4,636 research outputs found

    Personality Dysfunction Manifest in Words : Understanding Personality Pathology Using Computational Language Analysis

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    Personality disorders (PDs) are some of the most prevalent and high-risk mental health conditions, and yet remain poorly understood. Today, the development of new technologies means that there are advanced tools that can be used to improve our understanding and treatment of PD. One promising tool – indeed, the focus of this thesis – is computational language analysis. By looking at patterns in how people with personality pathology use words, it is possible to gain access into their constellation of thinking, feelings, and behaviours. To date, however, there has been little research at the intersection of verbal behaviour and personality pathology. Accordingly, the central goal of this thesis is to demonstrate how PD can be better understood through the analysis of natural language. This thesis presents three research articles, comprising four empirical studies, that each leverage computational language analysis to better understand personality pathology. Each paper focuses on a distinct core feature of PD, while incorporating language analysis methods: Paper 1 (Study 1) focuses on interpersonal dysfunction; Paper 2 (Studies 2 and 3) focuses on emotion dysregulation; and Paper 3 (Study 4) focuses on behavioural dysregulation (i.e., engagement in suicidality and deliberate self-harm). Findings from this research have generated better understanding of fundamental features of PD, including insight into characterising dimensions of social dysfunction (Paper 1), maladaptive emotion processes that may contribute to emotion dysregulation (Paper 2), and psychosocial dynamics relating to suicidality and deliberate self-harm (Paper 3) in PD. Such theoretical knowledge subsequently has important implications for clinical practice, particularly regarding the potential to inform psychological therapy. More broadly, this research highlights how language can provide implicit and unobtrusive insight into the personality and psychological processes that underlie personality pathology at a large-scale, using an individualised, naturalistic approach

    Graduate Catalog of Studies, 2023-2024

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    Strategies to prevent Type 2 Diabetes in the postnatal period, in women with history of Gestational Diabetes Exploring different research methodologies based on dietary and pharmacological interventions

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    Aim and objectives The aim of this thesis is to investigate methods to prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes in the immediate postnatal period, in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The objectives of this thesis are to explore the views of pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes and healthcare professionals, with regards to the use of an app in the postnatal period which will provide information about diet for type 2 diabetes prevention. The development of a protocol for a single-arm feasibility study on a Mediterranean-style diet for the prevention of type 2 diabetes in the postnatal period. To pilot the trial design and study processes and assess the feasibility of a large-scale trial on the effectiveness of a Mediterranean-style diet in postnatal period for type 2 diabetes prevention. To examine the acceptability of a Mediterranean-style diet for type 2 diabetes prevention in women taking part in a feasibility study and explore the opinions of women and healthcare professionals on trial processes. To develop a protocol for a pilot trial on metformin for the prevention of type 2 diabetes in the postnatal period. Pilot the trial design and study processes and assess the feasibility of a large-scale trial on the effectiveness of metformin in postnatal period for type 2 diabetes prevention. Methods The methods employed in this thesis include a cross-sectional survey, a single arm mixed method feasibility study with qualitative evaluation (which included the use of an app) and a mixed method randomised controlled double blind feasibility study with the use of metformin or placebo. Results Survey The survey demonstrated that app usage is part of everyday life, with 84% (85/101) of pregnant GDM women and 82% (71/87) of healthcare professionals using apps daily. All pregnant women who participated in this survey had a device by which they could access apps (100%, 101/101) and 95% (179/188) of the participants had a smartphone. The participants agreed that an app which provides dietary information in the postnatal period for diabetes prevention would be welcomed by postnatal women with GDM history. Single arm feasibility study on a Mediterranean-style diet for the prevention of T2D in the postnatal period (MERIT) A total of 69% (83/121) of eligible multi-ethnic women agreed to participate and 67% (56/83) of those initially recruited commenced the intervention. The last visit (12 months postnatally) was completed by 73.2% (41/56) of participants. A higher number of participants completed visit 2 (which is at 6 months postnatally) 80.4% (45/56), but this visit was completed remotely due to COVID-19 pandemic lockdown restrictions, whereas visit 3 was completed face-to-face. Participants had high engagement with the coach, both face-to-face and via phone-calls or text messages. Adherence based on the ESTEEM diet questionnaire was high at the end of the study. There was a trend of reduction of total dysglycaemia, and the participants weight was also reduced by 1.3kg, from visit 1 (6 to 13 weeks) to visit 3 (12 months postnatally). Clinical effectiveness discussion is exploratory due to the small sample size. The intervention and trial processes were acceptable to women and healthcare professionals, adherence was high when women had a supportive environment, provided by their family and the health coach. The group chat function was not successful in this study. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled pilot trial on metformin for the prevention of T2D in the postnatal period (OMAhA) A total of 57.9% (175/302) of eligible multi-ethnic women agreed to take part in the study, out of those 82.3% (144/175) were randomised to receive metformin or placebo. The attendance rates for visits 2 (6 months) and 3 (12 months) were similar, with 54.6% (71/130) and 55.7 (64/115) attending each visit respectively. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic visit 3 was completed over the phone for 21.7% (39/115) of the participants which led to limited blood samples collection. Total dysglycaemia reduction was evident in the metformin group (18.3%) compared to the placebo group (24.7%) but this discussion is exploratory, and the study is not powered to measure effectiveness. The metformin group maintained their weight throughout the study, whereas the placebo group gained 400g. Adherence was 54.1% (participants who took at least 75% of the recommended dosage). The study was acceptable to both women and healthcare professionals, but the element of peer-support should be included in future studies. Conclusion It is feasible and acceptable to recruit women in the postnatal period in studies that are focused on diabetes prevention and introduce dietary or pharmacological interventions. The MERIT protocol will have to be revised to address how follow-up rates can be improved. The OMAhA protocol will also be revised to target improvement in adherence and follow-up rates. The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown restrictions and staffing issues have impacted data collection of both studies. More research is needed in this population with larger sample sizes to be able to prove efficacy. The strongest motivator that affects adherence and retention is the woman’s perception of her own risk of developing diabetes. Future studies should include the element of peer support and an education session about the risk of Type 2 Diabetes in postnatal period

    UMSL Bulletin 2023-2024

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    The 2023-2024 Bulletin and Course Catalog for the University of Missouri St. Louis.https://irl.umsl.edu/bulletin/1088/thumbnail.jp

    Graduate Catalog of Studies, 2023-2024

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    Understanding local neuromuscular mechanisms that explain the efficacy of interventions for patellofemoral pain

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    Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common and persistent knee pain complaint among all age ranges, especially highly active people. Multiple approaches have been used to understand symptom persistence, including identifying a mechanism explaining intervention benefits (i.e. changes in specific deficits in groups that show symptoms’ improvement). Research has been conducted to identify the characteristics associated with PFP, but uncertainty regarding local neuromuscular characteristics remain evident. The thesis aimed to a) identify the local neuromuscular characteristics associated with PFP, b) develop an evidence informed laboratory protocol to detect those characteristics, c) establish protocol reliability and feasibility, and d) identify interventions that can target these neuromuscular characteristics. A systematic review with meta-analysis was completed to identify the neuromuscular characteristics of all muscles that cross the knee in people with PFP compared to uninjured groups. Ten deficits within three neuromuscular domains were found. Within the electromyography (EMG) domain, a delay in Vastus medialis (VM) relative to Vastus lateralis (VL) excitation onset, a high Biceps femoris (BF) mean excitation amplitude, and a lower Hoffman-reflex amplitude of VM were identified. Within the muscle performance domain, lower isometric, concentric, and eccentric extensors peak torque and total work, lower concentric flexors peak torque, and lower rate of torque development (RTD) to reach 30%, 60% and 90% of extensors peak torque were identified. Hamstring tightness was identified within muscle flexibility domain. The systematic review was published and the results used to inform testing protocol development. A second systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to identify interventions that can target the local deficits associated with PFP. The results indicate that currently an intervention that effectively modifies EMG characteristics cannot be identified. Predominantly, exercise interventions have effects on strength and flexibility in PFP. Specifically, hip and knee targeted exercises are found to have a potential mechanism of benefit through both characteristics categories. A unique approach was introduced within the thesis to develop a deficit-detection protocol based on systematic review results. This approach provided a comprehensive analysis of the protocols from the studies that were included in the meta-analysis. A battery of tests was developed and included; a) VM-VL excitation onset timing in step-up task, b) BF mean excitation amplitude in single-leg triple-hop test, c) isometric, d) concentric and e) eccentric extensors peak torque, f) RTD to 30%, 60% and 90% of isometric peak torque, and hamstrings flexibility. Reliability testing of the deficit-detection protocol was conducted with both uninjured and participants with PFP over two phases. Phase one evaluated the original protocols adapted from the review. Phase two was performed on the EMG and RTD domains to explore the effects of signal processing parameters on reliability, such as; onset detection thresholds modification, unnormalised signals, and the addition of absolute RTD. For the PFP group: reliable results were demonstrated for concentric and eccentric extensors peak torque; RTD of the quadriceps at 25ms, 50ms and 90% of peak torque; and hamstrings flexibility. The uninjured group showed reliable results in: unnormalised BF mean excitation amplitude; all three peak torque tests; RTD to 30% of peak torque and at 150 and 175 milliseconds; and hamstrings flexibility. To establish participant recruitment rate and retention, in addition to the acceptability of the test protocol, a preliminary feasibility study of the deficit-detection protocol was conducted. A sample of 14 participants with PFP were recruited and tested at the Mile-end campus of QMUL before and after a six weeks period. Feasibility results indicate that 25.5% were willing to participate following an online screening process (n=17/55) and 82% met the eligibility criteria following face-to-face assessment (n=14/17). Recruitment rate was 0.5 participants per week and drop-out rate was 35.2% (n=11/17). The results indicate that the protocol did not meet all a-priori feasibility criteria, but the results can inform future research planning. The thesis has successfully identified local deficits associated with PFP, developed a test protocol that demonstrates reliability in evaluating these deficits and assessed the feasibility of the protocol in individuals with PFP. Interventions to cause change within these local deficits have been identified, with gap maps demonstrating where further research is required to better align the mechanisms of treatment effects with specific deficits associated with PFP

    Accessibility at Film Festivals: Guidelines for Inclusive Subtitling

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    In today's media-dominated world, the imperative for accessibility has never been greater, and ensuring that audiovisual experiences cater to individuals with sensory disabilities has become a pressing concern. One of the key initiatives in this endeavour is inclusive subtitling (IS), a practice rooted in the broader contexts of subtitling for the deaf and hard of hearing (SDH/CC), audiovisual translation studies (AVTS), media accessibility studies (MAS), and the evolving field of Deaf studies (DS). This study aims to offer a comprehensive exploration of how inclusive subtitling contributes to fostering accessible and inclusive audiovisual experiences, with a particular focus on its implications within the unique environment of film festivals. To gain a holistic perspective of inclusive subtitling, it is essential to examine its lineage in relation to analogous practices, which is the focus of the first chapter. Inclusive subtitling is an extension of SDH/CC, designed for individuals with hearing impairments, and SDH/CC, in turn, is a nuanced variation of traditional subtitling extensively explored within the realm of AVTS. To encapsulate the diverse techniques and modalities aimed at making audiovisual content universally accessible, the study recognises the term "Audiovisual Accessibility" (AVA). The second chapter explores the interconnection of accessibility studies (AS), AVTS, and MAS, highlighting their symbiotic relationship and their role in framing inclusive subtitles within these fields. These interconnections are pivotal in shaping a framework for the practice of inclusive subtitling, enabling a comprehensive examination of its applicability and research implications. The third chapter delves into Deaf studies and the evolution of Deafhood, which hinges on the history and culture of Deaf individuals. This chapter elucidates the distinction between ‘deafness’ as a medical construct and ‘Deafhood’ as a cultural identity, crucial to the understanding of audiovisual accessibility and its intersection with the Deaf community's perspectives. In the fourth chapter, the focus turns to the exploration of film festivals, with a specific emphasis on the crucial role of subtitles in enhancing accessibility, particularly when films are presented in their original languages. The chapter marks a critical point, highlighting the inherent connection between subtitles and the immersive nature of film festivals that aspire to promote inclusivity in the cinematic experience. The emphasis on inclusivity extends to the evolution of film festivals, giving rise to more advanced forms, including accessible film festivals and Deaf film festivals. At the core of the chapter is a thorough examination of the corpus, specifically, the SDH/CC of films spanning the editions from 2020 to 2023 of two highly significant film festivals, namely BFI Flare and the London Film Festival. The corpus serves as the foundation upon which my research unfolds, providing a nuanced understanding of the role subtitles play in film festival contexts. The main chapter, chapter five, thoroughly analyses the technical and linguistic aspects of inclusive subtitling, drawing insights from the Inclusive Subtitling Guidelines - a two version document devised by myself - and offering real-world applications supported by a case study at an Italian film festival and another case study of the short film Pure, with the relevant inclusive subtitles file annexed. In conclusion, the research sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of inclusive subtitling's role in ensuring accessible and inclusive audiovisual experiences, particularly within film festivals. It underscores the importance of accessibility in the world of audiovisual media and highlights the need for inclusive practices to cater to diverse audiences

    Cycling Through the Pandemic : Tactical Urbanism and the Implementation of Pop-Up Bike Lanes in the Time of COVID-19

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    Provides an international overview on how tactical urbanism was implemented to give more space to cycling Demonstrates the conceptual framework surrounding tactical urbanism and how it plays out theoretically Proposes new methodological insights to understand the effects of tactical urbanism intervention

    Enhancing Proprioception and Regulating Cognitive Load in Neurodiverse Populations through Biometric Monitoring with Wearable Technologies

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    This paper considers the realm of wearable technologies and their prospective applications for individuals with neurodivergent conditions, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). The study undertakes a multifaceted analysis that encompasses biomarker sensing technologies, AI-driven biofeedback mechanisms, and haptic devices, focusing on their implications for enhancing proprioception and social interaction among neurodivergent populations. While wearables offer a range of opportunities for societal advancement, a discernable gap remains: a scarcity of consumer-oriented applications tailored to the unique physiological and psychological needs of these individuals. Key takeaways underscore the emergent promise of tailored auditory stimuli in workplace dynamics and the efficacy of haptic feedback in sensory substitution. The investigation concludes with an urgent call for multidisciplinary research aimed at the development of specific consumer applications, rigorous empirical validation, and an ethical framework encompassing data privacy and user consent. As the pervasiveness of technology in daily life continues to expand, the article posits that there is an imperative for future research to shift from generalized solutions to individualized applications, thereby ensuring that the spectrum of wearable technology truly accommodates the full scope of human neurodiversity
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