bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immigration stress, exposure to traumatic life experiences, and problem drinking among first-generation immigrant Latino couples
Authors: Falconier Mariana K. , Huerta Monica , Hendrickson Ed
Published: May 2015

This study explored the actor and partner effects of immigration stress and its different dimensions on problem drinking above and beyond the effects of exposure to traumatic life experiences in immigrant Latino couples. The study was guided by Lazarus and Folkman’s stress theory and Bodenmann’s systemic–transactional stress model for couples and used data collected from 104 couples living in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. The main results from the path model analysis indicated that men’s problem drinking was significantly and positively associated with their exposure to traumatic life experiences but not with their overall immigration stress and each of its different dimensions. By contrast, women’s problem drinking was not significantly related to their exposure to traumatic life experiences, but it was associated positively with their overall immigration stress and, specifically, stress from language and occupational challenges and missing their family. Women’s problem drinking was also related but in a negative direction with men’s overall immigration stress, and specifically, acculturation-related dimensions of immigration stress (stress from legal, novelty, and occupational challenges). These findings are interpreted in the context of sex differences in coping and the cultural values of the Latino population. Limitations, research, and clinical implications of the findings are also discussed.
Bereaved carers’ accounts of the end of life and the role of care providers in a ‘good death’: A qualitative study
Authors: Holdsworth Laura M
Published: May 2015

Background:

The way that people die is particularly important to those who are left behind and this memory is not limited to the moment of death, but encompasses the entire end-of-life phase. While a number of attributes for a ‘good death’ have been identified, less is known about how care providers feature within these conceptualisations.

Aim:

The aim of this article is to describe the end-of-life experience from the point of view of bereaved family carers with particular reference to the role that care providers play in shaping this experience.

Design:

Qualitative interviews carried out as part of a study to evaluate a new rapid response hospice at home service. An interpretive thematic analysis using the Framework approach was used to examine how family carers judge a ‘good death’ and how care providers feature in the attributes of a ‘good death’.

Participants and setting:

A total of 44 interviews with bereaved family carers from a hospice population in the South East of England.

Results:

Six themes were identified as attributes of a good death in which care providers had a key role: social engagement and connection to identity, care provider characteristics and actions, carer’s confidence and ability to care, preparation and awareness of death, presentation of the patient at death and support after death for protected grieving.

Conclusion:

Care providers played a much wider role in social aspects of care at the end of life than previously considered.
Polygenic risk scores in imaging genetics: Usefulness and applications
Authors: Dima Danai , Breen Gerome
Published: May 2015

Genetic factors account for up to 80% of the liability for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have successfully identified several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genes associated with increased risk for both disorders. Single SNP analyses alone do not address the overall genomic or polygenic architecture of psychiatric disorders as the amount of phenotypic variation explained by each GWAS-supported SNP is small whereas the number of SNPs/regions underlying risk for illness is thought to be very large. The polygenic risk score models the aggregate effect of alleles associated with disease status present in each individual and allows us to utilise the power of large GWAS to be applied robustly in small samples. Here we make the case that risk prediction, intervention and personalised medicine can only benefit with the inclusion of polygenic risk scores in imaging genetics research.
Gender Differences in the Routine Activities Associated With Risks for Larceny in South Korea
Authors: Moon Byongook , Morash Merry , Jeong SeokJin , Yoon Hae-Sung
Published: May 2015

The present research uses data from the 2010 Korean National Criminal Victimization Survey to examine gender differences in larceny victimization and in predictors of victimization (i.e., target attractiveness, exposure to potential offenders, target hardening, guardianship, and proximity to crime and social disorder) identified by routine activity theory. The findings show no significant gender difference in general larceny victimization, suggesting that Korean females are just as likely to be victims of theft of personal belongings as males. Consistent with the theory, physical proximity to crime and social disorder are significant predictors of larceny victimization for both males and females. However, public transportation appears to have unexpected protective influences for both gender groups, showing the importance of differences in national context. Overall, the current research provides partial support for routine activity theory’s applicability in explaining larceny victimization across gender groups outside of the Western context. It also raises questions about reasons for women’s increasing larceny victimization rates in Korea.
Parental Low Self-Control, Family Environments, and Juvenile Delinquency
Authors: Meldrum Ryan C. , Connolly George M. , Flexon Jamie , Guerette Rob T.
Published: May 2015

Research consistently finds that low self-control is significantly correlated with delinquency. Only recently, however, have researchers started to examine associations between parental low self-control, family environments, and child antisocial behavior. Adding to this emerging area of research, the current study examines associations between parental low self-control, aspects of the family environment, and officially recoded juvenile delinquency among a sample ( N = 101) of juveniles processed through a juvenile justice assessment facility located in the Southeastern United States. Furthermore, it considers whether aspects of family environments, particularly family cohesion, family conflict, and parental efficacy, mediate the influence of parental low self-control on delinquency. The results of a series of analyses indicate that parental low self-control is correlated with various aspects of family environments and juvenile delinquency, and that the association between parental low self-control and juvenile delinquency is mediated by family environments. Supplementary analyses also suggest that the association between parental low self-control and the family environment may be reciprocal.
Meningeal transient receptor potential channel M8 activation causes cutaneous facial and hindpaw allodynia in a preclinical rodent model of headache
Authors: Burgos-Vega Carolina C , Ahn David Dong-Uk , Bischoff Christina , Wang Weiya , Horne Dan , Wang Judy , Gavva Narender , Dussor Gregory
Published: May 2015

Background

Migraine headache is a neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide. However, little is known about the mechanisms contributing to migraine. Recent genome-wide association studies have found single nucleotide polymorphisms in the gene encoding transient receptor potential channel M8. Transient receptor potential channel M8 is generally known as a cold receptor but it has been implicated in pain signaling and may play a role in migraine pain.

Methods

In order to investigate whether transient receptor potential channel M8 may contribute to the pain of migraine, the transient receptor potential channel M8 activator icilin was applied to the dura mater using a rat behavioral model of headache. Cutaneous allodynia was measured for 5 hours using Von Frey filaments.

Results

: Dural application of icilin produced cutaneous facial and hind paw allodynia that was attenuated by systemic pretreatment with the transient receptor potential channel M8-selective antagonist AMG1161 (10 mg/kg p.o.). Further, the anti-migraine agent sumatriptan (0.6 mg/kg s.c.) or the non-selective NOS inhibitor L-NAME (20 mg/kg i.p.) also attenuated allodynia when given as a pretreatment.

Conclusions

These data indicate that transient receptor potential channel M8 activation in the meninges produces behaviors in rats that are consistent with migraine and that are sensitive to pharmacological mechanisms known to have efficacy for migraine in humans. The findings suggest that activation of meningeal transient receptor potential channel M8 may contribute to the pain of migraine.
Variability of clinical features in attacks of migraine with aura
Authors: Hansen Jakob M , Goadsby Peter J , Charles Andrew C
Published: May 2015

Background

There is significant variability in the clinical presentation of migraine, both among patients, and between attacks in an individual patient. We examined clinical features of migraine with aura in a large group of patients enrolled in a clinical trial, and compared retrospective migraine attack characteristics reported upon enrollment in the trial with those recorded prospectively in the trial.

Methods

Patients with migraine ( n = 267) with typical visual aura in more than 30% of their attacks were enrolled from 16 centers for a clinical trial. Upon enrollment, patients provided a detailed retrospective description of the clinical features of their attacks of migraine. During the trial, clinical symptoms in migraine attacks starting with aura were recorded prospectively in 861 attacks.

Results

Retrospectively reported visual aura symptoms were variable and often overlapping; the most common symptoms were dots or flashing lights, wavy or jagged lines, blind spots, and tunnel vision. Multiple patients reported more than one visual phenomenon. Approximately half of the patients reported nonvisual aura symptoms, the most common were numbness and tingling, followed by difficulty in recalling or speaking words. A significant percentage of patients also reported a change in olfaction. There were several inconsistencies between the features of prospectively recorded and retrospectively reported attacks. Headache, nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia were all less common in prospectively recorded attacks as compared with retrospective reporting. Nausea was prospectively recorded in only 51% of attacks and mostly with mild intensity. The occurrence and severity of nausea was reduced with advancing patient age. Phonophobia was not consistently recorded in conjunction with photophobia.

Conclusion

These findings are consistent with variable involvement of different brain regions during a migraine attack. The variable occurrence of nausea, and phonophobia in conjunction with photophobia, both defining features of migraine, may be an important consideration in designing clinical studies of migraine in which prospectively recorded attacks are diagnosed based on these clinical features.
Intravenous dexketoprofen vs placebo for migraine attack in the emergency department: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Gungor Faruk , Akyol Kamil Can , Kesapli Mustafa , Celik Ahmet , Karaca Adeviye , Bozdemir Mehmet Nuri , Eken Cenker
Published: May 2015

Objective

Migraine is a leading headache etiology that frequently presents to the emergency department (ED). In the present study, we aimed to determine the efficacy of dexketoprofen in aborting migraine headaches in the ED.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, double-blind study was conducted in an ED of a tertiary care hospital using allocation concealment. Patients were allocated into two arms to receive the study drug; 50 mg dexketoprofen in 50 ml saline and 50 ml saline as placebo. Change in pain intensity was measured by the visual analog scale at baseline, both at 30 and 45 minutes after the study medication was administered. Rescue medication requirement and pain relapse were also recorded by a telephone follow-up at 48 hours.

Results

A total of 224 patients (112 in each group) were included into the final analysis. Mean age of the study participants was 37 ± 11 (SD) and 25% ( n = 56) of them were male. The median pain improvement at 45 minutes for patients receiving dexketoprofen was 55 (IQR: 49 to 60) and 30 (IQR: 25 to 35) for those receiving placebo. The mean difference between the two groups at 45 minutes was 21.4 (95% CI: 14.4. to 28.5). Rescue drugs were needed in 22.3% of patients who received dexketoprofen compared to 55.4% in patients who received placebo (dif: 33.1%; 95% CI: 20% to 45%). There were no adverse events reported in either group during the study period.

Conclusion

Intravenous dexketoprofen is superior to placebo in relieving migraine headaches in the ED. It may be a suitable therapy with minimum side effects in patients presenting with a migraine headache to the ED.
Exploring the modernization process of traditional medicine: a Triple Helix perspective with insights from publication and trademark statistics
Authors: Fung Hon-Ngen , Wong Chan-Yuan
Published: May 2015

The traditional medicine industry has undergone rapid modernization in the last 20 years, spurred on by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Traditional Medicine Agenda to integrate traditional medicine as a complement to conventional Western medicine. While the current literature tends to visualize traditional medical systems in silos within the context of their own national interests, we aim to evaluate and explore the changing innovation landscape in traditional medicine across several selected Asian economies in order to provide a snapshot of capability in this rapidly growing field of study. Adopting an evolutionary perspective of industrial progress, this study utilizes data relating to scientific publications and trademarks to indicate the trajectory of knowledge production and commercialization in traditional medicine, and thus to assess the modernization efforts of the selected economies. For this study, we observe innovative activity in China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand between 1993 and 2012. The results show that Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and South Korea have the most sophisticated innovation systems in terms of capability and productivity in the fields of science and innovation. Japan and Singapore have also shown strong growth, while Thailand and Malaysia are lagging behind the other selected economies.
Variations on the Village Model
Authors: Lehning Amanda J. , Scharlach Andrew E. , Davitt Joan K.
Published: May 2015

Villages, which are community-based initiatives designed to help older adults age in place through a combination of services, participant engagement, and peer support, have expanded rapidly since their initial development in the early 2000s. Using a sample of Villages in the United States, we examined variations from characteristics of the Village model as portrayed by media and organizational leaders. Results indicate there is no uniform Village model that can be implemented and evaluated by policy makers, funders, service providers, and researchers. Based on the extent of member involvement, methods of service provision, and funding sources, we developed a conceptually and empirically informed typology of Villages that reflects the model’s focus on consumer involvement. Descriptive analyses indicate potential differences in member, community, and organizational characteristics. This emerging typology has implications for understanding the implementation and sustainability of Villages, including whether specific Village types are best suited to certain community contexts.
The Effect of Individual and Social Metacognitive Support on Students' Metacognitive Performances in an Online Discussion
Authors: Zion Michal , Adler Idit , Mevarech Zemira
Published: May 2015

Our research examined the effect of the Meta-CIC model on students' metacognitive performances in an online discussion. This model embeds individual and social metacognitive support within an inquiry computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) environment. The research population consisted of 150 high-achieving 7th- and 8th-grade students who were divided into four research groups, according to the instructional method to which they were exposed. An online discussion forum accompanied the students' inquiry process. The results indicate that the individual metacognitive support significantly affected students' online metacognitive performances, while the social metacognitive support increased the students' involvement in their peers' learning processes, and enabled them to collaborate in the CSCL. We therefore recommend embedding the Meta-CIC model in a CSCL environment as a means to develop students' online metacognitive performances.
The Relationship of High School Student Motivation and Comments in Online Discussion Forums
Authors: Sloan Chris
Published: May 2015

Online discussion forums are common features in many educational settings. Whether in face-to-face classrooms, in hybrid settings, or in fully online courses, students typically are required to post discussions about course content and are sometimes instructed to comment or reply to one another's discussion posts. The purpose of this study was to better understand the relationships between students' commenting activities and motivation to learn. Specifically, this study examined the relationship between the quantity and perceived quality of students' online comments and the following motivational factors: sense of relatedness, perceived competence, interest–enjoyment, and value–usefulness. Participants for this study were seventy 12th-grade students enrolled in three intact sections of an AP English and Composition class taught at a private high school in the Western United States. The discussion posts and comments were composed on http://youthvoices.net . This study found that while the quantity of comments received was related to two motivational factors, the quality of the comments received was related to all four motivational factors measured. Furthermore, the findings presented here identify the traits of comments that students found most valuable. Results from this study may help inform efforts to guide instructors interested in better structuring discussions in online learning communities that enhance students' motivation to learn.
Dhammic Technology Acceptance Model (DTAM)
Authors: Teo Timothy , Jarupunphol Pita
Published: May 2015

Upadana or a condition of attachment in Buddhism has been widely acknowledged among Buddhists as the root cause of suffering because it underlies human intention and action toward a perceived phenomenon. This article investigates whether the condition of attachment in Buddhism could contribute as an external variable in the Technology Acceptance Model. Participants were 498 students from a university in Southern Thailand. They responded to a 21-item self-report questionnaire on the six variables (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude toward use, intention to use, attachment, and actual usage) of a proposed Dhammic Technology Acceptance Model. Results using structural equation modeling revealed that the Dhammic Technology Acceptance Model has a good model fit and that attachment has direct and indirect effects on the actual use of Facebook among students. Implications for theory and further research are discussed.
Integrating the Personal and the Professional
Authors: Rappel Linda J.
Published: May 2015

This article explores details of research that examined how the personal backgrounds of educators connected with organizational contexts to inform teacher practice within the area of adult English language teaching. Using life history as a research methodology and basing research on a framework of teacher authenticity, the primary goal of this study was to examine the influence of individual teacher backgrounds and organizational contexts on the formation of individual teacher practices. This study revealed how a lack of job security and professional definition contributed to a sense of instability that permeated workplace situations, forming barriers to establishing teacher practices based on ideals of transformative learning and authenticity. Additionally, working conditions that favored organizational hierarchy over professional understanding and support in the way of unions or professional organizations led to further inquiry as to where this type of marginal teacher practice sits in the overall spectrum of educational professionalism and practice.
Establishment of a reference value for chromium in the blood for biological monitoring among occupational chromium workers
Authors: Li Ping , Li Yang , Zhang Ji , Yu Shan-Fa , Wang Zhi-Liang , Jia Guang
Published: May 2015

The concentration of chromium in the blood (CrB) has been confirmed as a biomarker for occupational chromium exposure, but its biological exposure indices (BEIs) are still unclear, so we collected data from the years 2006 and 2008 (Shandong Province, China) to analyze the relationship between the concentration of chromium in the air (CrA) of the workplaces and CrB to establish a reference value of CrB for biological monitoring of occupational workers. The levels of the indicators for nasal injury, kidney (β2 microglobulin (β2-MG)), and genetic damages (8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and micronucleus (MN)) were measured in all subjects of the year 2011 (Henan Province, China) to verify the protective effect in this reference value of CrB. Compared with the control groups, the concentrations of CrA and CrB in chromium exposed groups were significantly higher ( P < 0.05). Positive correlations were found between CrA and CrB in chromium exposed groups ( r2006 = 0.60, r2008 = 0.35) in the years 2006 and 2008. According to the occupational exposure limitation of CrA (50 μg/m3, China), the reference value of CrB was recommended to 20 μg/L. The levels of nasal injury, β2-MG, 8-OhdG, and MN were not significantly different between the low chromium exposed group (CrB ≤ 20 μg/L) and the control group, while the levels of β2-MG, 8-OHdG, and MN were statistically different in the high chromium exposed group than that in the control group. This research proved that only in occupational workers, CrB could be used as a biomarker to show chromium exposure in the environment. The recommended reference value of CrB was 20 μg/L.
Bystander Intervention Among College Men
Authors: Orchowski Lindsay M. , Berkowitz Alan , Boggis Jesse , Oesterle Daniel
Published: May 2015

Current efforts to reduce sexual violence in college campuses underscore the role of engaging men in prosocial bystander behavior. The current study implemented an online survey to explore associations between engaging in heavy drinking and attitudes toward bystander intervention among a sample of college men ( N = 242). Correlates of sexual aggression were also explored as mediators of the hypothesized relationship between engaging in heavy drinking and attitudes toward bystander intervention. Data indicated that men who engaged in two or more episodes of heavy drinking over the past month reported lower prosocial bystander attitudes compared with men who did not engage in such behavior. The association between engaging in heavy drinking and lower prosocial bystander attitudes was mediated by men’s perception of their peers’ approval for sexual aggression, their own comfort with sexism, and engagement in coercive sexual behavior. Implications for sexual assault prevention are discussed.
Impeaching Rape Victims in Criminal Court
Authors: Golding Jonathan M. , Lynch Kellie R. , Wasarhaley Nesa E.
Published: May 2015

The present study investigated the impact of impeaching a rape victim with evidence of a simultaneous civil suit during a criminal trial. In three experiments, male and female undergraduates (Experiment 1) and community members (Experiments 2 and 3) read a rape trial summary in which the victim accused the defendant of raping her in a hotel. In the impeachment condition, the Defense mentioned that the victim simultaneously sued either the hotel (Experiments 1, 2, 3) or the alleged perpetrator (Experiment 3) for US$1 million. In the control condition, the Defense did not mention a civil suit. In all experiments, mock jurors were more likely to render not guilty verdicts and had higher pro-defendant ratings (e.g., defendant credibility) when the Defense impeached the victim than when the Defense did not impeach her. In addition, victim credibility (Experiments 1, 2, 3) and victim greed (Experiment 3) mediated the impact of impeachment on verdict. Results are discussed in terms of the prejudice rape victims may face in criminal court when they also seek justice in civil court.
Bystander Sexual Violence Prevention Program
Authors: Elias-Lambert Nada , Black Beverly M.
Published: May 2015

This research reports the findings of an evaluation of a peer-facilitated, bystander sexual violence prevention program to determine its effectiveness at changing attitudes and behaviors related to sexual violence with university males who are at low- and high-risk of using sexually coercive behavior. Bystander interventions focus on men and women as bystanders to change social norms in a peer culture that supports abusive behaviors. Few studies have examined the effectiveness of these interventions with high-risk populations, which is the focus of this study.

A bystander sexual violence prevention program was presented to 142 fraternity members. A quasi-experimental design utilizing pre-, post-, and follow-up surveys was used to compare the effectiveness of this prevention program with university males who are at low- and high-risk of using sexually coercive behavior in intervention and comparison groups.

Participants’ risk status was measured prior to the intervention using the Modified-Sexual Experiences Survey. The measures evaluated changes in attitudes (rape myth acceptance and bystander attitudes) and behaviors (sexually coercive behaviors, sexually coercive behavioral intentions, and bystander behaviors).

Data analyses included Repeated-Measures Analysis of Covariances. The findings suggest that a bystander sexual violence prevention program has a positive impact on attitudes and behaviors related to sexual violence among fraternity members, however, the program had less impact on high-risk males. The results of this study will expand our ability to design programs that can have an impact on reducing sexual violence on campus by ensuring the programs are having the desired impact on the target audience.
Youth Violence
Authors: Finigan-Carr Nadine M. , Gielen Andrea , Haynie Denise L. , Cheng Tina L.
Published: May 2015

Although research suggests gender differences in both forms and functions of aggressive behavior, there has been limited research into these types among African American early adolescents. This study examined the types and patterns of aggression in girls and boys in that group. Participants were 452 predominantly African American middle school youth (50.4% girls) aged 11 to 13 ( M = 11.97) enrolled in three urban public schools. Students were invited to participate in a school-based intervention designed to prevent aggressive and deviant behaviors. Assessments occurred pre- and post-intervention. Surveys were analyzed to identify gender differences in the levels and types of aggressive behaviors, as well as differences in predictors of aggressive behaviors. Predictors were measured at baseline; aggressive behaviors at follow-up. There were significant gender differences in types of aggressive behaviors and their predictors indicating a need to develop and implement more suitable, gender-tailored prevention and treatment approaches.
Queer Women’s Experiences Purchasing Clothing and Looking for Clothing Styles
Authors: Reddy-Best Kelly L. , Pedersen Elaine L.
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study is to understand queer women's experiences when shopping for clothing, looking for style inspiration, and if they experience minority distress or discrimination during these processes. Three research questions guided our study: (a) Where do queer women look for fashion style inspiration? (b) What are queer women's experiences with shopping in brick-and-mortar stores for clothing and accessories? and (c) Do queer women experience minority distress or discrimination while shopping or looking for fashion style inspiration? Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 queer-identifying females with two follow-up interviews. Four themes surfaced from the data: (a) awareness of or attention to queer styles, (b) frustration with or feelings of alienation with the current apparel marketplace and media, (c) minority distress or subtle acts of heterosexism related to queer visibility and crossing gender boundaries, and (d) interest in an LGBTQ-friendly shopping environment.
People-Centered Liberalism: An Alternative Approach to International State-Building in Sierra Leone and Liberia
Authors: Bah Abu Bakarr
Published: May 2015

Efforts to build stable states in Africa have often been conditioned by ideological and policy debates about the right approach for enhancing freedom and social wellbeing. Since independence, African countries have experimented with unorthodox variants of liberalism and socialism. However, neither of these has enhanced African states. This article examines the shift from orthodox neoliberalism in the international approach to state-building in Africa and raises questions about the feasibility of an international development approach that fuses neoliberalism with a human development approach. The article advances the notion of people-centered liberalism as the latest approach to international state-building in war-torn African countries. It uses the internationally-driven postwar reconstruction plans for Sierra Leone and Liberia to demonstrate people-centered liberalism.
Measurement of cholinesterase enzyme activity before and after exposure to organophosphate pesticides in farmers of a suburb region of Mazandaran, a northern province of Iran
Authors: Pakravan N , Shokrzadeh M , Bari MA Khalat , Shadboorestan Amir
Published: May 2015

Introduction:

Accidental toxicity by organophosphate (OP) agents may occur among farmers during spraying season due to improper use and handling. Plasma cholinesterase (ChE) activity measurement is recommended to monitor the extent of exposure to the OP agent. The aim of the current study was to measure plasma ChE activity before and after exposure with OP pesticides.

Methods:

This was a prospective study conducted on 36 farmers working in the farm field. The plasma ChE level was measured before spraying and 2 days and 8 weeks after spraying season and exposure to OP agent. Farmers were observed for clinical signs and symptoms of toxicity after exposure.

Results:

Vertimac was the most common agent used by farmers followed by diazinon and chlorpyrifos. The plasma ChE level significantly decreased after exposure by over 50%. The level returned to preexposure level after 8 weeks.

Conclusion:

Exposure to OP pesticide is a major concern in the developing countries. More than 50% reduction in the plasma ChE activity after spraying is an alarming message for health-care system and policy makers. Furthermore, workplace evaluation, serial ChE monitoring, and appropriate training and education to exposed individuals would be initial important steps to avoid the toxicity or reduce the severity of poisoning.
Merging perspectives: obstacles to recovery for youth from refugee backgrounds with comorbidity
Authors: Posselt Miriam , Procter Nicholas , de Crespigny Charlotte , Galletly Cherrie
Published: May 2015

Objective:

This research aimed to identify challenges encountered by young people from refugee backgrounds with co-existing mental health (MH) and alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems (comorbidity) and sought to compare the perspectives of refugee youth and service providers in a metropolitan region of Adelaide, South Australia.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with two groups of participants: young people from refugee backgrounds (African, Afghan, Bhutanese) and workers from MH, AOD and refugee support services.

Results:

The refugee youth reported that the biggest difficulty they face once they develop MH and AOD problems is social disconnectedness. They lacked awareness that services are available to support them. In contrast, clinicians rated difficulty accessing and receiving culturally competent comorbidity care as the greatest challenge. Other reported challenges were relatively consistent across both groups.

Conclusions:

This study has implications for how we engage these young people in services, prioritise areas of care and effectively treat and support refugee youth experiencing comorbidity. These findings emphasise the need for a combined therapeutic casework approach, addressing needs such as social connectedness, housing, education and employment.
Mentalization-based intervention to recurrent acute presentations and self-harm in a community mental health service setting
Authors: Bosanac Peter , Hamilton Bridget , Beatson Josephine , Trett Robert , Rao Sathya , Mancuso Sam , Castle David
Published: May 2015

Objectives:

A proof-of-concept study over an 18-month period to determine whether a mentalization-based intervention (MBI) in a metropolitan community mental health service, when added to a recovery-based model of care, would be of clinical benefit to borderline personality disorder (BPD) consumers with a history of recurrent, deliberate self-harm. The feasibility of implementing the intervention, and factors that could improve its implementation, will be evaluated.

Methods:

Three-monthly focus groups with participating community mental health service case managers ( N = 8) assessed the implementation and the impact of an MBI added to a recovery model of care and the way the clinicians worked with consumers with BPD and recurrent, deliberate self-harm in this context.

Results:

Qualitative analysis revealed compatibility of the MBI with a recovery-based case management approach for the above group of consumers, albeit with operational barriers.

Conclusions:

MBI with consumers with BPD appears to be compatible with recovery-focused psychiatric case management and was accepted by consumers. The case managers perceived that no harm was rendered in terms of deliberate self-harm and acute service utilization. The MBI led to a sense of improved therapeutic alliance in case managers working with consumers.
Does Team Culture Matter? Roles of Team Culture and Collective Regulatory Focus in Team Task and Creative Performance
Authors: Shin Yuhyung , Kim Mihee , Choi Jin Nam , Lee Sang-Hoon
Published: May 2015

Despite the vast amount of research on the antecedents of team performance, the role of subcultures in team contexts has only received scant attention. This study investigates the relationships between different types of team culture and team performance. Team-level analyses conducted on the leaders and members of 104 teams revealed a significant association between internal process team culture and team task performance, as well as a marginally significant relationship between human relations team culture and team task performance. Furthermore, team prevention focus mediated the relationships between internal process and human relations team cultures and team task performance. Team promotion focus mediated the relationship between open system team culture and team creative performance. These findings offer new insights regarding team culture, collective regulatory focus, and team performance.
National and Gender Measurement Invariance of the Utrecht-Management of Identity Commitments Scale (U-MICS)
Authors: Crocetti Elisabetta , Cieciuch Jan , Gao Cheng-Hai , Klimstra Theo , Lin Ching-Ling , Matos Paula Mena , Morsünbül Ümit , Negru Oana , Sugimura Kazumi , Zimmermann Grégoire , Meeus Wim
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Utrecht-Management of Identity Commitments Scale (U-MICS), a self-report measure aimed at assessing identity processes of commitment, in-depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment. We tested its factor structure in university students from a large array of cultural contexts, including 10 nations located in Europe (i.e., Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Switzerland), Middle East (i.e., Turkey), and Asia (i.e., China, Japan, and Taiwan). Furthermore, we tested national and gender measurement invariance. Participants were 6,118 (63.2% females) university students aged from 18 to 25 years ( Mage = 20.91 years). Results indicated that the three-factor structure of the U-MICS fitted well in the total sample, in each national group, and in gender groups. Furthermore, national and gender measurement invariance were established. Thus, the U-MICS can be fruitfully applied to study identity in university students from various Western and non-Western contexts.
Interpretive Reliability of Six Computer-Based Test Interpretation Programs for the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2
Authors: Deskovitz Mark A. , Weed Nathan C. , McLaughlan Joseph K. , Williams John E.
Published: May 2015

The reliability of six Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–Second edition (MMPI-2) computer-based test interpretation (CBTI) programs was evaluated across a set of 20 commonly appearing MMPI-2 profile codetypes in clinical settings. Evaluation of CBTI reliability comprised examination of (a) interrater reliability, the degree to which raters arrive at similar inferences based on the same CBTI profile and (b) interprogram reliability, the level of agreement across different CBTI systems. Profile inferences drawn by four raters were operationalized using q-sort methodology. Results revealed no significant differences overall with regard to interrater and interprogram reliability. Some specific CBTI/profile combinations (e.g., the CBTI by Automated Assessment Associates on a within normal limits profile) and specific profiles (e.g., the 4/9 profile displayed greater interprogram reliability than the 2/4 profile) were interpreted with variable consensus (α range = .21-.95). In practice, users should consider that certain MMPI-2 profiles are interpreted more or less consensually and that some CBTIs show variable reliability depending on the profile.
Destination Image Components and Word-of-Mouth Intentions in Urban Tourism: A Multigroup Approach
Authors: Papadimitriou Dimitra , Kaplanidou Kyriaki (Kiki) , Apostolopoulou Artemisia
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to explore differences among three distinct groups, namely local residents, past tourists, and prospective tourists, in their perceptions of cognitive, affective, and overall image of a city destination and their future behavior. Analysis of data generally confirmed previously established structural relationships of cognitive and affective image, overall destination image, and word-of-mouth intentions. However, differences were identified among the three groups in terms of their destination image perceptions and their behavioral intentions to engage in word-of-mouth communications. Specifically, residents who engaged in word-of-mouth were primarily influenced by the cognitive and affective destination image components, while tourists relied on overall image perceptions.
Evaluation of associations among Coxiella burnetii and reproductive abnormalities in cats
Authors: Fujishiro Madeline A , Scorza Andrea V , Gookin Jody L , Lappin Michael R
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Coxiella burnetii is an obligate intracellular bacterium that is found worldwide, is associated or suggested to be associated with reproductive abnormalities in a number of species including cats, and is the cause of Q fever in humans. In a previous study, C burnetii DNA was amplified from the uterine tissues of 8.5% of client-owned cats in the USA but reproductive history was unknown and histopathological examination was not performed. In this study, uterine tissues of 26 normal cats and 11 cats with histopathological evidence of uterine disease or other reproductive abnormalities were evaluated for the presence of C burnetii.

Methods

A PCR assay that amplifies the repetitive transposon-like region (Trans 1 and 2) and a PCR assay that amplifies the IS-1111-insertion sequence (IS-1111) were optimised and applied to the DNA extracts. The sensitivity threshold of both PCR assays was 12 pg/µl. Positive samples were evaluated for the presence of the organism using immunohistochemistry performed on paraffin-embedded tissue.

Results

Amplicons of the expected size developed in three samples (one from a cat with reproductive abnormalities) in the IS-1111 assay; however, there was not enough DNA for sequence analysis. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to further evaluate these three samples and was negative for C burnetii. While C burnetii could not be confirmed by sequence analysis or immunohistochemistry, the PCR positive prevalence rate (8.1%) was similar to that published previously.

Conclusions and relevance

Biosafety precautions should be taken when working with cats that are aborting or parturient. Further research should be performed to evaluate the role that C burnetii may play in reproductive abnormalities in cats.
Geometrically nonlinear creep behavior of debonded sandwich panels with a compliant core
Authors: Hamed Ehab , Frostig Yeoshua
Published: May 2015

The paper investigates the effects of creep of the core material on the geometrically nonlinear behavior of sandwich panels with debond at one of the core–face interfaces within the framework of the high-order sandwich panel theory (HSAPT). The theoretical model accounts for the viscoelasticity of the core via an incremental exponential law that corresponds to the rheological generalized Maxwell model obtained from the expansion of the relaxation moduli into Prony series. The HSAPT structural modeling accounts for the deformability of the core in shear and through its thickness, as well as for the large displacements of the facesheets. An incremental time-stepping analysis is conducted, which accounts for the time variations of the stresses, deformations, and the geometrically nonlinear effects. The incremental governing equations and the stresses and deformations fields through the thickness of the core are derived, and the capabilities of the model are studied numerically. The results show that creep of the core leads to significant variations in the deformations and stresses over time, which when combined with the geometrically nonlinear effects of the debonded facesheet, can have an important influence on the performance of sandwich panels under sustained loads. It is shown that stress relaxation due to creep and/or contact may restrain the buckling of the debonded facesheet in some cases.
Geographical knowledge at work: Human rights litigation and transnational territoriality
Authors: Liste Philip
Published: May 2015

In April 2013, the US Supreme Court left a mark on the spatiality of law. In a decision on human rights violations in Nigeria, state territoriality served as a technique to rule out the application of transnational law against private corporations. Paradoxically, the private actor turned out to be the primary beneficiary of this jurisdictional territorialism. Drawing on work in critical geography, the article argues that this was only possible against the background of a certain geographical knowledge as reproduced in the course of legal practice. The corporate production of space consisted of a ‘private use of territoriality’ to resist the extraterritorial application of law and thus transnational state regulation. During a spatial analysis of a number of the 82 amicus curiae briefs to Kiobel v. Royal Dutch Petroleum, the article reveals how the geographical configurations of our contemporary order not only withstand transnational challenges, but are even reproduced transnationally by a multiplicity of state and non-state actors. While international law builds upon and reproduces territoriality as a foundational principle of global normativity, it also provides the means for the doing away with territoriality. In order to demonstrate how legal practice contributes to a critical reproduction of normativity on different scales (national and international, local and global), the article establishes a spatial gaze on transnational relations at work.
The female combat soldier
Authors: King Anthony
Published: May 2015

As a result of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, women have increasingly served on the front line, performing combat roles once reserved exclusively for men. This article explores the ways in which Western military culture may have both impeded and facilitated female accession. In line with the feminist concept of hegemonic masculinity, the article explores how female soldiers are often subjected to an institutionalized cultural code that defines them as ‘sluts’ or ‘bitches’, denying them equality and recognition, irrespective of their behaviour. At the same time, some highly competent women have begun to be accepted and a new cultural classification has been developed for them: they are ‘honorary men’. This new status represents an important development for the armed forces and an opportunity for women. Yet, the category is so narrow that it is very difficult for women to maintain it.
Associations between subjective social status and physical and mental health functioning among patients with hypertension
Authors: Cené Crystal W , Halladay Jacqueline R , Gizlice Ziya , Roedersheimer Kyle , Hinderliter Alan , Cummings Doyle M , Donahue Katrina E , Perrin Andrew J , DeWalt Darren A
Published: May 2015

We examine the cross-sectional association between subjective social status and self-rated physical and mental health functioning in 518 Black and White patients enrolled in a community-based hypertension control research study. We found that (1) subjective social status, measured using both a proximal and distal referent group, was positively associated with physical and mental health functioning scores independent of educational level, household income, or both; (2) the effect of subjective social status on physical and mental health functioning differed significantly by race when using the distal, not the proximal, referent group. When the associations differed, they were stronger for Whites than Blacks.
Negative psychosocial and heavy physical workloads associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life in older adults: Cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Lilje Stina C. , Skillgate Eva , Anderberg Peter , Berglund Johan
Published: May 2015

Aims: Pain is one of the most frequent reasons for seeking health care, and is thus a public health problem. Although there is a progressive increase in pain and impaired physical function with age, few studies are performed on older adults. The aim of this study was to investigate if there are associations between musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life in older adults and physical and psychosocial workloads through life. Methods: The association of heavy physical workload and negative psychosocial workload and musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life (SF 12) was analyzed by multiple logistic regression. The model was adjusted for eight background covariates: age, gender, growing-up environment, educational level, if living alone or not, obesity, smoking, and leisure physical activity. Results: Negative psychosocial and heavy physical workloads were independently associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life (adjusted OR: 4.44, 95% CI: 2.84–6.92), and (adjusted OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.20–2.93), respectively. The background covariates female gender and higher education were also associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life, and physical leisure activity was inversely associated. Conclusions: The findings suggest that negative psychosocial and heavy physical workloads are strongly associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life in older adults.