Intimacy Research Articles

Intimate partner violence survivors' reported experiences of discrimination in mental health treatment settings.

Research indicates that survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) face substantial stigma and discrimination, with varying impacts based on demographic factors such as race and income. This study explored perceived discrimination among 88 IPV survivors across different racial backgrounds and income levels in mental health settings. Participants completed a mixed-method electronic survey assessing discrimination experiences related to survivor status, income, and race within mental health treatment. Results revealed high levels of perceived discrimination based on survivor status among both racially minoritized and majoritized survivors. However, racially minoritized survivors reported greater racial discrimination and associated stress within mental healthcare settings. Regardless of income level, all survivors reported significant discrimination experiences. Qualitative analysis highlighted factors perceived as helpful or unhelpful within mental health settings. This study underscores the need for further research on socioeconomic influences on stigma experiences among IPV survivors and suggests implications for provider training to better support survivors, especially those from diverse racial backgrounds.

Rainfall and intimate partner violence

Rainfall and intimate partner violence

Essential Care for Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence.

Essential Care for Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence.

Characterization of Rare Earth Elements in Cassiterite-Associated Minerals in Bangka-Belitung Islands, Indonesia

Rare earth elements (REEs) are crucial to numerous industries of high-technology as raw materials. The growth of a long-term relationship between REE supply and demand to develop hi-tech industries is becoming tight in the world market, while the mineral supply chain is being distorted by COVID-19. The availability of information and data regarding the REE resource potential and characteristics are interesting research subjects to examine its economic value as alternative sources. This research aims to provide basic information about the existence and characteristics of REEs in cassiterite-associated minerals located in Bangka and Belitung Islands. Fifty-one samples consisting of primary deposits, placer deposits, concentrates, and tailings were collected from the southern Bangka and Belitung region. The samples were analyzed using microscope, x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results show that the REE-bearing minerals comprised monazite and xenotime. Monazite, the most dominant REE-bearing mineral, contains light REEs (Ce-dominant), while xenotime contains heavy REE (Y-dominant). The results of SEM with energy-dispersive spectroscopy show that monazite contains other LREE (La and Nd), and xenotime also contains other HREE (Dy and Yb). Moreover, zircon and ilmenite can be considered as economical cassiterite-associated minerals that have other mineral inclusion, but have no REE contain.

Characterization of Rare Earth Elements in Cassiterite-Associated Minerals in Bangka-Belitung Islands, Indonesia

Rare earth elements (REEs) are crucial to numerous industries of high-technology as raw materials. The growth of a long-term relationship between REE supply and demand to develop hi-tech industries is becoming tight in the world market, while the mineral supply chain is being distorted by COVID-19. The availability of information and data regarding the REE resource potential and characteristics are interesting research subjects to examine its economic value as alternative sources. This research aims to provide basic information about the existence and characteristics of REEs in cassiterite-associated minerals located in Bangka and Belitung Islands. Fifty-one samples consisting of primary deposits, placer deposits, concentrates, and tailings were collected from the southern Bangka and Belitung region. The samples were analyzed using microscope, x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results show that the REE-bearing minerals comprised monazite and xenotime. Monazite, the most dominant REE-bearing mineral, contains light REEs (Ce-dominant), while xenotime contains heavy REE (Y-dominant). The results of SEM with energy-dispersive spectroscopy show that monazite contains other LREE (La and Nd), and xenotime also contains other HREE (Dy and Yb). Moreover, zircon and ilmenite can be considered as economical cassiterite-associated minerals that have other mineral inclusion, but have no REE contain.

A novel exergy-based cost and carbon footprint allocation method in the multi-energy complementary system

Energy efficiency, economic cost and carbon emission of multi-energy complementary systems are three key indicators to sustainable development in the low-carbon background. This paper analyzes the coupling relationships between energy, cost, and carbon emission flows in a combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system. The CCHP system consists of biomass gasification, co-firing internal combustion engine by product gas and natural gas, concentrated photovoltaic thermal solar collector, and absorption heat pump. A novel exergo-carbon method with exergo-economic analyses is proposed to determine the exergy cost and carbon footprint rate of each stream in the CCHP system, and the unit cost and carbon footprint of multiple products of electricity, cold energy and heat energy are obtained by the proposed method. The impacts of co-firing ratio and photovoltaic coverage ratio on energy and exergy efficiencies and cost and carbon footprint of products are analyzed. The sensitivity of biomass carbon footprint is performed to show its influences. The total cost of products including economic and carbon costs, is discussed to guide the carbon market's pricing strategies. Under the design conditions, the unit exergy cost of electricity, chilled water and hot water are 0.1094, 0.7659 and 0.466 $ (kWh exergy)−1, and their unit exergy carbon footprints are 0.3651, 3.9050, and 2.3780 kg CO2-eq (kWh exergy)−1, respectively.

The Expiration of the Obligation to substitute for Fulfillment

When we talk about the discharge of obligation, we refer to the situation where a person stops fulfilling their commitments or promises. There can be several reasons for this. One common reason is the inability to fulfill obligations, which can happen due to significant pressure on the person, either from other commitments or difficult circumstances. In such cases, the person may find themselves unable to fulfill their promises and obligations. Another reason could be a lack of interest in one's obligations. For example, the commitment may no longer be important to them, leading the person to ignore their obligations and bypass them without consideration. Alternatively, the person's surrounding circumstances may change, making the commitment unattainable. This can happen when there are changes in the person's economic, health, or social status. In such cases, the person may find themselves unable to fulfill their obligations due to the changes in their life. It is important to note that the discharge of obligation can have a negative impact on personal and professional relationships. When a person fails to fulfill their obligations, they lose credibility and others' trust in them. This can lead to deteriorating relationships and loss of professional opportunities. Therefore, it is important for a person to be honest and committed to their promises and obligations to maintain good relationships and achieve success in life. For the importance of this topic, I have written this brief research to understand how the discharge of obligation through a substitute for performance works. The discharge of obligation through a substitute for performance means that the person has not fulfilled their obligations or promises. There can be several reasons for this, such as the inability to fulfill obligations, lack of interest in obligations, or even changes in circumstances that make the commitment unattainable. Sometimes, the discharge of obligation can have a negative impact on personal and professional relationships, as the person loses credibility and others' trust in them. Therefore, it is better for a person to be honest and committed to their promises and obligations to maintain good relationships and succeed in life. Acceptance by the creditor, in the event of fulfilling his right, in exchange for what is intended by it to be replaced by all his dues and the deserving thing that almost serves as a substitute for this fulfillment. There are two pillars for fulfilling in exchange. There must be an agreement between the creditor and the debtor to replace the original place of fulfillment with the transfer of ownership of something else from the debtor to the creditor. The eligibility must be available in both parties, and the will of both parties must be free from defects, without any mistake, fraud, coercion, or exploitation, and the agreement must have a place and reason. The reason is to fulfill the original debt, and the place is to replace the original place with the transfer of ownership of something else from the debtor to the creditor. The agreement to fulfill in exchange should be proved according to the general rules of evidence, on the condition that if the creditor proves that he accepted to receive something he is not entitled to without reservation, then it is assumed, until the evidence proves otherwise, that he agreed for it to serve as a substitute for fulfillment. Agreement on the fulfillment in exchange is not enough; it must also be implemented by actually transferring ownership from the debtor to the creditor. Consequently, fulfillment in exchange cannot be done through a will, such as if the debtor bequeaths money to fulfill the debt, because a bequest can always be revoked and ownership of the bequeathed does not transfer to the beneficiary during the life of the testator. Also, fulfillment is not achieved if the debtor retains the right to reclaim the property he handed over as fulfillment of his debt.

SAVA syndemic and comorbid HIV risks among youth transitioning from the U.S. juvenile legal system

To date, no studies have examined well-established associations between substance abuse, intimate partner violence, and an increased susceptibility to HIV (also known as the SAVA syndemic), among transitioning age youth in the U.S. juvenile legal system. This secondary data analysis addresses this gap using baseline and 7th wave data from the Pathways to Desistance study (N = 709). We examined the relationship between SAVA syndemic variables, mental health, and HIV testing, differentiated by gender, while controlling for neighborhood conditions, motivation to succeed, and sociodemographic variables among cisgender, youth involved in the juvenile legal system using cross-sectional logistic regression and path models. 50% endorsed intimate partner violence. In path analyses, among males and females, neighborhoods (β = 0.18, p<.01) and illegal drug use (β= −0.91, p<.05) had significant direct effects on testing. Findings underscore the need for gender-specific HIV prevention policies targeting transitioning youth in the juvenile legal system.

SAVA syndemic and comorbid HIV risks among youth transitioning from the U.S. juvenile legal system

To date, no studies have examined well-established associations between substance abuse, intimate partner violence, and an increased susceptibility to HIV (also known as the SAVA syndemic), among transitioning age youth in the U.S. juvenile legal system. This secondary data analysis addresses this gap using baseline and 7th wave data from the Pathways to Desistance study (N = 709). We examined the relationship between SAVA syndemic variables, mental health, and HIV testing, differentiated by gender, while controlling for neighborhood conditions, motivation to succeed, and sociodemographic variables among cisgender, youth involved in the juvenile legal system using cross-sectional logistic regression and path models. 50% endorsed intimate partner violence. In path analyses, among males and females, neighborhoods (β = 0.18, p<.01) and illegal drug use (β= −0.91, p<.05) had significant direct effects on testing. Findings underscore the need for gender-specific HIV prevention policies targeting transitioning youth in the juvenile legal system.

‘We Are Stuck in Our Own Heads’: Immigrant Women and Institutional Practices in Iceland

ABSTRACT Immigrant women in Iceland have reported experiencing discrimination and marginalization in society and when interacting with institutions. However, this topic remains under-researched in the Icelandic context. The present article explores how institutional representatives construct immigrant women who experience intimate partner violence (IPV), their needs and their barriers to support-seeking through ideas of Icelandic exceptionalism and Whiteness. The analysis is based on two data sets: 16 interviews with institutional representatives who provide services for immigrants and/or women who experience IPV and 16 #metoo stories published by immigrant women in 2018. The analysis reveals that institutional representatives focus on immigrant women lacking trust in institutions and knowledge about their rights and procedures because of misconceptions in the immigrant community and lies told by violent partners. This individualistic perspective leads them to emphasize their responsibility in teaching immigrant women about their rights and to trust institutions. The institutional representatives fail to acknowledge structural marginalization and institutional discrimination intersecting with immigrant women’s experiences of IPV and support-seeking. As the institutional culture is rooted in the believe that equality is the basis of the welfare state and that Icelandic culture is free from discriminatory practices, institutional representatives rarely incorporate intersectional perspectives into institutional practices.

‘We Are Stuck in Our Own Heads’: Immigrant Women and Institutional Practices in Iceland

ABSTRACT Immigrant women in Iceland have reported experiencing discrimination and marginalization in society and when interacting with institutions. However, this topic remains under-researched in the Icelandic context. The present article explores how institutional representatives construct immigrant women who experience intimate partner violence (IPV), their needs and their barriers to support-seeking through ideas of Icelandic exceptionalism and Whiteness. The analysis is based on two data sets: 16 interviews with institutional representatives who provide services for immigrants and/or women who experience IPV and 16 #metoo stories published by immigrant women in 2018. The analysis reveals that institutional representatives focus on immigrant women lacking trust in institutions and knowledge about their rights and procedures because of misconceptions in the immigrant community and lies told by violent partners. This individualistic perspective leads them to emphasize their responsibility in teaching immigrant women about their rights and to trust institutions. The institutional representatives fail to acknowledge structural marginalization and institutional discrimination intersecting with immigrant women’s experiences of IPV and support-seeking. As the institutional culture is rooted in the believe that equality is the basis of the welfare state and that Icelandic culture is free from discriminatory practices, institutional representatives rarely incorporate intersectional perspectives into institutional practices.

Contributions of Soil Moisture and Vegetation on Surface-Air Temperature Difference during the Rapid Warming Period

The difference (DIF) between land surface temperature (Ts) and near surface air temperature (Ta) is the key indicator of the energy budget of the land surface, which has a more complex process than the individual Ts or Ta. However, the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of DIF remain incomplete. The contribution of vegetation and soil moisture (SM) as key driving factors to DIF is not yet clear. Here, we analyzed the spatiotemporal variation patterns of DIF in China from 2011 to 2023 using in situ Ts and Ta data. A convergent cross-mapping method was employed to explore the causal relationship between SM, NDVI and DIF, and subsequently calculated the contribution of NDVI and SM variations to DIF under different climatic backgrounds. The results indicate that during the study period, DIF values were all above 0 °C and showed a significant increasing trend with a national mean slope of 0.02 °C/a. In general, vegetation and SM have a driving effect on DIF, with vegetation contributing more to DIF (0.11) than SM (0.08) under different surface properties. The background values of SM and temperature have a significant effect on the spatial and temporal distribution of DIF, as well as the correlation of vegetation and soil moisture to DIF. The study outcomes contribute to a better understanding of the coupling relationship between the land surface and atmosphere, which are also crucial for addressing climate change and ecological environmental management.

Contributions of Soil Moisture and Vegetation on Surface-Air Temperature Difference during the Rapid Warming Period

The difference (DIF) between land surface temperature (Ts) and near surface air temperature (Ta) is the key indicator of the energy budget of the land surface, which has a more complex process than the individual Ts or Ta. However, the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of DIF remain incomplete. The contribution of vegetation and soil moisture (SM) as key driving factors to DIF is not yet clear. Here, we analyzed the spatiotemporal variation patterns of DIF in China from 2011 to 2023 using in situ Ts and Ta data. A convergent cross-mapping method was employed to explore the causal relationship between SM, NDVI and DIF, and subsequently calculated the contribution of NDVI and SM variations to DIF under different climatic backgrounds. The results indicate that during the study period, DIF values were all above 0 °C and showed a significant increasing trend with a national mean slope of 0.02 °C/a. In general, vegetation and SM have a driving effect on DIF, with vegetation contributing more to DIF (0.11) than SM (0.08) under different surface properties. The background values of SM and temperature have a significant effect on the spatial and temporal distribution of DIF, as well as the correlation of vegetation and soil moisture to DIF. The study outcomes contribute to a better understanding of the coupling relationship between the land surface and atmosphere, which are also crucial for addressing climate change and ecological environmental management.

Adversity in childhood as a risk and vulnerability factor for intimate partner violence

Adversity in childhood as a risk and vulnerability factor for intimate partner violence

Sectoral Composition of Outward FDI and its Impact on Export Diversification in Saudi Arabia

This research explores the relationship between outward foreign direct investment (FDI) and export diversification in emerging economies, with a focus on the case study of Saudi Arabia. Utilizing a multi-equation model and vector autoregression analysis, the study investigates various factors such as the level and sectoral composition of outward FDI, income levels, institutional factors, and regional trade agreements. The findings suggest that while outward FDI can influence export diversification, its impact varies based on factors such as the sectoral distribution of investments, income levels, and institutional quality. Additionally, cointegration and vector error correction models reveal long-term relationships among key variables, highlighting the complex interplay between economic development, governance, and investment patterns. Impulse response analysis sheds light on the dynamic nature of shocks and their effects on the economy over time, emphasizing the interconnectedness of variables. Variance decomposition analysis further elucidates the significance of shocks in explaining fluctuations in model variables, underscoring the systemic interdependencies at play. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms through which outward FDI influences export diversification and economic development in emerging economies like Saudi Arabia and institutional reforms are essential; strengthening institutions and improving regulatory frameworks can amplify the positive effects of outward FDI on export diversification.

Describing the effect of COVID-19 on sexual and healthcare-seeking behaviours of men who have sex with men in three counties in Kenya: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundWhile the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted HIV preventative services in sub-Saharan Africa, little is known about the specific impacts the pandemic has had on men who have sex with men (MSM)...

Role of Social Media Influencers in Brand Management in Indonesia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the Role of Social Media Influencers in Brand Management in Indonesia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The role of social media influencers in brand management in Indonesia has become increasingly significant, reshaping how brands connect with their target audiences and build their market presence. Influencers, with their substantial followings and authentic engagement, have emerged as powerful intermediaries between brands and consumers, effectively amplifying brand messages and enhancing brand visibility. By leveraging the trust and relatability that influencers command, brands in Indonesia have successfully tapped into niche markets, driving higher engagement rates and fostering stronger consumer loyalty. Influencers' ability to create compelling, personalized content allows brands to convey their values and narratives in a more relatable and impactful manner, resonating deeply with diverse consumer segments. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Influence Theory, Source Credibility Theory &amp; the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) may be used to anchor future studies on Role of Social Media Influencers in Brand Management in Indonesia. Brands should prioritize authenticity and transparency in their influencer partnerships to build trust and credibility with consumers. Encouraging influencers to disclose sponsored content and maintain genuine relationships with their followers enhances brand authenticity and fosters long-term brand-consumer relationships. While macro-influencers may have larger followings, micro-influencers often offer higher engagement rates and niche audience targeting. Brands should consider partnering with micro-influencers who align with their brand values and target demographics to maximize the impact of influencer marketing campaigns. Governments and organizations should invest in influencer education programs to equip influencers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate ethical and legal considerations in their content creation and brand partnerships. Providing influencers with guidance on best practices and compliance standards promotes responsible influencer marketing practices and enhances the overall integrity of the industry.

“Context and Safety Are Everything”: Exploring How Pansexual Individuals Mark and Express Their Identity

Sexuality marking serves to assert one’s sexuality to others. This can be done through language, behavior, esthetics, and/or other non-verbal cues (Morgan & Davis-Delano, 2016). This research explored how individuals who identify as pansexual mark their sexuality within different contexts. An online qualitative survey was completed by 45 participants aged between 18 and 58. Thematic analysis revealed 3 key themes: ‘You just don’t want to risk it’: The importance of safety on sexuality marking, ‘My sexuality wasn’t real’: Dismissal and stereotyping of the pansexual identity within intimate partner relationships, and ‘I’m very loud and proud’. This research is understood to be the first study on sexuality marking among the pansexual community and advances the understanding of the ways in which pansexual individuals navigate and express their identity.

Chinese and Hungarian Financial Relations

Banking and financial relations sometimes precede, sometimes follow, but in all cases reinforce economic and political cooperation. This is also the case between China and Hungary. China, which is increasingly assuming its role as a world power, is - for obvious pragmatic reasons - open towards the Central and Eastern European countries wedged between Asia and Western Europe. It is doing so along traditional Chinese trade routes, as part of the 'One Belt, One Road' programme. In this programme, Hungary can build on its known Eastern origins, its deeper understanding of different political systems, and its multifaceted personal relationships to establish successful economic and political cooperation with the financial sector playing its part.

Chinese and Hungarian Financial Relations

Banking and financial relations sometimes precede, sometimes follow, but in all cases reinforce economic and political cooperation. This is also the case between China and Hungary. China, which is increasingly assuming its role as a world power, is - for obvious pragmatic reasons - open towards the Central and Eastern European countries wedged between Asia and Western Europe. It is doing so along traditional Chinese trade routes, as part of the 'One Belt, One Road' programme. In this programme, Hungary can build on its known Eastern origins, its deeper understanding of different political systems, and its multifaceted personal relationships to establish successful economic and political cooperation with the financial sector playing its part.