Showing papers by "Barry University published in 2003"

Influencing medication adherence among women with AIDS.

Abstract: This study examined the effects of a ten-session cognitive-behavioural stress management/expressive supportive therapy (CBSM+) intervention on adherence to antiretroviral medication. Although the intervention was not designed to influence adherence, it was theorized that improved coping and social support could enhance adherence. Women with AIDS (N = 174) in Miami, New York and New Jersey, USA, were randomized to a group CBSM+ intervention or individual control condition. Participants were African American (55%), Latina (18%) and Caribbean (18%) with drug (55%) and/or alcohol (32%) histories. Participants were assessed on self-reported medication adherence over seven days, HIV-related coping strategies and beliefs regarding HIV medication. Baseline overall self-reported adherence rates were moderate and related to coping strategies and HIV medication beliefs. Low adherent (80%) participants in the intervention condition increased their mean self-reported medication adherence (30.4% increase, t44 = 3.1, p 0.05). The intervention did not improve adherence in this population; conditions did not differ significantly on self-reported adherence. Low adhering intervention participants significantly decreased levels of denial-based coping (F1,88 = 5.97, p < 0.05). Results suggest that future interventions should utilize group formats and address adherence using coping and medication-knowledge focused strategies.

The Impact of Cycle Time on Supplier Selection and Subsequent Performance Outcomes

Abstract: SUMMARY Cycle time is among the emerging performance criteria for purchasing and supply management. However, little empirical research has been conducted for actually evaluating the impact of cycle time on strategic issues, such as long-term business relationships and supplier selection and evaluation processes. This study empirically tests the impact of cycle time on supplier selection and on the effectiveness of long-term relationships with suppliers, as reflected in the commitment and trust developed. Findings indicate that initial cycle time is not a significant predictor of trust and commitment in the context of supplier-buyer long-term relationships. However, cycle time reduction along with consistently high quality were found to be significant predictors of trust and commitment in long-term relationships.

Stress management and workplace disability in the US, Europe and Japan.

Abstract: Although the health care costs and the number of disability cases across all medical illnesses have increased, disability management programs implementing stress management interventions have been found to improve physical and mental health, reduce costs to employers, and facilitate the reintegration of injured individuals into the work environment. Stress management programs limit the impact and chronicity of disabilities and can be used to reduce and control the cost of disability in the workplace. Providing the most efficacious behavioral interventions thereby allows employers, employees and health professionals to work cooperatively to achieve optimum health and cost effectiveness. This review presents a variety of group and individual interventions, which have been utilized to aid disabled employees in coping with work-related injuries and medical illness. The implementation of stress management interventions in the workplace is described in detail, with special emphasis on the use of cognitive behavioral stress management. Finally, this review outlines a team approach to the application of a workplace stress management intervention aimed at reducing the overall impact of disability.

Influence of Inorganic Salts and Bases on the J-Band in the Absorption Spectra of Water Solutions of 1,1‘-Diethyl-2,2‘-cyanine Iodide

Abstract: We studied the influence of inorganic salts and bases on the absorption spectra and kinetics of the formation of the J-band in water solutions of 1,1‘-diethyl-2, 2‘-cyanine (PIC) iodide. The absorp...

Telephone support for caregivers of patients with cancer.

Abstract: Caregivers have complex needs as they care for a loved one with cancer at the end of life. The objective of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of conducting a brief telephone intervention, Tele-Care II, for caregivers of hospice patients. Guided by Hogan's Model of Bereavement, nurse interventionists implemented Tele-Care II via teleconference calls with caregivers. Although 14 caregivers were recruited for the study, only 5 were able to complete the intervention before the patient's death. Those completing the intervention experienced decreased depression, despair, and disorganization although the patient's condition became more serious. Late enrollment in hospice continues to be problematic for patients, family caregivers, and hospice staff because it allows little time for completion of interventions with family caregivers before the patient's death.

The Protective Role of the Family and Social Support Network in a Sample of HIV-Positive African American Women: Results of a Pilot Study.

Abstract: This study examined the role of family functioning and social support in protecting HIV-positive African American women from the adverse psychological consequences associated with deterioration in their CD4 cell count. Participants were 38 African American HIV-positive women who had recently given birth. Results demonstrated that changes in CD4 cell counts were inversely predictive of psychological distress and were moderated by family functioning and social support satisfaction. Women with good family functioning were less affected by changes in their CD4 cell counts, and women with poor family functioning were more emotionally responsive to changes in CD4 cell count. Unexpectedly, women from families where conflicts tended to be clearly laid out and discussed were also more responsive to both changes in CD4 cell counts. Interventions are recommended that increase a client’s social support satisfaction, foster an adaptive level of connectedness to family, and enhance the family’s range of conflict resolution styles.

Online exclusive: art intervention with family caregivers and patients with cancer.

Abstract: PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To describe the implementation and preliminary evaluation of an art intervention at the bedsides of patients with cancer and their family caregivers. DATA SOURCES Field notes from ongoing encounters with family caregivers and patients with cancer, research literature, and descriptions of other programs. DATA SYNTHESIS An "Art Infusion" intervention was developed and offered to family caregivers and patients with cancer during treatment at a comprehensive cancer center. Training of interventionists, timing and delivery of the intervention, and the availability of art activity choices were key factors in the intervention's success. CONCLUSIONS Family caregivers and patients with cancer are interested in and responsive to art interventions. Additional research is needed to quantify the effects. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Art interventions enhanced and extended the scope of care for family caregivers and patients with cancer. Nurses are in key positions to establish, supervise, and promote such interventions.

Inhibition of focal adhesion kinase by antisense oligonucleotides enhances the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to camptothecins.

Abstract: This study shows a strong association between cell attachment to substratum and activation of beta 1-integrin-signaling with resistance to the camptothecin derivative topotecan (TPT) in breast cancer cells. We propose a mechanistic-driven approach to sensitize the cells to camptothecins. ZR-75-1 anchorage-dependent breast cancer cell line, its derivative 9D3S suspension cells (9D3S-S), and 9D3S cells attached to fibronectin-coated plates (9D3S-A) were treated with TPT (1 microM) or CPT-11 (40 microM) for 48 h. Programmed cell death (PCD), as shown by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), pro-caspase-3 and pro-caspase-9 cleavage, was observed in 9D3S-S cells but not in ZR-75-1 or 9D3S-A cells. Because p125 focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a transducer in the beta 1-integrin signaling pathway, it is essential to cell adhesion and it is overexpressed in metastatic breast cancer, we hypothesized that attenuation of FAK might enhance the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to camptothecins. Moreover, inhibition of FAK gene expression by a phosphorothioated antisense oligodeoxynucleotide targeting the portion of the gene encoding amino acids 262-268, increased the sensitivity of ZR-75-1, MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 breast cancer cells to treatment with TPT or CPT-11.

Local zeta function for curves, non-degeneracy conditions and Newton polygons

Abstract: This paper is dedicated to a description of the poles of the Igusa local zeta function Z(s, f, v) when f(x, y) satisfies a new non-degeneracy condition called arithmetic non-degeneracy. More precisely, we attach to each polynomial f(x, y) a collection of convex sets Γ A (f) = {Γ f,1 Γ f,l0 ) } called the arithmetic Newton polygon of f(x, y), and introduce the notion of arithmetic non-degeneracy with respect to Γ A (f). If L v is a p-adic field, and f(x, y) E L v [x, y] is arithmetically non-degenerate, then the poles of Z(s, f, v) can be described explicitly in terms of the equations of the straight segments that form the boundaries of the convex sets Γ f,i ....,Γ f,l0 . Moreover, the proof of the main result gives an effective procedure for computing Z(s, f, v).

Some combinatorics of multisets

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to delineate some insights into the concept of multisets along with a couple of combinatorial results related to multisets. The paper indicates that a general formula needs to be worked out for determining the cardinality of the ‘Set’ (whose elements may be multisets but do not repeat) of all multisubsets of a finite multiset [x, y, z,…] m , p , t , … in which x occurs at most m times, y occurs at most p times, and so on. It outlines some directions provided in the literature and points out that they all turn out to be inefficient. Finally, a relatively more efficient formula to this effect is provided along with a remark that the problem needs further vindication.

Computing Igusa's Local Zeta Functions of Univariate Polynomials, and Linear Feedback Shift Registers

Abstract: We give a polynomial time algorithm for computing the Igusa local zeta function Z(s;f) attached to a polynomial f(x)2 Z[x], in one variable, with splitting fleld Q, and a prime number p. We also propose a new class of linear feedback shift registers based on the computation of Igusa’s local zeta function.

Hot-blooded singers: endothermy facilitates crepuscular signaling in African platypleurine cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae: Platypleura spp.)

Abstract: The cicada genus Platypleura has a wide distribution across Africa and southern Asia We describe endothermic thermoregulation in four South African species that show crepuscular signaling behavior This is the first evidence of thermoregulation in platypleurine cicadas Field measurements of body temperature (Tb) show that these animals regulate Tb through endogenous heat production Maximum Tb measured was 221°C above ambient temperature during calling activity at dusk The mean Tb during dusk activity did not differ from the mean Tb during diurnal activity A unique behavior for cicadas, a temperature-dependent telescoping pulsation of the abdomen, was observed in the laboratory during endogenous warm-up This behavior is part of a unique method of heat generation in endothermic cicadas Males generally call from trunks and branches within the canopy and appear to use endothermy even when the sun is available to elevate Tb Endothermy may provide the cicadas with the advantage of decreasing predation and acoustic competition by permitting calling from perches that most complement their cryptic coloration patterns and that ectotherms cannot use due to thermal constraints In addition, endothermy may permit calling activity during crepuscular hours when atmospheric conditions are optimal for acoustic communication and predation risks are minimal

Health seeking behaviors of Haitian families for their school aged children.

Abstract: Providing culturally sensitive health care to diverse groups would be enhanced by better understanding of their experiences with the health care system and perceptions of health and illness. Haitians comprise an immigrant group that has increased dramatically in the United States over the past three decades. The purposes of this study were to identify the health seeking behaviors of Haitian parents for their schoolaged children and the barriers they experienced in obtaining health care services. Sixty-two Haitian parents and guardians were interviewed, findings highlighted a lack of health insurance coverage, frequent use of private providers, general satisfaction with health care services, and strong parental values regarding preventive health care behaviors. Parents also reported the combined use of traditional remedies and biomedical treatments during their child's illness episodes. Implications for practice and future research with Haitian parents and children are identified. Keywords: Haitian Families, School Aged-Children The influx of immigrants from different cultures into the United States presents challenges for health care professionals to provide culturally sensitive care. Nurses, especially, are increasingly likely to come in contact with clients of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds who are seeking health care for their families (Purnell & Paulanka, 2003). Many immigrant families are classified as vulnerable populations since they are more likely to experience adverse health outcomes than white, middle- and upper-class Americans (Flaskerud & Winslow, 1998). Health beliefs and health-seeking behaviors have been addressed in a number of studies over the past several decades. Studies which have addressed the health seeking behaviors of specific ethnic and immigrant groups and families, however, have been limited (May, 1992; Weitzel, Hudak, Becker, Waller, & Stuifbergen, 1994; Wen, Goel, & Williams, 1996). Researchers have identified the need to better understand and address facilitators and barriers to obtaining health care for members of underserved and disenfranchised populations (Aten, Siegel, & Roghmann, 1996; Davis, Gergen, & Moore, 1997). This need is particularly great with respect to immigrant parents who seek health care for their dependent children. Health behaviors are often similar among persons of the same ethnic background or persons who share similar socioeconomic status. Many health behaviors are influenced by culture and learned within the family. Providing preventive health care and sick care are major functions of the family (Friedman & Morgan, 1998). Families differ in their perceptions of what constitutes health as well as in their definitions of illness. These differences translate into a variety of health practices and healthcare seeking behaviors. Families often use formal health care services in addition to informal health care resources to manage illness and promote the health of their members. Use of professional services for health promotion and care during illness is decided by the family based on economic factors as well as cultural, political, religious, and social influences (Bomar, 1996; Purnell & Paulanka, 2003). Barriers which impede the ability of families to obtain health care for members include a health care system that is not responsive to their unique needs and a problem of access to care if one or more family members are uninsured or unable to pay for services. Many other families with health insurance are still considered underinsured and vulnerable since their coverage does not include preventive health care services. Research specifically addressing barriers to accessing health care services in vulnerable populations has produced several common themes. Transportation, inadequate funds, inability to identify a provider, rude health care professionals, and waiting time have been identified as being major deterrents to seeking health care for persons in lower socioeconomic groups and other vulnerable populations (Northam, 1996; Strickland & Strickland, 1995). …

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for lower-extremity soft-tissue sports injuries

Abstract: Lower-extremity injuries have become increasingly common as sports performance demands have risen. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is one method used to return athletes to competition as quickly as possible, but it has received criticism and lacks support. This review examines the literature on hyperbaric oxygen therapy and soft-tissue sports injuries. In the various studies, the location of the injury seemed to influence the effectiveness of treatment. Injuries at areas of reduced perfusion such as muscle-tendon junctions and ligaments seemed to benefit more from hyperbaric oxygen treatment than injuries at the muscle belly. Differences in the magnitude of the injury and in the time between injury and treatment may also affect outcomes. The authors sought to explore these variables as they relate to soft-tissue sports injuries and to weigh the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy against its potential risks and high cost. More randomized controlled clinical trials with larger sample sizes must be conducted before hyperbaric oxygen can be established as a safe adjunctive therapy for soft-tissue sports injuries.

Transitional economy tourism: German travel consumers' perceptions of Lithuania.

Abstract: This paper examines the current status of tourism in Lithuania as well as potential German tourists' perceptions of Lithuania as a tourist destination. As tourism is an important source of foreign exchange and provides jobs for a large number of people, the Lithuanian Government is quite interested in increasing the number of tourists visiting the country. Data gathered at the International Tourism Exchange in Berlin was analysed and recommendations made concerning marketing techniques that could be used to increase tourism from the European Union and other western countries. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley &Sons, Ltd.

Comparison of Two Methods to Determine Plasma Bile Acid Concentrations in Healthy Birds

Abstract: We compared a radioimmunoassay and an enzymatic method to measure plasma bile acid concentrations of chickens and 5 psittacine genera. The 2 assays compared well with r2 values ranging from 0.77 to 0.92. The radioimmunoassay was linear to 50 μmol/L, and the enzymatic method, to 200 μmol/L. When measured by the enzymatic method, bile acid concentrations were decreased in the presence of hemolysis and falsely increased in the presence of lipemia and high concentrations of lactate dehydrogenase. Results for both assays showed only small changes when samples were stored at −20°C and −70°C; however, storage at 4°C resulted in decreases in bile acid concentrations that were greater than 50% after 4 days. An advantage of the enzymatic method is that it can be performed more quickly than the radioimmunoassay and without the special procedures and guidelines applying to use of radioisotopes. However, the radioimmunoassay requires lower sample volumes (50 μl of plasma) than the enzymatic method (up to 400 ...

On the poles of Igusa's Local Zeta Function for algebraic sets

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to describe explicitly the poles of the meromorphic continuation of the Igusa local zeta function associated to several polynomials. Using resolution of singularities is possible to express the Igusa's local zeta function as a finite sum of p-adic monomial integrals. We compute these monomial integrals using techniques of toroidal geometry. In this way, we obtain an explicit list for the candidates to poles of the local zeta function associated to several polynomials.

The black cloud over the Sunshine State: health disparities in south Florida.

Abstract: Florida, the "Sunshine State", is paradise for international tourists and has been adopted as seasonal or permanent home by many wealthy individuals and celebrities. However, Florida is not paradise for the growing number of residents who suffer from poverty, health problems, and a lack of access to health care and social services. The purpose of this paper is to present data on health care problems and disparities throughout the state of Florida and in select south Florida counties. Flaskerud and Winslow (1998) have provided a framework which can be used to analyze disparities in resource availability, relative risk, and health status indicators and suggests areas in which nursing and other health professionals can ethically intervene through research, practice, and political action.

PRIVATIZATION OF CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES.: Getting the Lion Back in the Cage?

Abstract: Florida is a state in flux in terms of its child protective services organization. The Department of Children and Families has suffered numerous failures in protecting children in its care. Publicity surrounding these defects have led to major overhauls in the agency itself, as well as a concerted effort to move forward toward privatization of virtually all services currently administered by the department. Many of the initial attempts at privatization have already failed; others have had to be revamped to allow for unforseen problems. It is appallingly true that Florida, like any other state with serious issues in child protective services, has an absolute obligation to search for the “miracle cure” for its ailments. But only serious attention to the mistakes of the past and the will to correct them will allow Florida to finally put its children first in its citizens' hearts and minds, where they belong.

The US road to 3G: an overview of telecom regulations, carrier strategies, and the consumer market

Abstract: Building on the transition of the mobile Internet towards true 3G networks, US policy makers and network operators are experiencing a delayed 3G governing policy, incompatible wireless standards, and a lack of available 3G spectrum. However, the experience of the European and Asian regions with 3G implementation bears imperative lessons that the US can significantly benefit from. This article presents an overview of the 3G situation in the US.

Tibial and proximal fibular stress fracture in a rower.

Abstract: Proximal fibular stress fractures are rare injuries that usually result from jumping and running activities of military recruits and athletes. This article describes a female university athlete wit...

Neuroscience Applications in Marital and Family Therapy

Abstract: Historically, family therapists have relied on counseling theory and the social sciences to understand the dynamics of family relationships These sources have been helpful, but the solutions to many problems in therapy remain elusive This article addresses the importance of a basic understanding of neuroscience in marital, couple, and family therapy training and practice It examines the biological and physiological processes underlying emotions, memory, and neurochemistry, and emphasizes their impact on behavior The therapeutic benefits of movement and music are also addressed Only with a thorough understanding of the social and biological bases of behavior will family therapists and other mental health professionals be adequately prepared to assist in finding solutions to the difficult problems encountered in family therapy Neuroscience is an indispensable source of information and should be a part of each therapist’s academic preparation, continuing education, and lifelong learning

IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth: an architectural overview

Abstract: IEEE 802.11 wireless local area networks (WLANs) and Bluetooth wireless technology have positioned themselves as technologies with varied industry applications and as having distinct technical features. IEEE 802.11 applications focus on high-speed WLAN scenarios, whereas Bluetooth focuses on wireless personal area network (PAN) and cable replacement applications. This chapter highlights some of these applications and presents an overview of the architectural differences that make up these technologies, including network configurations, and market trends.

Cancer, Families, and Family Counselors

Abstract: In this article, the authors examine the role of the family counselor in working with cancer patients and their families. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, obesity, nutrition, and coping styles are increasingly linked causally to the development of cancer. The authors suggest ways in which the family counselor can work proactively with families in the area of cancer prevention. Because new cancer treatment protocols are reducing treatment side effects and increasing length of life after diagnosis, family counselors can also be effective in helping families to view cancer as a chronic disease and to cope more effectively with its impact on their lives. A clinical case example is used to illustrate intervention with cancer patients and their families.

The International Court of Justice's Decision in Congo v. Belgium: How Has It Affected the Development of a Principle of Universal Jurisdiction That Would Obligate All States to Prosecute War Criminals

Abstract: There are significant gaps in the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction which states must fill by prosecuting international crimes in national courts. How effectively states will be able to perform this task depends upon whether they can assert jurisdiction over offenses and offenders outside their territorial boundaries. The stakes are high. The failure to arrive at a workable principle of universal jurisdiction will mean the most serious breaches of international criminal law will be beyond the reach of any prosecuting authority. Part I of the article starts with an exposition of the various ways the term “universal jurisdiction” is used and how the multiplicity of uses confuse the issue. Then, Part II examines accepted theories of extraterritorial jurisdiction to see whether they provide for "universal" jurisdiction, as is sometimes claimed. Part III will analyze the development of "extradite or prosecute" jurisdiction in a series of post-war, multilateral conventions, and try to answer the question whether, either as the result of these conventions or separate from them, a principle of universal jurisdiction over certain core international crimes (such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide) has emerged. Finally, Part IV of the article considers how the separate opinions in Congo v. Belgium affect these developments and what the current state of the law is.

The Development and Testing of a Behavioral Intentions Model: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract: This paper develops and tests a model that illustrates the development of travel behavior intentions. Two separate studies were conducted, that measured the perceptions of German travel consumers regarding Northern Ireland (NI) as a tourist destination. The studies were conducted at the ITB Berlin (1999 and 2000) Travel Trade Fair. Northern Ireland was chosen as the travel destination because the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement gave hope that tourism to NI would again increase (after two years of decreases). We focused on German consumers because they are considered to be an important segment for NI tourism. The results of the study indicated that 81% of those interviewed had a good or very good impression of NI, and 59% considered it safe or very safe. The model itself illustrated that the travel consumers utilize both external and internal information for developing their perceptions and ultimately their behavioral intentions. Yet, the results also illustrated that travel consumers were more d...

Unionization and the White-Collar Worker in Small Businesses

Abstract: The American labor movement has experienced significant challenges in the last two decades in maintaining the size of its membership. The effects of a sharp increase in business being shifted off-shore, an unstable U.S. economy which resulted in major reductions in work force, and the growth of small businesses and the decline in major industry have lead to a continuing erosion of the non-government employees represented by collective bargaining agencies.

William Schwartz's Reflections on the Helping Process

Abstract: William Schwartz's 1953 doctoral paper reflecting on the helping and learning process demonstrates uncanny clarity. He insightfully uncovers patterns and uniformities often obfuscated by conceptual polarization. The doctoral paper and the author's perspectives are presented.