bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of inoculation with Penicillium albidum, a phosphate‐solubilizing fungus, on the growth of Trifolium pratense cropped in a volcanic soil
Authors: Morales Alfredo , Alvear Marysol , Valenzuela Eduardo , Rubio Rosa , Borie Fernando
Published: May 2007

Volcanic soils in the south of Chile have an elevated quantity of total P, which is scarcely available due to its high P fixation capacity. One strategy for increasing the availability of P for the vegetables that grow there would be to use phosphate‐solubilizing microorganisms. In one assay conducted in a greenhouse on a volcanic soil, the effect of inoculation with Penicillium albidum, a phosphate‐solubilizing fungus, was studied on the growth of red clover (Trifolium pratense L). Some chemical and biological properties of the soil were also evaluated. There were three treatments: a) active inoculum [In(+)], b) inactive inoculum (autoclaved) [In(–)] and c) without inoculum [In(0)], each one done in three replicates. The In(+) significantly (P < 0.050) increased the growth of the plants, contributing particularly to root development. The P mobilized to the shoot with In(+) was higher than twofold related to In(0) and In(–) treatments; however, the In(+) plants had similar concentration of shoot P. In the soil, available‐P was not statistically different (P < 0.050) among the treatments but phosphatase activity in In(+) was higher (P < 0.050) in comparison to In(0). The results suggest that Penicillium albidum contributed to growth and nutrition of the red clover through the induction of root development and enhancing phosphate mobilization from the soil and into the plant. It is concluded that Penicillium albidum, under greenhouse conditions, in soils deficient in available P can increase the inoculation potential for volcanic soils in Chile. Anyway further studies are required, especially in organic farming where the use of soluble P fertilizer is avoided. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Isolation of a FAD‐GPDH gene encoding a mitochondrial FAD‐dependent glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase from Dunaliella salina
Authors: Yang Wanggui , Cao Yi , Sun Xiaofei , Huang Fei , He Qinghua , Qiao Dairong , Bai Linhan
Published: May 2007

The mitochondrial FAD‐dependent glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (FAD‐GPDH), recently reported in plants, has been detailed in yeast and animal systems. It oxidizes glycerol‐3‐phosphate (G‐3‐P) to dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) on the outer surface of mitochondrial inner membrane. A cDNA encoding the Dunaliella salina mitochondrial glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (DsFAD‐GPDH) has been cloned and sequenced. The full length cDNA is 2791 bp, with an open reading frame (ORF) encoding 650 predicted amino acids, which show strong homology to reported FAD‐GPDHs and have an apparent mitochondrial targeting sequence in the N‐terminal. The sequence has been submitted to the GenBank database under Accession No. DQ916107. Results of Real‐Time Quantitative PCR and enzymatic assays show that expression of DsFAD‐GPDH is enhanced at first by salt treatment, and repressed by oxygen deficiency and cold stress. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Efficient transformation of Lactococcus lactis IL1403 and generation of knock‐out mutants by homologous recombination
Authors: Gerber Simon D. , Solioz Marc
Published: May 2007

Lactococcus lactis IL1403 is a Gram‐positive bacterium of great biotechnological interest for food grade applications. Its use is however hampered by the difficulty to efficiently transform this strain. We here describe a detailed, optimized electrotransformation protocol which yields a transformation efficiency of 106 cfu/μg of DNA with the two E. coli Gram‐positive shuttle vectors pC3 and pVA838. The utility of the protocol was demonstrated by the generation of single‐ and double‐knock‐out mutants by homologous recombination. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High temperature experiments: a way to observe Raman scattering in luminescent samples
Authors: Raffaëlly L. , Champagnon B.
Published: May 2007

Two methods to decrease the luminescence of a sample and to observe the Raman scattering are described: the change of the wavelength of excitation or the change of the temperature of the sample. The evolution of the luminescence intensity with temperature is explained by the use of an energy model with a metastable state and radiationless processes whose activation energy can be calculated. This method is applied with success to a Roman silicate glass: the Raman scattering initially hidden by the luminescence is then observed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moisture profile determination in urea prill. II. Fertiliser caking implications
Authors: García Barneto Agustin , Ariza Carmona Jose
Published: May 2007

In a previous study, Karl Fischer (KF) titration was used to measure the mass of water in concentric layers of urea prill. The obtained data demonstrated that the grains of this fertiliser have a linear moisture profile. In the present paper, complementary to the previous one, a theoretical analysis of the behaviour of a spherical grain sample with a linear moisture profile during KF titration is presented. The obtained curve of titration fits the experimental data perfectly. The moisture content at the grain centre is four times greater than the average moisture content, and the layer with the highest water content is located at two‐thirds of the radius from the centre. Using this theoretical grain model and assuming that the intensity of caking is proportional to the area and moisture content of the flat contact surface between broken or deformed grains, it is possible to explain many observed experimental data on fertiliser caking. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Consumer acceptability and sensory evaluation of a fermented cassava product (Nigerian fufu)
Authors: Tomlins Keith , Sanni Lateef , Oyewole Olusola , Dipeolu Adewale , Ayinde Idris , Adebayo Kolawole , Westby Andrew
Published: May 2007

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the sensory profile and acceptability of six types of fufu (a fermented cassava product) produced by different processes using sensory evaluation and consumer acceptability testing. Fufu samples were selected to evaluate the acceptability of dried fufu flours, which are increasingly being consumed, and compare with a traditional paste and a newly developed paste that produces less environmental waste. Descriptive sensory profiles of the selected samples demonstrated distinct differences in sensory profiles. They were evaluated for consumer acceptance at three demographic locations; Lagos (n = 91), Ibadan (n = 121) and Abeokuta (n = 99), Nigeria. Fufu made from a paste that produced less environmental waste had the highest acceptance scores, followed by flour and paste made by the traditional method and finally the remaining flours. Average consumer liking between the three locations did not differ. Three distinct consumer segments were identified and the number of consumers in these segments differed between the locations. Consumers differentiated fufu made from pastes and from flour. Internal preference mapping indicated that consumers associated the flours with sensory attributes such as sticky texture and raw cassava odour, while pastes were associated with soft texture, and shiny and creamy appearance. Fufu acceptance varies widely among consumers and is related to preferences for distinct fufu flavour profiles. Correlations between consumer acceptance scores and sensory scores appeared to be non‐linear for many attributes but a larger sample size of fufu samples would be necessary to confirm this. The implications of these finding are discussed. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Yield and vitamin C content of tomatoes grown in vermicomposted wastes
Authors: Roberts Paula , Jones David L , Edwards‐Jones Gareth
Published: May 2007

Increasing quantities of earthworm digested materials (vermicompost) are being marketed as a peat‐free growth medium for amateur and professional food producers. Several studies indicate that growing tomatoes in peat mixed with low concentrations of vermicompost (10–20% by volume) produced by the earthworm Eisenea fetida increases yield of plants and marketability of fruits. Here we examined the effect of substituting commercial peat‐based compost with four different vermicomposts produced by the earthworm Dendrobaena veneta. Vermicompost was added to peat‐based compost at rates of 0%, 10%, 20%, 40% and 100% (v/v) and the following characteristics of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. Money maker) assessed: germination, yield, marketability, fruit weight and ascorbic acid concentration. Vermicompost significantly increased germination rates (176%) and improved the marketability of fruits at 40% and 100% substitution rates due to the lower incidence of physiological disorders ('blossom end rot' and fruit cracking). Total fruit yield, marketable fruit yield, fruit number, individual fruit weight and vitamin C concentration were unaffected by the presence of vermicompost. Although vermicompost may provide a viable alternative to peat‐based growth media, overall, we found little added benefit from using vermicompost. We conclude that some of the previously reported benefits of vermicompost on horticultural production may be overstated and that marketing strategies should reflect this in order to preserve consumer confidence in vermicompost products. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
The impact of sexual assault on physical health status
Authors: Waigandt Alex , Wallace David L. , Phelps Leadelle , Miller Deborah A.
Published: May 2007

This study was conducted to investigate the long‐term physical health implications of sexual assault in the rape victim. Fifty‐one sexual assault victims, each with 2 or more years of time elapsed since the rape, responded to a self‐administered questionnaire composed of demographics items and the Cornell Medical Index‐Health Questionnaire (CMI). The victims were matched by age with a control group of 51 nonvictims. The results showed nonsignificant t‐test differences between the two groups in demographic factors and in two CMI scores, Past Illness Symptoms and Family Health History. However, significant differences resulted between the groups in perceived current health status (x2 [df = 2, N = 102] = 11.26, p < 0.01) and in the CMI scores of Present Illness Symptoms (t = 5.51, p ≦ 0.01), Negative Health Behaviors (t = 6.21, p ≦ 0.01), and Female Reproductive Physiology Illness Symptoms (t = 6.21, p ≦ 0.01).
Toward an MMPI trauma profile
Authors: Wilson John P. , Walker Alice J.
Published: May 2007

This paper presents findings of a common MMPI profile configuration for a small forensic sample (n = 16) of persons traumatized by life‐threatening civilian events or as a consequence of combat in the Vietnam War. All subjects were involved in lawsuits in which the issue of compensation, medical benefits, or criminal disposition and sentencing were important concerns. A review of the existing empirical studies using this full MMPI scale as well as the MMPI post‐traumatic subscale are discussed. In comparing the civilian and veteran samples on the MMPI clinical, validity, and subscales a number of statistically significant differences were found by analyses of variance and mean comparison tests of the data. While the profile configuration of both groups were similar (elevations on F, 8 and 2 scales), the Vietnam Veteran sample had significantly higher elevations. It was concluded that identifying an MMPI trauma profile and its variations may did in the diagnosis and assessment of post‐traumatic stress disorder.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder and the Canadian Vietnam veteran
Authors: Stretch Robert H.
Published: May 2007

The study of Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among Vietnam veterans has long been a topic of research interest. A recent trend has been to study this disorder among selected subgroups of veterans such as Blacks, Hispanics, and females. Another group which has not been studied includes the thousands of Canadians who fought in Vietnam as part of the U.S. military. Research on these Canadian Vietnam veterans has now been conducted to determine how they have fared since the war compared to U.S. Vietnam veterans. Data on PTSD prevalence rates, differences in societal reactions, and the effects of isolation, rejection, and hostility on subsequent readjustment are presented for a sample of 164 Canadian Vietnam veterans. Survey data are discussed in terms of implications for intervention to reduce the high rates of PTSD noted for these veterans.
Malingering mental disorder on the Impact of Event Scale (IES): Toxic exposure and cancerphobia
Authors: Lees‐Haley Paul R.
Published: May 2007

Untrained volunteers instructed to fake psychopathology in a manner plausible for purposes of personal injury malingering did so at a level comparable to the average outpatient on the Impact of Event Scale (IES). Although not questioning the general research and clinical utility of the instrument, the author cautions IES users to employ the instrument circumspectly in contexts where deception is an issue, such as in litigation. For purposes of this study, subjects malingered psychological disturbance caused by exposure to a toxic substance from a hazardous waste site.
PTSD among Vietnam veterans: An early look at treatment outcome using direct therapeutic exposure
Authors: Boudewyns Patrick A. , Hyer Lee , Woods Marilyn G. , Harrison William R. , McCranie Edward
Published: May 2007

Vietnam combat veteran inpatients were evaluated after being treated in a PTSD special treatment unit. Selected pretreatment measures that included mental and physical problems, combat variables, PTSD symptoms, and the standard MMPI scales found no clinically meaningful differences between a group that was found to be “successes” and another group found to be “failures,” based on predetermined cutoff scores on the VETS scale, a reliable outcome measure for veteran patients. At 3 months post‐therapy, a significantly greater number of subjects treated with Direct Therapeutic Exposure (DTE) (flooding therapy) as compared to another group treated with a more conventional individual therapy, were identified as “successes” as opposed to “failures,” based on the VETs scale. Also, the number of “failures” was greater for those treated with the more conventional therapy and the number of “successess” was greater for those treated with DTE, when compared to all other subjects in the sample. These preliminary results were interpreted as indicating that DTE, when offered as part of an inpatient milieu, shows promise as an effective treatment for chronic/severe combat veteran PTSD sufferers.
Affective disorders, DST, and treatment in PTSD patients: Clinical observations
Authors: Olivera Arturo A. , Fero David
Published: May 2007

A study of 109 chronic, post‐traumatic stress disorder patients found 65 suffered current major affective disorders. Of these 65, 84.8% had major depression and 15.2% had bipolar disorder. Nonsuppression of the DST occurred only in those cases with concurrent major affective disorder, the incidence of nonsuppression was 32.3%. Treatment effectively attained clinical improvement and conversion of nonsuppressor to suppressor state in these cases. The DST, cortisol suppression index, and inhibition of cortisol production index were useful to support the clinical diagnosis of major affective disorders in post‐traumatic stress disorder patients, in an exclusively clinical setting.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder conflicts in Vietnam combat veterans: A confirmatory factor analytic study
Authors: Glover Hillel , Pelesky Cathy A. , Bruno Ralph , Sette Richard
Published: May 2007

Three hundred and thirty‐nine Vietnam combat veterans with the diagnosis of Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder were administered the Vietnam Related Experiences Questionnaire. The items on this questionnaire were constructed to highlight four combat related conflicts postulated to represent the salient symptom clusters within PTSD: fear‐anxiety, mistrust, survival guilt, and guilt secondary to aggression. Exploratory factor analysis followed by a confirmatory factor analytic procedure using maximum likelihood estimate demonstrated a five‐factor solution: vulnerability, guilt, dreams of death/destruction, depression, and rebelliousness. The factor loadings of the variables and the factor correlations are discussed. Diagnostic features of the questionnaire are highlighted.
Contextual issues in the assessment of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Eldridge Gloria D.
Published: May 2007

In recent years, there has been an explosion of information on the etiology, assessment, and treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals exposed to a wide variety of traumatic stressors. Comprehensive assessment techniques are being developed for diagnosis and treatment evaluation in PTSD; however, there remain numerous pragmatic issues related to the context of assessment for PTSD. Issues addressed in this paper include (1) implications of the purpose of the assessment (e.g., crisis intervention, treatment planning, evaluation for compensation); (2) sequelae of the assessment, including positive and negative outcomes of exposure to traumatic memories during assessment, (3) characteristics and training of the assessor and the impact of exposure to reports of traumatic events on the assessor; and (4) features of PTSD which affect the ease of case‐finding and suggest the necessity for training a variety of health care providers to recognize symptoms of PTSD.
Biological approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Friedman Matthew J.
Published: May 2007

Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder appears to be associated with biological alterations in central noradrenergic activity, the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenocortical axis, the endogenous opioid system, and the sleep cycle. This pattern of biologic abnormalities, which appears unique to PTSD, has practical implications for diagnosis and treatment. A biological approach may complement psychological diagnostic techniques. With regard to treatment, almost every type of psychotropic agent has reported efficacy in PTSD. However, very few double‐blind therapeutic trials have been published. Successful pharmacotherapy appears to alleviate DSM‐III‐R intrusive recollections and hyperarousal but not avoidant symptoms. Current information suggests that drug treatment alone can rarely alleviate the suffering in PTSD. Medication appears to be most useful as an adjunct to psychotherapy. Finally, the neurobiological alterations associated with PTSD may make affected individuals more susceptible to alcohol, opiates, and other illicit drug use. This also has important implications for treatment.
Strategies for assessing the potential for positive adjustment following trauma
Authors: Lyons Judith A.
Published: May 2007

The subset of survivors who evidence resilience rather than pathology following trauma is frequently overlooked in empirical studies and theoretical discussions of PTSD. Susceptibility to dysfunction is clearly not a simple function of individual fortitude. The present paper discusses the complex interplay of variables which may influence post‐trauma adjustment and suggests assessment instruments which may be useful in future research on this topic.
An analysis of criteria used by VA clinicians to diagnose combat‐related PTSD
Authors: McFall Miles E. , Murburg M. Michele , Smith Dale E. , Jensen Carl F.
Published: May 2007

The diagnostic criteria for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were consensually derived from the expert opinions of a small group of DSM‐III‐R Task Force and advisory committee members. In this study, 448 psychiatrists and psychologists were surveyed to assess their opinions of the criteria they utilize to assign a diagnosis of PTSD to veterans of war. The various DSM‐III‐R criteria for PTSD were perceived by clinicians as being differentially useful in making diagnostic judgments. Evidence of exposure to traumatic stress and symptoms of reexperiencing the trauma were consistently rated as more influential than criteria of avoidance/numbing and increased arousal. Moreover, symptoms that are directly ascribed to the traumatic event were rated more influential than those not directly referenced to the traumatic experience. Clinicians report they utilize supplemental information that extends beyond the DSM‐III‐R criteria to diagnose PTSD, and that this information is as important as many official DSM‐III‐R symptom criteria.
A family crisis‐intervention model for the treatment of post‐traumatic stress reaction
Authors: Harris Chrys J.
Published: May 2007

This article presents a crisis intervention model for administering to the family of a victim who has experienced a traumatic event. After a brief discussion of stress‐induced anxiety, delineations between the trauma victim and the victim's family are presented. Grounds for family crisis intervention then precedes the actual model which incorporates five steps: making psychological contact, exploring the dimensions of the problem, examining possible solutions, assisting in taking concrete action, and follow‐up. Therapist behaviors and goals/objectives are offered for each step.
Fluoxetine in post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Davidson Jonathan , Roth Susan , Newman Elana
Published: May 2007

Fluoxetine was given to five nonveteran patients with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The maximum doses ranged from 20 to 80 mglday, and treatment was continued for between 8 and 32 weeks. In contrast to published reports of other drugs, which were noted to improve only the intrusive symptoms of PTSD, fluoxetine was associated with marked improvement of both intrusive and avoidant symptoms. Facilitative effects of fluoxetine were noted on trauma‐focused psychotherapy in two adult victims of childhood sexual trauma. In part, these effects were related to modulating effects of the drug upon the intensity of core PTSD symptoms. Serotonergic drugs appear to hold promise for the treatment of PTSD.
Rorschach responding in traumatized children and adolescents
Authors: Holaday Margot , Armsworth Mary W. , Swank Paul R. , Vincent Ken R.
Published: May 2007

At this time there are no published articles which would allow an interpreter to determine if children or adolescents have been traumatized on the basis of responses on the Rorschach. It is important to identify these children when planning counseling interventions and academic programs since information concerning victimization experiences of children is often withheld by parents or guardians. In a preliminary study, ten Rorschach variables were investigated and results show significant differences between the traumatized group and the Exner Comprehensive System normative data for children and adolescents for the following variables: space, texture, W Sum C, D Score, passive movement, X+%, and 3r+2/R. Hypothesized significant differences in active movement, and morbid or aggressive responses were not found.
The „koach”︁ project for treatment of combat‐related PTSD: Rationale, aims, and methodology
Authors: Solomon Zahava , Bleich Avi , Shoham Shlomo , Nardi Chen , Kotler Moshe
Published: May 2007

The Koach project was designed and implemented by the Mental Health Department of the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) Medical Corps as a treatment program for chronic PTSD veterans, aimed at reducing the prevalence and severity of PTSD and accompanying psychiatric symptomatology and improving functioning in the military, the family, and the community. It was comprised of a 1‐month residential phase on an army base, followed by mutual self‐help groups in the veterans' communities. The project combined behavioral, cognitive, and group approaches into an integrated therapeutic program. This article presents the rationale behind the project and describes the treatment approaches that were utilized.
Positive clinical impressions: II. Participants' evaluations
Authors: Sololmon Zahava , Spiro Shimon E. , Shalev Arik , Bleich Avi , Cooper Samuel
Published: May 2007

Nine months after the residential stage of Koach, participants were asked to evaluate the program's effectiveness. Most of the veterans reported improvement in the areas queried, and especially in social relations, and nearly all of them stated that they would recommend the program to other veterans. The commander‐therapists became the major source of help for these veterans following the Koach project, and about half reported that they participated regularly in self‐help groups. Most of the participants acquired coping techniques that continued to serve them 9 months after the end of the residential stage of Koach. One of the more important measures of Koach was thought to be the veterans' own evaluations of the project, their assessment of the project's success in achieving its aims, and their satisfaction with it. In this article we will present the subjects' evaluations of treatment effectiveness as expressed in behavioral and emotional changes that they attributed to the treatment.
A testimony on the moment before the (possible) occurrence of a massacre: On a possible contradiction between the ability to adjust which means mental health and the maintaining of human moral values
Authors: Bar‐on Dan
Published: May 2007

Alongside the political dispute which is dividing the country today on the question of the administered territories—how and whether it is possible to militarily suppress a semi‐violent conflict—(specifically, the Palestinian uprising) there is discussion among psychologists about their professional duty: can they contribute to a solution of the problem in more ways than through their political positions? One of the questions which psychologists are dealing with is the problem of psychological damage that may or may not be caused to soldiers participating in the suppression of the Intifadah, how it is possible to determine such damage, or whether it exists only in the imagination of those who wish to „prove”︁ such damage because of their political stand. In order to further the discussion of this problem this paper will present the complete testimony of an officer in the reserves as it was presented orally in a work‐shop in group‐dynamics and later written down by that same officer. Upon analyzing this testimony according to the method of narrative analysis (Rosenthal, 1988), we find that the soldier acted correctly but the event he witnessed caused him to recall what had happened to him in the Lebanon war and had almost caused him a latent ‘shell‐shock’. This memory sharpened his sensitivity in the present event which held the possibility of losing control and taking part in a massacre of unarmed civilians. The testimony helps us address the question of what the normal reaction is in a situation like this; we support the position that the soldier's reaction was normal in an abnormal context. This leads us to suspect that other soldiers who, unlike in our case, do not develop a similar sensitivity to similar abnormal events in which they are involved, will develop a delayed reaction (PTSD—Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder) as was found among soldiers in the Vietnam War. Our paper is part of a wider theoretical discussion: perpetrators of acts which are normative in one particular context but are later determined to have been immoral, tend to develop a discrepancy between their morality and the need to maintain their mental health. This discrepancy can only be bridged by a paradoxical morality.
Complex PTSD: A syndrome in survivors of prolonged and repeated trauma
Authors: Herman Judith Lewis
Published: May 2007

This paper reviews the evidence for the existence of a complex form of post‐traumatic disorder in survivors of prolonged, repeated trauma. This syndrome is currently under consideration for inclusion in DSM‐IV under the name of DESNOS (Disorders of Extreme Stress Not Otherwise Specified). The current diagnostic formulation of PTSD derives primarily from observations of survivors of relatively circumscribed traumatic events. This formulation fails to capture the protean sequelae of prolonged, repeated trauma. In contrast to a single traumatic event, prolonged, repeated trauma can occur only where the victim is in a state of captivity, under the control of the perpetrator. The psychological impact of subordination to coercive control has many common features, whether it occurs within the public sphere of politics or within the private sphere of sexual and domestic relations.
Towards an understanding of the psychological impact of natural disasters: An application of the conservation resources stress model
Authors: Freedy John R. , Shaw Darlene L. , Jarrell Mark P. , Masters Cheryl R.
Published: May 2007

The current study employed the Conservation of Resources (COR) stress model as a template for understanding short‐term adjustment following a natural disaster (Hobfoll, 1989). The following three hypotheses were supported: resource loss was positively related to psychological distress; resource loss was relatively more important in predicting psychological distress than personal characteristics and coping behavior; and, resource loss constitutes a risk factor for the development of clinically significant psychological distress. The theoretical importance of the current findings is discussed, particularly the tendency within disaster literature to confound crisis experiences (e.g., terror) with resource loss experiences (e.g., loss of possessions, loss of social support) when defining degree of disaster exposure. Also, the practical importance of considering resource loss in planning intervention services is highlighted.
Twenty years of trauma: psychological abstracts 1970 through 1989
Authors: Blake Dudley David , Albano Anne Marie , Keane Terence M.
Published: May 2007

The present study represents an objective assessment of the growth in trauma literature, and of the thematic trends which have been part of its historical evolution. For these purposes a systematic, manual search of Psychological Abstracts from 1970 to 1990 was conducted to identify literature on trauma‐related topics. Fifteen hundred and ninety‐six (1596) citations between 1970–1990 were identified, and a trend showing increasing numbers of trauma publications was in evidence. This increase was most apparent in literature involving war‐ and sexual abuse‐related traumatization, but not in publications about natural and technological disaster. These findings reflect a dynamic and growing field, and will provide an important benchmark for assessing the changing status of the PTSD literature.
Sexual and physical abuse histories among child and adolescent psychiatric outpatients
Authors: Threlkeld Mary E. , Thyer Bruce A.
Published: May 2007

Despite linkages between physical and sexual abuse experienced by children and adolescents and subsequent emotional, behavioral and mental disorders, no prior studies have examined the sexual or physical abuse histories occurring among young clients receiving outpatient mental health services. In the present chart review study, a high prevalence of documented and suspected abuse histories were found, with significant differences among male and female, and black and white outpatients, with respect to types of abuse experienced. Recommendatations regarding further investigations in this area are discussed.
Concepts of normal bereavement
Authors: Burnett Paul , Middleton Warwick , Raphael Beverley , Dunne Michael , Moylan Ann , Martinek Nada
Published: May 2007

This study used a 25‐item questionnaire to examine the perceptions of 128 people with a close interest in bereavement and its literature. The study is part of a project to identify key aspects and the bereavement process. Subjects were asked to rate their perceptions of key bereavement phenomena with regards their frequency in the acute and later stages of bereavement. Descriptive results are presented and discussed, and a profile of phenomena perceived to be common to both stages is outlined.
Outcome of treatment for post‐traumatic stress disorder in a primary care unit serving Vietnam veterans
Authors: Hammarberg Melvyn , Silver Steven M.
Published: May 2007

Veterans diagnosed with PTSD (PTSD in‐treatment, N = 39), newly admitted to a comprehensive 90‐day inpatient treatment program, were tracked at 4‐week intervals from admission to discharge. Two control groups were also tracked over 12‐week periods — one of previously PTSD diagnosed and treated veterans (PTSD out‐of‐treatment, N = 26), and a second that combined non‐PTSD Vietnam era veterans (N = 17) and non‐veterans (N = 16) (non‐PTSD nontreatment). As measured by the Penn Inventory for PTSD, 48% of those who completed treatment showed some or substantial gains, 39% showed no gain, and 13% reported some increase in symptoms at the time of discharge. Several patterns were observed on other assessment measures. One year follow‐up for those who completed treatment showed a return to pretreatment levels on the PTSD symptom measures employed in this study. These results are discussed in relation to other treatment program outcome studies as a baseline for further research.
Prevalence of traumatic events and post‐traumatic psychological symptoms in a nonclinical sample of college students
Authors: Vrana Scott , Lauterbach Dean
Published: May 2007

The lifetime prevalence of traumatic events and their psychological impact were assessed in 440 undergraduate students. Eighty‐four percent of the subjects reported experiencing at least one event of sufficient intensity potentially to elicit Post‐ Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). One‐third of the sample had experienced four or more traumatic events. Subjects who had experienced trauma reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptomatology than nontraumatized subjects, and these symptoms were more intense in subjects who experienced multiple traumas. Events that were particularly negative in their impact included unwanted sexual experiences and events that subjects reported were too traumatic to discuss openly. Males and females differed in their probability of experiencing some types of events and in the psychological response to certain events.
A short form of the Mississippi Scale for measuring change in Combat‐Related PTSD
Authors: Fontana Alan , Rosenheck Robert
Published: May 2007

In large‐scale surveys or program evaluations, investigators most often wish to assess multiple domains of functioning, while at the same time minimizing the overall length of the data collection protocols. In addition, studies of treatment interventions require instruments which offer the greatest opportunity of detecting change in the variables of interest. Toward these ends, we present an 11‐item version of the Mississippi Scale for Combat‐Related PTSD. The sample was composed of 436 war zone veterans who received specialized outpatient treatment for PTSD, and who were followed up in 4‐month intervals for 1 year. Items were identified for inclusion in a short scale on half of the sample. The scale was then cross‐validated on the other half. This short form of the Mississippi Scale has good internal consistency, good correspondence with the full scale, significant sensitivity to change in symptom severity, and significant relationships between change and clinicians' ratings of improvement after 1 year, number of treatment sessions received and number of months in treatment.
The potential for faking on the mississippi scale for combat‐related PTSD
Authors: Lyons Judith A. , Rawls Rufus , Perrin Sean , Caddell Juesta M. , Pittman Rebecca L.
Published: May 2007

The Mississippi Scale for Combat‐Related PTSD is widely used in the assessment of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The high face‐validity of the scale may make it vulnerable to faking, however. The present study found that the scores of individuals instructed to respond “as if” they had PTSD did not differ from the scores of veterans with PTSD. Furthermore, although veterans who were diagnosed as having PTSD were found to have significantly higher Mississippi Scale scores than those who did not meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD, the mean score for all groups (veteran and non‐veteran) exceeded the originally recommended diagnostic cut‐off score of 107. A cutoff score of 121 was found to best differentiate veterans with PTSD from veterans who did not meet diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis, with high sensitivity but relatively low specificity.
The impact of disaster support work
Authors: Hodgkinson Peter E. , Shepherd Melanie A.
Published: May 2007

Limited available evidence suggests that disaster support work may have negative effects. This study attempts to examine the impact of disaster‐related stress on helpers offering psychological support to victims of two major disasters, and to identify potential moderating factors. Sixty‐seven social workers were surveyed, measures being taken of psychological symptomatology and wellbeing, personality variables, social support, life events, and various aspects of disaster support work. Comparison with normative data suggested that subjects were experiencing significant levels of stress. Two major sources of disaster‐related stress were identified: role‐related difficulties and contact with clients' distress. Approximately one third of the variance in helper response could be explained by variables reflecting coping style, prior life events and the aforementioned aspects of disaster support work. Follow‐up data at 12 months demonstrated persisting high levels of stress.
Psychological, psychosocial, and psychophysiological sequelae in a community affected by a railroad chemical disaster
Authors: Bowler Rosemarie M. , Mergler Donna , Huel Guy , Cone James E.
Published: May 2007

Psychological, psychosocial, and psychophysiological sequelae were studied in a community which had experienced a railroad chemical spill of 19,000 gallons of the toxic pesticide metam sodium. Two hundred twenty exposed residents were compared to 114 controls and paired on age, education, gender, race, and number of children. A clinical interview and physiological measurements (blood pressure, pulse, and cortisol level) were taken, the MMPI‐2, IES Scale, Mood Scale, Environmental Worry, Perceived Social Support, and Perceived Control Scale and a questionnaire were administered. Results indicated greater levels of depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms in the spill residents in addition to greater environmental worry and lower perceived social support. Spill residents had higher blood pressure and less fluctuation of cortisol levels than controls. No difference on litigation status was obtained except on the IES, Intrusion and the POMS scales. Chemical disasters are associated with a wide variety of psychological, psychosocial, and physiological distress.
A twin study of the association of post‐traumatic stress disorder and combat exposure with long‐term socioeconomic status in vietnam veterans
Authors: McCarren Madeline , Janes Gail R. , Goldberg Jack , Eisen Seth A. , True William R. , Henderson William G.
Published: May 2007

This study examines the association between post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and combat exposure with the socioeconomic status of 2210 male monozygotic veteran twin pairs in 1987. In the unadjusted analysis on individuals, modest correlations indicated that those with PTSD were more likely to have been divorced, and less likely to be currently employed or to achieve high status in income, education or occupation. In the crude analysis of veterans not suffering from PTSD, there were small positive correlations between combat level experienced and the likelihood of ever being married, ever being divorced, and the number of years employed at the current job. However, when we examined identical twins discordant for PTSD, and adjusted for pre‐military and military service factors, only unemployment remained significant. Likewise, in combat‐discordant twins, no significant effects on the socioeconomic indicators were seen. We conclude that PTSD and combat experience in Southeast Asia have not had a major impact on the socioeconomic status of veterans.
Warzone violence in Vietnam: An examination of premilitary, military, and postmilitary factors in PTSD in‐patients
Authors: Hiley‐Young Bruce , Blake Dudley David , Abueg Francis R. , Rozynko Vitali , Gusman Fred D.
Published: May 2007

The impact of childhood victimization and other premilitary factors on warzone abusive violence was examined with 177 Vietnam combat veteran inpatients. Premilitary and military variables were also examined in relationship to postmilitary variables, including violence and PTSD. Statistical analyses showed that none of the premilitary variables predicted warzone violence. High combat exposure did, however, predict warzone abusive violence and PTSD. In addition, participation in warzone violence predicted postmilitary violence to self, spouse, and others. Although high rates of childhood victimization and high levels of combat exposure were found, neither predicted postmilitary violence, criminal activities, drug/alcohol problems, or suicide attempts. Low childhood adjustment ratings and school suspensions predicted adult alcohol abuse and drug abuse, respectively. These findings and their implication for treatment are discussed.
Myocardial infarction and post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: van Driel Ron C. , den Velde Wybrand Op
Published: May 2007

Studies concerning the development of a post‐traumatic stress disorder related to severe illness are scarce. The confrontation with myocardial infarction may be a very stressful event. Twenty‐three patients consecutively admitted for first myocardial infarction were studied. After two years 1 of 18 survivors had been suffering from a partial post‐traumatic stress disorder. Similarities and differences in the psychological reactions following potential traumatic events are discussed.
The therapeutic use of ritual and ceremony in the treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Johnson David Read , Feldman Susan C. , Lubin Hadar , Southwick Steven M.
Published: May 2007

The therapeutic purposes and effects of specially designed ceremonies in the treatment of persons with post‐traumatic stress disorder are described. Ceremonies compartmentalize the review of the trauma, provide symbolic enactments of transformation of previously shattered relationships, and reestablish connections among family and with society in general. Four ceremonies used with Vietnam combat veterans are described which focus on the themes of separation from and return to the family, forgiveness of the living and releasing the dead. Ritual and ceremony are highly efficient vehicles for accessing and containing intense emotions evoked by traumatic experience. Evaluation by family and veterans judge these ceremonies to be the most effective components of treatment.
Trauma symptoms and PTSD‐like profiles in perpetrators of intimate abuse
Authors: Dutton Donald G.
Published: May 2007

The presence of chronic trauma symptoms and similarity to a specific profile for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were assessed in a group 132 wife assaultive men and 44 demographically matched controls. Men who committed intimate abuse experienced more chronic trauma symptoms than nonabusive controls. A composite profile on the MCMI‐II for wife assaulters demonstrated peaks on 82C (negative/avoidant/borderline), as have two independent studies of the profile of men diagnosed with PTSD. However, the assaultive population had higher scores on the antisocial personality scale and lower scores on anxiety and dysthymia. This PTSD ‐like profile on the MCMI‐II was associated significantly with more frequent anger and emotional abuse of the subject's partner. The trauma origin for these men may have been parental treatment: experiencing frequent trauma symptoms as an adult was significantly related to negative recollections of parental treatment, specifically parental coldness/rejection and physical abuse.
Gruesomeness, emotional attachment, and personal threat: Dimensions of the anticipated stress of body recovery
Authors: McCarroll James E. , Ursano Robert J. , Fullerton Carol S. , Oates Gary L. , Ventis W. Larry , Friedman Herbert , Shean Glenn L. , Wright Kathleen M.
Published: May 2007

Previous research has shown that exposure to grotesque death has been associated with posttraumatic stress disorder and higher levels of stress have been associated with mortuary workers who anticipated handling remains than those who did not. Additional research is presented here to further clarify the nature of the anticipated stress of handling the dead. Anticipated stress of handling human remains was rated for 13 different situations by 479 persons (384 men and 95 women) without such experience, but whose job was likely to require it. Factor analysis of their ratings revealed three psychological dimensions: the gruesomeness of the remains, an emotional link between the viewer and the remains, and personal threats to the remains handler. Suggestions for preventive measures, training, and interventions for those who may handle remains are made.
Confrontations with reality: Crisis intervention services for traumatized families after a school bus accident in Norway
Authors: Winje Dagfinn , Ulvik Annicken
Published: May 2007

In August 1988 a Swedish schoolbus with 23 children and 11 adult passengers crashed into a tunnel wall in Norway. Twelve children and four parents died, 18 of the passengers survived. The victims' relatives (parents, spouses, siblings, and others) were transported to Norway and given a “confronting” support program at the University hospital in Bergen. The crisis intervention program is described: how the relatives were helped to confront and actively cope with some of the stressful situations from which traumatized families very often are protected. One year later 42 of the relatives answered a questionnaire evaluating the confronting support program that was offered during their stay in Norway. A majority of the respondents did not regret their participation in the program. The answers indicate that passivity and helplessness can be counteracted through a combination of confrontation with reality and emotional support.
Psychological assessment of postdisaster class action and personal injury litigants: A case study
Authors: Murphy Shirley A. , Keating John P.
Published: May 2007

The case study method is used to describe psychological assessments undertaken with victims of a combined natural/technological disaster for litigation purposes. A class action suit was filed in which the authors determined levels of traumatic stress in 27 plaintiffs as a group and relative to each other. The process was effective–the case was settled out of court in favor of the litigants. Individual litigants were satisfied with monetary awards received.
Change in rape narratives during exposure therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Foa Edna B. , Molnar Chris , Cashman Laurie
Published: May 2007

This paper presents a coding system developed to explore changes in narratives of rape during therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) involving repeated reliving and recounting of the trauma. Relationships between narrative categories hypothesized to be affected by the treatment and treatment outcome were also examined. As hypothesized, narrative length increased from pre‐ to post‐treatment, percentage of actions and dialogue decreased and percentage of thoughts and feelings increased, particularly thoughts reflecting attempts to organize the trauma memory. Also as expected, increase in organized thoughts was correlated negatively with depression. While indices of fragmentation did not significantly decrease during therapy, the hypothesized correlation between decrease in fragmentation and reduction in trauma‐related symptoms was detected.