bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noncanonical G(syn)–G(anti) base pairs stabilized by sulphate anions in two X-ray structures of the (GUGGUCUGAUGAGGCC) RNA duplex
Authors: Rypniewski Wojciech , Adamiak Dorota A. , Milecki Jan , Adamiak Ryszard W.
Published: July 2008

The structures of two crystal forms of the RNA 16-mer with the sequence GUGGUCUGAUGAGGCC, grown in the presence of a high concentration of sulphate ions, have been determined using synchrotron radiation at 1.4- and 2.0-Å resolution. RNA with this sequence is known as one of the two strands of the noncleavable form of the hammerhead ribozyme. In both crystal structures, two G(syn)–G(anti) noncanonical base pairs are observed in the middle of a 14 base-pair (bp) duplex having 5′-dangling GU residues. Both structures contain sulphate anions interacting with the G–G bp stabilizing G in its syn conformation and bridging the two RNA strands. In both cases the interactions take place in the major groove, although the anions are accommodated within different helix geometries, most pronounced in the changing width of the major groove. In one structure, where a single sulphate spans both G–G pairs, the major groove is closed around the anion, while in the other structure, where each of the two G–G pairs is associated with a separate sulphate, the groove is open. This work provides the first examples of a G–G pair in syn-anti conformation, which minimizes the purine–purine clash in the center of the duplex, while utilizing its residual hydrogen bonding potential in specific interactions with sulphate anions.
Quantitative Analysis of Circulating Methylated DNA as a Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chan K C Allen , Lai Paul B S , Mok Tony S K , Chan Henry L Y , Ding Chunming , Yeung S W , Lo Y M Dennis
Published: July 2008

Background: Hypermethylation of the RASSF1A [Ras association (RalGDS/AF-6) domain family member 1A] gene is frequently observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated the analysis of circulating hypermethylated RASSF1A for detecting HCC and assessing its prognosis.

Methods: In module 1, we studied 63 pairs of HCC patients and age- and sex-matched chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers, as well as 50 healthy volunteers. In module 2, we studied 22 HCC patients with cancer detected through a surveillance program. The concentrations of circulating hypermethylated RASSF1A sequences were measured by real-time PCR after digestion with a methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme.

Results: We detected hypermethylated RASSF1A sequences in the sera of 93% of HCC patients, 58% of HBV carriers, and 8% of the healthy volunteers. The median RASSF1A concentrations for the HCC patients and HBV carriers were 7.70 × 105 copies/L and 1.18 × 105 copies/L, respectively (P < 0.01). The detection of low concentrations in HBV carriers is consistent with previous findings that RASSF1A hypermethylation is an early event in HCC pathogenesis and can be found in premalignant liver tissues. Use of a marker cutoff value of 1 × 106 copies/L also identifies 50% of α-fetoprotein-negative HCC cases. Patients with higher RASSF1A concentrations at diagnosis or 1 year after tumor resection showed poorer disease-free survival (P < 0.01). For the HBV carriers who underwent HCC surveillance and subsequently developed HCC, the circulating concentration of RASSF1A increased significantly from the time of enrollment to cancer diagnosis (P = 0.014).

Conclusions: Detection and quantification of circulating methylated RASSF1A sequences are useful for HCC screening, detection, and prognostication.
Automated HPLC Assay for Urinary Collagen Cross-links: Effect of Age, Menopause, and Metabolic Bone Diseases
Authors: Kraenzlin Marius E , Kraenzlin Claude A , Meier Christian , Giunta Cecilia , Steinmann Beat
Published: July 2008

Background: The pyridinium cross-links pyridinoline (PYD) and deoxypyridinoline (DPD) are established markers of bone resorption. We evaluated the analytical and clinical performance of a commercially available PYD HPLC assay and established reference intervals in children and adults.

Methods: We used a commercially available reagent set (Chromsystems Instruments & Chemicals) to measure PYD and DPD in 319 healthy controls (156 premenopausal women, 80 healthy men, and 83 healthy children age 1 month to 14 years) and 397 patients with metabolic bone diseases (postmenopausal osteoporosis, n = 175; male osteoporosis, n = 176; hyperparathyroidism, n = 17; hyperthyroidism, n = 19; Paget disease, n = 10).

Results: The mean intraassay and interassay CVs were <6% and <8% for both PYD and DPD, respectively. The reference interval was constant for premenopausal women in the age group 20–49 years. In men, cross-link values peaked at 20–29 years and decreased thereafter. Women with postmenopausal osteoporosis had significantly higher PYD (51%) and DPD (58%) values compared to premenopausal women. Similar results were found in osteoporotic men. In children the highest values were found in the first weeks and months after birth, followed by a decrease of 50%–60% at age 11–14 years. In metabolic bone diseases cross-link concentrations were significantly increased. The DPD:PYD ratio (mean value approximately 0.2) was remarkably constant in all populations evaluated.

Conclusions: The automated HPLC assay is a precise and convenient method for PYD and DPD measurement. We established reference intervals for adult women and men and for children up to 14 years old. The cross-link concentrations we determined by use of this HPLC method confirm its clinical value in enabling identification of increased bone resorption in patients with metabolic bone diseases.
The Assessment of Dangerous Behaviour: Research and Clinical Issues
Authors: Ward Tony , Eccleston Lynne
Published: July 2008

Mental health professionals in forensic settings are increasingly called upon to assess the probability of dangerous behaviour, or level of risk, that certain individuals pose to the community. These assessments may inform decisions concerning the containment and management of violent offenders within forensic settings, sentencing options, and whether or not to grant bail or parole. In this paper we provide an overview of the key issues associated with the assessment of dangerous behaviour. Specifically, we briefly consider the debate on clinical versus actuarial assessments of dangerous behaviour and risk, and provide a synopsis of the current research on dangerous behaviour, focusing on the key areas of mental disorder, psychopathy, and substance use. Finally, we outline guidelines for addressing specific content areas in the clinical risk-assessment process and discuss areas for future research.
Conduct Problems Across Home and School
Authors: Little Emma , Hudson Alan , Wilks Ray
Published: July 2008

Many children are reported by parents to exhibit problems of conduct at home, and similarly many children are reported by teachers to exhibit conduct problems at school. Surprisingly, very little research has examined the extent to which children exhibit behavioural problems in the clinical range at both home and school. The current study examined the co-occurrence of problems at home and school in a sample of 189 children in schools in Victoria. The total sample consisted of (a) 124 children whose parents responded to invitations to participate distributed through schools, and (b) 65 children who had been referred to various agencies because of conduct problems. The occurrence of problems at home was assessed using the Child Behaviour Checklist (Achenbach & Edelbrock, 1983), and problems at school were assessed using the Teacher Report Form (Achenbach & Edelbrock, 1986). For the school sample, 7 children (5.6%) exhibited conduct problems in both settings (scores in the borderline/ clinical range), with 27 children (21.7%) exhibiting them in one setting only. For the clinic sample, 39 children (60.0%) exhibited problems in both settings, with 21 children (32.3%) exhibiting them in one setting only. The results of this study indicate the need for interventions that can be used consistently across home and school settings, as well as independently in single settings when warranted.
The Prevention of Depression in Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hannan Anthony P. , Rapee Ronald M. , Hudson Jennifer L.
Published: July 2008

Twenty, fifth- and sixth-grade students who reported mild depressive symptomatology were placed into a brief intervention program. The program was conducted over eight, weekly, 90-minute sessions and aimed to teach students depression management strategies and positive coping skills. Significant reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety and externalising behaviour were found and maintained for six months. The results lend support to the effectiveness of this brief program for early intervention in depression. The potential for the program to prevent the later development of clinical depression and related problems is discussed.
A Brief Cognitive-Behavioural Intervention for a 10-year-old Child With an Adjustment Disorder — A Case Study
Authors: Allen Kathleen
Published: July 2008

This case study reports a brief cognitive-behavioural intervention with a 10-year-old child who presented in a clinical setting with an adjustment disorder which has been rarely discussed in the literature. The focus of the paper is on the intervention which was individually devised to suit the child, the particular presenting problems, and the family context of the child. Although there were no quantitative data collected, the outcome as reported by the client and her carer, together with clear behavioural indicators, attested to positive effects of therapy. Relevant factors that contributed to the outcome are discussed.
Constant Versus Rhythmic Muscle Tension in Applied Tension
Authors: Bodycoat Nicole , Grauaug Lisa , Olson Andrew , Page Andrew C.
Published: July 2008

The research aimed to examine ways in which applied tension for blood-injury phobia may be improved. The effect on blood pressure of two forms of muscle tension under three different rates of breathing is reported. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to use either constant or rhythmic muscle tension under three different breathing rates (i.e., fast, slow, and normal). The effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured. Results indicated that both constant and rhythmic forms of muscle tension increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, rhythmic tension was significantly more effective than constant tension at raising diastolic blood pressure. Breathing rate had no differential effects on blood pressure. Suggestions are made about modifications of Applied Tension in the treatment of blood-injury phobia.
Childhood Anxiety in Ethnic Families: Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Barrett Paula M. , Turner Cynthia M. , Sonderegger Robi
Published: July 2008

Australia is a culturally diverse country with many migrant families in need of support and assistance from clinical psychologists. Yet, surveys indicate that migrants do not feel comfortable in accessing community mental health services, due to the lack of cultural sensitivity and understanding of our current practices. Despite this finding, there remains a paucity of research on migrant families, their different values and needs, and how they adjust to the Australian culture. The present article reviews research on migrant children, their characteristics, and the factors that help or hinder healthy adjustment to a new culture. This review focuses particularly on anxiety, which is not only the most common form of childhood psychopathology, but also frequently coincides with stressful life events such as migration. Our review concludes with recommendations for the development of assessment and intervention protocols, and areas of future research.
The FRIENDS Program for Young Former-Yugoslavian Refugees in Australia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Barrett Paula M. , Moore Alan F. , Sonderegger Robi
Published: July 2008

Young immigrants frequently experience anxiety as a consequence of the stress associated with migration. Despite being at high risk for the development of psychopathology, culturally sensitive assessment and intervention procedures for use with ethnic minority groups residing in Australia have yet to be developed and validated. The aims of the current study were to (a) investigate the level of anxiety in a sample of former-Yugoslavian teenage refugees; (b) appraise the efficacy of the FRIENDS program, a validated Anglo-Australian anxiety-prevention program, for use with this high-risk group; and (c) obtain information from both the program participants and facilitators regarding how the intervention could be modified to better meet the needs of this growing refugee population in Australia. Twenty female former-Yugoslavian youths completed standardised measures of internalising symptoms. Participants were allocated to either an intervention (n = 9) or a waiting list (n = 11) condition. In spite of the small sample size, post-assessment indicated that participants in the intervention condition reported significantly less internalising symptoms than participants in the waiting list condition. Social validity data indicated that, overall, participants were highly satisfied with the intervention. Suggestions for assessment and treatment program modifications are discussed.
A Validation Study of the Adolescent Risk-taking Questionnaire
Authors: Gullone Eleonora , Paul Jacqueline , Moore Susan M.
Published: July 2008

The Adolescent Risk-taking Questionnaire (ARQ) was developed to comprehensively assess adolescent risk-taking beliefs and behaviours. Research has shown that it is a reliable instrument with strong construct validity. The current study investigated the convergent and discriminant validity of the ARQ by comparing responses of a sample of 52 male adolescents from a juvenile justice centre and 211 school-attending male adolescents. Consistent with past research, the juvenile justice centre youth reported significantly higher levels of depression and less optimal levels of parent attachment compared to school-attending youth. Convergent validity of the ARQ was demonstrated through significant relationships between attachment and risk-taking. Specifically, those adolescents with less optimal parent attachment were more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviour and were less likely to perceive the behaviours included in the ARQ as risky compared to those with more optimal levels of parent attachment. Discriminant validity of the ARQ was demonstrated through significant differences between the two groups on risk beliefs and behaviours. Responses on the ARQ indicated that youth from the juvenile justice centre were significantly more likely to engage in risky behaviours, if given the opportunity, than school-based youth. They also perceived the behaviours to be less risky. It was concluded that the ARQ has good convergent and discriminant validity.
Prediction of Delinquency: The Role of Depression, Risk-taking, and Parental Attachment
Authors: Leas Loranie , Mellor David
Published: July 2008

This study investigated the relative contributions of risk-taking behaviour (RTB), parental attachment, and depression to delinquency. Data were gathered from 108 university students and youth group members, aged between 17 and 23 years (M = 19 years). Each participant completed four self-report questionnaires: the Australian Self-report Delinquency Scale, the Adolescent Risk-taking Questionnaire, the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment, and the Beck Depression Inventory. The three predictor variables were significantly related to each other, and risk-taking behaviour and depression uniquely predicted total delinquency. While parent attachment was not a significant predictor of delinquency, when the subscales of parent attachment were assessed individually, parental trust and communication inversely predicted delinquent behaviour. Although based on a nondeviant sample, the findings suggest that adolescents who display poor parent attachment, depression, or high risk-taking behaviour, singularly or in combination, are more prone to engage in delinquent behaviour. The results hold a number of potentially important implications for both further studies and the design and provision of intervention and preventative programs.
The Structure of Young People's Leisure and Their Gambling Behaviour
Authors: Moore Susan , Ohtsuka Keis
Published: July 2008

In this study, the relationship between adolescent leisure and gambling was explored. Three different models of time usage were compared as potential predictors of gambling behaviour and problem gambling among 769 adolescents (15 to 18 years old) from five secondary schools in Melbourne. More leisure time, particularly unstructured leisure, predicted more frequent gambling behaviour for girls and boys. Specific activity factors provided the best time usage-based prediction of gambling behaviour. More time socialising and being involved in organised sport predicted more gambling for boys, possibly because of the access these activities provide to gambling venues. For boys, lower levels of so-called masculine pursuits (activities with other male peers) were associated with problem gambling, as were “cognitive pursuits” such as board games and collecting hobbies. For girls, more time in studious activity mitigated against gambling frequency. Lower levels of typically “feminine” adolescent pursuits predicted problem gambling. By far the major predictor of problem gambling for both sexes was gambling frequency. The role of leisure in problem gambling was discussed in terms of the role played by peer socialising, which may increase risk through access to gambling venues yet simultaneously increase protection through a sense of belongingness.
Review of Life Satisfaction Measures for Adolescents
Authors: Gilman Rich , Huebner E. Scott
Published: July 2008

Over the past decade, promoting the psychological wellbeing of adolescents has been the subject of increasing interest. To this end, a number of scales have been constructed that specifically assess life satisfaction among adolescents. Using specific selection criteria, the present study reviewed the psychometric properties of five life satisfaction measures available for use with adolescent populations. These scales were the Students' Life Satisfaction Scale, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, the Perceived Life Satisfaction Scale, the Comprehensive Quality of Life Scale – School Version, and the Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale. Suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Quality of Life in Adolescence: The Role of Perceived Control, Parenting Style, and Social Support
Authors: Petito Fausta , Cummins Robert A.
Published: July 2008

Adult levels of subjective quality of life (SQOL) are remarkably stable on a population basis. This has been explained through the operation of a homeostatic system that acts to maintain each individual's SQOL within a narrow range. However, there are good reasons to expect this homeostatic system to come under severe challenge during adolescence. Many of the variables thought to be involved in the homeostatic process are undergoing marked change during this period, including the balance between primary and secondary control, perceived social support, and interaction with parents. In order to test the stability of SQOL and the influence of these other variables, a sample of 279 adolescents between the ages of 12 to 17 years were recruited. It was found that the SQOL of the older adolescents lay below the predicted range for adults, thereby supporting the idea of a strong challenge to homeostasis during this period. A new scale to measure perceived control was found to possess a useful two-factor structure of primary and secondary control. Moreover, both of these factors, together with social support, predicted levels of SQOL, even though the levels of primary control decreased with age. Finally, adolescents who perceived an authoritarian parenting style experienced a higher SQOL than those who perceived an unengaged style. These findings contribute to our understanding of SQOL homeostasis.
Reciprocal Skills Training in the Treatment of Externalising Behaviour Disorders in Childhood: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Barrett Paula , Turner Cynthia , Rombouts Sacha , Duffy Amanda
Published: July 2008

This study reported on the efficacy of Reciprocal Skills Training (RST), a family-based treatment modality for childhood externalising disorders. Children (N= 57) ranging from 7 to 12 years old who fulfilled diagnostic criteria for oppositional defiant disorder were randomly allocated to RST (in either a hospital or clinical setting) or a waiting-list control group. At posttreatment, no significant differences were observed across the two treatment settings. Results indicated that 95.5% of children in the hospital setting and 72.2% of children in the clinical setting no longer met criteria for oppositional defiant disorder, compared to 30% of children on the waiting list. Children in the treatment groups also obtained significantly lower scores on the Externalising scale of the Child Behaviour Checklist, compared to the waiting-list group. In addition, mothers' levels of stress and depression were significantly reduced at posttreatment, compared to mothers of children on the waiting list. These findings suggest that RST is an effective treatment modality for children displaying externalising behaviours, as well as for their mothers. The results are discussed in terms of limitations of the current study and future directions for research and clinical practice.
Functional Independence of Appropriate Giving and Appropriate Asking for Socially Isolated and Nondisabled Children
Authors: Brace Rachel , Guerin Bernard
Published: July 2008

Sharing is an important social behaviour for promoting reciprocal interaction and interactive play among peers, but previous studies have only trained giving and accepting behaviours. We trained appropriate asking in addition to giving, and tested for functional independence. Three socially isolated children were first trained either to ask appropriately for their turn with a toy, or else to offer the toy to a confederate child, and this was reversed after stability. There was an immediate increase in whichever behaviour was trained, but the other behaviour showed no increase until it was directly trained. This was replicated with two nondisabled children. Follow-up assessments on all five children showed some maintenance up to a month after training. These studies demonstrate that appropriate giving and asking are functionally independent, at least in this experimental setting; that this is not restricted to socially isolated children; and that asking does not emerge from training giving alone. It was argued that, while these results could be due to instructional control rather than the more natural consequences of sharing, such social rules or norms are typically taught as instructions from teachers and parents.
The Role of Formulation-based Treatment for Sexual Offenders
Authors: Ward Tony , Nathan Pamela , Drake Christopher R. , Lee Joseph K.P. , Pathé Michele
Published: July 2008

The assessment of sexual offenders consists of the systematic collection of clinically relevant information in order to detect clinical problems and to provide clear treatment targets. A key but neglected issue in the area of sexual offending concerns the role of individual case formulations in the determination of offenders' treatment needs. In this paper, we investigate the relative strengths and weaknesses of manual-based treatment (MBT) and formulation-based treatment (FBT) for sex offenders. On the one hand, FBT has the advantages of greater flexibility and a more individualistic focus, and arguably is better equipped to deal with more complex clinical presentations. On the other hand, MBT has the advantages of standardisation and less reliance on clinicians' (flawed) judgement, and may be a more efficient use of scarce resources. We conclude that clinicians should initially provide manual-based treatment rather than that based on individualised case formulations. However, we also suggest that there are at least four situations where FBT represents a valuable strategy, namely when confronted with particularly complex or unusual cases, when standardised treatment has failed, or when there are significant threats to the therapeutic relationship. Finally, we briefly discuss some possibilities for research, and caution that our mixed model is only proposed as a temporary solution and that ultimately any model concerning treatment selection needs to be empirically based and conceptually defensible.
Overvalued Ideas and Obsessions: Some Clinical Considerations
Authors: Dunne Peter
Published: July 2008

Obsessional thoughts or “pure” obsessions and overvalued ideation represent two salient phenomena within obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that remain somewhat treatment-resistant. Treatment issues regarding these phenomena are discussed in the context of two clients attending a state health community psychiatry clinic. Both clients displayed significant improvement over the course of treatment on measures of OCD and depression. Pertinent issues are raised concerning the timing of specific treatment components, measurement processes, and the general direction of treatment research in this area.
Offender Risk and Needs Assessment: Some Current Issues and Suggestions
Authors: Byrne Mitchell K. , Byrne Stuart , Hillman Katherine , Stanley Emma
Published: July 2008

Crime impacts upon the community at multiple levels, causing distress and loss for the victims, and feelings of insecurity for the public, as well as adding to the drain on financial resources for governments. This makes the accurate identification of risk of reoffending and the determination of efficacious rehabilitation strategies imperative. Key principles in cognitive and behavioural psychology can contribute to this task. This paper will review the issue of risk assessment and describe the applicability of functional analysis to forensic psychology. Two studies by the authors will be used to illustrate concepts raised in this review. The paper will conclude with a model that may help guide the realistic implementation of detailed individual functional analyses of offenders' behaviour.
A Universal Prevention Trial of Anxiety and Depressive Symptomatology in Childhood: Preliminary Data from an Australian Study
Authors: Lowry-Webster Hayley M. , Barrett Paula M. , Dadds Mark R.
Published: July 2008

This paper describes the development and preliminary findings of a program designed to prevent the development of anxiety and depressive symptoms in children aged 10 to 13 years. Using a universal prevention approach, a total of 594 children were randomly assigned on a class-by-class basis to either a 10-session family group CBT program (FRIENDS) routinely implemented as part of the school curriculum, or to a comparison group. Pre-post intervention changes were examined universally, and for children who scored above the clinical cut-off for anxiety at pretest. Results revealed that children in the FRIENDS intervention group reported fewer anxiety symptoms, regardless of their risk status, than the comparison group at posttest. In terms of reported levels of depression, only the high anxiety group who completed the FRIENDS intervention evidenced improvements at posttest. Overall, these preliminary results appear to support the benefits of a school-based universal cognitive-behavioural intervention program. Implications of this study are discussed, and long-term follow-up measures are currently underway.
An Examination of the Power of the Voices in Predicting the Mental State of People Experiencing Psychosis
Authors: Lucas Sara , Wade Tracey
Published: July 2008

Cognitive-behavioural models of psychosis have been widely discussed in the literature, with a focus on the beliefs about the voices that are a component of auditory hallucinations. This study examines the ability of beliefs about the voices to predict the course of psychiatric symptomatology in psychosis over a 1-month period, compared with changes in depressive symptomatology. Thirty people with schizophrenia or schizo-affective disorder participated in this study. Their mental state functioning, depression, and beliefs about their voices were assessed in interview. Mental state functioning and depression were assessed again after 1 month, in addition to antipsychotic medication compliance over the previous month (rated by self and the psychiatrist). The strongest predictor of a worsening of psychiatric symptoms over the month was increased depression in the previous month. Using p < 0.1 criteria to offset possible Type II errors in the small sample, a person's belief that their voices were very powerful was also predictive of psychiatric deterioration. The ways in which beliefs about the power of the voices can be challenged in cognitive-behaviour therapy with psychosis is discussed, as are directions for future research.
Rethinking Psychological Mindedness: Metacognition, Self-reflection, and Insight
Authors: Grant Anthony M.
Published: July 2008

Psychological mindedness (PM) has long been considered to be an important mediator of therapy outcome. However, to date, definitions of PM have been typified by linguistic imprecision and lack of conceptual clarity. Further, most definitions and measures of PM have approached the task from a psychodynamic perspective, thus limiting the use of this construct by clinicians and researchers from other theoretical perspectives. In this paper, previous definitions and self-report measures are reviewed and a new definition proposed. It is argued that PM is best conceptualised as a form of metacognition: a predisposition to engage in metacognitive acts of inquiry into how and why people behave, think, and feel in the way that they do. A new model, based on this definition, suggests that PM may be assessed by measuring individuals' metacognitive processes of self-reflection and insight, circumventing many of the problems associated with previous self-report measures of PM. Research into individual differences in propensity for PM, self-reflection, and insight may well provide the clinician with additional tools with which to facilitate purposeful, directed change in both clinical and nonclinical populations.
Organisational Correlates to Staff Attitudes about Behavioural Programs
Authors: Corrigan Patrick W. , Diwan Sarah Lickey , McCracken Stanley G. , Oliver Kelvin , Backs Annette , Rashid Fadwa , Campion John , Farmer Ruth Davies
Published: July 2008

In an attempt to facilitate the dissemination and regular implementation of behaviour treatments in real-world settings, research has examined staff attitudes that may pose barriers to these treatments. The purpose of the study reported in this paper is to examine the construct validity of perceived organisational barriers to behavioural programs. One hundred and eighteen staff working in community-based treatment programs for adults and children with severe mental illness completed the Barriers to the Implementation of Behavior Therapy Test. An analysis from a previous study (Corrigan, Kwartarini, & Pramana, 1992) identified two reliable and valid factors that suggested perceived organisational barriers: institutional constraints and insufficient collegial support. Results of a confirmatory factor analysis on data from this study supported the earlier factor structure. Research participants also completed team functioning measures of individual staff burnout, collegial network satisfaction, organisational culture, and team leadership. Attitudes about institutional constraints and insufficient collegial support were found to be associated with burnout, collegial network satisfaction, and organisational culture. Strategies for disseminating behavioural programs must target organisational barriers too.
Cute and Cuddly and a Whole Lot More? A Call for Empirical Investigation into the Therapeutic Benefits of Human–Animal Interaction for Children
Authors: Fawcett Nicholas, R. , Gullone Eleonora
Published: July 2008

There are many indications that humans have a tendency to affiliate with nature, and with other living beings, including non-human species. Examples of such affiliation range from spending time in parks and nature reserves to humanising our companion animals to the point that we accord them family-member status and strongly grieve their passing. Research has also shown that humans can benefit significantly from their relationships with non-human animals. For example, studies have indicated that even the mere observation of animals can result in reduced physiological responding to stressors, and in increased positive mood. In the present review, we propose that findings such as these may provide important information regarding the potential benefits to be derived from incorporating non-human animals into intervention strategies, particularly for children. Of specific relevance for children is their fascination with, and attraction to, non-human animals. There is also the very nonjudgemental nature of human–animal interactions (i.e., unconditional positive regard) that has been argued, among other benefits, to serve as a useful “bridge” for the establishment of rapport between therapist and child. However, despite promising avenues of investigation, the area of animal-assisted intervention remains largely neglected by researchers. In this paper, we call for sound empirical investigation into proposals regarding the potential therapeutic benefits of incorporating non-human animals into intervention programs.
Examining the Social Validity of the FRIENDS Treatment Program for Anxious Children
Authors: Barrett Paula M. , Shortt Alison L. , Fox Tara L. , Wescombe Katrina
Published: July 2008

This study conducted the first evaluation of elements of social validity of the FRIENDS program, a cognitive-behavioural treatment package for childhood anxiety disorders. Parents, children, and adolescents were surveyed over time on their global satisfaction with the program, the acceptability of treatment components, and the completion of homework tasks. Results indicated a high level of satisfaction with the FRIENDS program and a high completion rate of homework tasks. Contrary to expectations, children rated the cognitive skills as more useful than adolescents did. Adolescents reported the behavioural strategy of graded exposure as more useful than other strategies. In addition, the relationship between treatment acceptability and clinical outcome was not significant. Limitations of the study and directions for further research are discussed.
The Prevention of Depressive Symptoms in Children: The Immediate and Long-term Outcomes of a School-based Program
Authors: Pattison Clare , Lynd-Stevenson Robert M.
Published: July 2008

The ability of a school-based program with training in both cognitive and social skills to prevent depressive symptoms in children (the Penn Prevention Program) was evaluated. Research conducted in Australia has failed to replicate the success of the program in the United States. Also evaluated was the ability of the program to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, the assumption that changes in social skills and cognitive style would be associated with changes in symptoms of depression and anxiety, and the relative merits of the cognitive and social components of the program. Sixty-three children in fifth and sixth grades were randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. There was no evidence that the Penn Prevention Program had any impact on the variables measured at the end of the program or at the 8-month follow-up assessment. Limitations and implications of the present findings are discussed.
Clinical Supervision in Four Mental Health Professions: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Spence Susan H. , Wilson Jill , Kavanagh David , Strong Jenny , Worrall Linda
Published: July 2008

This paper examines a range of theoretical issues and the empirical evidence relating to clinical supervision in four mental health professions, namely clinical psychology, occupational therapy, social work, and speech pathology. Despite the widespread acceptance of the value of supervision among practitioners and the large quantity of literature on the topic, there is very little empirical evidence in this area. It is not clear whether supervision actually produces a change in clinician behaviour, nor whether it produces benefits in terms of client outcomes. To date, there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate which styles of supervision are most beneficial for particular types of staff, in terms of their level of experience or learning style. The data suggest that directive forms of supervision, rather than unstructured approaches, are preferred by relatively inexperienced practitioners, and that experienced clinicians also value direct supervision methods when learning new skills or dealing with complex or crisis situations. The available evidence suggests that supervisors typically receive little training in supervision methods. However, to date, we have little information to guide us as to the most effective ways of training supervisors. While acknowledging the urgent need for research, the paper concludes that supervision is likely to form a valuable component of professional development for mental health professionals.
The Relationships Between Migration, Social Support, and Social Integration on Quality of Life
Authors: Foroughi E. , Misajon R. , Cummins R.A.
Published: July 2008

Past research indicates that humans have a remarkable ability to maintain normal levels of subjective wellbeing despite adverse objective circumstances. This suggests that such wellbeing may be held under homeostatic control. This paper investigates some of the potential factors that may contribute to this homeostatic mechanism, in response to the major life event of migration. Three groups were examined: Persian immigrants to Australia (Persian-Australians), non-Persian Australians, and Persians residing in Iran. A total of 330 subjects were recruited. A notable finding was that all three groups did not differ in regard to subjective wellbeing, despite the Persian-Australians being a minority ethnic group in Australia, and the Persians having significantly lower objective life quality. The Persian-Australians who migrated at an older age reported lower subjective quality of life, while the number of years of residence in Australia did not appear to be related to the extent of social integration. Subjective life quality was, however, related to subjective social support for the Australian and Persian samples, and to reciprocality of support for the Persian-Australians.
Changes in Hyperactivity and Temperament in Behaviourally Disturbed Preschoolers after Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Authors: Nixon Reginald D.V.
Published: July 2008

Changes in hyperactivity and temperament in preschool-aged children who underwent a behavioural management program with their mothers were examined. Families of 34 behaviourally disturbed preschool-aged children (aged 3–5) were randomly allocated to either parent–child interaction therapy (PCIT; Eyberg, 1988) or a waiting-list control group (WL). A group of 21 nondisturbed preschoolers was recruited as a social validation comparison condition (SV). Diagnostic status was assessed using a structured clinical interview forDSM-IVdisruptive behaviour disorders, with measures of behaviour and temperament obtained via parent report. At posttreatment, PCIT preschoolers were reported by their mothers to have reduced hyperactivity and more flexible temperament, and were less likely to meet criteria for ADHD than the WL group. By 6-month follow-up, children who had received PCIT were comparable to the SV group on ratings of oppositional behaviour and hyperactivity. The finding that a behavioural intervention may influence stable child characteristics is discussed.
The Health Belief Model and Compliance with CPAP Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Authors: Sage Claire E. , Southcott Anne-Marie , Brown Stephen L.
Published: July 2008

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a disorder that severely disrupts sleep and may lead to severe long- and short-term health consequences. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an effective treatment for OSA, but compliance with CPAP is often poor. Forty participants diagnosed with OSA completed a questionnaire based on the health belief model after a one-night first-time trial of CPAP treatment. After a subsequent 1-month period of CPAP use, electronic usage records were downloaded and analysed. Perceived benefits of CPAP use and perceived barriers to use showed multivariate associations with the mean number of hours of daily CPAP use, and perceived benefits of CPAP use was inversely associated with the percentage of days that CPAP was not used. Participants' confidence in their ability to use CPAP showed significant univariate, but not multivariate, relationships with both variables. Findings suggest that patients may benefit from greater levels of information and instruction in CPAP use.
Assessment of Child and Adolescent Migrants to Australia: A Crosscultural Comparison
Authors: Barrett Paula M. , Sonderegger Robi , Sonderegger Noleen L.
Published: July 2008

This study examines whether young migrants, differentiated by cultural background, (a) vary in their experience of cultural adjustment, emotional distress, levels of self-esteem, and coping ability, and (b) how they compare with Australian students on measures of self-esteem and coping ability. One hundred and seventy-three students differentiated by cultural origin (former-Yugoslavian, Chinese, Mixed-culture, and Australian) and school level (primary and high school) were recruited at random from public schools in South East Queensland. Students completed measures of cultural adjustment (Bicultural Involvement Questionnaire), anxiety and trauma (Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale, Trauma Symptom Checklist), self-esteem (Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), and coping ability (Coping Scale for Children and Adolescents). The main findings from this study indicate that culturally diverse groups residing in Australia vary in their experience of cultural adaptation, level of self-esteem, and symptoms of emotional distress, illustrating culture-specific strengths and weaknesses among young non-English speaking (NESB) students. This study reveals information on how culturally diverse migrants acculturate, the type and severity of symptoms they experience, and their capacity to cope in stressful situations. The need for culture-specific early intervention and prevention programs is discussed.
Utram Bibis? Aquam an Undam? El “Encomio a Melecio” de Juan Crisóstomo
Authors: Quiroga Alberto
Published: July 2008

The explosion in the study of late antiquity during the last generation has generated an important number of works devoted to Greek rhetoric; on the other hand, the influence of confessionalism in patristic studies has decreased. With that in mind, this paper aims to underline the importance of John Chrysostom's Encomium to Meletius and to highlight the impact of rhetoric on the internal struggles of Nicenism during the last years of the fourth century ce in Antioch.
No Way to Pick a Fight: A Note on J. C. Scaliger's First Oratio contra Erasmum
Authors: Conley Thomas M.
Published: July 2008

In 1531, Julius Caesar Scaliger published his Oratio pro M. Tullio Cicerone contra Des. Erasmum, a scathing attack on Erasmus occasioned by the publication three years earlier of Erasmus's Dialogus Ciceronianus sive de optimo dicendi genere, which, in turn, had attacked the proponents of the view that Cicero was the best and only model for good Latin rhetorical style. Erasmus never responded in print to Scaliger's vituperative “oration” (in reality, a pamphlet meant to be circulated among the literati). This paper argues that Erasmus did not respond because Scaliger's insults were so vile and beside the point that they did not deserve serious attention. A rhetorical re-reading of the Oratio provides some insight into the “proper” conduct of insults more generally, especially as they are meant as vehicles for “upward mobility” in a Res publica litteraria.
The influence of age on the GH–IGF1 axis in patients with acromegaly
Authors: Tanimoto Keiji , Hizuka Naomi , Fukuda Izumi , Takano Kazue , Hanafusa Toshiaki
Published: July 2008

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of age on GH and IGF1 axis, and complications in patients with acromegaly.

Subjects and methods

From the medical records, we retrospectively analyzed clinical features and complications in 87 newly diagnosed patients with active acromegaly (34 males, 53 females; aged 18–82 years) who were admitted to Tokyo Women's Medical University between 1999 and 2006. We divided the patients into three groups according to age: ≤30 years old (young group), 31–60 years old (middle-aged group), and ≥61 years old (elderly group).

Results

The median GH levels in young, middle-aged, and elderly groups were 18.5, 8.8, and 6.7 μg/l respectively, and the IGF1 levels were 810, 717, and 740 μg/l respectively. The values were not significantly different among the groups. However, the serum IGF1 SDS were significantly higher in the elderly group (10.2) than those in young and middle-aged groups (6.6 and 6.2 respectively, P<0.001). The age difference in the higher IGF1 SDS was remarkable in female patients. In the elderly group, glucose intolerance and hypertension were found in 94 and 53% of the patients respectively and the incidences were higher than those in the other groups.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the relatively high IGF1 secretions in elderly patients might be involved in the progression of clinical complications in acromegalic patients. Therefore, awareness of the early symptoms and examination of serum GH and IGF1 are important for patients with acromegaly.
Improvement of endothelial function with metformin and rosiglitazone treatment in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Jensterle Mojca , Sebestjen Miran , Janez Andrej , Prezelj Janez , Kocjan Tomaz , Keber Irena , Pfeifer Marija
Published: July 2008

Objective

There is evidence of preclinical cardiovascular disease even in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The aim of our study was to assess and compare the effects of metformin (MET) and rosiglitazone (ROSI) on endothelial function in PCOS patients.

Methods

For 6 months, 26 women with PCOS received either MET or ROSI. Blood samples for assessment of androgens, lipids, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein were taken at baseline and at endpoint. Endothelium-dependent flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and glyceryl trinitrate-induced endothelium-independent dilation of brachial artery were studied before and after treatment. Homeostasis model assessment (HOMAIR) calculation was applied as a measure of insulin resistance (IR).

Results

With treatment, FMD of brachial artery improved significantly from 4.2±6.6 to 10.2±5.9% in MET group (P=0.036) and from 2.9±3.2 to 7.6±4.9% in ROSI group (P=0.026), MET being as effective as ROSI (P=0.70). The endothelium-independent dilation did not change. Additionally, administration of MET was associated with a significant decrease in HOMAIR (P=0.003), serum total and serum-free testosterone (P=0.045 and P=0.008 respectively) and significantly higher frequencies of menstrual bleeding (P=0.006).

Conclusions

A 6-month therapy with insulin sensitizers, MET and ROSI, resulted in marked improvement of endothelial function in young PCOS patients without clinically evident atherosclerosis who were not severely insulin resistant. Neither drug was superior to the other. We conclude that therapeutic intervention with either insulin sensitizer may reverse the atherosclerotic process in PCOS patients at its early stage.