This study examined perceptions regarding intimate partner abuse (IPV) in a largely Latino community in New Jersey through focus groups with Latino community members and key informant interviews with providers of services to this population. Questions examined definitions of partner abuse; perceptions of factors contributing to, or protecting against, IPV; and barriers to reporting IPV both for the victim and the community at large. Atlas.ti, a qualitative data package, was used to analyze transcripts for themes drawn from the literature and preliminary review of transcripts. Findings point to both similarities and some potentially important differences between the perspectives of community members and service providers in such areas as definitions of partner abuse, factors associated with abuse, and barriers to reporting. Although both community members and service providers can individually offer important insights with regard to IPV, a more complete picture emerges when the views of both groups are considered.

Previous studies of tobacco dependence treatment have reported very low cessation rates among smokers who relapse and return to make a subsequent formal attempt to quit. This retrospective cohort study examined 1745 patients who attended a tobacco dependence clinic between 2001 and 2005, and the characteristics and outcomes of those who relapsed and returned for repeat treatment. Patients who returned for repeat treatment showed higher markers of nicotine dependence and were more likely to have a history of treatment for mental health problems than patients who attended the clinic for only one treatment episode. Among patients who relapsed and returned for repeat treatment, the 26-week abstinence rates were similar for each consecutive quit attempt (23%, 22% and 20%). Clinicians should encourage smokers who relapse after an initial treatment episode to return for treatment, and repeat treatment should focus on addressing high nicotine dependence and potentially co-occurring mental health problems in order to improve cessation outcomes.

The study aims to assess the feasibility of introducing a mental health screening tool into the initial health care assessment for refugees in New Jersey, US. A semi-structured interview was conducted with a convenience sample of professionals providing refugee health care in New Jersey and in a number of other states. There is a widespread appreciation of the need to consider the mental and emotional issues of the refugees as a priority in healthcare services. A mental health screening tool is required for practice in NJ. Community resources should be coupled with early screening for better refugee mental health outcomes.

The professional fields of planning and public health both arosefrom the Progressive movement of the early twentieth century. The fields share many common concerns, including air and water pollution, disposal of hazardous waste, the sick building syndrome, and the aging of building stock. Yet despite their common historical origins and mutual concerns, a comparison of articles and book reviews published between 1978 and 1990 in theflagship publications of the two professions-the Journal of the American Planning Association and the American Journal of Public Health-suggests only minor overlaps between the twofields today. Similarly, a review of the linkages between planning departments and schools of public health at eleven U.S. universities that have accredited graduate programs in both fields suggests only limited interactions. It is important that the links be strengthened between planning and public health through a common literature, professional interaction, and increased cross-disciplinary education.

War and social transition in Croatia have increased unemployment and rates of substance abuse. A decrease in prevention programs places adolescents at an increased risk. Data collected from the 2002 Split Youth Behavior Risk Survey (YRBS) showed that adolescents are at risk for alcohol use and related problems. Thus, there is a need to strengthen primary and secondary prevention activities to empower adolescents and counteract negative societal change. A public health partnership between the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Public Health (UMDNJ-SPH) and Split, Croatia was formed in 2001. Adolescent alcohol prevention was identified as our focus and Project Northland, a model U.S. program, was selected. A strong network of NGOs and government officials support the project. Qualitative evaluation showed strong parent, teacher, and student satisfaction. Preliminary analysis shows a heightened awareness on the part of students that will likely contribute to the overall success of the program.