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THE MEANING OF SPIRITUAL PRACTICES FOR CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH CANCER IN THAILAND: A HEIDEGGERIAN PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY
Get PDFCaring for children with cancer may bring short and long-term challenges to families due to added healthcare activities focused on the ill child or adolescent. Among available resources and support strategies, religiosity/ spirituality (R/S) have been increasingly identified as a source of comfort.
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the lived experience and interpret the findings of spiritual practices for caregivers of children with cancer in Thailand. A purposive sampling method was used to recruit participants, with semi-structured interviews. Swanson’s Theory of Caring provided the theoretical underpinning of the study, and Deikelmann’s seven-stage process was adapted for analysis. Twelve participants, including mothers, fathers, and grandmothers caring for children with cancer were interviewed. Four relational themes emerged: Nurturing inner peace through religious practices, balancing new responsibilities with the commitments of family work and worship, engaging in self-care to ameliorate stress and despair, and feeling gratitude for community support. The results offer insight into caregivers’ experiences of finding meaning and purpose in the most difficult of circumstances, and caregivers’ experiences of engaging in religious and non-religious practices or connection to self and environment
GROUNDWATER VARIABILITY UNDER CLIMATE CHANGE: INFLUENCE OF PRECIPITATION, EVAPOTRANSPIRATION AND SEA LEVEL RISE
Get PDFExpected changes to climate, including longer and drier periods of drought, extreme rainfall events, increased temperatures, and sea level rise, are expected to significantly impact groundwater conditions in the surficial aquifer system, especially along coastlines. A coupled model approach was used linking an Evapotranspiration (ET)-Recharge model to SEAWAT to highlight groundwater variability across an area of interest. The ET-Recharge model is used to develop groundwater recharge and maximum potential groundwater ET based on rainfall and Reference ET scenarios. Groundwater recharge and maximum potential groundwater ET are then used as input into a SEAWAT model to assess changes in groundwater levels and groundwater quality within the model domain. Results point to spatial and temporal variability of groundwater conditions based on changes in precipitation, ET, and sea level. These variations highlight the potential impacts of climate change on groundwater conditions and future availability of water resources and ability to control saltwater intrusion
QUACKERY UNMASK’D: DEFINING QUACKERY IN ENGLISH AND AMERICAN VERNACULAR MEDICAL WORKS, C. 1600-1800
Get PDFThis thesis argues that, from 1600 to 1800, healers in both England and America conceptualized quackery through an evolving understanding of what made a medical practitioner “acceptable.” Through a close examination of vernacular medical print published in both England and America throughout the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, this thesis complicates earlier understandings of quackery as being disconnected from politics and social biases. Instead, medical authors used social position—specifically gender, race, and religion—and medical philosophy as ways to identify quacks. In England, the Royal College of Physicians used quackery to delegitimize their opponents, while critics of the College did the same. As Enlightenment thought grew in popularity, anti-quack critics in England and America emphasized the efficacy of medical treatments over any overt issues with a practitioner’s social position. Throughout this period, quackery in England and America was dependent on physicians’ biases against various identities or medical philosophies
A LEGACY OF FIRE: ALMA BRIDWELL WHITE, THE SECOND WAVE KLAN AND COMPLEXITIES OF RELIGION, RACE AND FEMINISM
Get PDFIn the shadow of the KKK stood an unexpected force: women. At the crossroads of religious fundamentalism and racial extremism was Alma Bridwell White, a pioneering yet controversial figure whose religious leadership intertwined with her avid support for the Klan. This research examines how White used both pulpit and platform to advance the Klan’s image of ‘Americanism’ defined by racial purity and religious intolerance, and promote early feminist ideals, whilst still being reliant on male figures. This research enables an exploration of how female members of the KKK were able to leverage their social, political and religious influence to promote a vision of “true Americanness” that was intertwined with racial and religious exclusion. This research diverts from the southern, male perspective of the Klan and gives attention to charismatic female religious leaders, revealing how women were not passive supporters but key architects of the Klan\u27s goal in the 1920s
ETHNOZOOLOGICAL INSIGHTS FOR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION: EXPLORING PAST & PRESENT USES OF WILD ANIMALS AMONG KENYA’S ETHNIC GROUPS
Get PDFKenya’s conservation efforts lack adequate involvement of local communities, who play a vital role as people who use the natural resources. These communities also have limited access to, and benefits from, these resources, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity. Therefore, I used ethnographic interviews to elicit relational values that can potentially increase understanding between all stakeholders. My objective was to explore the historical and contemporary uses of wild animals among diverse ethnic groups, examining any changes over time and identifying the catalysts driving these shifts. I interviewed 30 individuals from 10 ethnic groups in Laikipia, Samburu, Marsabit, and Kwale counties, identifying common themes throughout all interviews. The themes include active hunting, hunting tools and weapons, and the purposes of hunting, such as consumption, traditional medicine, ceremonies, and accessories. My analysis also identified key drivers of change in the relationship with wildlife over time, including government actions, healthcare, education, and climate. Lastly, I explored community perspectives on conservation, relationships with authorities, and recommendations for greater inclusion.
Results show that while local communities have a deep understanding of wildlife in their areas, their traditional ecological knowledge is at risk of disappearing. This research highlights both welcomed and disruptive changes, emphasizing opportunities for conservation organizations and the government to collaborate with communities. By establishing a more inclusive approach, it may be possible to sustain both cultural diversity and biodiversity, two of Kenya’s important national assets. Further research into traditional ethnozoology can enhance understanding, but the first step is to listen
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH CONTRACEPTIVE DISCONTINUATION AMONG WOMEN IN THE U.S.
Get PDFBackground: Contraceptive discontinuation is a significant public health concern in the United States, contributing to unintended pregnancies and associated health, social, and economic consequences. Despite the availability of a wide range of contraceptive methods, many women discontinue use prematurely due to a variety of personal, social, cultural, and systemic factors. However, limited research has comprehensively examined these factors at the national level, particularly within a theoretical framework that captures the multidimensional influences on contraceptive decision-making. Objective: This study aimed to assess the factors associated with contraceptive method discontinuation among women in the U.S, guided by Ray’s Theory f Bureaucratic Caring. Methods: A cross-sectional secondary analysis was conducted using data from the 2017-2019 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG), a nationally representative dataset. The study included adult women aged 18-49 years who had used a contraceptive method within the 12 months prior to the survey. Key variables included age, race/ethnicity, education, income, employment status, partner’s fertility desires, religious affiliation, health insurance status, healthcare access, contraceptive counseling, and reasons for discontinuation. Results: The findings indicate that short-term contraceptive methods, such as condoms and oral contraceptive pills, had the highest discontinuation rates. Racial/ethnic differences in discontinuation patterns were observed, with Black women were more likely to discontinue contraceptive methods. Side effects were a predominant reason for discontinuation across all groups. Furthermore, age, educational level, economic and limited contraceptive counseling, were significantly associated with higher discontinuation rates. Conclusions: This study stressed the complexity of contraceptive discontinuation and the multifaceted influences shaping women’s reproductive health choices. The results suggest several courses of action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and public health professionals in designing evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing contraceptive discontinuation and improving reproductive health outcomes
DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY INTEGRATION IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION: THEORY, DEVELOPMENT, IMPLEMENTATION, AND EFFICACY OF A DBT-INFORMED SUPERVISION PROTOCOL FOR COUNSELOR TRAINEES
Get PDFThis multi-manuscript dissertation illustrates the progression from theoretical development to practical intervention research in counselor supervision, introducing innovative supervisory practices in counselor education that balance well-being with academic rigor, addressing counselor trainees\u27 common challenges such as anxiety, burnout, and limited self-efficacy. Following a literature review, this dissertation bridges theory and practice by offering counselor educators and supervisors a comprehensive, evidence-informed approach to developing resilient, competent, and psychologically well counseling professionals. The research progresses through three interconnected phases using qualitative and quantitative methods. Constructivist grounded theory (CGT) explores counselor trainees\u27 supervisory experiences, highlighting the significance of responsive supervisory relationships and validation. The insights from CGT led to developing the relational-supportive supervision theory (RSST), emphasizing structured feedback, deliberate practice, and relationship as central. To operationalize RSST, the BRIDGE framework was developed, providing structured and actionable supervisory strategies. In the second phase, conceptual research synthesizes RSST and the BRIDGE framework with dialectical behavior therapy, resulting in the Dialectical Behavior Supervision (DBS) model, explicitly addressing trainees\u27 well-being, self-efficacy, and competency needs. Finally, the third phase involves a quasi-experimental intervention study where master\u27s-level counselor trainees (N=50) participated in DBS groups of 4-8 peers over an 8-week period concurrent with their field experience courses. Paired t-tests of pre- and post-intervention data demonstrated significant improvements in psychological well-being, self-efficacy, and clinical competency. These findings offer practical insights for counselor supervision, positioning DBS as a promising approach for supporting counselor growth and well-being. Future studies could strengthen the evidence for DBS by employing randomized controlled trials and exploring DBS in diverse setting
LAMINECTOMY AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FOR HUMAN LUMBAR SPINE
No full textLumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), disc degeneration disease (DDD), and spondylolisthesis are among the most common conditions affecting the human lumbar spine. Various surgical methods are available to treat these disorders. Laminectomy and minimally invasive surgery (MIS) are among the most commonly used procedures for their management. LSS refers to a narrowing of the space within the spinal canal, which can occur at any level but is most common in the lumbar spine. Spondylolisthesis is defined as an anterior translation of upper vertebra relative to the lower one and frequently occurs at the L5-S1 level. Degenerative Disc Disease is a condition characterized by the gradual loss of hydration and elasticity in the intervertebral discs of the spine, leading to reduced disc height, disc bulging, and in some cases, herniation. The traditional bilateral pedicle screw system has been used for the treatment of various lumbar spine conditions including advanced degenerative disc disease. However, there is an ongoing need to develop more effective and less invasive techniques. Open laminectomy and minimally invasive laminectomy (MIL) procedures are the most common surgical gold standard techniques for treating LSS. The aim of this dissertation is to draw comparisons between open laminectomy and various MIL techniques. The MIL variation comprises microendoscopic decompression laminotomy, unilateral partial hemilaminectomy, and microendoscopic laminectomy. In this dissertation, the range of motion (ROM), von Mises stresses, and stability were compared. MIL involves less bone and ligament removal, resulting in shorter hospital stays and lower reoperation and complication rates than open laminectomy. It improves the quality of health-related living standards and reduces postoperative pain. Biomechanical studies suggest that laminectomy and facetectomy increase annulus stress and ROM, leading to segmental instability. Theoretically, MIL means less tissue injury, pain, and faster recovery in the short term, although the long-term results depend on the adequacy of the decompression procedure and tend to be independent of MIL or open laminectomy. While studying the minimally invasive surgery, transdiscal screw system was compared with traditional bilateral screw system for low/high-grade spondylolisthesis and degenerative disc degeneration. Generally, transdiscal screw system exhibited biomechanical superiority over traditional bilateral pedicle screw system
PALEOECOLOGICAL TRENDS IN COSTA RICA: NOVEL RECORDS OF VEGETATION, FIRE, AND HUMAN IMPACTS FROM HOLOCENE LAKE SEDIMENTS
No full textThis dissertation investigates late Holocene environmental change and human-environment interactions in Neotropical landscapes, focusing on two lake basins in Costa Rica: Laguna Carse in the southern Pacific lowlands and Laguna Arancibia in the Central Valley. Using high-resolution multi-proxy analyses, including pollen and both microscopic and macroscopic charcoal, we reconstructed vegetation dynamics, fire regimes, and basin processes over the past 1,500 years.
At Laguna Carse, a 400-year record reveals how regional population declines and colonial resettlement following the Spanish Conquest influenced land use, leading to delayed agricultural exploitation and subsequent vegetation disturbance. Pollen and microscopic charcoal analyses indicate periods of drought likely linked to the Little Ice Age, with episodic shifts in forest composition and fire regimes that reflect both climatic variability and human activities. The record captures the complex interactions between indigenous communities, colonial impacts, and climate, providing a fine-scale window into landscape change during a key historical period.
At Laguna Arancibia, a 1,400-year record shows persistently low fire activity and highlights the significance of geomorphic hazards, particularly landslides, in shaping settlement patterns. The sediment cores reveal a dynamic relationship between landslide events, sediment influx, and human occupation, suggesting that natural hazards influenced population movements and land use decisions. Pollen analyses further define distinct ecological zones derived from CONISS clustering, showing vegetation resilience to short-term disturbances yet vulnerability to compounded impacts from landslides and climate events like the Terminal Classic Drought.
Together, these studies demonstrate the intertwined roles of climate variability, natural hazards, and human agency in shaping tropical montane and lowland ecosystems in Costa Rica. The research reinforces the importance of paleoecological records for understanding vegetation change and long-term human-environment interactions. This research contributes to the broader understanding of vegetation resilience and vulnerability in tropical landscapes and offers valuable insights for contemporary land-use and conservation strategies in regions facing similar environmental challenges
EXPLORING MINDFULNESS, MINDFUL SELF-CARE, AND PERCEIVED BURNOUT AMONG PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS: A LATENT PROFILE ANALYSIS
Get PDFPromoting counselor well-being and burnout prevention through research efforts is necessary. This study explored the findings (emerging unobserved profiles) from a latent profile analysis (LPA) examining mindfulness, mindful self-care behaviors, and perceived burnout among licensed professional counselors and supervisors in Ohio (N = 328). The study evaluated the differences in individual demographic variables across the identified latent profile memberships derived from the LPA. As a result, we found two latent profile memberships: Low Mindfulness/Mindful Self-Care and High Burnout Group (n = 146; 44.5%), and High Mindfulness/Mindful Self-Care and Low Burnout Group (n = 182; 55.5%). Based on the profiles, we identified significant differences in the types of mindfulness and mindful self-care practices and the frequency of those practices. However, there were no significant differences in demographics, except for professional training related to mindfulness and mindful self-care, types of licensures, and clinical employment settings. This study underscores the importance of investigating variables such as mindfulness and mindful self-care practices and their frequencies as potential buffers to counselor burnout, so counselors can maintain their capacity to provide counseling services, thereby sustaining the counseling profession