2015

In this paper certain demographic and diagnostic findings of a group of 140 Protestant ministers who came for evaluation at The Menninger Foundation are presented. Some of the implications of these data are discussed and case examples are given. A general thesis that the ministers of this population entered the ministry partly for defensive and sublimatory purposes is discussed. The features of a minister's role and environment that support the minister despite psychological handicaps are discussed. Also noted are the role stresses present in contemporary ministry that in this group eventuated in psychological breakdown.
Pastoral Care for the Aged: A Practical Guide
Authors: Brink T. L.
Published: May 2015

There are three potential dangers to mental health in old age: chronic physical conditions, retirement, and changing family relationships. These conditions can result in various pathological manifestations: rigidity, hypochondria, paranoia, depression, and institutional neurosis. Religion is a positive force for mental health in old age, and there is much that a pastoral counselor can do in geriatric cases. An eight-step plan is recommended for pastoral care: (1) define the scope of fruitful intervention; (2) direct your opening remarks to the elder; (3) objectively take a history; (4) identify problems; (5) solve the problems directly; (6) resolve guilt complexes; (7) provide opportunities for socialization and emotional support; (8) refer cases when necessary.
The Role of the Dissertation in Music Education Doctoral Programs
Authors: Sims Wendy L. , Cassidy Jane W.
Published: May 2015

This survey study was designed to determine attributes of, and attitudes toward, the doctoral dissertation. Of particular interest was music education faculty awareness and implementation of project-based dissertations as alternatives to traditional dissertations. Respondents, music education program heads at doctoral granting institutions ( N = 46, 85% return), agreed strongly that the dissertation should make a contribution to knowledge and that the outcome of doctoral programs should be skilled researchers, but indicated that less than half of recent graduates published a research or practitioner article based on the dissertation. Only eight participants responded that their students had an option for completing their doctoral dissertation in any format other than the traditional dissertation. Only 53% of respondents were familiar with the project-based doctoral dissertation, which may explain the relatively neutral responses to questions related to the appropriateness of this format. Faculty were only moderately interested in the format, but almost all estimated stronger interest on the part of their doctoral students.
Health in All Policies: A cross-sectional study of the public health coordinators’ role in Norwegian municipalities
Authors: Hagen Susanne , Helgesen Marit , Torp Steffen , Fosse Elisabeth
Published: May 2015

Aims: The public health coordinator (PHC) is a municipal-government position in Norway whose role is to organise and oversee municipal policies and functions to support national public health goals. This cross-sectional study investigates conditions associated with use of PHCs by Norwegian municipalities in the period immediately before the new Public Health Act came into effect in 2012, decentralising responsibility for citizen health to the municipal level. This study provides descriptive baseline data regarding Norwegian municipalities’ use of PHCs in this time – a marker for municipal engagement with inter-sectorial collaboration – before this policy was nationally mandated, and explores whether municipal characteristics such as structure, socio-economic status and extent of Health in All Policies (HiAP) implementation were associated factors. Methods: All Norway’s municipalities ( N=428) were included. We combined Norwegian register data with survey data. Descriptive analyses and bi- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: A total of 76% of Norwegian municipalities employed a PHC in the period just before 2012. Of the PHCs employed, 22% were employed full time and 28% were located within the staff of the chief executive office. Our study indicates that partnership for health promotion with county councils (OR=7.78), development of a health overview (OR=3.53), collaboration with non-government sectors (OR=2.85) and low socio-economic status (OR=0.46) are significantly associated with Norwegian municipalities having a PHC. Conclusions: This study suggests that the municipality’s implementation of HiAP, as well as lower socio-economic indicators, is associated with the use of PHCs in Norway, but not factors related to municipal structure.
Combining transcranial ultrasound with intelligent communication methods to enhance the remote assessment and management of stroke patients: Framework for a technology demonstrator
Authors: Mort Alasdair , Eadie Leila , Regan Luke , Macaden Ashish , Heaney David , Bouamrane Matt-Mouley , Rushworth Gordon , Wilson Philip
Published: May 2015

With over 150,000 strokes in the United Kingdom every year, and more than 1 million living survivors, stroke is the third most common cause of death and the leading cause of severe physical disability among adults. A major challenge in administering timely treatment is determining whether the stroke is due to vascular blockage (ischaemic) or haemorrhage. For patients with ischaemic stroke, thrombolysis (i.e. pharmacological ‘clot-busting’) can improve outcomes when delivered swiftly after onset, and current National Health Service Quality Improvement Scotland guidelines are for thrombolytic therapy to be provided to at least 80 per cent of eligible patients within 60 min of arrival at hospital. Thrombolysis in haemorrhagic stroke could severely compound the brain damage, so administration of thrombolytic therapy currently requires near-immediate care in a hospital, rapid consultation with a physician and access to imaging services (X-ray computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging) and intensive care services. This is near impossible in remote and rural areas, and stroke mortality rates in Scotland are 50 per cent higher than in London. We here describe our current project developing a technology demonstrator with ultrasound imaging linked to an intelligent, multi-channel communication device − connecting to multiple 2G/3G/4G networks and/or satellites − in order to stream live ultrasound images, video and two-way audio streams to hospital-based specialists who can guide and advise ambulance clinicians regarding diagnosis. With portable ultrasound machines located in ambulances or general practices, use of such technology is not confined to stroke, although this is our current focus. Ultrasound assessment is useful in many other immediate care situations, suggesting potential wider applicability for this remote support system. Although our research programme is driven by rural need, the ideas are potentially applicable to urban areas where access to imaging and definitive treatment can be restricted by a range of operational factors.
Sexual Risk Behaviors, Sexual Offenses, and Sexual Victimization Among Homeless Youth
Authors: Heerde Jessica A. , Hemphill Sheryl A.
Published: May 2015

The use of substances among youth experiencing homelessness is an important issue in the context of addressing the developing burden of morbidities arising due to illness, injury, physical and mental health concerns, and low rates of health care utilization among this population group. Youth experiencing homelessness report engaging in and being victimized by various forms of sexual behavior. Of interest in this systematic review were published studies investigating substance use in its association with perpetration of sexual offenses, engagement in sexual risk behavior, or experience of sexual victimization among homeless youth. A systematic search of 12 psychology, health, and social science electronic databases was conducted. Search terms included “homeless*,” “youth,” “sex crimes,” “sexual victimization,” “survival sex,” “rape,” “drugs,” and “substance abuse.” Twenty-three studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. No studies statistically examining substance use in its association with perpetrating sexual offenses were located. Findings showed substance use was generally associated with sexual risk behavior or sexual victimization; however, it remains unclear whether substance use precedes or follows these behaviors and experiences. It is possible substances are used by homeless youth as a means of coping with sexual risk behavior and victimization. Implications of the review findings in relation to prevention and intervention approaches aimed to decrease the incidence and severity of health concerns among homeless youth are discussed.
The Influence of Organizational Information Security Culture on Information Security Decision Making
Authors: Parsons Kathryn Marie , Young Elise , Butavicius Marcus Antanas , McCormac Agata , Pattinson Malcolm Robert , Jerram Cate
Published: May 2015

In this study three aspects of information security decision making—namely, knowledge of policies and procedures, attitude towards policies and procedures, and self-reported behavior—were examined in conjunction with the organizational factors that may increase human-based cyber vulnerabilities. The results of a survey of 500 Australian employees revealed a significant, positive relationship between information security decision making and organizational information security culture. This suggests that improving the security culture of an organization will positively influence the behavior of employees, which in turn should also improve compliance with security policies. This means that risk to an organization’s information systems and data will be mitigated. The complexity associated with implementing effective rewards and punishments are discussed, along with suggestions for further research to adequately understand the many factors that influence information security decision making.
When Police Intervene
Authors: Hines-Datiri Dorothy
Published: May 2015

Courtney and Dennis, two African American male students at McDowell High, were arrested at school for throwing water balloons during senior prank week. The principal assigned two police officers to the magnet school to oversee the implementation of a new discipline protocol. However, several members of the school staff were ill-informed about the policy, and the use of security officers in disciplining students. This case considers the punitive consequences two Black male students encountered at an urban high school by examining how an administrator, teachers, and two police officers observed, interpreted, and instituted a discipline protocol on the front lines.
Theory Building, Replication, and Behavioral Priming
Authors: Locke Edwin A.
Published: May 2015

This article suggests that the field of behavioral priming, which is basically a technique, is in need of theory building. Guidelines from successful theory building by induction in the realm of conscious motivation (namely, goal setting and self-efficacy) are suggested. The process would include replication with variation, identifying the logical relation between a given prime and the action in question, discovering moderators and mediators, and clarifying the relationship between the conscious mind and the subconscious.
On Klatzky and Creswell (2014)
Authors: Schwartz Barry
Published: May 2015

Klatzky and Creswell (2014) offer an interpretation of the unreliability of social priming effects by analogizing them to what is known about the complexity of cross-modal transfer effects in perception. The complexity of these transfer effects arises because they are both multiply determined and stochastic. In this commentary, I argue that Klatzky and Creswell’s thoughtful contribution raises the possibility that there might be deep and substantive limits to both the replicability and the generalizability of many of the phenomena that most interest psychologists, including social priming effects. Psychological phenomena largely governed by what Fodor (1983) called the “central system” may resist both replication and generalization by their very nature and not because of weak and underpowered experimental methods. With such phenomena, science might give us very good tools for explanation, but not for prediction (replication).