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Background/Objectives: This study examined the psychometric properties of the Fatigue and Altered Cognition Scale (FACs) among adult COVID-19 survivors and its unique ability to assess symptomology not accounted for by measures of depression and anxiety. Methods: COVID-19 survivors completed an online survey that included the FACs, a measure of brain fog and central fatigue with 20 items rated on a digital–analog scale. Useable data from 559 participants were analyzed to test the two-factor structure of the FACs, test for measurement invariance by sex and device was used to complete the survey (hand-held, computer), and item correlations with symptoms of depression and anxiety were examined. Results: The two-factor structure of the FACs replicated, supporting the separate assessments of brain fog and fatigue, χ 2 (164) = 1028.363, p < 0.001, CFI = 0.934, TLI = 0.923, RMSEA = 0.097, SRMR = 0.053. The FACs exhibited invariance at the scalar level, indicating item and factor integrity regardless of sex and device type. Using a correlation > 0.70 as a criterion (i.e., indicating more than 50% shared variance between two items), items on the FACs (assessing fatigue and lack of energy) were highly correlated with feeling tired or having little energy on the depression measure. No other items correlated with any anxiety symptom larger than 0.70. Conclusions: The FACs appears to be a psychometrically sound and efficient measure for use with COVID-19 survivors, assessing symptoms of brain fog and central fatigue that are not attributable to symptoms assessed by established measures of depression and anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines how local newspaper stories in a college town created a dominant cultural narrative about an urban redevelopment project using tropes of physical blight and financial obsolescence. The article discusses descriptive tactics that appear throughout 16 years of coverage alongside patterns in the stories' frequency, focus, and authorship. The conclusion shares a series of practical takeaways for technical writers looking to collaborate with communities facing redevelopment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Following traumatic brain injury (TBI) some patients develop lingering comorbid symptoms of fatigue and cognitive impairment. The mild cognitive impairment self-reported by patients is often not detected with neurocognitive tests making it difficult to determine how common and severe these symptoms are in individuals with a history of TBI. This study was conducted to determine the relative prevalence of fatigue and cognitive impairment in individuals with a history of TBI. Methods: The Fatigue and Altered Cognition Scale (FACs) digital questionnaire was used to assess self-reported fatigue and cognitive impairment. Adults aged 18–70 were digitally recruited for the online anonymous study. Eligible participants provided online consent, demographic data, information about lifetime TBI history, and completed the 20 item FACs questionnaire. Results: A total of 519 qualifying participants completed the online digital study which included 204 participants with a history of TBI of varied cause and severity and 315 with no history of TBI. FACs Total Score was significantly higher in the TBI group (57.7 ± 22.2) compared to non-TBI (39.5 ± 23.9; p<0.0001) indicating more fatigue and cognitive impairment. When stratified by TBI severity, FACs score was significantly higher for all severity including mild (53.9 ± 21.9, p<0.0001), moderate (54.8 ± 24.4, p<0.0001), and severe (59.7 ± 20.9, p<0.0001) TBI. Correlation analysis indicated that more severe TBI was associated with greater symptom severity (p<0.0001, r = 0.3165). Ancillary analysis also suggested that FACs scores may be elevated in participants with prior COVID-19 infection but no history of TBI. Conclusions: Adults with a history of even mild TBI report significantly greater fatigue and cognitive impairment than those with no history of TBI, and symptoms are more profound with greater TBI severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Debilitating symptoms of fatigue and accompanying "brain fog" are observed among patients with various chronic health conditions. Unfortunately, an efficient and psychometrically sound instrument to assess these co-occurring symptoms is unavailable. Here, we report the development and initial psychometric properties of the Fatigue and Altered Cognition Scale (the FACs), a measure of self-reported central fatigue and brain fog. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) was chosen to model and develop the FACs due to research team expertise and established links between TBI and the symptom complex. Potential items were generated by researchers and clinicians with experience treating these symptoms, drawing from relevant literature and review of patient responses to measures from past and current TBI studies. The 20 candidate items for the FACs—ten each to assess altered cognition (i.e., brain fog) and central fatigue–were formatted on an electronic visual analogue response scale (eVAS) via an online survey. Demographic information and history of TBI were obtained. A total of 519 participants consented and provided usable data (average age = 40.23 years; 73% female), 204 of whom self-reported a history of TBI (75% reported mild TBI). Internal consistency and reliability values were calculated. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) examined the presumed two-factor structure of the FACs and a one-factor solution for comparison. A measurement invariance test of the two latent constructs (altered cognition, fatigue) among participants with and without TBI was conducted. All items demonstrated normal distribution. Cronbach's alpha coefficients indicated good internal consistency for both factors (α's =.95). Omega reliability values were favorable (α's =.95). CFA supported the presumed two-factor model and item loadings which outperformed the one-factor model. Measurement invariance found the two-factor structure was consistent between the two groups. Implications of these findings, study limitations, and potential use of the FACs in clinical research and practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a reflection by Timothy R. Elliott, the outgoing editor of the Journal of Clinical Psychology (JCLP), on his experiences and observations during his twelve-year tenure. The article discusses the goals of the journal, such as promoting innovative studies and addressing understudied issues in the field. It also highlights the activities and accomplishments of the editorial team, including the number of submissions and rejection rates, special issues published, and frequently cited papers. The document further discusses the clinical efficacy of attentional bias modification procedures and the impact factor of JCLP, which has attracted international authors. Challenges faced during the editor's term include difficulties in finding reviewers for certain topics and the decline in colleagues willing to review manuscripts. The article also addresses research ethics and integrity, emphasizing the importance of open science and transparency, and highlights the challenges faced by professional psychology in the current socio-political climate. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: To test the beneficial associations of a resilient personality prototype among emerging adults with chronic health conditions (CHC) over an 8‐year period. Design: Longitudinal, prospective observation study. Methods: Data obtained from emerging adults in the Add Health project with a CHC and completed study measures at two time points (286 men, 459 women) were examined. Cluster analysis was used to identify a resilient personality prototype at the first time point, as defined in the Block model of personality. Differences between those with a resilient and non‐resilient prototype were examined. A structural equation model (SEM) tested the association of a resilience prototype with positive affect, perceived control and family relationships in predicting distress over time. Results: A resilient personality profile was identified (n = 256). These individuals reported higher positive affect, greater perceived control and less distress at both measurement occasions than those without this profile (n = 489). Women reported more distress than men. SEM revealed the relationship of a resilient prototype to distress was explained by its beneficial association with positive affect and perceived control at the first assessment, and through its beneficial association with perceived control 8 years later. Gender independently predicted distress. Conclusions: A resilient personality prototype appears to operate through its beneficial association with perceived control to prospectively predict distress reported by emerging adults with CHC. The self‐regulatory properties theoretically associated with a resilient personality prototype may function through perceptions of control which, in turn, prevent prolonged experiences of distress. Clinical implications are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We examined positive behavioral resources and characteristics that might distinguish resilient personality prototypes among persons with chronic spinal cord injury/disorder (SCID). Positive psychology variables with clear linkages to existing psychological interventions were examined as potential mediators of the resilience–well-being relationship. Research Method and Design: A cross-sectional, self-report study was conducted. Two hundred and ninety-eight consenting members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (268 male; 236 self-identified as white) provided useable survey data for analysis (including 161 veterans with tetraplegia, 107 with paraplegia, 30 with cauda equina). Cluster analysis of Big Five personality traits identified resilient and nonresilient personality profiles. Tests of mean differences between resilient and nonresilient participants on behavioral resources and characteristics were performed. Path models predicting well-being and health-related quality of life (HRQL) were conducted. Results: One hundred and sixty-three respondents had resilient personality profiles and 135 had nonresilient profiles. Resilient individuals reported significantly more optimal scores on every positive psychology variable, and greater well-being and HRQL than nonresilient respondents. Path models found the relationship of resilience to well-being was explained through its beneficial associations with psychological flexibility, use of personal strengths, meaning in life (MIL), and gratitude. Psychological flexibility also mediated the resilience–HRQL relationship. Cauda equina was significantly associated with higher pain interference and lower HRQL. Conclusions: Higher gratitude, MIL, use of personal strengths, and psychological flexibility appear to characterize resilience and well-being among persons with chronic SCID. Further studies are needed to understand the impact of pain interference on HRQL among individuals with cauda equina. Impact and Implications: The present study documents several positive behavioral resources and characteristics that typify resilience among persons with chronic spinal cord injury/disorder. The results should prompt rehabilitation psychologists to consider further study of the positive psychology variables examined in this paper, and the potential use of the existing interventions associated with each one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate methods for in vitro assessment of anthelmintic efficacy against the chicken nematode Ascaridia galli this study firstly evaluated sample preparation methods including recovery of eggs from excreta using different flotation fluids and induced larval hatching by the deshelling–centrifugation method and the glass-bead method with or without bile. It then evaluated two in vitro assays, the in-ovo larval development assay (LDA) and larval migration inhibition assay (LMIA), for anthelmintic efficacy testing against A. galli using fresh eggs and artificially hatched larvae, respectively. Four anthelmintics, thiabendazole (TBZ), fenbendazole (FBZ), levamisole (LEV) and piperazine (PIP) were employed using an A. galli isolate of known susceptibility. The results suggested that the LDA and LMIA could successfully be used to generate concentration response curves for the tested drugs. The LDA provided EC50 values for inhibition of egg embryonation of 0.084 and 0.071 μg/ml for TBZ and FBZ, respectively. In the LMIA, the values of effective concentration (EC50) of TBZ, FBZ, LEV and PIP were 105.9, 6.32, 349.9 and 6.78 × 107 nM, respectively. For such in vitro studies, a saturated sugar solution showed high egg recovery efficiency (67.8%) and yielded eggs of the highest morphological quality (98.1%) and subsequent developmental ability (93.3%). The larval hatching assays evaluated did not differ in hatching efficiency but the deshelling–centrifugation method yielded larvae that had slightly better survival rates. For final standardization of these tests and establishment of EC50 reference values, tests using isolates of A. galli of defined resistance status need to be performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has a detrimental effect on the health and well-being of health care workers (HCWs). The extent to which HCWs may differ in their experience of depression and anxiety is unclear, and longitudinal studies are lacking. The present study examined theorized differences in distress between resilient and non-resilient HCWs over time, as reported in a national online survey. We also examined possible differences in distress as a function of sex and doctoral-level status. Methods: A national sample responded to an online survey data that included the study measures. Of the HCWs who responded, 666 had useable data at the two time points. A longitudinal structural equation model tested an a priori model that specified the relationship of a resilient personality prototype to self-reported resilience, coping, depression and anxiety at both measurement occasions. Additional invariance models examined possible differences by sex and doctoral-level status. Results: The final model explained 46.4% of the variance in psychological distress at Time 1 and 69.1% at Time 2. A non-resilient personality prototype predicted greater depression and anxiety. A resilient personality prototype was predictive of and operated through self-reported resilience and less disengaged coping to effect lower distress. No effects were found for active coping, however. The final model was generally invariant by sex and HCWs status. Additional analyses revealed that non-doctoral level HCWs had significantly higher depression and anxiety than doctoral-level HCWs on both occasions. Conclusions: HCWs differ in their susceptibility to distress imposed by COVID-19. Those who are particularly vulnerable may have characteristics that contribute to a lower sense of confidence and efficacy in stressful situations, and more likely to rely on ineffective, disengaged coping behaviors that can exacerbate stress levels. Individual interventions and institutional policies may be implemented to support HCWs at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When an urban planning project is announced, local media outlets often focus on broadly describing the building or project. But how can we listen to and value the stories from people displaced by large-scale urban change? This article adopts a case-study approach to share complicated stories from four residents displaced by a redevelopment project and suggests technical communication approaches for productively placing stories from the displaced in dialogue with broader planning project stories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermatologic surgery, lip, neoplasms, surgical flaps, full-thickness skin graft, vermilion Three stages of Mohs surgery resulted in a 20 × 12 × 5 mm defect involving the vermilion lower lip, labial mucosa, orbicularis oris muscle and a small portion of the cutaneous lower lip (Fig. Keywords: dermatologic surgery; full-thickness skin graft; lip; neoplasms; surgical flaps; vermilion EN dermatologic surgery full-thickness skin graft lip neoplasms surgical flaps vermilion e191 e193 3 05/20/22 20220501 NES 220501 Various surgical techniques are utilised for the repair of lip defects depending on the position of the tumour and dimensions.1 Where simple linear closure is not an option, surgical repair considerations include wedge excision, multiple flaps including advancement, rotation and lip-switch flaps or healing by secondary intention.1-3 All lip defect repairs have their own considerations, with the primary goal being retaining function, cosmesis and minimal morbidity during the procedure and recovery period.1-3 We propose full-thickness skin graft (FTSG) as a repair option for vermilion lip defects, which is rarely reported in the literature and report two cases with successful outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: Although many Iraq/Afghanistan warzone veterans report few problems with adjustment, a substantial proportion report debilitating mental health symptoms and functional impairment, suggesting the influence of personal factors that may promote adjustment. A significant minority also incur warzone-related traumatic brain injury (TBI), the majority of which are of mild severity (mTBI). We tested direct and indirect pathways through which a resilient personality prototype predicts adjustment of warzone veterans with and without mTBI over time. Method: A sample of 264 war veterans (181 men) completed measures of lifetime and warzone-related TBIs, personality traits, psychological adjustment, quality of life, and functional impairment. Social support, coping, and psychological flexibility were examined as mediators of the resilience-adjustment relationship. Instruments were administered at baseline, 4-, 8-, and 12-month assessments. Structural equation models accounted for combat exposure and response style. Results: Compared with a nonresilient personality prototype, a resilient prototype was directly associated with lower PTSD, depression, and functional disability, and higher quality of life at all time-points. Warzone mTBIs frequency was associated with higher scores on a measure of functional disability. Indirect effects via psychological flexibility were observed from personality to all outcomes, and from warzone-related mTBIs to PTSD, depression, and functional disability, at each time-point. Conclusions: Several characteristics differentiate veterans who are resilient from those who are less so. These findings reveal several factors through which a resilient personality prototype and the number of mTBIs may be associated with veteran adjustment. Psychological flexibility appears to be a critical modifiable factor in veteran adjustment. The present study indicates that the beneficial effects of a resilient personality prototype occur among warzone veterans with and without mTBI. Several of the characteristics associated with a resilient personality prototype can be addressed in psychological interventions to facilitate psychological adjustment of veterans who are experiencing difficulties with depression, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and quality of life. Of these characteristics, psychological flexibility appears to be a particularly important mechanism through which resilience promotes adjustment, and psychological flexibility is a central element of acceptance and commitment therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined trajectories of affective balance (AB) among 488 individuals admitted to a metropolitan Level 1 trauma center for serious physical injury. AB was measured prior to hospital discharge, and at three, six, and 12 months post-discharge. Multilevel modeling (MLM) was used to investigate whether initial demographic variables, injury severity, the occurrence of a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), self-reported resilience and social support predicted AB trajectories. Participants' change in resilience and social support over the 12-month period were also tested as predictors. The results revealed a large amount of between-individual variation in the first year post-injury. Initial resilience, resilience change, initial social support, and social support change predicted AB 1 year later. Changes in resilience and social support predicted the linear growth in AB over time. Demographic and injury-related variables did not significantly predict AB, nor did the diagnosis of a mild TBI. Participants' self-perceived resilience and social support scores changed substantially, for better or worse, over the 12-month period. AB was strongly associated with these changes, even when controlling for initial resilience and social support: Increases in either resilience or social support were significantly associated with increases in AB over time. The final model accounted for 33.2% of the between-individual variance in final scores and 46.9% of the variance in linear growth. These results provide additional evidence of the beneficial effects of existing levels of resilience and social support following traumatic injury, and these characteristics are better predictors of AB than injury severity, basic demographic data, and the presence of a mild head injury. Furthermore, changes that may occur in social support and self-perceived resilience are associated with significant changes in AB, and these factors should be considered in post-discharge plans to facilitate subsequent adjustment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: There is a paucity of Australian data on the use of Mohs micrographic surgery for treating melanoma in situ and lentigo maligna. We share an Australian centre's experience with the technique. Methods: A total of 62 patients with 62 lesions of melanoma in situ and lentigo maligna referred for treatment between 2015 and 2017 comprised the study group. All melanomas were excised with Mohs micrographic surgery utilising melanoma‐associated antigen recognised by T‐cells (MART‐1) immunostaining. Results: Follow up ranged from 3 to 30 months with no reported recurrences or melanoma‐related deaths. 94% (58/62) of lesions were primary melanomas and 6% were locally recurrent. 89% of lesions involved head and neck sites with 11% involving trunk or limbs. In total 55% (12/62) of lesions were cleared with 3‐mm clinical margins, 68% with 6 mm, 92% with 9 mm and 100% with 12‐mm. The mean clinical excision margin was 6.7 mm. All lesions with a tumour diameter greater than 2.2 cm required a 9‐mm clinical margin or greater for excision. The mean clinical excision margin for recurrent tumours was 9 mm. Conclusion: We provide the first Australian data on the use of Mohs micrographic surgery for melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medium to large scalp defects with exposed bone can pose particular challenges to the dermatologic surgeon. Most of the publications pertaining to the repair of such defects are presented in the plastic surgery literature. Dermatologic surgeons may have less experience in this area and be hesitant to pursue surgery when these defects may be encountered. The technique described below is a simple, one‐stage reconstruction, with a short healing period, providing adequate cosmesis, and is within the capability of most dermatologic surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Summary 35 I Overview of animal and plant WNK kinases 35 II. Structure: domains and topology 36 III. Phylogeny–evolutionary relationships 41 IV. Plant WNK kinase distribution and regulation of WNK expression and activity 41 V. Functions of WNK family members in physiology and development 41 VI. Say no more? Still many questions to be answered 45 Acknowledgements 46 References 46 Summary: WITH NO LYSINE (WNK) kinases are serine/threonine kinases uniquely characterized by an anomalous placement of a catalytic lysine, hence their moniker. In animals, WNK protein kinases play critical roles in protein trafficking of components that mediate renal ion transport processes and regulate osmoregulation of cell volume. In plants, the WNK kinase gene family is larger and more diverse. Recent studies revealed WNK kinase roles in orchestrating the trafficking of an ion channel, a lipid kinase complex in animals, and a heterotrimeric G protein signaling component in plants that is necessary for signal transduction. For this reason, new attention is geared toward investigating the mechanisms adopted by WNK kinases to nudge intracellular proteins to their destinations. In this review, the functions of WNK kinases in protein trafficking are derived from what we have learned from the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. To place this new idea in context, we provide the predicted WNK kinase structures, their predicted expression patterns, a speculated evolutionary pathway, and the regulatory roles of plant WNKs in transport processes and other physiologies. We brazenly predict that the WNK kinases in both plants and animals will soon be recognized as a nexus for trafficking‐based signal transduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delayed bleeding is the most common significant complication after piecemeal endoscopic mucosal resection (p-EMR) of large nonpedunculated colorectal polyps (NPCPs). Risk factors for delayed bleeding are incompletely defined. We aimed to determine risk factors for delayed bleeding following p-EMR.Methods: Data were analyzed from a prospective tertiary center audit of patients with NPCPs ≥ 20 mm who underwent p-EMR between 2010 and 2012. Patient, polyp, and procedure-related data were collected. Four post p-EMR defect factors were evaluated for interobserver agreement and included in analysis. Delayed bleeding severity was reported in accordance with guidelines. Predictors of bleeding were identified.Results: Delayed bleeding requiring hospitalization occurred after 22 of 330 procedures (6.7 %). A total of 11 patients required blood transfusion; of these, 4 underwent urgent colonoscopy, 1 underwent radiological embolization, and 1 required surgery. Interobserver agreement for identification of the four post p-EMR defect factors was moderate (kappa range 0.52 - 0.57). Factors associated with delayed bleeding were visible muscle fibers (P = 0.03) and the presence of a "cherry red spot" (P = 0.05) in the post p-EMR defect. Factors not associated with delayed bleeding were American Association of Anesthesiologists class, aspirin use, polyp size, site, and use of argon plasma coagulation.Conclusions: Visible muscle fibers and the presence of a "cherry red spot" in the resection defect were associated with delayed bleeding after p-EMR. These findings suggest evaluation and photodocumentation of the post p-EMR defect is important and, when considered alongside other patient and procedural factors, may help to reduce the incidence and severity of delayed bleeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective We examined the degree to which a resilient personality prototype predicted adjustment among war Veterans with and without a traumatic brain injury (TBI) while covarying the level of combat exposure. Method A total of 127 war Veterans (107 men, 20 women; average age = 37 years) participated. Personality prototypes were derived from the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (Patrick, Curtain, & Tellegen, 2002). Measures were administered at baseline, and a subset was administered at 4- and 8-month follow-ups. Results Veterans with resilient personalities reported less sleep disturbance, more health-promoting behaviors, psychological flexibility, and emotional distress tolerance than Veterans with undercontrolled or overcontrolled prototypes. Path models revealed that resilience significantly predicted posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, quality of life, and social support over time. TBI had unique and consistent effects only on PTSD. Conclusion Personality characteristics influence distress and quality of life among war Veterans with and without TBI. Implications for assessment, interventions, and research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In plants, a complex mixture of solutes and macromolecules is transported by the phloem. Here, we examined how solutes and macromolecules are separated when they exit the phloem during the unloading process. We used a combination of approaches (non-invasive imaging, 3D-electron microscopy, and mathematical modelling) to show that phloem unloading of solutes in Arabidopsis roots occurs through plasmodesmata by a combination of mass flow and diffusion (convective phloem unloading). During unloading, solutes and proteins are diverted into the phloem-pole pericycle, a tissue connected to the protophloem by a unique class of 'funnel plasmodesmata'. While solutes are unloaded without restriction, large proteins are released through funnel plasmodesmata in discrete pulses, a phenomenon we refer to as 'batch unloading'. Unlike solutes, these proteins remain restricted to the phloem-pole pericycle. Our data demonstrate a major role for the phloem-pole pericycle in regulating phloem unloading in roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the prospective impact of injury severity, functional impairment, and pain on participation in the community and subsequently on life satisfaction and self-rated health of 260 burn survivors 5 years post-discharge. Predictor variables include injury severity and total body surface area burned (assessed during acute care), functional independence (assessed at 12 months post-discharge), pain (assessed at the 24th month), and participation (assessed at the 48th month). Participation predicted life satisfaction and self-rated health. Functional independence and injury severity had significant indirect influences on adjustment via their influence on participation. Pain predicted both outcome variables. Clinical and research implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triclabendazole (TCBZ) is the only chemical that kills early immature and adult Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke) but widespread resistance to the drug greatly compromises fluke control in livestock and humans. The mode of action of TCBZ and mechanism(s) underlying parasite resistance to the drug are not known. Due to the high prevalence of TCBZ resistance (TCBZ-R), effective management of drug resistance is now critical for sustainable livestock production. Here, we discuss the current status of TCBZ-R in F. hepatica , the global distribution of resistance observed in livestock, the possible mechanism(s) of drug action, the proposed mechanisms and genetic basis of resistance, and the prospects for future control of liver fluke infections using an integrated parasite management (IPM) approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the predictive impact of proxy 'outsider' reports, injury type, and functional independence on trajectories of happiness over the first 5 years following medical treatment for a traumatic spinal cord injury, brain injury, severe burns or inter-articular fractures (total N = 1,271). It was anticipated that lower functional independence and outsider status would predict lower happiness trajectories, with injury type having little effect over time. A measure of functional impairment and the life satisfaction index containing the items that assessed happiness were administered 12, 24, 48, and 60 months post-discharge. Trajectory modeling revealed that lower functional independence significantly predicted lower happiness, regardless of injury type. Outsider reports predicted significantly higher happiness scores than the insiders reported themselves. These differences persisted across time and injury type. Additional analyses found that insider/outsider status accounted for one percent of the variance in happiness scores and functional independence accounted for twenty percent of the variance. Moreover, for all injury groups, there was no evidence for changes in happiness trajectories over time. Outsider accounts differ significantly from insider estimations of variables of positive adjustment accounts but explain little variation in the reports of happiness overall and still have practical and clinical value as secondary sources of information about positive emotional experiences, particularly when reports from the 'insider' are not possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We examined the prospective influence of the resilient, undercontrolled, and overcontrolled personality prototypes on depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among Iraq/ Afghanistan war veterans. After accounting for the possible influence of combat exposure, we expected that the resilient prototype would predict lower depression and PTSD over time and would be associated with adaptive coping strategies, higher social support, lower psychological inflexibility, and higher self-reported resilience relative to overcontrolled and undercontrolled prototypes, independent of traumatic brain injury (TBI) status. Method: One hundred twenty-seven veterans (107 men, 20 women; average age = 37) participated in the study. Personality was assessed at baseline, and PTSD and depression symptoms were assessed 8 months later. Path analysis was used to test the direct and indirect effects of personality on distress. Results: No direct effects were observed from personality to distress. The resilient prototype did have significant indirect effects on PTSD and depression through its beneficial effects on social support, coping and psychological inflexibility. TBI also had direct effects on PTSD. Conclusions: A resilient personality prototype appears to influence veteran adjustment through its positive associations with greater social support and psychological flexibility, and lower use of avoidant coping. Low social support, avoidant coping, and psychological inflexibility are related to overcontrolled and undercontrolled personality prototypes, and these behaviors seem to characterize veterans who experience problems with depression and PTSD over time. A positive TBI status is directly and prospectively associated with PTSD symptomology independent of personality prototype. Implications for clinical interventions and future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abnormal handling of E. coli by lamina propria (LP) macrophages may contribute to Crohn's disease (CD) pathogenesis. We aimed to determine LP macrophage phenotypes in CD, ulcerative colitis (UC) and healthy controls (HC), and in CD, to compare macrophage phenotypes according to E. coli carriage. Methods: Mucosal biopsies were taken from 35 patients with CD, 9 with UC and 18 HCs. Laser capture microdissection was used to isolate E. coli-laden and unladen LP macrophages from ileal or colonic biopsies. From these macrophages, mRNA was extracted and cytokine and activation marker expression measured using RT-qPCR. Results: E. coli-laden LP macrophages were identified commonly in mucosal biopsies from CD patients (25/35, 71 %), rarely in UC (1/9, 11 %) and not at all in healthy controls (0/18). LP macrophage cytokine mRNA expression was greater in CD and UC than healthy controls. In CD, E. coli-laden macrophages expressed high IL-10 & CD163 and lower TNFα, IL-23 & iNOS irrespective of macroscopic inflammation. In inflamed tissue, E. coli-unladen macrophages expressed high TNFα, IL-23 & iNOS and lower IL-10 & CD163. In uninflamed tissue, unladen macrophages had low cytokine mRNA expression, closer to that of healthy controls. Conclusion: In CD, intra-macrophage E. coli are commonly found and LP macrophages express characteristic cytokine mRNA profiles according to E. coli carriage. Persistence of E. coli within LP macrophages may provide a stimulus for chronic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abnormal handling of E. coli by lamina propria (LP) macrophages may contribute to Crohn’s disease (CD) pathogenesis. We aimed to determine LP macrophage phenotypes in CD, ulcerative colitis (UC) and healthy controls (HC), and in CD, to compare macrophage phenotypes according to E. coli carriage. Methods: Mucosal biopsies were taken from 35 patients with CD, 9 with UC and 18 HCs. Laser capture microdissection was used to isolate E. coli-laden and unladen LP macrophages from ileal or colonic biopsies. From these macrophages, mRNA was extracted and cytokine and activation marker expression measured using RT-qPCR. Results: E. coli-laden LP macrophages were identified commonly in mucosal biopsies from CD patients (25/35, 71 %), rarely in UC (1/9, 11 %) and not at all in healthy controls (0/18). LP macrophage cytokine mRNA expression was greater in CD and UC than healthy controls. In CD, E. coli-laden macrophages expressed high IL-10 & CD163 and lower TNFα, IL-23 & iNOS irrespective of macroscopic inflammation. In inflamed tissue, E. coli-unladen macrophages expressed high TNFα, IL-23 & iNOS and lower IL-10 & CD163. In uninflamed tissue, unladen macrophages had low cytokine mRNA expression, closer to that of healthy controls. Conclusion: In CD, intra-macrophage E. coli are commonly found and LP macrophages express characteristic cytokine mRNA profiles according to E. coli carriage. Persistence of E. coli within LP macrophages may provide a stimulus for chronic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Individuals who assume caregiving duties for a family member disabled in a traumatic injury often exhibit considerable distress, yet few studies have examined characteristics of those who may be resilient in the initial year of caregiving. Reasoning from the influential Pearlin model of caregiving (Pearlin & Aneshensel, 1994) and the resilience process model (Bonanno, 2005), we expected a significant minority of caregivers would be chronically distressed and another group would be resilient throughout the inaugural year of caregiving for a person with a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI), and these groups would differ significantly in primary and secondary stress and in personal resources and mediators. Method: Twenty men and 108 women who identified as caregivers for a family member who incurred a traumatic SCI consented to complete measures during the inpatient rehabilitation and at 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months postdischarge. Results: Latent growth mixture modeling of depression symptoms over time revealed 3 groups of caregivers: chronic (24%), recovery (24%) and resilient (48%). The chronic group reported more anxiety, negative affect, and ill health than the other 2 groups throughout the year. The resilient group was best characterized by their enduring levels of positive affect and supportive social networks. Conclusions: A large percentage of individuals are resilient in the initial year of caregiving, and those who have problems adapting exhibit significant distress soon following the traumatic event. Early detection of and psychological interventions for individuals who have difficulty adjusting are indicated, as their distress is unlikely to abate untreated over the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Our objective was to examine the use and quality of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in articles published in Rehabilitation Psychology. Design : Trained raters examined 66 separate exploratory factor analyses in 47 articles published between 1999 and April 2014. The raters recorded the aim of the EFAs, the distributional statistics, sample size, factor retention method(s), extraction and rotation method(s), and whether the pattern coefficients, structure coefficients, and the matrix of association were reported. Results: The primary use of the EFAs was scale development, but the most widely used extraction and rotation method was principle component analysis, with varimax rotation. When determining how many factors to retain, multiple methods (e.g., scree plot, parallel analysis) were used most often. Many articles did not report enough information to allow for the duplication of their results. Conclusion: EFA relies on authors’ choices (e.g., factor retention rules extraction, rotation methods), and few articles adhered to all of the best practices. The current findings are compared to other empirical investigations into the use of EFA in published research. Recommendations for improving EFA reporting practices in rehabilitation psychology research are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We studied the predictive impact of family satisfaction, marital status, and functional impairment on the trajectories of life satisfaction over the first 5 years following medical treatment for traumatic spinal cord injury, bums, or interarticular fractures (total N = 662). It was anticipated that fewer functional impairments, being married, and greater family satisfaction would predict higher life satisfaction trajectories. Method: The Functional Independence Measure, the Family Satisfaction Scale, and the Life Satisfaction Index were administered 12, 24, 48, and 60 months postdischarge. Results: Trajectory modeling revealed that greater functional impairment significantly predicted lower life satisfaction, regardless of injury type. However, this association diminished when marital status and family satisfaction were entered into the models. Greater family satisfaction and being married predicted greater life satisfaction across time. Moreover, there was no evidence for increases in life satisfaction trajectories over time: Trajectories were stable across time for all injury groups. Conclusions: Results suggest that being married and greater family satisfaction promote life satisfaction among those who traumatically acquire disability, and these beneficial effects may be more salient than the degree of functional impairment imposed by the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the nature and timing of services provided to children with an intellectual disability (ID) identified by a new comprehensive assessment and care planning tool used to evaluate children's needs for Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS) in Texas. The new assessment procedure resulted from a legal settlement with the advocacy community. Participants in the study were 1,109 children ages 4-20 with an intellectual disability diagnosis who were assessed between January and April of 2010. The need for assistance is higher on Saturday and Sunday, when school services are not available. We report differences in service patterns for children who vary in ID severity. Finally, we consider the implications of our results for policies and programs that serve families with children with an ID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary objective: To examine the predictive associations of family satisfaction, functional impairment, pain, and depression on health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) among persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) through structural equation modelling (SEM). Research design: Participants were part of a larger longitudinal study of adjustment following TBI. Direct and indirect effects of predictor variables on HRQoL were analyzed through SEM. Methods and procedures: The sample included 131 participants with TBI (89 men, 42 women) who had been discharged from an acute care hospital. The Sickness Impact Profile was administered to measure HRQoL at or beyond 24 months post-discharge. Predictor variable measures included the Functional Independence Measure, Family Satisfaction Scale and single items assessing the presence of pain and depression. Main outcomes and results: SEM revealed direct effects of functional impairment ( p < 0.001), family satisfaction ( p < 0.01), depression ( p < 0.05) and pain ( p < 0.01) on HRQoL. Indirect effects from functional impairment ( p < 0.05) and pain ( p < 0.05) to HRQoL through depression were also present. Conclusions: The presence of pain and depression, greater functional impairment and lower family satisfaction were predictively associated with lower HRQoL. Depression further mediated the effects of pain and functional impairment on HRQoL. The present study advances understanding of the ways in which pain, depression and functional impairment predict HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We examine the rates of major depressive disorder, single episode determined by the Inventory to Diagnose Depression (IDD) in a clinical sample of persons with recent-onset spinal cord injury (SCI; ⩽52 weeks) participating in an inpatient SCI rehabilitation program. We also analyzed the factor structure of the IDD measure in an attempt to replicate the factor structure reported by Frank et al. (1992), and we examined item endorsement patterns. Design: A retrospective chart review was conducted. Participants were 354 individuals (93 women, 261 men) in an inpatient SCI rehabilitation program. Results: Fifteen percent of the sample met criteria for a major depressive disorder (MDD). A higher rate of depression was observed among women. A "dysphoria" factor accounted for 24% of the variance in the final four-factor model. The four-factor solution explained a total of 35.5% of the variance, with an "anhedonia" factor contributing 4.6%, a "sleep" factor contributing 3.5%, and an "appetite" factor contributing 3.5%, respectively. Items assessing symptoms of insomnia, weight loss, worrying about health, and decreased energy had the highest percentage of endorsement to meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for clinical significance. Conclusions: The rate of single episodes of MDD determined by the IDD parallels the rate observed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The factor structure of the IDD was similar to that reported by Frank et al. (1992). Information provided by the IDD about the presence and severity of MDD symptoms can inform interventions for persons with SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the rate of depression among 110 parents of children with disabilities and tested a model to determine the unique factors associated with parental depression. Consenting parents completed measures of depression, family satisfaction, physical health, problem-solving abilities, stress appraisals, and child functional impairment. Participants were categorized as depressed or nondepressed based on their responses to the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9; Kroenke, Spitzer, & Williams, 2001). Nineteen percent of the parents met screening criteria for depression. Regression analyses revealed that threat appraisals, poorer physical health, and lower family satisfaction were uniquely associated with depression status with 83.3% accuracy. These findings highlight the importance of family satisfaction, problem solving ability, physical health, and the influence of appraisal processes on depression among parents of children with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives Dermatologists commonly perform surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery, in an outpatient, office-based setting. Although this may be widely perceived to be safe and effective, formal data on the practice are limited. The aim of this study was to examine the range of surgical procedures and associated complications in an Australian specialist dermatology and Mohs surgery practice. Methods All surgical procedures over a 55-week period were prospectively logged, with data collection on sex, age, type of procedure, body site, diagnosis and complications. All procedures were performed under conditions that were usual for the practice, with a combination of sterile and clean surgical techniques, depending on the procedure. Results In all, 2370 surgical procedures were performed during the study period, including 934 Mohs surgery cases. Most procedures (68%) were performed on head and neck sites. A total of 56 complications were recorded in 51 patients. Bacterial wound infections occurred in 13 cases (0.5%). Bleeding complications occurred in five cases (0.2%). There were no complications requiring hospital admission or i.v. antibiotics. Conclusions This study supports the view that dermatological surgery, including significant procedures such as Mohs micrographic surgery, flaps and grafts, can be performed on an ambulatory basis in an office-based procedure room setting, with low complication rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To investigate the relationship between Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS) and caregivers' reports of activity (activities of daily living [ADL]) limitations for children with chronic health problems. Data Sources/Study Setting. Primary data collected in 2008 and 2009. A state Medicaid program was the setting. The focus was children receiving Medicaid PCS. Data Collection. Medicaid case managers assessed children to determine their need for PCS, using information provided by the child or informal caregivers. Two thousand seven hundred assessments were provided to researchers directly from case managers. Principal Findings. Medical conditions and impairments explained 58 percent of the variance in the child's activity limitations. Activity limitations and problem behaviors explained 28 percent of the variance in PCS hours authorized. Which case manager completed the assessment also played a substantial role in determining hours of care. Conclusions. Caregivers' reports of the severity of a child's activity limitations effectively summarize the effects of conditions and impairments on the child's ADL performance and have a significant impact on the level of services provided. Assessors often respond differently to children's characteristics and circumstances as they move from assessment to decisions concerning care provision. Our results imply that the provision of appropriate services may be enhanced when both case managers and caregivers play an active role in decisions concerning care provision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How can psychologists aid in addressing current disparities in accessibility to meet the mental health needs of rural areas? In this paper, we discuss an innovative partnership created between community leaders in a rural county and an APA-accredited doctoral training program and its mental health clinic at a regional Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) to provide mental health services. We describe the efforts to build community capacity to develop the partnership and provide sustainable mental health services via teleconferencing to a remote site in a rural county. Also, to present initial evidence of the services' effectiveness in alleviating client distress, as well as meeting the expectations of referral sources and community stakeholders, we used the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), the SF-12v.2, and a qualitative community survey. We examined data from a maximum of 68 clients (M age = 40.5, SD = 14.1; 48 females and 20 males); the number of available client data varied by analysis. We found that clients showed significant decreases in depressive symptoms (M decrease = 5.88, SD = 7.16, p < .001) and significant increases Mental Health Composite Scores (MCS; M increase = 11.39, SD = 7.94, p < .005). Results from the community survey revealed encouraging results as well as areas for improvement. Implications of developing community capacity for sustainable psychological services in rural areas are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research study which determines the relationship between the intellectual disabilities (ID) of children and the reports of their caregivers on the status of their health among 1,108 participants in Texas. It focuses on the use of the information to predict the allowed number of hours for Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS). It explains the application of structural equation modeling that linked ID to the PCS.

The Journal of Clinical Psychology now features articles accepted by the new editorial team that will direct the journal over the next 5 years. Timothy R. Elliott serves as editor-in-chief and James Overholser is the senior associate editor. Associate editors are Linda Castillo, Kathleen Chwalisz, Stephanie Felgoise, and Bruce Rybarczyk. This editorial presents the editorial vision for the journal over the next 5 years, and presents changes in journal content. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 67:1-7, 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The relations of caregiver attributions about care-recipient's problem behaviour to caregiving relationship satisfaction and caregiver distress were examined. Design. This is a cross sectional study. Seventy-five family caregivers of individuals diagnosed with various disabling health conditions were recruited and interviewed. Caregiver attributions (internality, intentionality, responsibility, and controllability), caregiving relationship satisfaction, and caregiver distress variables were measured. Results. Structural equation techniques tested an a priori model of the latent constructs of caregiver attributions and caregiver relationship satisfaction to caregiver distress. Maladaptive caregiver attributions (i.e., more trait, higher intentionality, higher responsibility, and higher controllability) about care-recipients' problem behaviours predicted lower caregiving relationship satisfaction, which in turn was predictive of higher caregiver distress. Unexpectedly, caregiver attributions were not directly related to caregiver distress. However, attributions had an indirect effect on distress through relationship satisfaction. Younger caregivers experienced higher caregiver distress. Conclusions. Caregivers' explanations about care-recipient's problem behaviour are indicative of their satisfaction in the relationship with the care recipient, and poor caregiving relationship satisfaction is predictive of caregiver distress. Caregiver attributions and relationship quality may be considered in interventions with family caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although much is known about the risks to health and well-being that occur among family caregivers of children with disability, little is known about the unique group of caregivers of children with severe neurodisabilities who require varying degrees of respiratory care including ventilator support. This present study examined the psychological adjustment of caregivers in these situations, and tested the prediction that caregiver coping and problem-solving styles would be predictive of their physical and emotional health. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that demographic characteristics and the severity of pulmonary condition were unrelated to caregiver adjustment. A coping style characterized by developing relationships, pursuing activities that promote self-worth and individuality, and a lower negative orientation toward solving problems were significantly predictive of caregiver distress. These data indicate that care- giver adjustment in these situations is influenced by cognitive-behavioral characteristics that could be addressed in educational and therapeutic programs provided in the clinic and in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family caregivers of persons following neurotrauma function as de facto extensions of our health care system. Their challenges may result in negative consequences for their physical and mental health, which directly impacts the well-being of their care-recipient. In this paper, we survey current practices in providing caregiver support, outline considerations for developing collaborative interventions, and make recommendations for assessing intervention effectiveness consistent with the nature of the adjustment processes among caregivers and care recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To examine the effectiveness of an individualized problem-solving intervention provided to family caregivers of women living with severe disabilities. Design: Family caregivers were randomly assigned to an education-only control group or a problem-solving training (PST) intervention group. Participants received monthly contacts for 1year. Participants: Family caregivers (64 women, 17 men) and their care recipients (81 women with various disabilities) consented to participate. Main outcome measures: Caregivers completed the Social Problem-Solving Inventory – Revised, the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale, the Satisfaction with Life scale, and a measure of health complaints at baseline and in three additional assessments throughout the year. Results: Multilevel modeling was used to conduct intent-to-treat analyses of change trajectories for each outcome variable. Caregivers who received PST reported a significant linear decrease in depression over time; no effects were observed for caregiver health or life satisfaction. Caregivers who received PST also displayed an increase in constructive problem-solving styles over the year. Conclusions: PST may benefit community-residing family caregivers of women with disabilities, and it may be effectively provided in home-based sessions that include face-to-face visits and telephone sessions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Our objective was to examine the effectiveness of a brief individualized problem-solving intervention for family with caregivers of persons with recent-onset spinal cord injury (SCI). Family caregivers were randomly assigned to a usual care control group (N=30) or an intervention group (N=30) in which participants were to receive three face-to-face problem-solving training sessions (PST), educational materials, and telephone contacts as requested over the first year of caregiving. The participants included 60 caregivers (49 women, 11 men). The Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised, the Inventory to Diagnose Depression, and the SF-36 were administered at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. Caregivers in the intervention group reported a significant decrease in dysfunctional problem-solving styles scores over time; there were no observable effects for PST on caregiver depression. There was also some indication that the intervention had beneficial effects on caregiver social and physical functioning. An intervention for new caregivers featuring brief PST, education, and contact may be associated with lower dysfunctional problem-solving styles over time and may promote certain aspects of caregiver quality of life. We also discuss limitations and implications of the present study. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65: 1–17, 2009. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To examine the effectiveness of an individualized problem-solving intervention delivered in videoconferencing sessions with family caregivers of persons living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) and possible contagion effects on care recipients. Design: Family caregivers were randomly assigned to an education-only control group or an intervention group in which participants received problem-solving training (PST) in monthly videoconference session for a year. Participants: Sixty-one caregivers (54 women, 7 men) and their care recipients (40 men, 21 women) consented to participate. Main outcome measures: The Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised was administered to caregivers. Caregivers and care recipients completed the Inventory to Diagnose Depression, the SF-36 and the Satisfaction with Life scale at pre-treatment, 6 months and 12 months. Results: Twenty-eight caregivers discontinued the study and their follow-up data were unavailable at the final assessment. Older caregivers were more likely than younger caregivers to remain in the study. Intent-to-treat analyses projected a significant decrease in depression among caregivers receiving PST; efficacy analyses indicated this effect was pronounced at the 6th month assessment. ITT analyses and efficacy analyses revealed that care recipients of caregivers receiving PST reported gains in social functioning over time. Conclusions: Community-based, telehealth interventions may benefit family caregivers and their care recipients, but the mechanisms of these effects are unclear. Attrition and sample issues should be considered in future studies with these populations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Family caregivers of older individuals in rehabilitation have unique needs and concerns that should be addressed in rehabilitation and in community-based programs. Their concerns have a direct bearing on their health and on the health and well-being of their care-recipients. In this paper, we review the major problems facing many caregivers of older individuals who may receive rehabilitation services, and we discuss implications from relevant research. We conclude with recommendations for interventions, services and program development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Examined cognitive appraisals of interference and tolerance in the prediction of distress and self-reported disability among persons presenting for low vision rehabilitation. Design. Cross-sectional; correlational and path analyses. Methods. One-hundred and thirteen patients (mean age, 71 years; 52 men and 61 women) presenting for low vision rehabilitation at a university-based centre for low vision rehabilitation participated in an initial clinical vision examination and completed several questionnaires to evaluate cognitive appraisals, emotional distress and self-reported disability. Results. Path analyses indicated that greater tolerance was associated with less interference imposed by vision loss. Greater tolerance was also associated with less emotional distress and symptom severity (visual acuity) was associated with self-reported disability. Cognitive appraisals (tolerance and interference) indirectly influenced self-reported disability through emotional distress. Conclusions. The data indicate that appraisals of personal ability to tolerate vision loss and the perceived interference of vision loss on goal-directed behaviour and expected activities have greater influence on distress and are subsequently predictive of disability in comparison with objective symptoms (visual acuity). Implications for clinical interventions and further research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although rehabilitation psychology is more focused on empirical evidence and clinical application than theory development, the authors argue for the primacy of theory and explain why theories are needed in and useful for rehabilitation psychology. Impediments to theory development are discussed, including the difficulties of applying psychological theories in multidisciplinary enterprises and the difficulties in developing a theory-driven research program. The authors offer suggestions by reviewing research settings, knowledge gained through controlled studies, grantsmanship, and then identify topical areas in which new theories are needed. Researcher-practitioners are reminded that rehabilitation psychology benefits from a judicious mix of scientific rigor and real-world vigor. Conclusions: The authors close by advocating for theory-driven research programs that embrace a methodological pluralism, which will, in turn, advance new theory, produce meaningful research programs that inform practice, and realize the goals of this special issue of Rehabilitation Psychology--advances in research and methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a potential indicator of program quality, publication counts are of interest to colleagues who are invested in this activity, generally, and ultimately of little use in evaluating doctoral training. Quality programs are inherently multidimensional and complex, as is our profession; therefore, determinations of quality must explicitly define the essential elements of doctoral training and improve upon existing evaluation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To test the hypothesis that ineffective problem-solving abilities would be significantly predictive of risk for depression in caregivers of persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) after controlling for caregiver burden, caregiver health and demographic characteristics. Design: Correlational and logistic regression analyses of cross-sectional data. Participants: 57 women and 3 men (M age of caregivers=51.4, SD=10.1) caring for a relative with a TBI. Main outcome measure: Centers for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression scale (CES-D). Results: Twenty-nine caregivers (48.3%) had CES-D scores that met the criteria for risk of depression. An ineffective approach to problem solving, characterized by negative, avoidant, and careless/impulsive styles, and self-reported caregiver physical symptoms were significantly predictive of caregiver depression regardless of length of time caregiving, perceived burden, or demographic variables. Conclusions: Caregivers of persons with TBI who report physical health problems and who exhibit ineffective problem solving area at greater risk for depression, regardless of the time they have spent in their role as a caregiver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Examined the influence of mutual communal behaviors on the adjustment reported by persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their family caregivers. Previous research has found that persons who have a history of mutually communal behaviors in relationships may react differently to relationship changes after an acquired physical disability than dyads with few communal behaviors. Method: Family caregivers and persons with SCI were administered measures of mutual communal behaviors, depression, and life satisfaction. Structural equation modeling was used to test the relations among caregivers' communal behaviors and care recipients' communal behaviors, depression, and life satisfaction. Results: Caregiver and care recipient reports of communal behaviors were not significantly correlated. Significant paths indicated that care recipients' communal behavior scores were positively associated with their life satisfaction, and care recipients' depression was inversely associated with their life satisfaction. Caregivers' communal behavior scores were unrelated to their self-reported adjustment. Conclusions: Caregiver-care recipient dyads may differ in their perceptions of communal behaviors in their relationships. Although care recipient reports of communal behavior may be related to their life satisfaction, communal behaviors may not serve a similar function among caregivers of persons with SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]