The Art of Gratefulness

Researchers have conducted positive psychology interventions (PPI) that have demonstrated the benefits of practicing thanks. To our knowledge, prior studies have typically been conducted over a short time frame. This study expanded on the existing body of knowledge by evaluating the art of gratefulness over a 4-week duration among university students. Significant effects indicated that participants experienced fewer negative feelings and higher affect during the PPI than the during control

PACE: Parkinson Ambulation Cueing Expedition

[ABSTRACT ONLY; NO FULL TEXT] Impaired ambulation is detrimental to the quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). These impairments often present as shuffling, freezing, reduced cadence, stride length, and velocity, along with increased gait variability. Research has demonstrated how external auditory cues improve temporal aspects of these gait parameters, but not all auditory cueing modalities are equally effective. Mental singing is a discreet and potentially effective self-cueing technique, possibly due to its minimal cognitive demand and the absence of laryngeal vibrations, which may otherwise hinder gait performance. There is a gap in this area of research, thus this feasibility case study explored whether humming or whispering is a more effective vocal cueing modality, as humming involves vocal fold vibration while whispering does not. Two participants with PD completed twelve 28-meter walking trials under four randomized conditions: no cueing, mental singing, humming, and whispering. During cued conditions, participants vocalized "Row, Row, Row Your Boat." Gait kinematics and spatiotemporal outcomes were recorded using inertial measurement units and footswitches, while cognitive demand was assessed using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Whispering produced more consistent cadences (CV = 9.2% for Participant 1; 15.1% for Participant 2) and velocities (CV = 11.2% and 13.3%, respectively) than humming, although humming prompted a cadence aligned with the song's 100 bpm tempo and improved stride length from baseline. Mental singing prompted a cognitive demand less than, but comparable to, no cueing (average = -0.974 µM; SD = 0.399 µM), while whispering elicited the highest demand (average = 0.571 µM; SD = 1.04 µM). Although results do not strongly favor either vocal cueing condition, the low-demand, discreet nature of mental singing appears promising for improving PD gait without the potential disadvantages of vocalization. Further investigation into these cueing modalities is warranted, with an emphasis on direct measures of laryngeal activity and greater regard for the heterogeneity of PD symptoms. A deeper understanding of how different vocal and mental cueing strategies influence gait could equip individuals with PD to traverse their environments more easily. This has the potential to offer a free, self-guided, and accessible tool to ameliorate daily mobility and independence

Droneguard: Utilizing deep learning-empowered drones for autonomous identification of power infrastructure

Artificial Intelligence has grown dramatically in the last couple of years because of many advanced Deep learning models that use Natural Language processing, Image processing, Computer vision, etc. Drones are Technically becoming the mainstream of the workforce. Using these deep learning machine learning algorithms paired with drones, we can exponentially explore problems in the field in real-time. Droneguard is introducing a comprehensive system that combines deep learning with autonomous drone technology for the real-time identification and monitoring of power infrastructure and data mapping. We propose a custom YOLO model (you only look once), which is much faster than traditional models like R-CNN, Faster R_CNN, RPNN, etc.This model, trained on a dataset specifically annotated for power infrastructure detection, processes aerial footage to detect key infrastructure elements. Along with the YOLO model, we have an application where the system integrates Geotagging the locations, representing them on real-time maps using GPS modules on the drones, and this ensures future inspections or maintenance operations of the specific target areas with high precision. DRONEGUARD automates both the detection and navigation processes for infrastructure inspection and reduces the time, cost, and manual effort. Choosing hardware necessary, like Raspberry Pi with Coral TPU, Nvidia Jetson nano developer boards, which can run the program in Real Time.We develop the DRONEGUARD system by implementing deep learning with computer vision and adding features like geospatial mapping and autonomous navigation. This offers autonomous infrastructure inspection and monitoring. This project is a scalable and efficient solution that saves a lot of human resources and costs

"My Mother Went to Prison, but I Am Carrying the Sentence Too": The Experience of Parental Incarceration on Chicano Men

This thesis explores the persistent effects- the emotional, social, and developmental impacts of parental incarceration on Chicano men that experienced parental incarceration during childhood. Drawing from my experience of having both parents incarcerated throughout childhood to adulthood, I mindfully use this lens to conduct this qualitative study that focuses on the voices of twenty Chicano men primarily from Southern California, half of which are formerly incarcerated, through in-depth, semi-structured interview/plática sessions. Using Intersectional Criminology, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Life Course Theory, and Secondary Prisonization as theoretical frameworks, this research examines how parental incarceration shaped participants' sense of identity, relationships, educational experiences, coping mechanisms, and fatherhood. These findings are organized into four central themes: Loss of Innocence, The Impact of Parental Incarceration on Adulthood, Family Reconciliation, and Resilience and Healing. Participants reflected on generational trauma, experiences with their own incarceration, and the multifaceted toll it had on them throughout their life course. This study can contribute to the literature on the detrimental immediate and long-term

Treatment of Trauma and Grief in Older Adults Through an Integrative and Experiential Postmodern and Client-Centered Approach: A Case Study

This research paper is a case study focusing on the treatment of trauma and grief in an older adult through a client-centered approach. Through a review of relevant research related to treatment of older adults, a close look at the therapeutic relationship, and an account of the process and efficacy of a client-centered and postmodern therapeutic approach, this study contributes to research in the field clinical psychology providing an example of positive treatment outcomes and an improved quality of life for older adults

The Relationship Between Vertical Stiffness and Jump Height Adaptations Following Plyometric Training: A Systematic Review.

[ABSTRACT ONLY; NO FULL TEXT] This systematic review investigates the relationship between vertical leg stiffness (Kvert) and jump height adaptations following plyometric training. The main objective was to determine whether changes in Kvert are consistently associated with improvements in jump height. Eligible studies included human participants aged 10-30 years, of any training status, who completed plyometric interventions lasting at least four weeks and reported pre- and post- training values for both Kvert and jump height. Studies focusing only on acute responses, case studies, or those lacking accessible full texts were excluded. Relevant articles were identified through database searches in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and CSUN OneSearch. The NHLBI Quality Assessment Tool for Before-After Studies with No Control Group was used to evaluate the quality of each study. Data were synthesized qualitatively, with outcome measures summarized by changes in Kvert and jump height across six eligible studies, involving 96 participants. Sample sizes ranged from 14 to 32. While three studies showed improvements in both Kvert and jump height, the remaining studies showed improvements in jump height with no or negative changes in Kvert. High intensity, vertically directed training with progressive overload, especially interventions mimicking countermovement jump mechanics, were associated with improvements in both variables. Water-based or low intensity training often improved jump height independently of Kvert, likely due to reduced eccentric loading. Foot contact volume and intervention duration played a role in outcomes. Studies with more than 800 total foot contacts over 7-10 weeks showed more improvements in both variables. Shorter or lower volume interventions showed no Kvert improvement, potentially due to limited mechanical stimulus or concurrent sport demands. Additionally, adolescent groups displayed inconsistent Kvert adaptation, possibly due to developmental factors. Limitations of this review include small sample sizes, heterogeneity in interventions, and the absence of control group data despite some studies being randomized controlled trials. In conclusion, although Kvert and jump height are linked through the stretch shortening cycle, the relationship between jump height and Kvert following plyometric training is complex and not always directly proportional. Kvert appears more sensitive to mechanical loading and tendon adaptations, whereas jump height can be improved by neuromuscular strength and coordination. Outcomes depend on training specificity, volume, intensity, and participant characteristics

Understanding Exclusions Among Adoptees and Former/Foster Homeless Youth

Abstract Understanding Exclusion Among Adoptees, Former Foster, and Homeless Youth By Rosa Michel Master of Social Work Individuals with experiences in foster care, adoption, or youth homelessness often navigate a world where stigma and exclusion are part of their daily lives. Despite growing awareness, little attention has been given to understanding their experiences of exclusion in a holistic way. This study investigates how individuals with experiences of foster care, adoption, or youth homelessness experience exclusion. A survey was conducted to collect data from individuals who identify as having backgrounds in foster care, adoption, or homelessness (n=8). This exploratory study aimed to capture the exclusionary perspectives of those with these experiences. Findings revealed that individuals from these backgrounds commonly face bullying, invasive questions, negative comments, and discrimination. Many participants also reported feelings of shame and being denied resources or services. Furthermore, participants emphasized the need for compassion, respect, and increased awareness of trauma within organizations to create more supportive environments. They called for an increase in resources, understanding their needs, and offering continued support, especially for those pursuing higher education. In this study, implications for social work are discussed. Keywords: foster care, adoption, former youth, youth homelessness, citizenry exclusion, trauma- informed care, discriminatio

Immigrant Inclusion: A Scoping Literature Review

There is little consensus in the scientific literature on what constitutes immigrant inclusion, which may lead to varying understandings, subsequently impacting the reliability of studies. To address this gap in the literature, this study conducted a scoping literature review to analyze how immigrant inclusion is defined in academic literature. A total of 23 peer-reviewed articles were analyzed to identify key themes, trends, and gaps. Findings indicate no single, agreed-upon definition of immigrant inclusion, with definitions varying across legal, political, social, and cultural dimensions. Some studies describe inclusion as a process of extending rights to newcomers, while others frame it as an outcome like citizenship or full societal participation. The literature primarily focuses on North America and Black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) immigrant groups, with limited studies on European or Global South contexts. From an anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion perspective, current research often reinforces racialized narratives without structural analysis of power dynamics. This study contributes to scholarly understanding by systematically analyzing diverse conceptualizations of immigrant inclusion which has an implication for social work policy and practice.

Barriers to Care: Understanding Exclusionary Criteria for Foster Parent Licensure in the United States

There is limited research on the foster care licensing process in the United States. To address this scientific limitation, this study conducts a national investigation examining the foster care licensing process. Specifically, we draw upon critical race theory and citizenry exclusion theory to evaluate exclusionary elements embedded in state licensing requirements. Some of the exclusionary criteria include exclusion based on age, legal status, income level, marital status, and pet ownership. Further, many of the criteria have racial undertones. The results also reveal that foster licensing requirements are not accessible to the general public. We conclude with scientific and social work implications

Impact of Financial Incentives for Transitional Age Foster Youth Entering Adulthood: A Systematic Literature Review

Impact of Financial Incentives for Transitional Age Foster Youth Entering Adulthood: A Systematic Literature Review By Christine Preciado Master of Social Work Study Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to research whether financial incentives provided to transitional-aged foster youth entering adulthood impacted their transition to adulthood. Methods: Six databases and twenty-two keywords were used to select nineteen peer-reviewed articles. A diverse set of keywords was utilized to find studies relevant to our research. Findings: The findings indicated that minority foster youth benefited from ILP programs through improved access to education, employment, and housing support. They also emphasized the need for ILP programs to address the unique needs of minority youth. Discussion: The findings show that the financial support provided by programs like ILP improves housing, education, and employment outcomes for foster youth but falls short of addressing the unique needs of minority youth. These results suggest the need for more culturally responsive and equity-focused services in child welfare. Keywords: transitional age foster youth, Independent Living Program, impact of financial incentives and outcomes