Effective Intervention Programs Research Articles

Co-evolution dynamics of epidemic and information under dynamical multi-source information and behavioral responses

In the absence of effective treatment programs and limited medical resources, multi-source information dynamically evolves with an epidemic and motivates people to adopt behavioral responses, which contributes much to reducing their infection risk and suppressing the epidemic spread. Here, we aim at studying the effects of dynamical multi-source information and behavioral responses on the co-evolution of epidemic and information in time-varying multiplex networks. We propose the UAU-SIS (Unaware–Aware–Unaware– Susceptible–Infected–Susceptible) model with time-varying self-awareness and behavioral responses. Under the framework of time-varying multiplex networks and with a Microscopic Markov Chain Approach (MMCA), we analytically derive the epidemic thresholds for the proposed model. Experimental results for artificial networks show that time-varying behavioral responses can effectively suppress the epidemic spread with an increased epidemic threshold, while time-varying self-awareness can only reduce the scale of epidemic spread. In addition, the role of dynamical multi-source information in suppressing epidemic spread is limited. When the information transmission rate is beyond a certain critical value or the information efficiency is low, it will no longer affect the epidemic spread. Detailed analysis on the co-evolution of epidemic and information has to consider the heterogeneity of individuals in obtaining multi-source information and taking behavioral responses. Only when many people can obtain multi-source information and take behavioral responses, time-varying self-awareness and behavioral responses have a great impact on suppressing epidemic spread. Furthermore, we apply our proposed framework to two typical real-world networks and find that the results on real-world networks are consistent with those on artificial networks. Thus, the proposed method is expected to provide helpful guidance for coping with the COVID-19 or future emerging epidemics.

Adding Mobile Elements to Online Physical Activity Interventions Targeted at Adults Aged 50 Years and Older: Protocol for a Systematic Design.

BackgroundPhysical activity (PA) can increase mental and physical health in adults aged 50 years and older. However, it has been shown that PA guidelines are often not met within this population. Therefore, our research group developed 2 computer-tailored intervention programs in the last decade to stimulate PA: Active Plus and I Move. Although these programs were proven effective, positive effects diminished over time and attrition rates were relatively high. To respond to this, we will integrate 3 interactive mobile elements into the existing programs: activity tracker, ecological momentary intervention program, and virtual coach app.ObjectiveThe goal of the research is to define systematic and evidence-based steps for extending our online computer-based PA intervention programs with 3 interactive mobile elements.MethodsComponents often included in other (eHealth) design models were identified as key components and served as a base for the definition of systematic steps: exploration of context, involvement of the target population, prototype and intervention testing, and implementation. Based on these key components, 10 systematic steps were defined. The initial step is a literature search, with the results serving as a base for development of the low-fidelity prototypes in step 2. The pilot phase comprises the 3rd to 6th steps and includes semistructured interviews, pilot tests, and adaptations of the prototypes with intensive involvement of the target population of adults aged 50 years and older, where particular attention will be paid to lower educated persons. The 7th step is an effect evaluation in the form of a randomized controlled trial. During the 8th step, the most effective intervention programs will be selected and reinforced. These reinforced intervention programs will be used during the design of an implementation plan in the 9th step and the subsequent field study in the 10th step.ResultsThe project will be executed from December 2019 to December 2023. During this period, the systematic approach presented will be practically executed according to the methodological procedures described.ConclusionsBased on the 4 identified key components, we were able to design an evidence-based systematic design approach for separately adding 3 mobile elements to our existing online PA intervention programs. The 10 steps are presented as a useful approach to guide future eHealth design studies.International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/31677

Clinical relevance of stress biomarkers as health-disease indicators

Stress is a protective mechanism inherent in living organisms. In humans, it fulfils an adaptive function, capable of generating responses at different levels: physiological, metabolic, endocrine, cognitive, among others. Constant exposure to stressful events or stimuli is capable of exceeding the person's resources, causing discomfort and progressively wearing down health. Recently, a significant increase in stress-associated diseases has been observed. The consequences of this problem are multiple; personal, socioeconomic, and professional difficulties. Current evidence shows that daily stress will tend to increase in the upcoming years, affecting the quality of life and mental health of the population in general. Both environmental and natural factors as well as the economic and social repercussions derived from the current pandemic tend to further aggravate this problem. Given this scenario, developing strategies that promote mental health and the prevention of its associated pathologies is a priority. One way to develop more effective intervention programs is through the use of biomarkers, many of which show high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, and which represent a wide interest within the clinical area and psychotherapeutic intervention. The objective of this article is to make a general review of the main biomarkers used in clinical practice, as well as potential biomarkers that allow the identification of early signs of health problems related to mental stress in a more efficient and accessible way.

Occupational therapy intervention in the hand grasp strength of post-COVID-19 individuals: A proposal for a clinical protocol

ABSTRACT This study focused on the intervention of occupational therapy in improving hand grasp strength in individuals infected with COVID-19, who were hospitalised. This study aims to identify which of three types of intervention (conventional, using Biometrics E-link® G200 with game interface or no direct occupational therapy intervention) improves hand grasp strength in individuals who had COVID-19. The sample has 120 participants divided randomly into one control group and two experimental groups. To assess the necessary parameters, a dynamometer, the Frontal Assessment Battery and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand will be used. The control group will do the assessment along the same lines as the others but will receive the treatment at the end of the clinical trial. It is known that hand grasp strength is frequently used in activities of daily living so, the results may facilitate the selection of more effective intervention programmes to obtain health gains in the population that had COVID-19.

Effect of nurse-led lifestyle modification follow up program on health outcomes and quality of life among post myocardial infarction patients: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background India has among the world's highest burden of cardiovascular disease, potentially contributed by myocardial infarction. Despite growing trouble, there are no known post-discharge programs & randomized trials reporting health status outcomes & quality of life among post-myocardial infarction patients. Cardiac rehabilitation programs reduce mortality, therefore, it is crucial to understand the local burden of the disease, common challenges, public perceptions, develop timely & effective interventional programs. Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nurse-led lifestyle modification follow-up program on health outcomes & quality of life among post-myocardial infarction patients. Methods A two-arm randomized controlled trial was adopted & 104 post-myocardial infarction patients were recruited from August to December 2021. An equal number of participants were randomly assigned to intervention & control group by random number table generator. The control group patients received routine care, while the intervention group was provided routine care along with a nurse-led lifestyle modification follow-up program(health education, educational booklet, & telephone follow- up). A low-cost intervention based on information-motivation-behavioural skill model was developed. It was designed according to the needs of patients to know their risk factors, help patients establish a knowledge base, & adapt to the post-illness lifestyle changes. Data were assessed & compared by using the demographic datasheet, health outcomes datasheet, & MacNew heart disease quality of life questionnaire. All evaluations were conducted at baseline after 12 weeks post-discharge, by face-to-face interview & biophysiological measurements. Results The nurse-led lifestyle modification follow-up program was convenient for clinical application. The intervention group showed a appreciable improvement in low density lipoprotein(p=0.045), systolic blood pressure(p=0.009), diastolic blood pressure(p=0.044), body mass index(p=0.043), and NT ProBNP(p=0.007). The program effectively improved the lifestyle behaviours thereby considerably improving the quality of life in all the subscales-physical, emotional & social (p<0.001) after 12 weeks of discharge. Conclusion In the Indian context, it is a novel & extensive approach to improve access to health care and emphasizes post-discharge self-management. The greatest benefit of this program was allowing the intervention group participants to consult with us immediately. Since lifestyles vary among different individuals, we considered individuality when providing education & involving them in implementation of an intervention to enhance their confidence & ultimately achieve optimal health outcomes & quality of life. The findings of this study are important for health care professionals caring for post-myocardial infarction patients & direct incorporation of such programs into routine practice to reduce morbidity & mortality.

Evidence-Based Corrective Exercise Intervention for Forward Head Posture in Adolescents and Young Adults Without Musculoskeletal Pathology: A Critically Appraised Topic.

Habitual overuse of cellphones is on the rise among adolescents and young adults. Those who maintain a flexed neck posture when using a cellphone for extended periods possess an elevated risk for developing forward head posture (FHP). Chronic FHP can lead to painful medical disorders affecting the head, neck, and shoulders. Both stretching and strengthening exercises are advocated interventions to address this postural abnormality; however, due to a wide range of corrective exercise programming in the literature, the decision for which exercises to prescribe for this condition can be challenging for clinicians. For adolescents and young adults without musculoskeletal pathology, what are the most frequent stretching and strengthening exercises incorporated into effective FHP intervention programs supported by current randomized control trials? A combined total of 5 stretches and 8 strengthening exercises were identified across 3 studies of level 1b evidence that successfully impacted FHP using a combined stretching and strengthening corrective exercise intervention. The supine chin tuck and a sternocleidomastoid stretch were utilized in all 3 studies, while scapular retraction and a pectoralis stretch were included in 2 of the 3 studies. Based on the results of this appraisal, the most frequent stretches and strengthening exercises incorporated into effective FHP intervention programs supported by current randomized control trials focused on adolescents or young adults without musculoskeletal pathology include a sternocleidomastoid stretch, pectoralis stretch, the supine chin tuck, and scapular retraction. There is "Good" to "Excellent" evidence from 3 level 1b randomized control trials to support the inclusion of a sternocleidomastoid stretch, pectoralis stretch, the supine chin tuck, and scapular retraction exercises into a corrective exercise program to address forward head posture.

Smokeless Tobacco: Pattern and Awareness in a Rural Area of Bangladesh

Background: Smokeless tobacco consumption has contributed nothing except diseases, disability and death. But assessment of awareness and knowledge regarding its use has less been studied to the extent as that of smoking. The study was undertaken to assess the pattern of use and awareness of smokeless tobacco among rural community.
 Materials and methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 310 respondents selected through systemic sampling method, aged 18 years, residing at least for 10 years in Noakhali district in Bangladesh. This study was conducted from May to November 2013. Data were collected with a pretested questionnaire through face-to-face interview. 
 Results: Smokeless Tobacco (SLT) use was prevalent among 45.8% of respondents. Higher proportion of females than males used SLT. Zarda was the common form in more than half of the users. Among daily users, self-interest was the main factor for initiation and mean age of starting was 35 years. Per day frequency of SLT use for 1-8 times was in two-thirds of the daily users. Most of the respondents knew that SLT is injurious to health. About two-thirds of them mentioned SLT as addictive. More than one-thirds of the respondents had knowledge that smoking is more injurious than SLT. However, 30% of the respondents knew that both smoking and SLT were equally addictive. Excluding the former users, majority of the respondents knew that SLT might be quitted. 
 Conclusion: Multistage effective behavioral change intervention programs are the preferable way to overcome this lifestyle-related health problem.
 JCMCTA 2022 ; 33 (1) : 166-172

A Grounded Theory Approach to Navigating Infertility Care During U.S. Military Service.

In this study, we aimed to understand how active duty service members and their partners navigate the infertility care process within the Military Health System (MHS) while managing a military career. We obtained Institutional Review Board approval to employ a qualitative design using grounded theory methods. We recruited participants using purposive sampling, followed by theoretical sampling. We derived data from demographic questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Consistent with grounded theory methods, we began analysis with line-by-line coding and moved to focused coding. We employed constant comparative analysis throughout the process to name, categorize, and conceptualize data and relationships. The participants included 28 patients, five partners, nine health care providers, and two military leaders. The infertility care process began with active duty service members and their partners recognizing the desire to have a child and discovering infertility, followed by deciding to seek infertility care. The experience was temporally bound within the context of the military environment. We identified the following themes, which described facilitators and barriers to accessing care: Duty station location, career stage, military versus the civilian cost of services, command climate, and policy. These facilitators and barriers varied widely across the Department of Defense (DoD), which resulted in fragmented and inconsistent care cycles, contributed to emotional and physical stress, and created tension between career progression and family formation. Understanding how military couples perceive and manage demands of infertility care may enhance access to care, decrease patient costs, improve outcomes, result in better support for military couples who experience infertility, and ultimately improve the health and military readiness of our armed forces. The results support the need for action by providers, policy makers, and military leaders to develop effective infertility treatment programs and policies in the DoD.

Determining the direction of prediction of the association between parasympathetic dysregulation and exhaustion symptoms

Stress-related exhaustion symptoms have a high prevalence which is only likely to increase further in the near future. Understanding the physiological underpinnings of exhaustion has important implications for accurate diagnosis and the development of effective prevention and intervention programs. Given its integrative role in stress-regulation, the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous systems has been a valid starting point in the exploration of the physiological mechanisms behind exhaustion. The aim of the present study was to examine the directionality and specificity of the association between exhaustion symptoms and vagally-mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV), a relatively pure measure of parasympathetic tone. Exhaustion symptoms and vmHRV were measured at four annually assessment waves (2015–2018) of the Dresden Burnout Study. A total sample of N = 378 participants who attended at least two of the four annual biomarker measurements were included in the present analyses. Cross-lagged multi-level panel modelling adjusting for various covariates (e.g., age, sex, BMI) revealed that vmHRV was meaningfully predictive of exhaustion symptoms and not vice versa. In addition, these effects were specific for exhaustion symptoms as no effect was shown for the other burnout sub-dimensions, or for depressive symptoms. Our findings indicate a clear link between exhaustion symptoms and vmHRV which may hold great potential for both enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of exhaustion symptoms.

Parents’ Perception of Child Weight Status, Risk Factors and Health Concern of Childhood Obesity: A Systematic Review

The increased prevalence of childhood obesity is becoming a public health concern as it is related to numerous health implications. Parental perception of child’s weight status is an important factor for reducing childhood obesity burden. Parental perception of the risk factors and health outcomes of obesity are important in prevention and management of childhood obesity. However, previous reviews focused mainly on parental perceptions about healthy behaviors to reduce the burden of childhood obesity. Thus, this systematic review was carried out to investigate parental perceptions of their child weight status as well as risk factors and health concern of childhood obesity. A systematic review was conducted and was reported in accordance with PRISMA statement on studies between 2012 and 2017 through a variety of database like CINAHL, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Cochrane Library. However, out of 2,334 articles identified, only 35 studies were included, which originate mostly from high-income countries. The results revealed that parents’ misperception rate of their children’s weight varies from 9.6% to 90%, while parents perceptive that only genetic factors, non-vegetable-consumption or low physical activity and environmental factors are the key risk factors of childhood obesity. Hence, parents’ of obese children estimate their children to be at risk at having hypertension, heart disease, depression, and diabetes. In conclusion, parents have difficulty in correctly perceiving the obesity status of their children. Health care workers should be aware of the parents’ wrong perception of their children’s weight status. The result of this review may be used to develop an effective intervention programs aimed at reducing the burden of childhood obesity which focus on the parental perception of the risk factors contributing to childhood obesity.

Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategies for Addressing Drugs and Substance Abuse in Selected Counties in Kenya

Introduction: Drugs and substance abuse is one of the most pervasive problems in Kenya placing a great economic, social, and health burden on the society. If left unaddressed, the country risks losing generations and development opportunities due to the diversion of resources to address the problem. Therefore in lieu of the complexities of drugs and substance abuse, difficulties, and cost of treatment, the development of effective treatment and prevention programs is a crucial part of a public health system. This study sought to identify strategies that can be embedded in the health systems framework of Kenya for the prevention and management of drug and substance abuse. Methods: The paper reports qualitative findings from a cross-sectional mixed method study conducted between 2017 and 2018 in four counties; Isiolo, Kajiado, Murang’a, and Nyamira selected following a review of Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Cluster Coordinators’ reports of priority research needs. Separate in-depth interviews were conducted with purposively selected; previous abusers (64), current abusers (127), opinion leaders (64), county officials (21), and health workers (64). Data was transcribed, translated, and analysed manually by identified thematic areas and by a statistical computer package, QSR NVIVO 12. Results: The identified strategies were: self-driven, social support, law enforcement, and rehabilitation. Self-driven strategies reported were; reduced consumption, keeping busy and off a bad company with highlighted challenges of; peer pressure, withdrawal symptoms, and idleness. The respondents suggested withdrawal management, job creation and counselling as measures to curb abuse of drugs and substances. Social support through love, acceptance, and social protection provided by family, community, faith-based, and non-governmental organisations was reported as helpful amid challenges such as stigma, familial problems, and joblessness. Awareness creation, counselling and economic empowerment were mentioned as important for social support. Law enforcement through arrests, prosecution, and disruption of drug distributions was reported as an important strategy with barriers related to corruption, poor community-police relationships, and lack of clear laws being highlighted. Opportunities for addressing the barriers included; community involvement, stakeholders’ partnerships, and devolving National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) functions. Rehabilitation was another identified strategy with funding needed to provide adequate facilities and human resources to provide such services. Conclusion: The identified strategies are effective in the management and control of drug and substance abuse. However, a multi-sectoral approach is needed within the public healthcare system to curb the risk of social, economic and health crises related to drugs and substance abuse in Kenya.

The impacts of a combined exercise on executive function in children with ADHD: A randomized controlled trial.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of aerobic and neurocognitive exercise with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels on executive functions (EFs) and sleep quality in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In a parallel two-group randomized controlled trial (RCT) design, 80 children with ADHD aged 6-12 years (Mage=8.46 ± 1.50) were assigned to either a 12-week combined aerobic-and neurocognitive-exercise experimental group (EG; three sessions per week for 60-min) or a wait-list control group (CG). Forty children with typical development aged 6-12 years (Mage=8.49 ± 1.51) were recruited as healthy controls (HC). A Polar heart rate (HR) monitor was used to track the exercise intensity (60%-80% predicted HRmax) throughout the intervention. Three core EFs (inhibitory control [IC], working memory [WM], and cognitive flexibility [CF]) were assessed by computer-based neurocognitive tasks, and sleep quality and physical activity (PA) levels were assessed by self-report questionnaires. The results showed that the exercise intervention was beneficial for improving three core EFs, shortening sleep latency and decreasing sleep disturbances. The intervention effects on EFs and sleep quality appeared to be sustained for at least 12 weeks in EG. In addition, children with ADHD after intervention showed non-significant differences in IC, CF and multiple sleep quality outcomes compared with HC. Furthermore, a significant PA-EFs-sleep correlation was found in children with ADHD after the intervention. The findings suggest that a 12-week combined aerobic and neurocognitive exercise intervention appears to be an effective treatment program for EFs and sleep quality in children with ADHD.

Algorithm based online speech evaluation - the new horizon

IntroductionThe VML method was developed and designed to treat Apraxia of speech focusing on the Autistic population. After experiencing over 2000 children in many countries around the world, we have developed an algorithm which represents the VML analysis process. The algorithm includes almost 1000 conditions and was found reliable with copying the in-person VML evaluation. The algorithm generates a treatment program with 95% accuracy of the elected treatment topics.ObjectivesThe objective of the VML software is to enable the VML analysis and treatment at low cost to wide population around the world, at home. The program includes main treatment topics, detailed exercises, picture and videos demonstrating the proposed treatment and general guidelines. The software users are supported by the VML experts around the world.MethodsBased on the algorithm, we have developed a software which can produce a highly detailed motor speech treatment program. The software is web based, available now in English, Mandarin and soon in other languages as well. The user is required to fill in the speech data using the software interface.ResultsThe uniqe sofetware was tested and found to have 90% reliability rate in comparison to a VML expert treatment program. In addition it was found to have the ability to over come mild evaluation mistakes while producing an effective treatment program.ConclusionsThe MYVML evaluation software is innovation in the field of speech treatment, striving to share the knowledge and give the treatment tool to as many practitioners and families as possible.DisclosureI am the developer of the VML software described in the abstract

Gesture Development in Chinese-Speaking Preschool Children With Autism and the Roles of Parental Input and Child-Based Factors.

Children with autism are found to have delayed and heterogeneous gesture abilities. It is important to understand the growth of gesture abilities and the underlying factors affecting its growth. Addressing these issues can help to design effective intervention programs. Thirty-five Chinese-speaking preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (M age = 4.89 years, SD = 0.91; four girls) participated in four play sessions with their parents over 9 months. Their child-based factors including autism severity, intellectual functioning, and expressive language abilities were assessed. The gestures (deictic, iconic, and conventional) of the children and their parents were coded. Growth curve analyses were conducted to examine individual growth trajectories and the roles of child-based factors and parental input in shaping the children's gesture development. Child-based factors and parental input predicted gesture development differently. Parents' gestures positively predicted their children's gestures of the same type. Autism severity negatively predicted iconic and conventional gestures. Overall growth was found in deictic rather than iconic and conventional gestures. Subgroup variation was also found. Specifically, children with better expressive language ability showed a decrease in deictic gestures. An increase in iconic and conventional gestures was found in children with more severe autism and those with poorer expressive language ability and intellectual functioning, respectively. Different types of gestures may have different growth trajectories and be predicted by different child-based factors. Particular attention should be given to children who never produced iconic gestures, which is more challenging and may not develop over a short period, and hence require direct instruction.

The role of parenting behavior’s on the intergenerational covariation of grit

This study evaluates parental grit’s covariation with offspring grit and the moderating role of different parenting behaviors using an 11-country study of young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 (n = 20,008) and their parents (n = 5945). Results show that parental grit is associated with offspring’s grit with moderation of parenting present across the models presented. The study also highlights the direct association of various parenting dimensions with grit, especially the positive relation of parental control. These results have important implications for understanding young people’s grit development and learning mechanisms. Findings can serve as foundations for effective intervention programs and practices in this field designed to improve enthusiasm, interest, capacity for hard work, engagement, and motivation in the long run.

An important component to investigating STEM persistence: the development and validation of the science identity (SciID) scale

BackgroundScience, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) influence almost every aspect of our daily lives. However, despite the high demand for STEM occupational talent, the STEM pipeline continues leaking, with less than one-sixth of high school students pursuing STEM majors and only 50% of entering STEM college majors matriculating into STEM fields. Science identity has been identified as the most powerful predictor of high school students pursuing an undergraduate STEM major as reported by Chang (Machine learning approach to predicting STEM college major choice, American Educational Research Association (AERA), San Francisco, 2020). Though the construct is gaining lots of attention, it remains largely ill-defined, not operationalized at the high school level, and not based upon traditional identity theory. The purpose of this study was to develop a valid and reliable instrument that measures high school students’ science identity, the Science Identity (SciID) Scale.ResultsSubject experts and a small group of high school students provided content validation for the proposed scale. Exploratory factor analysis revealed an optimal two-factor solution, reflecting the traditional two-dimensions of identity theory: Exploration and Commitment. Cronbach’s alpha revealed good internal consistency for both factors. Finally, structural equation modeling confirmed the convergent validity of the instrument with the external variables of science achievement and science career interest. Furthermore, the divergent validity between science identity and science self-concept was also confirmed.ConclusionsInitial results indicate that the SciID Scale is a valid and reliable instrument that accurately measures a high school student’s standing on this construct. The soundness of this instrument will enable policy makers and practitioners to design more effective intervention programs aimed at cultivating high school students’ science identity.

Efficacy of the Therapeutic Game "Trisquel" in the Treatment of Patients With Substance-Related Disorders Randomized Clinical Study.

Substance-related disorders (SRD) have been consistently associated with alterations both in cognitive and executive functions, which affect to patients’ quality of life. The main objective of this work was to test the beneficial cognitive effects on patients with SRD after the implementation of “Trisquel,” an intervention program in board game format. To check the effectiveness of Trisquel program, a group of people diagnosed with SRD was randomly assigned either to the experimental group or to the control group. The experimental group performed Trisquel structured sessions twice a week during 3 months, while the control group performed routinely conventional therapeutic activities with the same frequency and duration. Neuropsychological tests were done to both groups before and after the intervention. After the 3 months of intervention the experimental group showed the following statistically significant improvements for WAIS-III subtests: number key, symbol search, arithmetic, direct digits, inverse digits, total digits, letters-numbers in the processing speed index and in the working memory index. Regarding STROOP tests, statistically significant progress was observed in the phonetic fluency letter P, phonetic fluency letter M, phonetic fluency letter R subtests, word-reading and word-color subtests. The control group only obtained improvements for WAIS-III subtests of arithmetic, letters-numbers and in the working memory index. The results of this study confirm that “Trisquel” is an effective intervention program for people diagnosed with SRD, getting improvements in processing speed (psychomotor and reading), attentional subprocesses (focused and sustained) and executive functions (updating and inhibition).

The Role of Technical Support and Effective Communication to Successful Intervention Program on Palm Oil Mills

The palm oil mills demand the workers perform manual material still managing activities, which results in pain complaints leading to possible disability. These pain complaints can be resolved by implementing an intervention program involving all parties. Most previous studies only investigated the program implementation, and few addressed workers' behavioral responses. Organizational culture, which may affect the correlation between organizational climate and the effectiveness of intervention programs, has never been properly studied. This study aims to determine how the interaction between technical support and effective management-worker communication on the effectiveness of the intervention program by considering the influence of organizational culture. Understanding worker acceptance of intervention programs can determine how to implement them effectively. All these research variables were analyzed simultaneously using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) software, in which data were obtained from questionnaires given to 280 people working in 20 government-owned and private-owned palm oil mills in North Sumatra Province. The results show that technical support and effective communication affect the effective intervention program, but effective communication has a bigger effect. Organizational climate mediates the effects of technical support and effective communication on effective intervention programs. Organizational culture negatively moderates the correlation between organizational climate and effective intervention programs. The dimensions of organizational culture in palm oil mills are high power distance, high uncertainty avoidance, collectivism, masculinity, long-term orientation, and restraint.

Development and Effectiveness Evaluation of Mindfulness-Cognitive Schema Therapy Program for Decreased Alcohol Craving, Increased Abstinence Self-Efficacy, Mindfulness and Self-compassion of Alcohol Use Patients

본 연구는 알코올 사용 장애 환자의 음주 갈망 감소와 금주 자기효능감, 마음챙김, 자기자비 증진을 위해 정신건강의학과 병원에 입원치료 중인 알코올 사용 장애 환자를 대상으로 마음챙김-인지도식 프로그램을 개발하고 그 효과를 검증하였다. 본 프로그램은 8회기로 구성하였고, 처치 집단에 12명, 통제 집단에 12명을 할당하였으며, 사전-사후 검사를 실시하였다. 연구 결과, 사전-사후 검사에서 처치 집단의 경우, 음주 갈망, 금주 자기효능감, 마음챙김, 자기자비 수준의 유의한 차이가 있었고, 통제 집단은 차이가 없는 것으로 나타났다. 집단 간 분석에서 처치 집단이 통제 집단보다 금주 자기효능감, 마음챙김, 자기자비 수준이 통계적으로 유의하게 증가하였고, 음주 갈망은 유의하게 감소되었다. 이는 기존의 치료 프로그램의 한계점을 보완하는 효과적인 치료 프로그램으로서 기능할 수 있음을 시사한다.The purpose of this study was to develop a mindfulness-cognitive schema therapy program and evaluate the effectiveness of the program for the alocholics and for the purpose of reducing the alcohol craving and improving the abstinence self-efficacy, mindfulness and self-compassion. In the pre and post treatment, the patients performed the Mindfulness Scale, the Self-Compassion Scale, the Drinking Craving Scale, and the Abstaining Self-Efficacy Scale. The treatment group experienced total of 8 sessions of program. As a result of this study, first, there was a significant mean differences in alcohol craving, abstinence self-efficacy, mindfulness and self-compassion between pre and post test in treatment group. Second, there were statistically significant increase in mindfulness, self-compassion, abstinence self-efficacy score in the treatment group compared to the control group and a significant decrease in the alcohol craving score. These results suggest the possibility of functioning as an effective treatment program that complements the limitations of existing treatment programs.

Predicting multicultural adolescents' depression in South Korea: Roles of ego-resilience and social support

PurposeDepressive symptoms among adolescents are a major concern for increased risk of adverse health condition outcomes later in life. Specifically, previous studies have reported that multicultural adolescents experience more depressive symptoms than non-multicultural ones. Using the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey, this study examined the relationships between ego-resilience, social support, and depression among multicultural adolescents in South Korea, as well as the moderating effect of social support on the association between ego-resilience and depression. Design and methodsA total of 1500 multicultural adolescents were included in the analyses, where generalized estimating equation models were employed. ResultsDepression scores increased slightly from 2012 to 2015. Higher levels of ego-resilience, family support, and friend support were associated with lower levels of depression, while teacher support was not a significant predictor. The moderating effect of friends and family support on the association between ego-resilience and depression was not statistically significant. ConclusionsTo reduce the level of depression among multicultural adolescents, future research should develop interventions that enhance ego-resilience ability, as well as necessary social systems that strengthen family and friend support. Practice implicationsSupportive interventions, such as enhancing ego-resilience to reduce depression should be provided to multicultural adolescents. It is recommended to include family and friends to develop effective intervention programs for multicultural adolescents who are suffering from depression.