A biogeographical appraisal of the threatened South East Africa Montane Archipelago ecoregion

Recent biological surveys of ancient inselbergs in southern Malawi and northern Mozambique have led to the discovery and description of many species new to science, and overlapping centres of endemism across multiple taxa. Combining these endemic taxa with data on geology and climate, we propose the 'South East Africa Montane Archipelago' (SEAMA) as a distinct ecoregion of global biological importance. The ecoregion encompasses 30 granitic inselbergs reaching > 1000 m above sea level, hosting the largest (Mt Mabu) and smallest (Mt Lico) mid-elevation rainforests in southern Africa, as well as biologically unique montane grasslands. Endemic taxa include 127 plants, 45 vertebrates (amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals) and 45 invertebrate species (butterflies, freshwater crabs), and two endemic genera of plants and reptiles. Existing dated phylogenies of endemic animal lineages suggests this endemism arose from divergence events coinciding with repeated isolation of these mountains from the pan-African forests, together with the mountains' great age and relative climatic stability. Since 2000, the SEAMA has lost 18% of its primary humid forest cover (up to 43% in some sites)-one of the highest deforestation rates in Africa. Urgently rectifying this situation, while addressing the resource needs of local communities, is a global priority for biodiversity conservation.

The bii4africa dataset of faunal and floral population intactness estimates across Africa's major land uses

Sub-Saharan Africa is under-represented in global biodiversity datasets, particularly regarding the impact of land use on species' population abundances. Drawing on recent advances in expert elicitation to ensure data consistency, 200 experts were convened using a modified-Delphi process to estimate 'intactness scores': the remaining proportion of an 'intact' reference population of a species group in a particular land use, on a scale from 0 (no remaining individuals) to 1 (same abundance as the reference) and, in rare cases, to 2 (populations that thrive in human-modified landscapes). The resulting bii4africa dataset contains intactness scores representing terrestrial vertebrates (tetrapods: ±5,400 amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals) and vascular plants (±45,000 forbs, graminoids, trees, shrubs) in sub-Saharan Africa across the region's major land uses (urban, cropland, rangeland, plantation, protected, etc.) and intensities (e.g., large-scale vs smallholder cropland). This dataset was co-produced as part of the Biodiversity Intactness Index for Africa Project. Additional uses include assessing ecosystem condition; rectifying geographic/taxonomic biases in global biodiversity indicators and maps; and informing the Red List of Ecosystems.

Adaptation in brain structure and respiratory and olfactory structures across environmental gradients in African and North American muroid rodents

Morphometric studies of 3D micro CT-scanned images can provide insights into the evolution of the brain and sensory structures but such data are still scarce for the most diverse mammalian order of rodents. From reviewed and new data, we tested for convergence to extreme aridity and high elevation in the sensory and brain morphology of rodents, from morphometric data from micro-CT X-ray scans of 174 crania of 16 species of three distantly related African murid (soft-furred mice, Praomyini, laminate-toothed rats, Otomyini, and gerbils, Gerbillinae) clades and one North American cricetid (deer mice and white-footed mice, Peromyscus) clade. Recent studies demonstrated convergent evolution acting on the oval window area of the cochlea (enlarged in extremely arid-adapted species of Otomyini and Gerbillinae) and on endocranial volume (reduced in high elevation taxa of Otomyini and Peromyscus). However, contrary to our predictions, we did not find evidence of convergence in brain structure to aridity, or in the olfactory/respiratory system (turbinate bones) to high elevation. Brain structure differed, particularly in the petrosal lobules of the cerebellum and the olfactory bulbs, between Otomyini and Gerbillinae, with extreme arid-adapted species in each clade being highly divergent (not convergent) from other species in the same clade. We observed greater "packing" of the maxillary turbinate bones, which have important respiratory functions, in Peromyscus mice from high and low elevations compared to the high-elevation African Praomyini, but more complex patterns within Peromyscus, probably related to trade-offs in respiratory physiology and heat exchange in the nasal epithelium associated with high-elevation adaptation.

Accelerating the development of a psychological intervention to restore treatment decision-making capacity in patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder: a study protocol for a multi-site, assessor-blinded, pilot Umbrella trial (the DEC:IDES trial)

BACKGROUND

A high proportion of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders will at some point in their lives be assessed as not having the capacity to make their own decisions about pharmacological treatment or inpatient care ('capacity'). Few will be helped to regain it before these interventions proceed. This is partly because effective and safe methods to do so are lacking. Our aim is to accelerate their development by testing, for the first time in mental healthcare, the feasibility, acceptability and safety of running an 'Umbrella' trial. This involves running, concurrently and under one multi-site infrastructure, multiple assessor-blind randomised controlled trials, each of which is designed to examine the effect on capacity of improving a single psychological mechanism ('mechanism'). Our primary objectives are to demonstrate feasibility of (i) recruitment and (ii) data retention on the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool-Treatment (MacCAT-T; planned primary outcome for a future trial) at end-of-treatment. We selected three mechanisms to test: 'self-stigma', low self-esteem and the 'jumping to conclusions' bias. Each is highly prevalent in psychosis, responsive to psychological intervention, and hypothesised to contribute to impaired capacity.

METHODS

Sixty participants with schizophrenia-spectrum diagnoses, impaired capacity and one or more mechanism(s) will be recruited from outpatient and inpatient mental health services in three UK sites (Lothian, Scotland; Lancashire and Pennine; North West England). Those lacking capacity to consent to research could take part if the key criteria were met, including either proxy consent (Scotland) or favourable Consultee advice (England). They will be allocated to one of three randomised controlled trials, depending on which mechanism(s) they have. They will then be randomised to receive, over an 8-week period and in addition to treatment as usual (TAU), 6 sessions of either a psychological intervention which targets the mechanism, or 6 sessions of assessment of the causes of their incapacity (control condition). Participants are assessed at 0 (baseline), 8 (end-of-treatment) and 24 (follow-up) weeks post-randomisation using measures of capacity (MacCAT-T), mechanism, adverse events, psychotic symptoms, subjective recovery, quality of life, service use, anxiety, core schemata and depression. Two nested qualitative studies will be conducted; one to understand participant and clinician experiences and one to investigate the validity of MacCAT-T appreciation ratings.

DISCUSSION

This will be the first Umbrella trial in mental healthcare. It will produce the first 3 single-blind randomised controlled trials of psychological interventions to support treatment decision-making in schizophrenia-spectrum disorder. Demonstrating feasibility will have significant implications not only for those seeking to support capacity in psychosis, but also for those who wish to accelerate the development of psychological interventions for other conditions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04309435 . Pre-registered on 16 March 2020.

Counter-gradient variation and the expensive tissue hypothesis explain parallel brain size reductions at high elevation in cricetid and murid rodents

To better understand functional morphological adaptations to high elevation (> 3000 m above sea level) life in both North American and African mountain-associated rodents, we used microCT scanning to acquire 3D images and a 3D morphometric approach to calculate endocranial volumes and skull lengths. This was done on 113 crania of low-elevation and high-elevation populations in species of North American cricetid mice (two Peromyscus species, n = 53), and African murid rodents of two tribes, Otomyini (five species, n = 49) and Praomyini (four species, n = 11). We tested two distinct hypotheses for how endocranial volume might vary in high-elevation populations: the expensive tissue hypothesis, which predicts that brain and endocranial volumes will be reduced to lessen the costs of growing and maintaining a large brain; and the brain-swelling hypothesis, which predicts that endocranial volumes will be increased either as a direct phenotypic effect or as an adaptation to accommodate brain swelling and thus minimize pathological symptoms of altitude sickness. After correcting for general allometric variation in cranial size, we found that in both North American Peromyscus mice and African laminate-toothed (Otomys) rats, highland rodents had smaller endocranial volumes than lower-elevation rodents, consistent with the expensive tissue hypothesis. In the former group, Peromyscus mice, crania were obtained not just from wild-caught mice from high and low elevations but also from those bred in common-garden laboratory conditions from parents caught from either high or low elevations. Our results in these mice showed that brain size responses to elevation might have a strong genetic basis, which counters an opposite but weaker environmental effect on brain volume. These results potentially suggest that selection may act to reduce brain volume across small mammals at high elevations but further experiments are needed to assess the generality of this conclusion and the nature of underlying mechanisms.

Diversification and evolutionary history of the African laminated-toothed rats (Rodentia, Otomyini)

The African continent was subjected to periodic climatic shifts during the Pliocene and Pleistocene. These habitat changes greatly affected the evolutionary processes and tempo of diversification in numerous, widely distributed mammals. The Otomyini (Family Muridae) comprises three African rodent genera, Parotomys, Otomys and Myotomys, characterized by unique laminated-shaped molars. Species within this tribe generally prefer open-habitat and show low dispersal capabilities, with previous studies suggesting that their diversification was closely associated with climatic oscillations over the last four million years. Our phylogenetic reconstructions, based on three mitochondrial (mtDNA) genes (Cytb, COI and 12S) and four nuclear introns (EF, SPTBN, MGF and THY), identified eight major genetic clades that are distributed across southern, eastern and western Africa. Our data permit the re-examination of the taxonomic status of the three genera as well as the previously proposed mesic-arid dichotomy of the 10 South African species. Moreover, multiple mtDNA species delimitation methods incorporating 168 specimens estimated the number of Otomyini species to be substantially higher than the ∼30 recognized, suggesting that the current taxonomy will necessitate an integrative approach to delimit extant species diversity within the Otomyini. The data suggests that the origin of the tribe can be dated back to ∼5.7 million years ago (Ma) in southern Africa. The distribution and phylogenetic associations among the eight major otomyine evolutionary lineages can best be explained by several waves of northward colonization from southern Africa, complemented by independent reversed dispersals from eastern back to southern Africa at different time periods. There is strong support for the hypothesis that the radiation, dispersion, and diversification of the otomyine rodents is closely linked to recent Plio-Pleistocene climatic oscillations.

A systematic review and meta-ethnography to explore people's experiences of psychotherapy for self-harm

BACKGROUND

Self-harm is a major public health concern. Lifetime prevalence is high, and rates of self-harm are rising; however, available interventions do not benefit everyone, and engagement with therapy can be low. Qualitative accounts allow for a greater understanding of what is helpful to individuals. This study aimed to synthesize the experiences of interventions for self-harm, from participants who have participated in these themselves.

METHODS

Participants had self-harmed at least once and undergone an individual psychotherapeutic intervention for self-harm. Papers not written or translated to the English language were excluded. Four databases (Medline, CINAHL, Web of Science and PsycINFO) were systematically searched and each paper was assessed using the CASP quality appraisal tool. A meta-ethnographic approach to the synthesis was taken.

RESULTS

Ten studies encompassing 104 participants were included. Four overarching themes were developed and the importance of recognizing the person beyond the self-harm emerged through a line of argument synthesis. Building a trusted, therapeutic relationship founded on patience and without judgement was essential for the perceived success of therapy, which was unique to each person and often went beyond reducing self-harming behaviours.

LIMITATIONS

Papers included in the study showed a lack of diversity with regard to ethnicity and gender.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings illustrate the importance of the therapeutic alliance when working with self-harm. Clinical implications of this paper include the importance of utilizing key therapeutic competencies which should be considered fundamental to change within psychotherapeutic interventions for self-harm, with the uniqueness of each patient recognized throughout.

"Cover up your arms, you're triggering people": A Mixed-Methods Investigation of Shame in those who Self-Injure

BACKGROUND

Shame can be a powerfully aversive emotion that is associated with a wide variety of mental health difficulties including non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). This study used a novel mixed-methods design (Qualitative Experiential Sequence Tracking; QUEST) to investigate the experiences of shame in a sample of individuals who self-injure.

METHODS

Six participants received prompts to complete brief online diaries three times per day over a period of 2 weeks. These diaries captured information about the experience of negative emotions, especially shame. Participants then underwent an individualised qualitative interview about their experiences over the previous 2 weeks.

RESULTS

Thematic analysis suggested that participants experienced shame as a social and relational emotion. Further themes included shame being associated with feelings of failure, being trapped, dangerous or contaminated, and hidden or exposed. The phenomenology of shame, and coping with shame, were also themes. NSSI could occur as a response to shame, but often shame was triggered or exacerbated by the responses of others to NSSI.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with previous research, shame was described as an aversive emotion occurring within interpersonal and broader societal contexts and involving a negative self-focus. A lack of compassion or understanding in response to NSSI, or anticipation of negative responses from others often triggered more intense shame than the NSSI itself. Future studies could use QUEST methodology with more diverse samples or different populations to further investigate experiences of shame.

Anthropogenic Light, Noise, and Vegetation Cover Differentially Impact Different Foraging Guilds of Bat on an Opencast Mine in South Africa

Bats are known to be sensitive to changes in their environment. The impact of natural vegetation cover, artificial light intensity and noise (dBA) were investigated on the bat community on the opencast Venetia diamond mine using mixed-effects models. Clutter-feeding bats were virtually absent compared to surrounding natural habitats, suggesting the negative impact of vegetation removal and/or light and/or noise pollution. Mixed-effect models revealed that natural vegetation was the most important factor impacting species richness and overall bat activity. In general, bat activity of both open-air and clutter-edge foragers was negatively impacted over areas close to mining operations that were devoid of vegetation cover. Artificial light only significantly affected feeding activity with less feeding activity in the lit areas. Anthropogenic noise had no significant impact on bat activity and species richness. Our study highlights the importance of vegetation cover and the complexity of the interaction between bats and the environment incorporating anthropogenic factors (artificial lighting, continuous noise, and habitat degradation) and natural factors such as minimum temperature, moon phase, and season that confound trends in bat species richness and responses in relation to opencast mining.

Self-injury in young bisexual people: A microlongitudinal investigation (SIBL) of thwarted belongingness and self-esteem on non-suicidal self-injury

BACKGROUND

Bisexual people are at an elevated risk for non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Psychological factors including self-esteem and thwarted belongingness may help explain this risk. The aim of the current study was to investigate associations between self-esteem, thwarted belongingness and NSSI urges and behavior in young bisexual people.

METHODS

Participants aged 16-25 from 25 countries took part in this microlongitudinal online survey study (N = 207). Mixed-effects linear and logistic regression were used for analysis, given the nested structure of data. Analysis examined the relationship between self-esteem and thwarted belongingness on NSSI urges and behavior at the same point in time, and lagged by one week.

RESULTS

At the same timepoint, self-esteem and thwarted belongingness both had significant between- and within-person associations with NSSI urges and behavior. For lagged models, self-esteem had significant between-person effects on urges, and thwarted belongingness had significant within-person effects. For NSSI behavior, both variables were only associated with between-person effects.

CONCLUSION

Findings support previous research suggesting the importance of self-esteem in explaining NSSI among sexual minorities. Preventative and intervention strategies to improve self-esteem may help reduce NSSI risk. Future studies should focus upon the experiences of bisexual people with intersecting identities and ensure that studies are statistically powered from inception to detect effects.

Potential drivers of samango monkey (Cercopithecus albogularis) population subdivision in a highly fragmented mountain landscape in northern South Africa

Forests affected by fragmentation are at risk of losing their primate populations over the long term. The impact of fragmentation on primate populations has been studied in several places in Africa, Asia and South America; however, there has been no discernible pattern of how primates react to forest disturbance and fragmentation. In fragmented habitats, the local extinction probability of a species increases due to a decrease in patch area and an increase in genetic isolation. Here we used microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequences to investigate how habitat fragmentation impacts on the genetic diversity and structure of a samango monkey population inhabiting forest patches in the Soutpansberg mountain range of northern South Africa. We sampled four local populations across the length of the mountain range and an additional outlying population from the Great Escarpment to the south. Our results indicate that local populations along the mountain range were historically more connected and less distinct than at present. In more recent times, a lack of contemporary gene flow is leading to a more pronounced genetic structure, causing population subdivision across the mountain and likely isolating the Soutpansberg population from the escarpment population to the south. Based on our results, we suggest that natural and anthropogenic fragmentation are driving population genetic differentiation, and that the matrix surrounding forests and their suitability for samango monkey utilisation play a role at the local scale. The degree of genetic isolation found for samango monkey populations in our study raises concerns about the long-term viability of populations across the mountain range.

A positive mental imagery intervention for targeting suicidal ideation in university students: A pilot study

Objectives

Suicide is a major public health concern and is now considered to be the leading cause of death in young people. Suicidal ideation within student populations has recently increased. The Broad‐Minded Affective Coping (BMAC) offers a brief psychological intervention targeting suicidal ideation by enabling access to competing positive emotions and thoughts using guided imagery. Its acceptability and feasibility in student populations are unclear.

Design

A single arm pilot study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of a six‐session BMAC intervention for university students experiencing suicidal ideation.

Method

Recruitment took place from university counselling services. Suicidal ideation and emotional states were assessed at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks. Participants also completed corresponding sessional measures.

Results

Twelve eligible participants consented to take part with 11 receiving the intervention. Ten participants completed post treatment and follow up assessments. Retention to treatment was high with participants attending an average of 5.2 (87%; SD = 1.54) out of six intervention sessions. There were also good completion rates of the BMAC technique between sessions. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the intervention. There was an associated reduction across a range of clinical outcomes, including suicidal ideation, with large effect sizes.

Discussion

This pilot study showed promising results on the feasibility and acceptability of the BMAC intervention in students experiencing suicidal ideation. However, the study had a small sample size and no comparator control group. Further exploration of the BMAC intervention is warranted.

Non-invasive sampling of bats reflects their potential as ecological indicators of elemental exposure in a diamond mining area, northern Limpopo Province, South Africa

Bats have been proposed as reliable bioindicators for monitoring bioaccumulation of elements and chemicals in natural and transformed ecosystems. Non-invasive methods are becoming more popular as research moves away from destructive methodologies. We present the first concentrations of 23 elements in Mops condylurus and Tadarida aegyptiaca (Molossidae) fur and blood from an opencast diamond mine and reference area using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Concentrations of B, K, Rb and Cd in the bats' fur were significantly higher in the mining footprint compared to the reference area (P < 0.05). Other elements such as Zn and Hg were significantly higher in the blood of bats from the mining footprint than the reference area (P < 0.05), whereas Mn was significantly higher in the blood of bats from the reference area than from the mining footprint (P < 0.05). Sixteen of the 22 elements above the limit of detection, with the exception of Ba, were significantly higher in the fur samples than in the blood due to elements being incorporated over time into the fur as it grows, whereas blood reveals short-term exposure to elements. Concentrations of most of the elements were reasonably low except Al, Fe and Zn. In general, the element concentrations particularly in the fur samples were comparable with other international studies reporting elemental fur concentrations from anthropogenically impacted and natural areas. Fur and blood have the potential to be viable indicators of environmental toxicity, but research is required on toxic thresholds and physiological and ecological unknowns around element concentrations in bat tissues and organs.

A Scoping Review of Gender Differences in Suicide in India

INTRODUCTION

Much of the published literature on suicide comes from high income countries. In countries such as India, female suicide rates exceed the global suicide rate and suicide rates found in their male counterparts. Results from previous studies indicate that factors related to suicide among men and women in India are different from those seen in high-income countries. To date, no reviews have considered the relationship between gender and suicide in India. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of existing literature reporting gender differences in suicide rates, methods, risk factors and antecedent factors in India by reviewing published studies.

METHOD

A scoping review was conducted to map the existing literature on gender differences in suicide in India. To identify peer-reviewed publications, online databases PsycINFO and Embase were searched. The search terms were [suicid^* AND India^*]. The searches took place in November 2020 and May 2021, with no language restrictions. Articles published from 2014 onwards from India were included. Reference lists of selected studies were searched for studies that could meet the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

This review identified 17 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The ratio between women and men who die by suicide in India is much lower than in high-income countries. Hanging was found to be a more commonly used method of suicide among both men and women, in comparison to high-income countries where hanging is more common among men. This review also identified several gaps in the literature. There were few studies that examined suicide among transgender Indians. There was limited literature on gender differences in risk and protective factors for suicide. Limitations such as the omission of a lack of gender-based analyses in several studies and under-reporting of suicide rates were identified.

CONCLUSION

Understanding suicide within the context of individual countries is essential in designing culture-appropriate suicide prevention strategies. This review identified an urgent need to establish and evaluate suicide surveillance systems in India. Furthermore, additional research is warranted to understand suicide among individuals who identify outside the gender binary, and gender-specific risk and protective factors.

The interpersonal processes of non-suicidal self-injury: A systematic review and meta-synthesis

BACKGROUND

Understanding the processes underlying non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is important given the negative consequences of this behaviour. Qualitative research has the potential to provide an in-depth exploration of this. There has been limited research regarding the interpersonal processes associated with NSSI; therefore, a meta-synthesis was conducted to investigate this.

METHODS

A search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and CINAHL electronic databases from date of inception to November 2020 was conducted. In total, 30 papers were included in the final review. A meta-ethnographic approach was utilized to synthesize the data.

RESULTS

Two overarching themes were found. Within 'Powerful relational dynamics', NSSI was cited as a response to participants becoming stuck in aversive or disempowering relational positions with others. Within the 'Taking matters into their own hands' subtheme, NSSI was reported as a way for participants to get interpersonal and emotional needs met.

LIMITATIONS

Several included papers did not comment on the researcher-participant relationship, which may have affected qualitative results. A small number of potentially eligible papers were unavailable for synthesizing.

CONCLUSION

Findings provide a more nuanced investigation of the interpersonal processes underlying NSSI. Consistent with relevant theories, NSSI appears to be a way of mitigating difficult interpersonal experiences or getting interpersonal needs met. NSSI may be engaged in as a substitute to other, less damaging ways to cope. An argument is made for a more empathetic understanding of NSSI and the use of relational interventions.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Self-injury may occur in response to interpersonal stressors Self-injury can be a means to get interpersonal needs met Self-injury may replace other means of coping that become blocked or thwarted Emotional distress can be closely linked with interpersonal factors for this group Relational therapies may be beneficial where interpersonal processes are linked to NSSI.

The relationship between rumination and NSSI: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Rumination is a cognitive process that has been implicated in the onset and maintenance of a variety of psychological difficulties. The purpose of this review and meta-analysis was to examine the nature and strength of the relationship between rumination and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI).

METHODS

The protocol for this review was pre-registered (CRD42019148186). A literature search of electronic databases PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science was performed from the earliest date available to March 2020. Thirty-nine eligible papers were identified. An additional seven papers were identified from a search conducted in September 2021, resulting in a total of 46 papers. Separate meta-analyses were undertaken for NSSI frequency and NSSI history, with studies grouped by rumination type (depressive, transdiagnostic, anger, brooding, reflection, catastrophising, overall). Moderator analyses were also conducted along with a narrative synthesis of adjusted associations and longitudinal studies.

RESULTS

Rumination had a positive small association with NSSI frequency and a positive moderate association with NSSI history. The adjusted associations yielded mixed findings and most longitudinal research found rumination to be associated with prospective NSSI.

LIMITATIONS

Most included studies had a moderate risk of bias and used a student sample. A limitation of this review was that only English language papers were included.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate that rumination is associated with NSSI, but more so the likelihood of engaging in NSSI overall than the frequency. Rumination-focused techniques for NSSI may therefore be of benefit. Further research is needed to understand this association, particularly with longitudinal studies that focus on state rumination rather than stable trait rumination.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Rumination was found to have a small to moderate association with NSSI. Some individuals who engage in NSSI may benefit from psychological techniques that target rumination. Most of the studies included had a moderate risk of bias.

'Care co-ordinator in my pocket': a feasibility study of mobile assessment and therapy for psychosis (TechCare)

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the project was to examine the acceptability and feasibility of a mobile phone application-based intervention 'TechCare', for individuals with psychosis in the North West of England. The main objectives were to determine whether appropriate individuals could be identified and recruited to the study and whether the TechCare App would be an acceptable intervention for individuals with psychosis.

METHODS

This was a mixed methods feasibility study, consisting of a test-run and feasibility evaluation of the TechCare App intervention.

SETTING

Early Intervention Services (EIS) for psychosis, within an NHS Trust in the North West of England.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixteen participants (test-run n=4, feasibility study n=12) aged between 18 and 65 years recruited from the East, Central and North Lancashire EIS.

INTERVENTION

A 6-week intervention, with the TechCare App assessing participants' symptoms and responses in real-time and providing a personalised-guided self-help-based psychological intervention based on the principles of Cognitive Behaviorual Therapy (CBT).

RESULTS

A total of 83.33% (n=10) of participants completed the 6-week feasibility study, with 70% of completers achieving the set compliance threshold of ≥33% engagement with the TechCare App system. Analysis of the qualitative data suggested that participants held the view that the TechCare was both an acceptable and feasible means of delivering interventions in real-time.

CONCLUSION

Innovative digital clinical technologies, such as the TechCare App, have the potential to increase access to psychological interventions, reduce health inequality and promote self-management with a real-time intervention, through enabling access to mental health resources in a stigma-free, evidence-based and time-independent manner.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02439619.

Does neighbourhood identification buffer against the effects of socioeconomic disadvantage on self-harm?

BACKGROUND

Socioeconomic disadvantage and lack of group belonging (i.e., social identity) have been linked to poor mental health. However, no research has investigated the relationship between neighbourhood identity and self-harm, nor whether identifying with one's neighbourhood can mitigate the effects of economic stress on self-harm.

METHODS

Pre-registered secondary data analysis of a large (N = 3412) community health survey conducted in disadvantaged areas of North West England.

RESULTS

Despite the sample having a relatively high and therefore restricted level of disadvantage, individual and geographic indicators of disadvantage, as well as neighbourhood identification, were unique and strong predictors of self-harm thoughts and behaviours across several analyses. Specifically, experiencing disadvantage and disidentification predicted significantly higher odds of self-harm and self-harm thoughts. No consistent interactive effects emerged.

LIMITATIONS

The cross-sectional design limits firm conclusions regarding causal effects of neighbourhood identity and disadvantage on self-harm. However, causal direction is supported by past research and theory. The data is self-report, which is subject to response bias. The sample was also recruited from a region of the UK with low numbers of residents from ethnic minority backgrounds.

CONCLUSIONS

The results are consistent with past research indicating an association between social identity and better mental health, but for the first time extend these effects to self-harm. The findings demonstrate the importance of considering social and economic factors when attempting to prevent suicide and understand and treat self-harm thoughts.

Beliefs About One's Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: The Experiences of Self-Injury Questionnaire (ESIQ)

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to develop and validate a measure of self-rated positive and negative beliefs about one's non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), the Experiences of Self-Injury Questionnaire (ESIQ).

METHOD

Psychometric properties and validation against NSSI severity and shame were tested in two U.S. and two U.K. samples of individuals who endorsed a history of NSSI.

RESULTS

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses indicated five factors. Subscales were labeled Positive Beliefs, Personal Dislike, Interpersonal Concern, Emotional Suppression, and Emotional Expression. The Positive Beliefs Subscale covers beliefs that NSSI is valuable. Scores on this subscale were associated with endorsement of NSSI frequency, NSSI urges, and perceived likelihood of future NSSI. Other subscales showed validity in that they all showed unique effects on outcome indices of NSSI severity or shame.

CONCLUSION

The ESIQ shows promise as a brief reliable measure of beliefs about and experiences of NSSI.

Investigating self-concept in self-harm: A repertory grid study

OBJECTIVES

The way that individuals perceive themselves and others may be relevant in understanding difficulties with self-harm. Repertory grids provide a relatively underutilized means of investigating self-concept in people who self-harm. This study aimed to examine the association between self-concept, captured through a repertory grid method, and self-harm.

METHOD

Ninety-eight participants with a history of self-harm took part in the study. A repertory grid was used to derive distances between four elements ('current self', 'ideal self', 'self-harming self', and 'others who self-harm'). Associations between these distances and measures of self-harm behaviour, well-being and perceived recovery, were estimated.

RESULTS

Repertory grid distances were significantly associated with self-harm. When adjusting for covariates, self-harm in the past year was positively associated with a greater distance (or less perceived similarity) between current and ideal self, and a smaller distance (greater perceived similarity) between current self and others who self-harm. Repertory grid distances were also associated with well-being and perceived recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

The results are consistent with the idea that self-perception is associated with self-harm and related difficulties. The results also highlight the potential utility of repertory grids as a tool for exploring self-concept. The cross-sectional nature of the study precludes inferences about directionality or the temporal characteristics of associations.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

More recent experiences of self-harm may be reflected in the way individuals perceive or construe themselves. The way in which individuals who self-harm perceive or construe themselves may also be related to their current well-being and perceived recovery. Repertory grids may be a useful tool in clinical practice for investigating self-concept in those who self-harm. Repertory grids may provide a more idiographic, clinical outcome assessment in those who self-harm.

Are negative beliefs about psychosis associated with emotional distress in adults and young people with such experiences? A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Emotional distress, including depression and anxiety, is commonly reported amongst individuals experiencing psychosis. The beliefs individuals hold about the meaning of their psychosis may explain the distress they experience. The current meta-analysis aimed to review the association between beliefs about psychosis experiences and emotional distress.

METHOD

Three electronic databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and CINAHL) were searched using keywords and controlled vocabulary (e.g., Medical Subject Headings) from date of inception to August 2019. A total of 19 eligible papers were identified.

RESULTS

Our random-effects meta-analysis revealed that depression and anxiety held moderate association with psychosis beliefs, with perceptions concerning a lack of control over experiences having the strongest association with distress. Longitudinal studies suggest that negative beliefs at baseline are associated with depressive symptoms at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the endorsement of negative beliefs about psychosis is associated with current level of depression and anxiety. The results are consistent with theories of emotional distress in psychosis. However, the small number of longitudinal papers limits what can be concluded about the direction or other temporal characteristics of these relationships. Therapies that target unhelpful beliefs about psychosis may beneficial.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Negative beliefs about experiences of psychosis are associated with greater emotional distress such as depression and anxiety. Beliefs about a lack of control over experiences had the strongest association with distress. Interventions that aim to modify or prevent the formation of unhelpful beliefs about psychosis may be beneficial for this population.

Pilot service evaluation of a brief psychological therapy for self-harm in an emergency department: Hospital Outpatient Psychotherapy Engagement Service

BACKGROUND

Brief psychological therapies may be helpful for people who have recently self-harmed. The current paper reports on a service evaluation of a novel brief therapy service based within an Emergency Department, Hospital Outpatient Psychotherapy Engagement (HOPE) Service. This service combines elements of psychodynamic interpersonal and cognitive analytic therapy to help people who present with self-harm-related difficulties. The primary aim of this service evaluation was to ascertain the feasibility of HOPE in terms of attendance rates. The study also examined variables associated with engagement, and change over time in psychological distress for those attending the service.

METHOD

The HOPE service was evaluated over a ten-month period. Consenting patients completed measures of psychological distress and working alliance across four therapy sessions and one follow-up session. Measures of emotion regulation style and self-harm function were also completed at the point of referral.

RESULTS

Eight-nine patients were referred to the service (83 eligible referrals). Fifty-three (64%) attended at least one therapy session. Baseline variables did not distinguish people who attended and people who did not. Psychological distress decreased significantly across the sessions. Most people reported a good working alliance with their therapist.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this service evaluation support the feasibility of the HOPE service, demonstrating good engagement rates given the complexity of the population and context. Whilst there was evidence of reductions in distress, randomized controlled trials are needed to determine if HOPE has clinical efficacy.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Rates of engagement with HOPE suggest the service is feasible in an Emergency Department context Working alliance scores were positive for the majority of patients The HOPE service shows promise as a brief intervention for people who self-harm but requires further evaluation Randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the clinical efficacy of the HOPE service.

Genetic origins and diversity of bushpigs from Madagascar (Potamochoerus larvatus, family Suidae)

The island of Madagascar, situated off the southeast coast of Africa, shows the first evidence of human presence ~ 10,000 years ago; however, other archaeological data indicates a settlement of the modern peoples of the island distinctly more recent, perhaps > 1500 years ago. Bushpigs of the genus Potamochoerus (family Suidae), are today widely distributed in Madagascar and presumed to have been introduced from Africa at some stage by human immigrants to the island. However, disparities about their origins in Madagascar have been presented in the literature, including the possibility of endemic subspecies, and few empirical data are available. Furthermore, the separation of bushpigs in Madagascar from their mainland relatives may have favoured the evolution of a different repertoire of immune genes first due to a founder effect and then as a response to distinct pathogens compared to their ancestors. Molecular analysis confirmed the species status of the bushpig in Madagascar as P. larvatus, likely introduced from the central region of southern Africa, with no genetic evidence for the recognition of eastern and western subspecies as suggested from previous cranial morphology examination. Investigation of the immunologically important SLA-DQB1 peptide-binding region showed a different immune repertoire of bushpigs in Madagascar compared to those on the African mainland, with seventeen exon-2 haplotypes unique to bushpigs in Madagascar (2/28 haplotypes shared). This suggests that the MHC diversity of the Madagascar populations may have enabled Malagasy bushpigs to adapt to new environments.

Bisexuality and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI): A narrative synthesis of associated variables and a meta-analysis of risk

BACKGROUND

Bisexual people have been found to be at increased risk of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) when compared to heterosexual and gay or lesbian people. The purpose of this review was to update the estimated risk of NSSI for bisexual people and to examine variables that have been associated with NSSI in this population.

METHODS

The protocol for this paper was pre-registered (CRD42019145299). An electronic search of PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, PubMed, Ovid Online and Web of Science was undertaken from earliest available date to October 2019. Twenty-four eligible papers were identified. Meta-analyses, including moderator analysis, were conducted to ascertain NSSI risk and a narrative synthesis was undertaken of predictors and correlates. All studies were assessed for risk of bias.

RESULTS

Bisexual people had up to six times the odds of engaging in NSSI compared to other sexualities. Mental health variables of anxiety and depression symptoms were found to be most commonly associated with NSSI for this population. The majority of studies had moderate risk of bias. This review demonstrates that bisexual people have an elevated risk of engaging in NSSI. Increased incidence of anxiety and depression and exposure to negative life events may explain this increased risk.

LIMITATIONS

Studies were found to be consistently cross-sectional in design and limited to western cultures. A limitation of this review was that only English language papers were included.

CONCLUSIONS

Results are clinically relevant as they suggest early identification and prevention of NSSI can be achieved. Future research should examine bisexual people independently of others.

Life history and habitat do not mediate temporal changes in body size due to climate warming in rodents

Temporal changes in body size have been documented in a number of vertebrate species, with different contested drivers being suggested to explain these changes. Among these are climate warming, resource availability, competition, predation risk, human population density, island effects and others. Both life history traits (intrinsic factors such as lifespan and reproductive rate) and habitat (extrinsic factors such as vegetation type, latitude and elevation) are expected to mediate the existence of a significant temporal response of body size to climate warming but neither have been widely investigated. Using examples of rodents, we predicted that both life history traits and habitat might explain the probability of temporal response using two tests of this hypothesis. Firstly, taking advantage of new data from museum collections spanning the last 106 years, we investigated geographical and temporal variation in cranial size (a proxy for body size) in six African rodent species of two murid subfamilies (Murinae and Gerbillinae) of varying life history, degree of commensality, range size, and habitat. Two species, the commensal Mastomys natalensis, and the non-commensal Otomys unisulcatus showed significant temporal changes in body size, with the former increasing and the latter decreasing, in relation with climate warming. Commensalism could explain the increase in size with time due to steadily increasing food availability through increased agricultural production. Apart from this, we found no general life history or habitat predictors of a temporal response in African rodents. Secondly, in order to further test this hypothesis, we incorporated our data into a meta-analysis based on published literature on temporal responses in rodents, resulting in a combined dataset for 50 species from seven families worldwide; among these, 29 species showed no significant change, eight showed a significant increase in size, and 13 showed a decline in size. Using a binomial logistic regression model for these metadata, we found that none of our chosen life history or habitat predictors could significantly explain the probability of a temporal response to climate warming, reinforcing our conclusion based on the more detailed data from the six African species.

Comparative assessment on rodent impacts and cultural perceptions of ecologically based rodent management in 3 Afro-Malagasy farming regions

Rodents generate negative consequences for smallholder farmers in Africa that directly impact household and livestock damage, food security, and public health. Ecologically Based Rodent Management (EBRM) seeks sustainable solutions for the mitigation of rodent damage through assessments of rodent population dynamics, agro-ecosystems, and socio-cultural contexts. We adopt a comparative approach across 3 rural Afro-Malagasy smallholder farming regions in South Africa, Tanzania, and Madagascar to assess the household impacts of rodent pests and current perceptions and preferences associated with several rodent control measures. We conducted focus group questionnaires and interviews in different study site locations. Rodents assert multiple impacts on Afro-Malagasy farmers demonstrating recurrent and emerging agricultural and household costs, and public health impacts. We identify a significant knowledge gap in educating communities about the application of different EBRM approaches in favor of acute poisons that are perceived to be more effective. Cultural issues and taboos also have a significant impact on the social acceptance of rodent hunting as well as biological control using indigenous predators. We advocate for an enhanced investigation of the socio-cultural beliefs associated with different rodent practices to understand the factors underlying social acceptance. A collaborative approach that integrates the perspectives of target communities to inform the design of EBRM initiatives according to the specific agro-ecosystem and socio-cultural context is necessary to ensure programmatic success.

Expected spatial patterns of alien woody plants in South Africa's protected areas under current scenario of climate change

Although protected areas (PAs) are declared to provide sanctuaries for biodiversity, they are increasingly threatened by the synergistic effects of anthropic factors, invasive alien species and climate change. Consequently, interventions are required to minimize the impacts of these threats on PAs' integrity. To inform these interventions in the South African context and under the current climate change scenario, we tested for geographic patterns of alien woody species across the network of 1,453 PAs using three alien invasion indices - alien species abundance, invaded area ratio and alien species richness. Our analysis shows that, under current climate change scenario, none of the PAs would be effective in shielding against alien plants and PAs that are geographically close tend to share similar invasion patterns. In addition, PAs that are hotspots of alien species are also geographically clustered but these findings are biome-dependent. Our outlier analysis reveals not only an island of disproportionately rich PAs in alien species, but also identifies some alien-poor PAs. We suggest that PAs that are hotspots of alien species as well as outliers of disproportionately rich PAs in alien species should be priority in monitoring and invasion control programmes in the context of the ongoing climate change.

Experiences of shame and guilt in anorexia and bulimia nervosa: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Emotional states may play an important role in the development and maintenance of anorexia (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). This systematic review aimed to examine the evidence regarding the relationship that shame and guilt have with two eating disorders, AN and BN.

METHODS

Four major databases (Pubmed, PsychINFO, Web of Science, Medline) were searched (up until April 2018) for studies measuring guilt or shame in clinically diagnosed AN and BN groups. Included papers were evaluated for risk of bias.

RESULTS

Twenty-four papers met the inclusion criteria. Several methodological issues were noted within the reviewed studies, including a lack of longitudinal data and unaccounted confounding variables. Nonetheless, shame was typically more common in those with AN and BN than controls, was positively related to the severity of symptoms, and associated with the onset of eating disorder-related difficulties (e.g., binging or purging). Effect sizes were typically moderate to large. The role of guilt was less clear, with few studies and mixed results.

DISCUSSION

There is preliminary evidence that shame is implicated in the aetiology of AN and BN presentations, whilst there is currently insufficient evidence of such a role for guilt. It remains unclear whether shame is a risk factor for the development of AN and BN or a consequence of these difficulties.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Elevated shame appears to be a feature of anorexia (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Shame appears to fluctuate with the occurrence of eating disordered behaviours like binging, purging or restricted eating. Guilt is less consistently linked to AN and BN presentations. Interventions directed at shame may be helpful for these populations. A lack of longitudinal data means the temporal features of these relationships are still unclear.

An examination of the relationship between shame, guilt and self-harm: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Self-harm is a major public health concern associated with suicide risk and significant psychological distress. Theories suggest that aversive emotional states are an important process that drives self-harm. Shame and guilt may, in particular, be important emotions in self-harm. This review therefore sought to provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of the relationship between shame, guilt, and self-harm. A systematic search of electronic databases (PsycINFO; Medline; CINAHL Plus; Web of Science and ProQuest) was undertaken to identify studies measuring shame, guilt and self-harm (including suicidal and non-suicidal behaviour). Meta-analysis was undertaken where papers focused on the same subtype of shame or guilt and shared a common outcome. Thirty studies were identified for inclusion. Most forms of shame were associated with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), but research was sparse concerning suicidal behaviour. Fewer studies examined guilt and findings were more varied. Methodological issues included a paucity of longitudinal designs and lack of justification for sample sizes. Results of this review support the link between shame and self-harm, particularly NSSI. The direction of this relationship is yet to be established. Clinically, consideration should be given to the role of shame amongst individuals who present with NSSI. This review was pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42017056165).

Tolerability and acceptability of real-time continuous glucose monitoring and its impact on diabetes management behaviours in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes - A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Emerging evidence suggests us of real-time continuous glucose monitoring systems (RT-CGM), can assist to improve glucose control in Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) treatment, however the impact of these devices on patients' stress levels and behaviour is poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of RT-CGM on tolerance and acceptability of device wear, stress and diabetes management and motivation to change.

METHODS

Twenty adults (10 men, 10 women) with T2D (aged 60.6 ± 8.4 years, BMI 34.2 ± 4.7 kg/m²), were randomised to a low-carbohydrate lifestyle plan whilst wearing a RT-CGM or an 'offline-blinded' (Blinded-CGM) monitoring system continuously for 12 weeks. Outcomes were glycaemic control (HbA1c), weight (kg) perceived stress scale (PSS), CGM device intolerance, acceptability, motivation to change and diabetes management behaviour questionnaires.

RESULTS

Both groups experienced significant reductions in body weight (RT-CGM -7.4 ± 4.5 kg vs. Blinded-CGM -5.5 ± 4.0 kg) and HbA1c (-0.67 ± 0.82% vs. -0.68 ± 0.74%). There were no differences between groups for perceived stress (P = 0.47) or device intolerance at week 6 or 12 (both P > 0.30). However, there was evidence of greater acceptance of CGM in the RT-CGM group at week 12 (P = 0.03), improved blood glucose monitoring behaviour in the RT-CGM group at week 6 and week 12 (P ≤ 0.01), and a significant time x group interaction (P = 0.03) demonstrating improved diabetes self-management behaviours in RT-CGM.

CONCLUSION

This study provides preliminary evidence of improved behaviours that accompany RT-CGM in the context of diabetes management and glucose self-monitoring. RT-CGM may provide an alternative approach to glucose management in individuals with T2D without resulting in increased disease distress.

Cognitive Analytic Therapy for psychosis: A case series

OBJECTIVES

Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is an effective psychological intervention for several different mental health conditions. However, whether it is acceptable, safe, and beneficial for people with psychosis remains unclear, as is the feasibility of providing and evaluating it within a research context. The aim of this study was to begin to address these questions and to obtain for the first time a rich and detailed understanding of the experience of receiving CAT for psychosis.

DESIGN

A mixed-methods case series design.

METHOD

Seven individuals who experienced non-affective psychosis received CAT. They completed assessments at the start of CAT, 16 weeks, and 28 weeks post-baseline. Qualitative interviews were completed with four individuals following completion of or withdrawal from therapy.

RESULTS

Six participants attended at least four sessions of therapy and four went on to complete therapy. There were no serious adverse events, and self-reported adverse experiences were minimal. Qualitative interviews suggested CAT is acceptable and provided a way to understand and work therapeutically with psychosis. There was limited evidence of change in psychotic symptoms, but improvement in perceived recovery and personality integration was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that CAT is a safe and acceptable intervention for psychosis. Personality integration, perceived recovery, and functioning are relevant outcomes for future evaluations of CAT for psychosis.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

It is feasible to conduct research evaluating CAT for people with psychosis. Within this case series, CAT appears acceptable and safe to individuals with psychosis. Within this case series, clients reported that CAT was a positive and helpful experience. There is a mixed picture with regard to secondary outcomes, but the design and aims of this case series limit conclusion that can be drawn from this data.

A Systematic Review of the Antecedents and Prevalence of Suicide, Self-Harm and Suicide Ideation in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth

Suicide and self-harm represent serious global health problems and appear to be especially elevated amongst indigenous minority groups, and particularly amongst young people (aged 24 years or younger). This systematic review investigates for the first time the antecedents and prevalence of suicide, self-harm and suicide ideation among Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. Web of Science, PubMed, PsychINFO, CINAHL databases and grey literature were searched from earliest records to April 2019 for eligible articles. Twenty-two empirical articles met the inclusion criteria. The data confirmed that indigenous youth in Australia have elevated rates of suicide, self-harm and suicidal ideation relative to the nonindigenous population. Risk factors included being incarcerated, substance use and greater social and emotional distress. Notably, though, information on predictors of suicide and self-harm remains scarce. The findings support and justify the increasing implementation of public health programs specifically aimed at tackling this crisis. Based on the review findings, we argued that Aboriginal communities are best positioned to identify and understand the antecedents of youth self-harm, suicide ideation and suicide, and to take the lead in the development of more effective mental health preventive strategies and public policies within their communities.

The use of bat houses as day roosts in macadamia orchards, South Africa

The loss of roost sites is one of the major drivers of the worldwide decline in bat populations and roost site preferences, either natural or artificially provided, are not well known for African bat species specifically. In this study we focus on the preference for different artificial roost sites by insectivorous bats in macadamia orchards in northern South Africa. From June 2016 to July 2017 we monitored 31 bat houses, mounted on poles in six macadamia orchards, for presence of bats or other occupants. Twenty-one multi-chambered bat houses of three different designs were erected in sets of three. Additionally, five Rocket boxes, four bat houses in sets of two (painted black and white) and one colony bat house were erected. Bats were counted and visually identified to family or species level. From December 2016 to the end of March 2017 iButtons were installed to record and analyze temperature variation within one set of three bat houses. We related the occupancy of bat houses to the different types of houses and the environmental variables: distance to water, altitude and height of the bat houses above the ground. Overall bat house occupancy was significantly higher in the central bat house, in the set of three, and the black bat house, in the set of two. Mean temperatures differed between houses in the set of three with the central bat house having a significantly higher mean temperature than the houses flanking it. Our study might confirm previous assumptions that the microclimate of bat houses appears to be an important factor influencing occupancy. In conclusion, from the different bat houses tested in this study the designs we assume the warmest and best insulated attracted the most bats. Further research is needed on the preferred microclimate of different bat species, co-habitation within bat houses and the potential importance of altitude and distance to water. Our study provided little variation in both altitude and the distance to water.

Distinguishing people with current, past, and no history of non-suicidal self-injury: Shame, social comparison, and self-concept integration

OBJECTIVE

Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) can have a major impact on the lives of individuals and those around them. The way in which a person feels about and perceives themselves (i.e. self-concept) appears central to understanding NSSI. The current study investigates three variables linked to self-concept: shame, social comparison, and self-concept integration. We examine how well these variables differentiate people who report past NSSI, people who report current NSSI, and people who have never engaged in NSSI.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

METHOD

Individuals reporting NSSI in the past year (n = 51), individuals with a history of NSSI but none in the past year (n = 44), and individuals with no history of NSSI (n = 110) were compared on measures of shame, social comparison, and self-concept integration.

RESULTS

Shame was elevated in people with a history of NSSI but did not distinguish between past and current NSSI when other variables were controlled for. Self-concept integration was poorer in people reporting current NSSI than people reporting past NSSI, even when controlling for other variables.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the role of shame as a general marker for NSSI risk, but suggest self-concept integration may fluctuate more dynamically in relation to the recency of NSSI. The study is limited by a non-matched student control group.

The role of positive goal engagement in increased mental well-being among individuals with chronic non-cancer pain

Individuals with chronic pain commonly report significant functional impairment and reduced quality of life. Despite this, little is known about psychological processes and mechanisms underpinning enhancements in well-being within this population. The study aimed to investigate whether (1) increased levels of pain intensity and interference were associated with lower levels of mental well-being, (2) increased positive goal engagement was associated with higher levels of mental well-being and (3) whether the relationships between pain characteristics and mental well-being were mediated by increased positive goal engagement. A total of 586 individuals with chronic pain participated in the cross-sectional, online study. Participants completed self-report measures to assess pain intensity and interference, mental well-being and goal motivation variables. Results showed that pain interference and positive goal engagement were associated with mental well-being. Moreover, the relationship between pain interference and mental well-being was partially mediated by positive goal engagement. The results provide tentative evidence for the protective role of positive goal engagement in enabling individuals with chronic pain to maintain a sense of mental well-being. The study develops the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain by examining the roles and relationships of relevant yet previously unexplored psychological constructs. The promotion of mental well-being through the enhancement of positive goal engagement is discussed, offering a platform for further research and clinical interventions.

Associated tympanic bullar and cochlear hypertrophy define adaptations to true deserts in African gerbils and laminate-toothed rats (Muridae: Gerbillinae and Murinae)

Hearing capabilities in desert rodents such as gerbils and heteromyids have been inferred from both anatomical and ecological aspects and tested with experiments and theoretical models. However, very few studies have focused on other desert-adapted species. In this study, a refined three-dimensional morphometric approach was used on three African rodent tribes (Otomyini, Taterillini and Gerbillini) to describe the cochlear and tympanic bullar morphology, and to explore the role of phylogeny, allometry and ecology to better understand the underlying mechanism of any observed trends of hypertrophy in the bulla and associated changes in the cochlea. As a result, desert-adapted species could be distinguished from mesic and semi-arid taxa by the gross cochlear dimensions, particularly the oval window, which is larger in desert species. Bullar and cochlear modifications between species could be explained by environment (bulla and oval window), phylogeny (cochlear curvature gradient) and/or allometry (cochlear relative length, oval window and bulla) with some exceptions. Based on their ear anatomy, we predict that Desmodillus auricularis and Parotomys brantsii should be sensitive to low-frequency sounds, with D. auricularis sensitive to high-frequency sounds, too. This study concludes that in both arid and semi-arid adapted laminate-toothed rats and gerbils there is bulla and associated cochlea hypertrophy, particularly in true desert species. Gerbils also show tightly coiled cochlea but the significance of this is debatable and may have nothing to do with adaptations to any specific acoustics in the desert environment.

Weak-link Josephson Junctions Made from Topological Crystalline Insulators

We report on the fabrication of Josephson junctions using the topological crystalline insulator Pb_{0.5}Sn_{0.5}Te as the weak link. The properties of these junctions are characterized and compared to those fabricated with weak links of PbTe, a similar material yet topologically trivial. Most striking is the difference in the ac Josephson effect: junctions made with Pb_{0.5}Sn_{0.5}Te exhibit a rich subharmonic structure consistent with a skewed current-phase relation. This structure is absent in junctions fabricated from PbTe. A discussion is given on the origin of this effect as an indication of novel behavior arising from the topologically nontrivial surface state.