Relaxational dynamics of the T-number conversion of virus capsids.

We extend a recently proposed kinetic theory of virus capsid assembly based on Model A kinetics and study the dynamics of the interconversion of virus capsids of different sizes triggered by a quench, that is, by sudden changes in the solution conditions. The work is inspired by in vitro experiments on functionalized coat proteins of the plant virus cowpea chlorotic mottle virus, which undergo a reversible transition between two different shell sizes (T = 1 and T = 3) upon changing the acidity and salinity of the solution. We find that the relaxation dynamics are governed by two time scales that, in almost all cases, can be identified as two distinct processes.

Coping styles of caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS: implications for health professionals.

In a study to examine the coping styles and quality of life of non-parental caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS, 25 non-parental caregivers used confrontive coping most often and passive and emotive coping much less often. The two most frequently used coping styles were prayer and efforting to maintain some control over the situation. Quality of life correlations showed that support from family/friends was significantly related to all of the quality of life subscales.

Alcohol attitudes and beliefs related to actual alcohol experience in a fifth-grade cohort.

Despite a gradual overall decrease in alcohol consumption in the United States, alcohol remains the most widely used and abused drug in society. This study assessed lifetime and recent alcohol use in a cohort of fifth graders, and examined attitudes and beliefs held by these youth concerning alcohol. An instrument addressing alcohol use, other substance use, and other health-related problem behaviors was completed by 813 fifth graders in a west central Florida school district.

Caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS: quality of life and coping styles.

The purpose of this study was to explore the quality of life and coping styles of caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS and to identify if there were differences between mothers and alternative caregivers in these areas. There were 54 mother-caregivers and 25 alternative caregivers in the study. The alternative caregivers scored significantly higher in each area of quality of life than the mothers, except for physical health.

Quality of life and coping styles of HIV-positive women with children.

This descriptive study explored the quality of life and coping methods of HIV positive women (N = 52) with children. The sample consisted of women with HIV/AIDS who answered an adapted Padilla Quality of Life Index and the Jalowiec Coping Scale. Among the psychological, physical, and social quality of life subscales, social quality of life was rated highest and the psychological scale rated the lowest.