1406 research outputs found
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Why Her Business is Our Business: Female Psychotherapists’ Experiences Working with the Perinatal Population
Full text linkApproximately 800,000 women in the United States yearly suffer from maternal mental health (MMH) conditions (Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, 2020). Not only is MMH the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, but rates have increased with the COVID-19 pandemic causing pregnant women and new mothers to be even more vulnerable to developing mental health problems (Thapa et al., 2020). Research on the consequences of the pandemic have indicated a pressing demand on the field of psychology to meet the needs of individuals suffering from maternal mental health. Various challenges healthcare professionals face when working with the perinatal population are presented; yet there is a lack of literature on psychotherapists\u27 own emotional difficulties when working with the perinatal population. In this study, we employed a qualitative approach to investigate the impact of working with the perinatal population on thirteen female clinicians who had a minimum of three months\u27 experience in this field. For clinicians who were also mothers, it was required that they had encountered perinatal clients before becoming parents themselves. Participants reflected on their personal experiences as clinicians working with the perinatal population. The data were analyzed utilizing Auerbach and Silverstein’s (2013) grounded theory methodology to make recommendations to support perinatal clinicians, assist with the development of training programs, and inform future clinicians joining the field
Digital Chinese Medicine in the Western World: A Conceptual Framework
Full text linkDigital technology plays an increasing role in Chinese medicine and Western modalities alike. This research uses content analysis and grounded theory for developing a conceptual framework for a digital health system in the Western world termed Digital Chinese Medicine (DCM). Four research questions were proposed: • What are the functional requirements of a DCM system? • What inputs, processes, and outputs are necessary for a DCM system to be both effective and efficient? • What components and features are most desired in a DCM system? • What will a graphical representation of a DCM system look like? Over 475 publications served as data sources spanning topics including digital health records, telemedicine and remote patient management, medical imaging, health recommender systems and applications, remote sensors, do-it-yourself health and wellness, intelligent Chinese medical diagnosis, digitization of Chinese herbal medicine, and intelligent acupuncture and acupressure. Results show that the integration of Chinese Medicine with cutting-edge digital technology in the Western world can greatly benefit many in our society. Digitally standardizing the traditionally subjective diagnostic methods of Chinese medicine demonstrates the potential of making use of technology that complements existing medical practices. The conceptualized system also highlights a shift toward patient-centric and self-managed health systems, with digitalization directly leading to the cultural expansion and globalization of Chinese medicine, particularly in the Western world, to generate deeper, more holistic understandings of human health. Immediate research opportunities are also suggested that aim to eliminate existing limitations of this study. They include standardization of digital Chinese medical diagnostics, regulatory pathway development, and pilot testing and prototyping of DCM applications and devices. A brief history of Chinese medicine and how it works is also included in this dissertation to help illustrate the strengths and limitations of the potential for this ancient system in the digital age in light of big data, artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things, and other digital health interventions
SHOW AND TELL… ING WHAT?: CORRELATION AND MODERATION ANALYSES OF PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION AND ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION, COMMUNICATION, AND ADULT ATTACHMENT STYLES
Full text linkPublic Displays of Affection (PDA) amongst romantic couples are clearly shown in everyday life, though paradoxically, they are largely unexplored and therefore poorly understood. Not only is it unknown how PDA relates to other well-studied components of romantic relationships, but it is also unclear who engages in PDA. The present study investigated the relationship between public displays of affection and previously examined, fundamental components of romantic relationships including relationship satisfaction and attachment and communication styles. It then investigated the moderating effects of relationship satisfaction on respective communication and attachment styles and PDA. Sample size was 105 participants (N= 105). Students of a private Northeast university were recruited through a sample of convenience. The present study followed a correlation and moderation design, utilizing several self-report measures to examine these relationships. Results indicated PDA was positively associated with relationship satisfaction and a constructive communication style, and that relationship satisfaction significantly moderated the association between constructive communication and PDA. By introducing an empirically-based perspective to such commonplace behaviors, it is now increasingly feasible to acquire a more accurate understanding of internal processes of romantic relationships based on their outward demonstrations. Moreover, this newfound knowledge surrounding a preliminary conceptualization of PDA could be useful for psychologists when treating couples in the clinical setting
Online Dating Experiences and Body Dissatisfaction among Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Individuals: A Qualitative Study
Full text linkThrough the evolution of online dating applications, individuals are able to form interpersonal connections with one another at a rapid pace. The effects of such communications can hold both protective and risk factors within the LGBTQ+ community. Previous research suggests that lesbians, gay, and bisexuals who have experienced weight discrimination, particularly fatphobic and anti-fat attitudes, while utilizing these online dating platforms, have increased body dissatisfaction. However, there is minimal research focusing on the implications of discrimination, body dissatisfaction, and the usage of online dating platforms in the transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) community. This qualitative study explored the experiences of TGNC individuals using online dating platforms. Fifteen TGNC participants, aged 18-35 years old, shared their experiences of discrimination and body dissatisfaction while utilizing online dating applications. Semi-structured interviews conducted via video conferencing were analyzed using a grounded theory approach (Auerbach & Silverstein, 2003). Five theoretical constructs emerged: 1) Navigating Trans Identity and Barriers in Online Dating; 2) Body Image, Weight Bias, and Body Norms in Online Dating Platforms; 3) The Complexities of Emotional, Psychological and Cultural Impact of Online Dating; 4) Online Dating is a Space for Both Connection and Risk; 5) Perceived and Real Risks Associated with Safety in Online Dating. Findings highlight the adversities, risks, and community support that online dating platforms hold for TGNC users. This research aims to highlight the nuances TGNC individuals experience on dating platforms, foster dialogue, and enhance clinicians’ understanding of what the TGNC experience is to improve clinical conceptualization and interventions of stress related to online dating
A Literature Review of Behavioral Outcome Measurement and Reporting Methods in Contemporary Diversity Training Research
Full text linkDiversity Training (DT) has become increasingly popular within organizational and academic settings as sociopolitical issues such as race relations, gender discrimination, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ populations continue to be examined in the United States. Research on the impacts of DT on participant learning has produced mixed findings, provoking questions regarding overall effectiveness and outcome measurement in DT. Training evaluation research has previously defined learning into three separate categories; Affective learning, cognitive learning, and behavioral learning (Kraiger et al., 1993), and behavioral learning outcomes in DT have been the least investigated of the three (Kulik & Roberson, 2008a). This critical literature review explored how behavioral learning outcomes have been reported and measured in DT literature since 2014, with specific focus being placed on intervention setting, study design, measurement frequency and intervals, and training focus. Literature search was performed through Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, ProQuest and Education Resource Information Center. Two coders reviewed the search results and synthesized findings using a data extraction form. This review found that inconsistent definitions of behavioral learning outcomes were used across studies as well as issues in measurement, data analysis, and reporting. The author calls for a more unified definition of behavioral learning outcomes, and the incorporation of more substantial behavioral measures. Findings from this review can guide more nuanced and precise DT interventions going forward
Action for Change: Exploring Volunteers’ Motivations to Bolster Environmental Conservation
No full textINTRODUCTION: The climate crisis is one of the foremost global challenges of our time. Widespread degradation driven by human activities threatens ecosystems, human livelihoods, and global stability, requiring urgent, coordinated action to reduce harmful practices, address current crises, and prepare for future impacts. Large scale coordinated efforts are vital to address the myriads of issues affecting the Earth, and local volunteer communities have the potential to address this labor gap. Every individual is capable of supporting a conservation initiative\u27s impact through hands-on action.
METHOD: This qualitative case study explores the motivations driving individuals to volunteer at the wildlife rehabilitation center the Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue (ASTR), in the hopes that identifying these motivating factors can assist in developing effective recruitment strategies for nonprofit conservation efforts. This research, based in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia, employs a participatory action methodological framework, under the lens of collective action theory, and combines surveys, semi structured interviews, and participant observation to gather qualitative data.
RESULTS: Findings reveal that the majority of volunteers fall into two categories: retirees and students seeking experience. This study discovered that numerous volunteers cited concerns regarding the local environment as a primary motivator for their actions, whereas the broader issue of the global climate crisis was rarely mentioned. Additionally, participants frequently mentioned the presence of a positive and meaningful community as a key reason for attendance.
CONCLUSION: This case study suggests that organizations effectively retain volunteers when they are invested in the mission, enjoy their time volunteering, and have the free time to dedicate to volunteering. Community engagement approaches based on bolstering these conditions may have the potential to strengthen conservation efforts by encouraging volunteers that are more likely to commit their time and resources to the organization
Evaluation of Mycelium Extracts and their Immunological Effects in Cancer Therapies
No full textINTRODUCTION: Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality in the United States, with one in three Americans diagnosed in their lifetimes. Patients seek to exhaust all possible avenues of treatment, generating interest in alternative therapies. Purified active components from mushrooms historically have a place in traditional Eastern and European medicine. There is potential for Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides, Polysaccharide K (PSK), and lentinan as adjuvant therapy in cancer treatments based on their resulting increase in immunomodulatory markers, quality of life, and improving prognosis.
METHOD: A literature search was conducted to retrieve relevant English language articles from 2000 and beyond utilizing the PubMed database. Key search headings included mushroom immunity cancer, beta glucan immunity, turkey tail, Polysaccharide K, shiitake, lentinan, reishi, filtered by human clinical trials. Authors reviewed manuscripts for the following medicinal mushrooms: Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tail), containing the active component Polysaccharide K; Lentinula edodes (Shiitake), containing flavonoid lentinan; Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), containing essential polysaccharides (Gl-PS).
RESULT: The literature review revealed that mushroom extracts may enhance outcomes for cancer patients when used as adjuncts to chemotherapy. PSK demonstrated a notable survival benefit in stages IIIA and IIIB gastric cancer patients who are programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) negative. PSK has been associated with a reduction in gastrointestinal side effects compared to chemotherapy alone, suggesting its potential as an adjunct therapy.
CONCLUSION: The reviewed literature highlights mycelium extracts’ promising place in therapy as potential adjunct therapies in cancer treatment. These compounds induce positive outcomes across different types of cancers. Results show promising therapeutic outcomes and suggest a variety of potential mechanistic effects on immunomodulatory markers that may broaden their applicability in oncological treatment protocols. Further rigorous research with large-scale randomized control trials is warranted to provide additional information on the true mechanisms of these products as well as its safety and efficacy
PERCEPTIONS OF FIDELITY, URGENCY, AND CHALLENGES IN DEI IMPLEMENTATION: INSIGHTS FROM LONG ISLAND TEACHER UNION PRESIDENTS
No full textThis study examines the fidelity, urgency, and challenges of implementing the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CR-SE) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Framework as the NYSED DEI policy in Long Island public school districts. The New York State Board of Regents developed the CR-SE and DEI Framework to promote inclusivity and cultural awareness in educational settings, encouraging districts to adopt practices that affirm and support students from diverse backgrounds. Using a qualitative approach, incorporating a survey and a virtual semi-structured interview, data was collected from Teacher Union Presidents across various Long Island school districts. Key variables included levels of urgency and fidelity in implementing the NYSED DEI policy, frequency and effectiveness of staff training, and perceived impact on student engagement and academic outcomes. A convenience sample was applied to ensure only teacher Union Presidents answered questions about their district’s alignment with the implementation of the DEI policy, challenges faced, and support structures available for DEI initiatives. Solutions based on the data analysis and synthesis gathered are presented to reflect upon progress that can be made based on current information surrounding the NYSED DEI policy
Etymological Item Analysis: Leveraging AI to Analyze Test Items from Vocabulary Assessments
No full textThis study aims to reveal and address possible patterns in the words chosen for children’s expressive vocabulary assessments. An item analysis was conducted on two popular expressive vocabulary assessments used in speech-language pathology evaluations. These assessments have participants name a target word from a picture. Analyses were conducted to determine the etymological background of the target words. Each word was assigned to one of several categories (i.e., food, people, personal) by a research assistant in the speech-language pathology program. Chat-GPT was used to obtain etymological information from all test items. Research assistants determined etymology using Merriam Webster on 25% of the items to check reliability with Chat-GPT. Pie charts were created to visualize the etymological background of the two vocabulary assessments. The pie charts of etymological backgrounds of the items were compared across assessments. The majority of the words from both assessments were originally from Middle English. This study provides more information on the types of words included in popular language assessments and their backgrounds. This study also illustrates the accuracy of Chat-GPT in obtaining etymological information from a large number of words. Understanding the etymology of each item will help demonstrate whether or not the words in the assessments are skewed in terms of their origin
How Heat Stress Effects Drosophila Melanogaster
No full textAlzheimer\u27s Disease is the most common neurodegenerative disorder that causes cognitive decline, affecting more than 6 million people aged 65 and older. Alzheimer’s pathology is associated with the buildup of Amyloid-Beta plaques and Tau Proteins in the brain. Heat shock proteins, which are induced in response to heat stress have been proposed to prevent protein aggregation. The hypothesis being examined is that the induction of a heat stress response will prevent Alzheimer\u27s-like symptoms in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. In this study, Alzheimer’s disease is modeled by using strains of flies that overexpress a 42 amino acid peptide of the Amyloid protein which produce symptoms consistent with Alzheimer’s Disease. Wild type and Alzheimer’s flies will be examined under conditions of heat stress or standard culture and the longevity and neuromuscular fitness will be compared. In this experiment the environmental temperatures the flies are exposed to will be raised, we assume this will lessen cognitive decline in the AD flies