cis-3-(tert-Butoxy­carbonyl­amino)cyclo­hexa­necarboxylic acid

The title compound, C12H21NO4, a γ-aminobutyric acid derivative, crystallizes with two mol­ecules in the asymmetric unit. The crystal structure is stabilized by inter­molecular N—H⋯O and O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, forming a strand. An intramolecular N—H⋯O hydrogen bond is also observed

The influence of the Milan approach—Part 2. The legacy of Boscolo and Cecchin and their Paduan connection: A conversation with Andrea Mosconi

The Milan approach, pioneered by Selvini-Palazzoli, Boscolo, Cecchin, and Prata, has significantly contributed to the field of psychotherapy, particularly in the realm of systemic and family psychotherapy. While rooted in systemic principles and concepts, over time the original Milan group demonstrated differences in their clinical orientations and practices which led to their regrouping into two teams. The paper explores the divergences in their views and directions on family dynamics and the role of symptoms within the system. It delves into the influence of Boscolo and Cecchin, two of the ‘Milan Four’ on the Centro Padovano di Terapia della Famiglia. Drawing from a conversation with Andrea Mosconi, a mentee and collaborator of Boscolo and Cecchin, the paper examines the reconfiguration of the original ‘Milan Four’ team and its impact on their clinical approach. Key Milan principles and concepts such as hypothesising, circularity, and neutrality are examined with particular emphasis on the work of Boscolo and Cecchin\u27s systemic work. These principles, intertwined and interconnected, provide a fertile ground for the construction of multiple hypotheses and circular questioning. The paper also highlights the concept of reflexivity, which originates from Bateson\u27s work and plays a crucial role in family relations and communication while explaining the birthplace of paradox taking place when two levels of meaning are ‘confused.’ The Milan approach continues to be highly regarded, as its early concepts and ideas have evolved and left a lasting impact on the field of family therapy. By reflecting on the distinct contributions of Boscolo and Cecchin, and using examples, Mosconi offers valuable insights into the rich legacy and ongoing relevance of the Milan approach to contemporary therapeutic practice

Systems thinking: Fostering collaboration and connections to strengthen the field. a conversation with Umberta Telfener

Umberta Telfener is a highly respected figure known for her diverse contributions to various facets of family and systemic therapy. Her leadership style has earned her a reputation as somewhat of a ‘cultural anthropologist,’ reflecting her aptitude for creating connections, establishing relationships, and developing partnerships. Her unique ‘Umberta style’ is known for boundless energy, active leadership, and fierce commitment to challenging the status quo. Despite being in office for just a year at the European Family Therapy Association (EFTA), Umberta has conceived and developed numerous projects, establishing networks with practitioners, and systemic thinkers across the world. Rooted in classical philosophical training, her pursuit aligns with the systematic study of fundamental questions about existence, reason, knowledge, value, mind, and language. Umberta\u27s role reminds one of a ‘Chasqui,’ a Quechua term for a ‘messenger,’ which aptly describes her agile networking skills. She actively communicates and shares vital messages, supporting the international community of systemic practitioners. This paper is based on an in-person conversation held in July 2023 at Umberta\u27s country home in Tuscany. Our discussion delves into her extensive professional experience, from training at the Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic, being mentored by Boscolo and Cecchin in Milan, to her leadership role as the current EFTA president. Umberta reflects on early pioneers who influenced her thinking and her impactful work with systems

La metafora: The power of metaphors and creative resources in working systemically with families and children with autism—A conversation with Carmine Saccu

Metaphors are valuable tools of expression, which give meaning to situations and allow the spontaneous processing of feelings and emotions. As therapists, we can support clients to develop and create their individual metaphor to explain their own meaning of experiences or communicate their perception of problems. Creativity provides us with a rich landscape to explore, expand, and enrich ourselves as therapists and consequently our clients. As systemic therapists, we are responsible for the co-creation of a human process, which has at its core safety in allowing expression, connection, and movement. Through a respectful and curious approach, we can develop pathways to tap organically into our ‘creative selves’ while reaching into our clients\u27 creativity and selves as catalysts for connection and positive change. Creative resources and therapies have been successfully used in psychotherapy to enhance the mental and emotional well-being of children, particularly children with autism who have limited verbal capacity or who are non-verbal. These children also wish to be understood in expressing their thoughts and feelings; however, they use other methods of communication – sometimes obvious, sometimes not. Therefore, it is important that a therapist can access diverse ways to support the child through this process. The creative use of animals in therapy neutralises spaces, eliciting calm, safety, and healing. This is particularly the case when working with this group of children. This paper is derived from my conversation with an elder statesman of the family therapy profession, Professor Carmine Saccu. He is a jovial master storyteller who craftfully communicates via metaphors. Through creative means, play, and humour, he has developed a remarkably unique way of working with children, especially non-verbal children with autism. He uses his canine, co-therapist Mafalda, as a powerful resource and intervention strategy to safely elicit engagement and connection in the therapeutic space

Economic Viability of the Use of Local Pseudo-Oils for Drilling Fluid Formulation

The initial cost of formulating Synthetic Base Muds (SBM) compared to conventional Oil Base Muds (OBM) may be doubled but after considering the cost of containment, hauling, and disposal of OBM after use, the cost of using SBM becomes relatively cheaper. The formulation and disposal options (onshore and offshore) and the cost benefit of using seven local antioxidated pseudo-oils (vegetable esters) SBM compared to commercial OBM at an average offshore and onshore temperature operations were simulated in this work using API standard performance benchmarks. The average cost percent of savings on the use of the seven local vegetable oils over the use of commercial synthetic base fluid offshore and onshore were 48.32% and 56.30% respectively. Thus the use of local ester oils for drilling fluids formulation are more economical compared to currently imported oil based drilling fluids. The cultivation and production of these local pseudo-oils are on the increase guaranteeing its adoption and application to be very sustainable.Keywords: Antioxidants, Disposals, Economics, Esters, Formulation

The ackerman institute: A journey of culture and diversity over six decades. A conversation with Evan Imber-Black

The Ackerman Institute for the Family, established in 1960 by Dr Nathan Ackerman, stands as one of the oldest and most respected family therapy institutes in the United States. Ackerman pioneered the integration of systemic insights into group settings, emphasised the crucial role of family in therapy, and advocated for the advancement and acceptance of family therapy. ‘The Ackerman’ played a pivotal role in launching Family Process, the first journal dedicated to academic activities in family therapy. Diversity and inclusion have been central tenets of Ackerman philosophy, evident in its programs, training courses, and staff composition. This commitment has produced a veritable cadre of family therapy leaders who have contributed significantly to both the Ackerman Institute and the profession, influencing policy decisions and clinical practices. One of the most esteemed and respected thought leaders and innovators of our field, who played a vital role in the legacy of several institutions, including the Ackerman, is Dr. Evan Imber-Black. She served as a long-time faculty member and director of the Ackerman Center for Families and Health. Her expertise encompasses the exploration of family rituals and family secrets, with a focus on the importance of rituals in providing meaning, identity, and connection across diverse cultures and family life cycles. As editor of Family Process for 8 years, she highlights the importance of examining scholarly work in the context of cultures as a requirement – we do not stand outside the culture – we are active participants. This paper is based on a conversation with Dr Evan Imber-Black, held in June 2023, delving into her personal and professional experiences, her connection to the Ackerman Institute, and her influential work on family rituals and secrets. Through this exploration, the paper sheds light on her commitment to diversity and the lasting impact of Dr Imber-Black\u27s contributions to family therapy

RESEARCH IN THE FIELD OF MEDICINE THAT ELICIT LEGISLATIVE CHANGES IN THE HEALTH BUDGET

Regarding the psychological factors as etiologic agents that trigger the somatic diseases has gained more and more ground in the past few years, successfully repeating that the human being is a bio-psycho-social entity. In order to render the psychological interventions more efficient for the management of the diabetes mellitus diseases, we must detect and modify those configurations of the early maladaptive schemes and coping styles that stick together in the so-called acquired vulnerability which makes the person liable to an inappropriate reaction against stress

How does a practice-based research network facilitate evidence-informed practice within the chiropractic profession in Australia? A commentary

This commentary summarises the background, rationale, structure and context of Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs) with an emphasis on chiropractic within the Australian health care setting. Following an overview of the importance and value of research based within practice-based settings and a summary of international developments in chiropractic PBRN’s there is a brief description of the genesis, construction and implementation of the Australian Chiropractic Research Network (ACORN) project. The role of the ACORN PBRN is to help facilitate the development and promotion of a research agenda; improve the uptake of best clinical practice; address issues relevant to chiropractors and their patients; and build research capacity and output for the Australian chiropractic profession. The commentary identifies how the chiropractic profession in Australia is already starting to see the tangible results from the establishment of the ACORN PBRN

One service, many voices: enhancing consumer participation in a primary health service for multicultural women

Background: Consumer participation in primary health care is important in providing quality consumer-focused care but challenging when working with disadvantaged groups of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Women's Health Services (WHS) works with women from over sixty different nationalities, including many newly arrived migrants and refugees. New arrivals access a wide range of WHS programs including medical services, counselling, information, community talks and workshops, referral, and outreach, but few ethnic women attended the alcohol and other drug (AOD) services offered by the organisation.Aim: To establish an active consumer reference group to assist understanding and reducing the barriers to AOD services for a heterogeneous disadvantaged group that includes individuals from different cultural, language and educational backgrounds. Results: Leaning heavily on experiences from the mental health field, WHS overcame many practical and philosophical considerations which included: agreeing upon the purpose of the group and how it would operate within the structure of the organisation; the level of English language required by participants for the group to function; issues of resourcing the group; and ensuring an appropriate, workable demographic mix in terms of age, language, and migration experiences. Conclusion: The process and the outcome of establishing a Consumer Reference Group (CRG) in a primary health care setting has been valuable for consumers and health service providers within the organisation