bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selenium nanoparticle-enriched Lactobacillus brevis causes more efficient immune responses in vivo and reduces the liver metastasis in metastatic form of mouse breast cancer
Authors: Yazdi Mohammad Hossein , Mahdavi Mehdi , Setayesh Neda , Esfandyar Mohammad , Shahverdi Ahmad Reza
Published: April 2013

Background and the purpose of the study

Selenium enriched Lactobacillus has been reported as an immunostimulatory agent which can be used to increase the life span of cancer bearing animals. Lactic acid bacteria can reduce selenium ions to elemental selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and deposit them in intracellular spaces. In this strategy two known immunostimulators, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and SeNPs, are concomitantly administered for enhancing of immune responses in cancer bearing mice.

Methods

Forty five female inbred BALB/c mice were divided into three groups of tests and control, each containing 15 mice. Test mice were orally administered with SeNP-enriched Lactobacillus brevis or Lactobacillus brevis alone for 3 weeks before tumor induction. After that the administration was followed in three cycles of seven days on/three days off. Control group received phosphate buffer saline (PBS) at same condition. During the study the tumor growth was monitored using caliper method. At the end of study the spleen cell culture was carried out for both NK cytotoxicity assay and cytokines measurement. Delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses were also assayed after 72h of tumor antigen recall. Serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were measured, the livers of mice were removed and prepared for histopathological analysis.

Results

High level of IFN-γ and IL-17 besides the significant raised in NK cytotoxicity and DTH responses were observed in SeNP-enriched L. brevis administered mice and the extended life span and decrease in the tumor metastasis to liver were also recorded in this group compared to the control mice or L.brevis alone administered mice.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the better prognosis could be achieved by oral administration of SeNP-enriched L. brevis in highly metastatic breast cancer mice model.
Regulatory B cells suppress imiquimod-induced, psoriasis-like skin inflammation
Authors: Yanaba Koichi , Kamata Masahiro , Ishiura Nobuko , Shibata Sayaka , Asano Yoshihide , Tada Yayoi , Sugaya Makoto , Kadono Takafumi , Tedder Thomas F , Sato Shinichi
Published: April 2013

Psoriasis is an inflammatory cutaneous disorder characterized by marked epidermal thickening and Th1 and Th17 cell infiltration. At present, the contribution of B cells to the pathogenesis of psoriasis is unclear. In mice, topical application of imiquimod induces inflamed skin lesions and serves as an experimental animal model for human psoriasis. In this study, we showed that imiquimod-induced skin inflammation was more severe in CD19−/− than WT mice. These inflammatory responses were negatively regulated by a unique IL-10-producing CD1dhiCD5+ regulatory B cell subset (B10 cells) that was absent in CD19−/− mice and represented only 1–2% of splenic B220+ cells in WT mice. Splenic B10 cells entered the circulation and migrated to draining LNs during imiquimod-induced skin inflammation, thereby suppressing IFN-γ and IL-17 production. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of these B10 cells from WT mice reduced inflammation in CD19−/− mice. The present findings provide direct evidence that B10 cells regulate imiquimod-induced skin inflammation and offer insights into regulatory B cell-based therapies for the treatment of psoriasis.
Editorial: Leukocytes in tularemia—so many cells, so little time
Authors: Allen Lee-Ann H
Published: April 2013

Discussion of dysregulation of the inflammatory response in tularemia, focusing on cytokines and the role of neutrophils.
Self-Reported Conflicts of Interest of Authors, Trial Sponsorship, and the Interpretation of Editorials and Related Phase III Trials in Oncology
Authors: Bariani Giovanni M. , de Celis Ferrari Anezka C.R. , Hoff Paulo M. , Krzyzanowska Monika K. , Riechelmann Rachel P.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Growing participation by industry in cancer research has resulted in increased reporting of conflicts of interest (COI). We aimed to test any association between authors' conclusions and self-reported COI or trial sponsorship in cancer studies.

Methods

Editorials and related phase III trials published in six clinical oncology journals in the last 3.5 years were analyzed independently by two investigators who classified study conclusions according to authors' endorsement of the experimental therapy. Logistic regression multivariable models were used to assess predictors of favorable conclusions of editorialists and of phase III authors.

Results

From January 2008 to October 2011, 1,485 articles were retrieved: 150 phase III trials and 150 editorials were eligible. Among the phase III trials, 82 (54.7%) had positive results, and 78 (52.0%) were entirely or partially funded by industry. Any COI were disclosed in 103 phase III trials (68.7%) and in 71 editorials (47.3%). Multivariable analysis showed that phase III trial results were the only significant predictor for a positive conclusion by trial authors (odds ratio [OR], 92.2; 95% CI, 19.7 to 431.6; P < .001). Sponsorship did not predict for positive conclusion by phase III authors (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.3 to 2.5; P = .788). The only factor associated with positive conclusions by editorial authors was a positive conclusion by phase III trial authors (OR, 36.3; 95% CI, 6.8 to 194.2; P < .001).

Conclusion

The interpretation of recently published phase III cancer trials by their authors or by editorialists was not influenced by financial relationships or industry sponsorship. Increased awareness of COI policies may have led to more integrity in cancer research reporting.
An intracellular partitioning-based framework for tissue cell polarity in plants and animals
Authors: Abley Katie , De Reuille Pierre Barbier , Strutt David , Bangham Andrew , Prusinkiewicz Przemyslaw , Marée Athanasius F. M. , Grieneisen Verônica A. , Coen Enrico
Published: April 2013

Tissue cell polarity plays a major role in plant and animal development. We propose that a fundamental building block for tissue cell polarity is the process of intracellular partitioning, which can establish individual cell polarity in the absence of asymmetric cues. Coordination of polarities may then arise through cell-cell coupling, which can operate directly, through membrane-spanning complexes, or indirectly, through diffusible molecules. Polarity is anchored to tissues through organisers located at boundaries. We show how this intracellular partitioning-based framework can be applied to both plant and animal systems, allowing different processes to be placed in a common evolutionary and mechanistic context.
Fascin 1 is transiently expressed in mouse melanoblasts during development and promotes migration and proliferation
Authors: Ma Yafeng , Li Ang , Faller William J. , Libertini Silvana , Fiorito Florencia , Gillespie David A. , Sansom Owen J. , Yamashiro Shigeko , Machesky Laura M.
Published: April 2013

Fascins, a family of actin-bundling proteins, are expressed in a spatially and temporally restricted manner during development and often in cancer. Fascin 1 has a clear role in cell migration in vitro, but its role in vivo in mammals is not well understood. Here, we investigate the role of fascin 1 in the melanocyte lineage and in melanoma cells. Fascin 1 knockout causes hypopigmentation in adult mice owing to migration and cell cycle progression defects in melanoblasts, the melanocyte precursor cell. Study of live embryo skin explants reveals that E14.5 fascin 1-null melanoblasts migrate slower, and generate fewer and thinner pseudopods. By contrast, fascin 1 expression drives faster migration and lamellipodia protrusion in melanocytes in vitro. In addition, fascin 1 depletion retards melanoblast proliferation in vivo and melanoma cell growth in vitro. These data indicate that fascin 1 not only promotes cell migration in mouse melanocytes but it also has a role in growth and cell cycle progression.
An inducible transgene expression system for zebrafish and chick
Authors: Gerety Sebastian S. , Breau Marie A. , Sasai Noriaki , Xu Qiling , Briscoe James , Wilkinson David G.
Published: April 2013

We have generated an inducible system to control the timing of transgene expression in zebrafish and chick. An estrogen receptor variant (ERT2) fused to the GAL4 transcriptional activator rapidly and robustly activates transcription within 3 hours of treatment with the drug 4-hydroxy-tamoxifen (4-OHT) in tissue culture and transgenic zebrafish. We have generated a broadly expressed inducible ERT2-GAL4 zebrafish line using the ubiquitin (ubi) enhancer. In addition, use of ERT2-GAL4 in conjunction with tissue-specific enhancers enables the control of transgene expression in both space and time. This spatial restriction and the ability to sustain forced expression are important advantages over the currently used heat-shock promoters. Moreover, in contrast to currently available TET and LexA systems, which require separate constructs with their own unique recognition sequences, ERT2-GAL4 is compatible with the growing stock of UAS lines being generated in the community. We also applied the same inducible system to the chick embryo and find that it is fully functional, suggesting that this strategy is generally applicable.
Strategic Immunization and Group Structure
Authors: Galeotti Andrea , Rogers Brian W
Published: April 2013

We consider the spread of a harmful state through a population divided into two groups. Interaction patterns capture the full spectrum of assortativity possibilities. We show that a central planner who aims for eradication optimally either divides equally the resources across groups, or concentrates entirely on one group, depending on whether there is positive or negative assortativity, respectively. We study a game in which agents can, at a cost, immunize. Negative assortative interactions generate highly asymmetric equilibrium outcomes between ex ante identical groups. When groups have an underlying difference, even a small amount of intergroup contact generates large asymmetries. (JEL D71, D85)
Testing for Factor Price Equality with Unobserved Differences in Factor Quality or Productivity
Authors: Bernard Andrew B , Redding Stephen J , Schott Peter K
Published: April 2013

We develop a method for identifying departures from relative factor price equality that is robust to unobserved variation in factor productivity. We implement this method using data on the relative wage bills of nonproduction and production workers across 170 local labor markets comprising the continental United States for 1972, 1992, and 2007. We find evidence of statistically significant differences in relative wages in all three years. These differences increase in magnitude over time and are related to industry structure in a manner that is consistent with neoclassical models of production. (JEL J31, J61, R23)
Total hip replacement for patients with active tuberculosis of the hip
Authors: Kim S-J. , Postigo R. , Koo S. , Kim J. H.
Published: April 2013

The timing of total hip replacement (THR) in patients with active tuberculosis (TB) of the hip is controversial, because of the potential risk of reactivation of infection. There is little information about the outcome of THR in these patients. We conducted a systematic review of published studies that evaluated the outcome of THR in patients with active TB of the hip. A review of multiple databases referenced articles published between 1950 and 2012. A total of six articles were identified, comprising 65 patients. TB was confirmed histologically in all patients. The mean follow-up was 53.2 months (24 to 108). Antituberculosis treatment continued post-operatively for between six and 15 months, after debridement and THR. One non-compliant patient had reactivation of infection. At the final follow-up the mean Harris hip score was 91.7 (56 to 98). We conclude that THR in patients with active TB of the hip is a safe procedure, providing symptomatic relief and functional improvement if undertaken in association with extensive debridement and appropriate antituberculosis treatment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:578–82.
Risk factors for the displacement of fractures of both bones of the forearm in children
Authors: Colaris J. W. , Allema J. H. , Reijman M. , Biter L. U. , de Vries M. R. , van de Ven C. P. , Bloem R. M. , Verhaar J. A. N.
Published: April 2013

Forearm fractures in children have a tendency to displace in a cast leading to malunion with reduced functional and cosmetic results. In order to identify risk factors for displacement, a total of 247 conservatively treated fractures of the forearm in 246 children with a mean age of 7.3 years (sd 3.2; 0.9 to 14.9) were included in a prospective multicentre study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess risk factors for displacement of reduced or non-reduced fractures in the cast. Displacement occurred in 73 patients (29.6%), of which 65 (89.0%) were in above-elbow casts. The mean time between the injury and displacement was 22.7 days (0 to 59). The independent factors found to significantly increase the risk of displacement were a fracture of the non-dominant arm (p = 0.024), a complete fracture (p = 0.040), a fracture with translation of the ulna on lateral radiographs (p = 0.014) and shortening of the fracture (p = 0.019).

Fractures of both forearm bones in children have a strong tendency to displace even in an above-elbow cast. Severe fractures of the non-dominant arm are at highest risk for displacement. Radiographs at set times during treatment might identify early displacement, which should be treated before malunion occurs, especially in older children with less potential for remodelling.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:689–93.
Blood loss in spinal tumour surgery and surgery for metastatic spinal disease
Authors: Chen Y. , Tai B. C. , Nayak D. , Kumar N. , Chua K. H. , Lim J. W. , Goy R. W. L. , Wong H. K.
Published: April 2013

There is currently no consensus about the mean volume of blood lost during spinal tumour surgery and surgery for metastatic spinal disease. We conducted a systematic review of papers published in the English language between 31 January 1992 and 31 January 2012. Only papers that clearly presented blood loss data in spinal surgery for metastatic disease were included. The random effects model was used to obtain the pooled estimate of mean blood loss.

We selected 18 papers, including six case series, ten retrospective reviews and two prospective studies. Altogether, there were 760 patients who had undergone spinal tumour surgery and surgery for metastatic spinal disease. The pooled estimate of peri-operative blood loss was 2180 ml (95% confidence interval 1805 to 2554) with catastrophic blood loss as high as 5000 ml, which is rare. Aside from two studies that reported large amounts of mean blood loss (> 5500 ml), the resulting funnel plot suggested an absence of publication bias. This was confirmed by Egger’s test, which did not show any small-study effects (p = 0.119). However, there was strong evidence of heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 90%; p < 0.001).

Spinal surgery for metastatic disease is associated with significant blood loss and the possibility of catastrophic blood loss. There is a need to establish standardised methods of calculating and reporting this blood loss. Analysis should include assessment by area of the spine, primary pathology and nature of surgery so that the amount of blood loss can be predicted. Consideration should be given to autotransfusion in these patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:683–8.
Endometrial surveillance in tamoxifen users: role, timing and accuracy of hysteroscopic investigation: observational longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Saccardi Carlo , Gizzo Salvatore , Patrelli Tito Silvio , Ancona Emanuele , Anis Omar , Di Gangi Stefania , Vacilotto Antonio , D'Antona Donato , Nardelli Giovanni Battista
Published: April 2013

To determine the role, timing and indications for endometrial hysteroscopic investigation in relation to the clinical, ultrasound and histological features of the endometrium during tamoxifen (TAM) use. We performed an observational longitudinal cohort study (years 2007–2012) that investigated the endometria of 151 TAM users with hysteroscopy and histology. For all patients, gynaecological history, years of adjuvant treatment, ultrasound endometrial thickness measurement and indications for hysteroscopy were recorded. Hysteroscopic findings showed that 100% of patients referred for simple follow-up had no evidence of endometrial disease. We found a strong correlation between previous history of abnormal uterine bleeding (with or without endometrial thickening) and hysteroscopic suspicion of endometrial atypia that was confirmed by histology. Hysteroscopy had 83.3% sensitivity, 99% specificity, 83.3% positive predictive value (PPV) and 99% negative predictive value (NPV) in detecting endometrial atypia. No significant correlation was found between endometrial thickening to >5 mm without bleeding and histological atypia. Similarly, the duration of treatment was not related to endometrial thickening and histological atypia. Endometrial stromal hyperplasia was detected by histology in 70.5% of patients with endometrial thickness measurements ranging from 5 to 10 mm. In contrast, no atypia was detected when endometrial thickness was <5 mm. Ultrasound performed using a 5-mm cut-off threshold for endometrial thickness resulted in 100% sensitivity, 15% specificity, 4% PPV and 100% NPV in detecting endometrial atypia, while a 10-mm cut-off threshold resulted in 84% sensitivity, 69% specificity, 10% PPV and 99% NPV. Low-risk TAM users do not require different endometrial surveillance than the general population. Hysteroscopy could play a fundamental role in determining the endometrial status of patients before the initiation of TAM treatment and in assessing the endometrial status of patients when bleeding occurs.
Reactive oxygen species production and redox state in parthenogenetic and sperm-mediated bovine oocyte activation
Authors: Morado S , Cetica P , Beconi M , Thompson J G , Dalvit G
Published: April 2013

The knowledge concerning redox and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated regulation of early embryo development is scarce and remains controversial. The aim of this work was to determine ROS production and redox state during earlyin vitroembryo development in sperm-mediated and parthenogenetic activation of bovine oocytes. Sperm-mediated oocyte activation was carried out in IVF-modified synthetic oviductal fluid (mSOF) with frozen–thawed semen. Parthenogenetic activation was performed in TALP plus ionomycin and then in IVF-mSOF with 6-dimethylaminopurine plus cytochalasin B. Embryos were cultured in IVF-mSOF. ROS and redox state were determined at each 2-h interval (7–24 h from activation) by 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and RedoxSensor Red CC-1 fluorochromes respectively. ROS levels and redox state differed between activated and non-activated oocytes (P<0.05 by ANOVA). In sperm-activated oocytes, an increase was observed between 15 and 19 h (P<0.05). Conversely, in parthenogenetically activated oocytes, we observed a decrease at 9 h (P<0.05). In sperm-activated oocytes, ROS fluctuated throughout the 24 h, presenting peaks around 7, 19, and 24 h (P<0.05), while in parthenogenetic activation, peaks were detected at 7, 11, and 17 h (P<0.05). In the present work, we found clear distinctive metabolic patterns between normal and parthenogenetic zygotes. Oxidative activity and ROS production are an integral part of bovine zygote behavior, and defining a temporal pattern of change may be linked with developmental competence.
Supraventricular Tachycardia in the Pediatric Trauma Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Menoch Margaret , Hurst David , Fischbach Peter , Sturm Jesse J.
Published: April 2013

Any injured patient who is cool and tachycardic is considered to be in shock until proven otherwise.1 We describe the diagnostic challenge when evaluating persistent tachycardia in the setting of multiple system trauma with hemorrhagic shock. This is a unique case of a 17-year-old patient with the secondary condition of cardiogenic shock due to supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) complicating ongoing hemorrhagic shock from a facial laceration. She had sustained tachycardia despite aggressive resuscitation and required medical cardioversion 30 minutes after arrival to the emergency department. After successful conversion, she maintained normal sinus rhythm for the rest of her hospitalization. During her follow-up cardiac catheterization, she was found to have a left-sided accessory pathway, consistent with atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia. This is a unique and rare case of SVT in the traumatic patient. We review causes of tachycardia in the setting of pediatric multisystem trauma, as well as discuss acute SVT evaluation and management in the pediatric emergency department.
Results of the randomized studies on cardiac resynchronization therapy and the reevaluation of the cardiac ventricular activation in left bundle branch block
Authors: Préda István
Published: April 2013

If New York Heart Association Class II–IV heart failure is present, and ejection fraction ≤35%, electrocardiographic QRS width ≥ 120 ms in the presence of left bundle branch block, cardiac resynchronization therapy is indicated. Reevaluation of the data of cardiac resynchronization trials and electrophysiologic findings in left bundle branch block provided evidence that “true” left bundle branch block requires a QRS width of ≥130 ms (in woman) and ≥140 ms (in man). In “true” left bundle branch block, after the 40th ms of the QRS notched/slurred R waves are characteristic in minimum two of I, aVL, V1,V2, V5and V6leads, in addition to a ≥40 ms increase of the QRS complex, as compared to the original QRS complex. In contrast, slowly and continuously widened “left bundle branch block like” QRS patterns are mostly occur in left ventricular hypertrophy or in a metabolic/infiltrative disease. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 688–693.
The Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Therapy with Child Behavior Problems: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Corcoran Jacqueline , Stephenson Margaret
Published: April 2013

Preliminary findings on the effectiveness of solution-focused therapy with children who have been referred from the school system for behavior problems are reported. Significant improvements between pretest and posttest scores were found on the Conners' Parent Rating Scale (Conners, 1990) for the following subscales: conduct problems, learning problems, psychosomatic problems, impulsivity-hyperactivity, and the hyperactivity index. On the Feelings, Attitudes, and Behaviors Scale for Children (Beitchman, 1996), child respondents reported positive improvements on self-image between pretest and posttest but negative changes for the conduct-problems subscale. Implications for solution-focused practice and the treatment of child behavior problems are discussed.
Advocacy be Not Forsaken! Retrospective Lessons from Welfare Reform
Authors: Lens Vicki , Gibelman Margaret
Published: April 2013

This article reviews the often uneven and sometimes peripheral role of advocacy as a social work function and explores its current relevancy in regard to agency practices, ethical mandates and the “person-in-environment” orientation of social work practice. Welfare reform (in which Aid to Families with Dependent Children [AFDC] was abolished in 1996 and replaced with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families [TANF]) is presented as a case example of both a failed opportunity to influence the course of public debate, and the potential benefits of advocacy when it is systematically applied and integrated as part of an overall organizational approach to services. Generalized principles are then drawn from the case study as they apply to advocacy practice with vulnerable populations.
Instituting an Outcomes Assessment Effort: Lessons from the Field
Authors: Mecca William F. , Rivera Ann , Esposito Andrew J.
Published: April 2013

Family Counseling of Greater New Haven, Inc., is a private, non-profit, mental health outpatient clinic serving children, adults, couples, and families using multiple modalities. In September 1997, in response to pressures for outcomes evaluation from funders and others, the agency launched an outcomes assessment effort using the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI). The instrument is administered at intake and at 90 days or upon termination. A comparison of pre-test with post-test scores indicates some degree of improvement in 96% of agency clients who completed both pre- and post-tests.

Obstacles to instituting the outcomes assessment effort are discussed. Initially, the authors identify a lack of human resources for the project, a lack of understanding of the assessment process, and resistance to the assessment process as obstacles. These may be attributed to fear about personal accountability and a misuse of the data collected, and were overcome by education of agency staff.

The authors share lessons they have learned about how to successfully institute an outcomes assessment effort. These include: designating staff to oversee the outcomes assessment work; involving clinicians very early in the process, and inviting their input on both process and product; carefully choosing assessment instruments to be closely aligned with program goals; and using the outcomes data for multiple purposes which are meaningful to various constituents within the agency, i.e., treatment plans, quality assurance, marketing, etc.
Turning Points in Group Life: Using High-Tension Moments to Promote Group Purpose and Mutual Aid
Authors: Gitterman Alex , Wayne Julianne
Published: April 2013

The interactions among and between group members and a social worker often generate natural interpersonal tensions in group life. If handled with skill, these difficult moments have the potential to become significant turning points in members' ability to feel safe in the group and in their motivation to achieve the group's purpose through a mutual aid process. In this article the authors examine five areas of group life that are often sources of tension-filled situations. These areas are group composition, group purpose and the working agreement, the worker's authority, members' interpersonal relationships, painful material, and environmental factors. The authors recommend professional interventions aimed at converting high-tension moments into incidents that promote trust, caring, and mutual aid.
Chaos Theory: An Alternative Approach to Social Work Practice and Research
Authors: Bolland Kathleen A. , Atherton Charles R.
Published: April 2013

Complexity theory, better known as chaos theory, has much to offer social work as a frame of reference for dealing with the uncertainty that characterizes many social work practice issues. To encourage social workers to think in terms of chaos theory, we discuss the origins of the theory and a variety of ways in which it has been used in other fields. We suggest how chaos theory can provide a useful alternative way of thinking about social work practice and research.
A Qualitative Study of Parental Influence on and Response to Adolescents' Self-Cutting in Hong Kong
Authors: Yip Kam-shing , Ngan Mei-yuk , Lam Irene
Published: April 2013

In a qualitative study of parental influence on and response to self-cutting of adolescents in Hong Kong, findings showed an unhappy childhood because of overdemanding parental expectation, parent–child conflicts, and marital discord. Supportive parents helped children to resolve frustration and interpersonal conflicts behind self-cutting behaviors. However, some parents, overwhelmed with guilt, frustration, incapability, and anxiety in dealing with their children's self-cutting, might overreact and provoke further cutting.
CASPARS: New Tools for Assessing Client Risks and Strengths*
Authors: Gilgun Jane F.
Published: April 2013

This article is part one of a two-part series on the Clinical Assessment Package for Assessing Client Risks and Strengths (CASPARS), a newly developed set of five instruments that give equal consideration to client strengths and risks. Part two will appear in the next issue of Families in Society and shows the clinical applications of the CASPARS. The instruments are Family Relationships, Emotional Expressiveness, Family Embeddedness in Community, Peer Relationships, and Sexuality. For the present article, the CASPARS were tested on a sample of 146 children and their families. The coefficient alphas and inter-rater reliabilities were .9 and above. Item-total analysis suggest good content validity, and construct validities are within acceptable ranges. The instruments are unusual in that they yield two scores: a risk score and an asset score. Responsive to the demand for clinical tools that help practitioners focus on client strengths, the instruments guide intervention toward the goals of increasing strengths and decreasing risks. The items of the instruments were developed from in-depth case studies, research and theory on risk and resilience, and the experience of direct practitioners.
Innovative Therapeutic Care for Homeless, Mentally Ill Clients: Intrapsychic Humanism in a Residential Setting
Authors: Tyson Katherine , Carroll Emily
Published: April 2013

Residential care is increasingly recognized as an invaluable therapeutic resource for homeless, severely mentally ill, and substance-abusing clients. However, those managers and staff seeking to provide residential care can be perplexed by the communications of these clients and would benefit from a conceptual framework for planning psychosocial interventions to address these clients' diverse problems. This paper describes how a comprehensive psychology-intrapsychic humanism-can be used as a flexible, consistent guide for serving this population in residential care. Based on a central principle that staff-client relationships can be a path to healing, intrapsychic humanism's other precepts include treatment planning that recognizes clients' conflicting motives and strengthens their constructive motives, understanding clients' self-destructive responses to positive experiences, and helping clients govern their self-destructive behavior while enhancing their self-respect.
The Function of Fathers: What Poor Men Say about Fatherhood
Authors: Kost Kathleen A.
Published: April 2013

Interviews were conducted with 20 young men who used General Assistance, many of whom were the fathers of children of poor, unwed mothers. The relationship respondents had with their fathers was examined. For those young men who were themselves fathers, it also explored how those relationships influenced their own paternal identity and the relationships with their children. Findings from this research suggest that the relationship a man has with his father and the influence this has on his development of generativity and univocal reciprocity may be more influential to the son's paternal identity than his experience of poverty or violence. Increased efforts should be made to broaden the opportunities poor fathers have to be involved in the lives of their children beyond the economic arena.
Intervention with Siblings of Children with Developmental Disabilities from Economically Disadvantaged Families
Authors: Phillips Ruby S. C.
Published: April 2013

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based intervention for economically disadvantaged African American children who had siblings with a developmental disability. The children were randomly divided into two groups: one group was involved in an after-school program designed to support siblings of children with developmental disabilities and provide a positive environment with rewarding experiences; the other group did not participate in the program. The socioemotional functioning of the two groups was compared. The results indicated that the group who participated in the after-school program showed significantly improved socioemotional adjustment compared to the other group. Implications for providing services to families of children with developmental disabilities are discussed.
Identifying and Reducing Barriers to Reunification for Seriously Mentally Ill Parents Involved in Child Welfare Cases
Authors: Risley-Curtiss Christina , Stromwall Layne K. , Hunt Debra Truett , Teska Jennifer
Published: April 2013

Forming judgments about parenting capacity, a necessary part of permanency planning, is much more difficult when the parent has a serious mental illness. The time necessary for effective treatment for such parents is often longer than the court-ordered time limit for family reunification. This puts mentally ill parents at a distinct disadvantage in their efforts to preserve their families. Using Arizona as an example, this article discusses the barriers in both child welfare and mental health systems to accurate and effective assessment and treatment. It presents recommendations for research and suggestions for child welfare personnel to enhance the potential for mentally ill parents to reunify with their children.
Social Work Practice with Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Adolescents
Authors: Morrow Deana F.
Published: April 2013

The author addresses social work practice with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) youth. Identity development, including disclosure and the emergence of sexuality are discussed, along with family and school issues. Particular emphasis is given to a number of risk factors that GLBT youth encounter: emotional distress, isolation, internalized homophobia/transphobia, depression, substance abuse, suicide, violence/victimization, family conflict, school performance, and sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Guidelines for social work practice with GLBT youth are presented.
Ethical Issues in Agency Resource Development: Implications for Social Administration
Authors: Moxley David P. , Bueche Laurie
Published: April 2013

As nonprofit human service agencies become increasingly involved in financial resource development they will face issues that can potentially compromise the ethical conduct of such activity. The authors discuss six issues that can potentially compromise ethical resource development and they examine the implications they may create for social administration. The six issues are (a) the ambiguity of organizational identity, (b) the portrayal of the agency's cause and its relationship to fund development strategy, (c) resource development as cause-oriented advocacy, (d) the potential vulnerability of the donor, (e) the nature and content of the resource development plea or request, and (f) the provision of adequate information to potential donors. An agency can empower potential donors by respecting their personal situations, including their vulnerability to manipulation, and by equipping them with the understanding and information they need to make good decisions about whether and what to contribute.
Locus of Control and Marital Satisfaction in Long-Term Marriages
Authors: Camp Paul L. , Ganong Lawrence H.
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between spousal locus-of-control orientation and marital satisfaction. Two competing hypotheses were examined. The similar ity hypothesis states that spouses with similar locus-of-control orientation will be more satisfied with their marriage than will those with dissimilar orientations. The internality hypothesis postulates that couples in which both partners have an internal locus-of-control orientation will be more satisfied than will other couples. The similarity hypothesis was not supported by the results. The data were more consistent with the internality hypothesis, although the interaction effect shows that one's internality is more important than the partner's internal locus of control. Implications of these findings for family practitioners are discussed.
Hearing Indigenous Voices in Mainstream Social Work
Authors: Gray Mel , Coates John , Hetherington Tiani
Published: April 2013

In this paper we attempt to counter misconceptions about the silencing of Indigenous voices in mainstream social work. We contend that Indigenous voices are present in several emerging bodies of mainstream social work literature, such as the literature on spirituality and ecosocial work, but most social workers do not hear them because they are more inclined to turn to the cross-cultural or anti-oppressive practice literature, predominantly in the United States and United Kingdom, respectively, when seeking answers for issues relating to diversity in social work. Few look to the Indigenous social work literature. Thus the central question this article addresses is ‘what might we learn about diversity and culture from the Indigenous social work literature that might inform mainstream culturally relevant social work practice?’
Injection Drug Use among Adolescents and Young Adults: Scope of the Problem and Recommendations
Authors: Shin Sunny Hyucksun , Amodeo Maryann
Published: April 2013

The goal of this article is to heighten awareness among social workers and other human service professionals about the use of injection drugs by adolescents and young adults. Although social work and other human service providers possess increasingly greater knowledge and skills in dealing with tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use among adolescents and young adults, they often have limited knowledge of injection drugs such as heroin and cocaine. This article reviews the empirical research on prevalence, hazards, and treatment options for young injection drug users and provides case studies to illustrate key points. The role of professional education is discussed as are implications for research and practice, including early intervention, involvement of family and social networks, street outreach strategies, and the need for services along a continuum of care.
Listening to the Stories of Adults in Treatment who Were Sexually Abused as Children
Authors: Anderson Kim M. , Hiersteiner Catherine
Published: April 2013

This qualitative study examines the healing and recovery stories of 27 adult sexual abuse survivors. Three main themes emerged in their narratives: (1) creating a coherent life narrative, (2) the importance of turning points along the way, and (3) developing supportive connections. Results from this study underscore the importance of grounding mental health treatment and services in the words, style, content, and form of client stories. Narrative theory holds particular promise as a guiding model for understanding the stories of adults who experienced sexual abuse in childhood.
Familias in the Heartland: Exploration of the Social, Economic, and Cultural Realities of Latino Immigrants
Authors: Lewis Melinda
Published: April 2013

This survey of 957 Latino immigrant adults in urban and suburban communities in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area explores the migration experiences, employment contexts, family structures, and integration processes of an emerging and rapidly growing immigrant population. The study is an example of community-driven research, conducted by a nonprofit community development and immigrant rights organization in close partnership with local immigrant leaders.
Membership in an Emerging Social Firm: A Case Study of Clients’ Perspectives
Authors: Slonim-Nevo Vered , Krumer-Nevo Michal
Published: April 2013

We describe the concept of a social firm–-a business created for the employment of people with disadvantages in the labor market–-and illustrate how it can be implemented through the experience of employees who were unemployed and living on public allowances prior to commencement of the project. Our experience suggests that participating in a social firm may enable people who are dependent on public allowances to obtain employment that is suitable to their talents, to contribute financially to their household incomes, to have a place to be socially supported, to expand their social networks, and to acquire new knowledge. Implications for practice, in terms of the social firm arena and social work profession, are discussed.
Adopting a Strengths Perspective in Social Work Practice with Families in Difficulty: From Theory to Practice
Authors: Saint-Jacques Marie-Christine , Turcotte Daniel , Pouliot Eve
Published: April 2013

There is a growing trend in social work practice to use a strengths perspective with families in difficulty. Beginning with a description of the characteristics of the strengths-based approach, this article then moves on to examine the interventions of practitioners working in Youth Centers (YCs) and in Centres Local de Services Communautaires (Local Community Services Centers, or CLSCs). A qualitative analysis of the practitioners’ personal practice descriptions and a quantitative study, based on a questionnaire measuring professional behaviors of the practitioners’ work with 118 families, were done. Most of the practitioners concentrated on the personal weaknesses of the parents and accorded little or no importance to their strengths. The results also show that the organizational context influences the emphasis put on the parents’ strengths by the practitioners.
Postincarceration Policies for those with Criminal Drug Convictions: A National Policy Review
Authors: Lundgren Lena M. , Curtis Marah A. , Oettinger Catherine
Published: April 2013

This article provides social workers with a review of the current federal, state, and local government policies that mandate consequences post incarceration for individuals with criminal convictions related to illicit substance use or sales. The review indicates tremendous state variation with respect to policies that negatively affect employment, housing, voting, and income assistance opportunities post incarceration. In the most restrictive states, those reentering the community are barred from employment at organizations that receive government funds, from public housing, from applying for TANF or food stamps for more than 5 years, and from voting. Social workers need to know these policies because of the racial/ethnic disparities of their impact, and because, upon reentry to the community, this is a high-need population with few opportunities.
Data Management System Selection in a Family Service Agency
Authors: Lyons Peter , Winter Christy L.
Published: April 2013

This case study examines how a medium-sized, nonprofit family service agency in Atlanta, Ga., used social work knowledge and skills in the selection of a data management system. The problem-solving model was used as a practical and conceptual framework. Using a social work approach to system selection helped harness agency strengths and involved representatives from all levels of the system. Determining available vendor resources and relationships with other system purchasers, and defining the contract very clearly were all keys to success. In addition, the recognition that selection of a new data management system is an organizational change, a technical upheaval, and a major purchase that requires active senior management support were all important lessons.
Is There Really a Problem with Hiring Rural Social Service Staff? An Exploratory Study among Social Service Supervisors in Rural Minnesota
Authors: Mackie Paul Force-Emery , Lips Renee Anastasia
Published: April 2013

A convenience sample of rural-based social service supervisors was surveyed using an exploratory design to investigate problems associated with hiring and retaining rural social service staff. Findings suggest that geographic distance from standard metropolitan statistical areas predicts an increase in difficulty of hiring. Evidence also suggests that there is a preference for hiring degreed social workers, and the educational level of staff hired differs significantly from the educational level of workers that supervisors stated they would prefer to hire. Additionally, supervisors were asked open-ended questions about successes and challenges of hiring workers. The responses suggested that supervisors prefer to hire employees who are familiar with rural environments. Hiring challenges cited were lack of qualified applicants, low wages, and rural agencies being used as employment “stepping stones.”
Parents of Children with Mental Illness: Exploring the Caregiver Experience and Caregiver-Focused Interventions
Authors: Mendenhall Amy N. , Mount Katherine
Published: April 2013

Serious mental illness in children can significantly impact the parents who care for these children in both positive and negative ways. Caregiver strain and enrichment manifests in all areas of parents' lives, including work, mental and physical health, and social and family relationships. Research has identified numerous predictors of caregiver strain such as severity of child's illness and impairment, race, and social support. These parents need strengths-based, parent-focused interventions to help them care for themselves and their family in a healthy, effective manner. A brief summary describes 4 types of interventions for parents of children with mental illness and the supporting research. Education, support, and skill building are all important components in parent interventions. A parent focus for interventions and research will decrease caregiver strain and create a healthier environment for the entire family.
Interpreting the Strengths Perspective through Narrative Theory
Authors: Dybicz Phillip
Published: April 2013

While much literature has been written on the strengths perspective since its inception, an ongoing project is further elaboration to clear up misconceptions and misapplications. Much of the confusion arises from the strengths perspective's embrace of postmodern thought, and hence, is reflective of the broader debate between modern and postmodern thought currently occurring in social work. Through the application of narrative theory, this article seeks to describe three distinct facets—causality, selfhood, and reality—wherein a shift in conceptualizing is needed to move from a modernist orientation to a postmodern orientation toward practice. Making such a shift is vital for correctly applying the strengths perspective to practice.
Factors Affecting Elder Caregiving in Multigenerational Asian American Families
Authors: Weng Suzie S. , Nguyen Peter V.
Published: April 2013

As the Asian American immigrant population grows older, daily care, mental health, and access to services may present particular difficulties for this population and their children. Specifically, due to vast differences between Eastern and Western cultures, children (second-generation Asian Americans) may not share the same philosophy of care as their elders. Consequently, this cultural dissonance between generations can result in adverse mental health outcomes for both elders and their family members who are involved in caregiving activities. The situation is exacerbated given the lack of culturally sensitive professionals and resources to serve this population in local communities. In this article, an examination of these intergenerational dynamics will be followed by practice suggestions for appropriate interventions at the community level.
Children of Immigrants in the Child Welfare System: Characteristics, Risk, and Maltreatment
Authors: Dettlaff Alan J. , Earner Ilze
Published: April 2013

Children in immigrant families face a number of risks that may lead to involvement with child welfare agencies. Yet, little is known about their involvement in this system. This study analyzes data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being to identify the characteristics, risk factors, and incidence of maltreatment among children of immigrants involved with the child welfare system, and compares those factors to children in U.S.-born families. Findings indicate that significant differences are present in the type of maltreatment experienced and in exposure to risk. Increased awareness of these differences can facilitate an understanding of the dynamics of risk and maltreatment in immigrant families, as well as the development of culturally competent assessment, intervention, and prevention activities.