Veiled Pain through Anonymity: Exploring Emotions about Nonsuicidal Self-Injury on Reddit

Nonsuicidal self-injury conversations can occur under veiled discussions,whether online or in-person, due to stigmatized emotions associated with self-harm. Previous studies addressednonsuicidal self-injury on Reddit, yet do not specifically address emotions expressed within posts. The present study assessed emotional discourse in 996 subreddit posts about self-harm engagement and related circumstances, through an inductive, thematic analysis design. Emotions consisted of four identified themes: (a) lonely and looking for belonging on Reddit, (b) despair and exhaustion trying to stop the behavior, (c) humiliated and scared after disclosure to in-person supports, and (d) thankful for subreddit support. Members discussed Reddit as a space to belong and seek support when fearing in-person disclosure, while also describing perceived wound depth inadequacy while attempting belongingness. As a result of this study, we contend emotional expression in virtual spaces can serve a dual purpose, as individuals may experience loneliness in-person but belongingness online. Simultaneously, individuals can benefit fromtheuse of online communities for disclosure practice, obtaining coping methods, and general support, potentially boosting confidence for in-person disclosure. Containing both therapeutic benefits and potentially detrimental consequences, virtual spaces, such as Reddit, can be used in clinical settings, albeit cautiously. Implications for clinical mental health professionals are included

Regulation of Human IL-9 production by lipid metabolism

T lymphocytes contribute to host defense and inflammation producing cytokines in response to antigenic stimuli. CD4 T cell activation induces dramatic changes to cellular metabolism for supporting their growth and differentiation into effector subsets. Distinct subsets have been named Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, Th22, Tfh and Treg based on their characteristic effector cytokines and transcription factors expressed. Th9 cells are one of the most recent subsets identified. While the cytokines IL-4, TGF-β and IL-21 promote differentiation into Th9 cells, metabolic factors regulating this process remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that lipid metabolism could regulate Th9 cell differentiation which may have an impact on immune responses in inflammatory disorders. To assess the role of lipid metabolism in human Th9 cell differentiation, naïve CD4 T cells were purified from blood of healthy volunteers and cultured in the presence or absence of compounds targeting PPAR-γ, acetyl-CoA-carboxylase 1 (ACC1), and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Rosiglitazone, PPAR-γ agonist, resulting in a dose dependent suppression of IL-9 production that was not dependent on glycolytic pathways. On the other hand, ACC1 inhibition increased IL-9 expression, indicating that Th9 differentiation is suppressed by de novo fatty acid production. These results indicate possible metabolic targets for regulating Th9-mediated immune responses and show that lipid modulators have a significant impact on IL-9 production

20250103: Sigma Alpha Epsilon, 2018-2024

These items include materials from an alumnus of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon organization at Marshall University from 2018-2024. Items were received in late 2024 from Austin Stewart. Please download the finding aid for a full list of contents

Infusing Adverse Childhood Experiences Research Across the CACREP Core Curriculum

Approximately two-thirds of the United States population experience Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) that are associated with increased risk for negative physical, mental, and behavioral health outcomes. Research on the effects of ACEs is largely conducted and published outside of counseling fields, yet has direct implications for counselors in the conceptualization, assessment, and interventions for a variety of complaints presented by clients across the lifespan and in any treatment setting. Integrating ACEs research into foundational counseling courses can prepare counselors-in-training (CITs) to recognize the impact of ACEs for clients and identify which interventions will promote client wellness. In this article, we provide counselor educators with research on ACEs and associated effects relevant to each area of the foundational curriculum required by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Each section also includes a suggested course activity or assignment that can be customized for instructor preferences or student needs and integrated into existing syllabi

Ignatzschineria species Bacteremia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Ignatzschineria species, a member of the Gammaproteobacteria class of bacteria, is a gram-negative, aerobic, non-spore forming rod. This emerging human pathogen has been found in the digestive tract of the parasitic Wohlfarhtia magnifica fly. Infections in humans are uncommon and are usually associated with maggot infestation (wound myiasis). Rare cases of Ignatzschineria species bacteremia have been reported in individuals with myiasis of chronic skin wounds. Current literature describes 4 known species of Ignatzschineria: I. indica, I. larvae, I. ureiclastica, and I. cameli. An additional 2 cases of Ignatzachineria bacteremia were caused by Ignatzschineria species that were “unable to be identified;” they appeared to be closely related to I. larvae and I. ureclastica culture type. This case discusses Ignatzschineria bacteremia in a 66-year-old undomiciled male from the United States with myiasis of a chronic leg ulcer and reviews the literature on Ignatzschineria bacteremia

Student affairs professionals\u27 perspectives as first-generation college students

The qualitative study aimed to investigate the perceptions of student affairs professionals (SAPs) who identify as first-generation college students (FGCSs). SAPs are essential in supporting institutional missions, yet the field faces high attrition rates, particularly among earlycareer professionals. By examining these SAPs\u27 perceptions regarding their professional experiences, along with the support received and influences on their career paths, we may better understand the barriers to workplace inclusion and career readiness. Although much research explores the factors driving attrition among SAPs, limited attention is paid to the SAPs whose identities as FGCS impact their professional experiences and influence their decisions to stay in or leave the field. This quantitative study investigated whether barriers to workplace retention, inclusion, and career advancement exist for First-Generation Student Affairs Professionals (FGSAPs) as they do for FGCSs. Purposeful sampling was used for this study to allow data collection from a specific population of eight current and eight former SAPs who were also FGCSs. Participant recruitment occurred through social media groups consisting of current and previous SAPs. The study was guided by five research questions focusing on the challenges faced by FGSAPs, the institutional barriers they encounter, the role of compensation and mentorship in career decisions, the impact of job demands and resources, and strategies for improving retention. Using qualitative methods, the researcher interviewed 16 current and former SAPs who identified as FGCS, revealing several themes: the path to student affairs, professional development, mentorship, politics, compensation, and the ongoing awareness of their first-generation status. Participants described positive influences—such as mentorship during their college years—and challenges, including feelings of imposter syndrome, limited onboarding, and a lack of preparation for institutional xii politics. Despite these challenges, the resilience and determination of FGSAPs were evident in their narratives. Key findings from the study underscore the significant role of compensation, professional development, and work-life balance in the career decisions of FGSAPs. While mentorship was found to be crucial for some, it was not consistently available, with participants who left the field often citing inadequate support. Participants also expressed frustration with the financial and emotional challenges of working in student affairs, including navigating limited resources and addressing the complex needs of students. Several participants described their personal experiences as FGCS as beneficial when supporting students with similar backgrounds. However, they also faced internal struggles, such as self-doubt and the pressure to prove their belonging. The study\u27s findings emphasize the potential impact of mentorship on retention and the need for institutions to prioritize and enhance mentorship programs for FGSAPs. Recommendations for higher education institutions include enhancing onboarding processes, fostering mentorship programs tailored to FGCS professionals, increasing transparency during recruitment, and providing wellness initiatives to support work-life balance. These recommendations, if implemented, have the potential to significantly improve the experiences and retention rates of FGSAPs in higher education. Future research should investigate the long-term impact of mentorship on retention, the emotional well-being of firstgeneration professionals (FGPs), and the specific contributions of FGCS identities to the field of student affairs. These findings emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing FGSAPs\u27 unique challenges to improve retention and foster a supportive professional environment in higher education