bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimal Residual Disease as a Predictive Factor for Relapse after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in Adult Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in First and Second Complete Remission
Authors: Grubovikj Rada M. , Alavi Asif , Koppel Ahrin , Territo Mary , Schiller Gary J.
Published: June 2012

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) is potentially curative for patients with high-risk leukemia, but disease recurrence remains the leading cause of treatment failure. Our objective was to determine the impact of minimal residual disease (MRD) by any technique in adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in morphologic first and second complete remission undergoing allo-SCT. Fifty nine patients were eligible for the study of 160 patients transplanted over ten years. For the MRD assessment we used multiparametric flow cytometry, cytogenetics and fluorescent in situ hybridization; 19 patients (32.2%) were identified as MRD positive. Patients with MRD had a consistently worse outcome over those without MRD, with 3-years leukemia-free survival (LFS) of 15.8% vs. 62.4% and overall survival (OS) of 17.5% vs. 62.3%. Relapse rate was significantly higher in MRD-positive patients; 3 years relapse rate in MRD-positive patients was 57.9% vs. 15.1% in MRD-negative patients. Detection of MRD in complete remission was associated with increased overall mortality (HR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.45–7.57; p = 0.0044) and relapse (HR = 5.26; 95% CI: 2.0–14.0; p = 0.001), even after controlling for other risk factors. Our study showed that for patients in morphologic complete remission the presence of MRD predicts for significantly increased risk of relapse and reduced LFS and OS.
Thermodynamic Properties, Hysteresis Behavior and Stress-Strain Analysis of MgH2 Thin Films, Studied over a Wide Temperature Range
Authors: Pivak Yevheniy , Schreuders Herman , Dam Bernard
Published: June 2012

Using hydrogenography, we investigate the thermodynamic parameters and hysteresis behavior in Mg thin films capped by Ta/Pd, in a temperature range from 333 K to 545 K. The enthalpy and entropy of hydride decomposition, ∆Hdes = −78.3 kJ/molH2, ∆Sdes = −136.1 J/K molH2, estimated from the Van't Hoff analysis, are in good agreement with bulk results, while the absorption thermodynamics, ∆Habs = −61.6 kJ/molH2, ∆Sabs = −110.9 J/K molH2, appear to be substantially affected by the clamping of the film to the substrate. The clamping is negligible at high temperatures, T > 523 K, while at lower temperatures, T < 393 K, it is considerable. The hysteresis at room temperature in Mg/Ta/Pd films increases by a factor of 16 as compared to MgH2 bulk. The hysteresis increases even further in Mg/Pd films, most likely due to the formation of a Mg-Pd alloy at the Mg/Pd interface. The stress–strain analysis of the Mg/Ta/Pd films at 300–333 K proves that the increase of the hysteresis occurs due to additional mechanical work during the (de-)hydrogenation cycle. With a proper temperature correction, our stress–strain analysis quantitatively and qualitatively explains the hysteresis behavior in thin films, as compared to bulk, over the whole temperature range.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Algal Biofuel Production: Experimental and Target Results
Authors: Beal Colin M. , Hebner Robert E. , Webber Michael E. , Ruoff Rodney S. , Seibert A. Frank , King Carey W.
Published: June 2012

Worldwide, algal biofuel research and development efforts have focused on increasing the competitiveness of algal biofuels by increasing the energy and financial return on investments, reducing water intensity and resource requirements, and increasing algal productivity. In this study, analyses are presented in each of these areas—costs, resource needs, and productivity—for two cases: (1) an Experimental Case, using mostly measured data for a lab-scale system, and (2) a theorized Highly Productive Case that represents an optimized commercial-scale production system, albeit one that relies on full-price water, nutrients, and carbon dioxide. For both cases, the analysis described herein concludes that the energy and financial return on investments are less than 1, the water intensity is greater than that for conventional fuels, and the amounts of required resources at a meaningful scale of production amount to significant fractions of current consumption (e.g., nitrogen). The analysis and presentation of results highlight critical areas for advancement and innovation that must occur for sustainable and profitable algal biofuel production can occur at a scale that yields significant petroleum displacement. To this end, targets for energy consumption, production cost, water consumption, and nutrient consumption are presented that would promote sustainable algal biofuel production. Furthermore, this work demonstrates a procedure and method by which subsequent advances in technology and biotechnology can be framed to track progress.
Sequestering Carbon in China’s Forest Ecosystems: Potential and Challenges
Authors: Liu Ping , Yin Runsheng
Published: June 2012

As part of its efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions, China has committed to expanding the country’s forest area by 40 million hectares and stocking volume by 1.3 billion m3 from 2006 to 2020. Our analysis suggests that it is very likely that China will realize its goal of forest area expansion; but the target of volume increase represents only a modest gain, which may absorb about 2% of its cumulative carbon emissions. However, China’s forests can be a much more significant carbon sequester and ecosystem services provider if its forest growth rate and stocking level are boosted by improving forest quality and productivity. To that end, however, the silvicultural practices and governance structure must be transformed.
Ten Year Evaluation of Carbon Stock in Mangrove Plantation Reforested from an Abandoned Shrimp Pond
Authors: Matsui Naohiro , Morimune Keiyo , Meepol Wijarn , Chukwamdee Jirasak
Published: June 2012

Forest carbon stocks—both in terms of the standing biomass and the soil organic carbon (OC)—were monitored in the mangrove plantation reforested from an abandoned shrimp pond for the 10 years following land excavation. Excavation to a level of 25 cm below the existing ground level increased the inundation time of tidal water from 463 to 7,597 hours per year, resulting in a significant increase of survival/growth rates for planted mangrove species, Rhizophora mucronata (RM) and Bruguiera cylindrica (BC), and of carbon stocks as well. RM showed high rates of standing biomass accumulation with 98.7 ton/ha while 28.8 ton/ha for BC was measured over 10 years in the excavated area. In contrast, the unexcavated area showed low rates of biomass accumulation, 1.04 ton/ha for RM and 0.53 ton/ha for BC in the same period. The excavated area recorded a twofold increase of soil OC in the upper 5 cm of the surface soil from 71.8 to 154.8 ton/ha in 10 years, however it decreased to 68.3 ton/ha in the unexcavated area where soil OC is susceptible to decomposition. These results imply that the potential of carbon sinks in reforested land from abandoned areas cannot be developed unless hydraulic conditions are properly recovered. The fast growing species Avicennia marina (AM) grew quickly for the first two years after colonization but its growth slowed down afterwards, showing a limited ability of carbon capture.
Degradability Enhancement of Poly(Lactic Acid) by Stearate-Zn3Al LDH Nanolayers
Authors: Eili Mahboobeh , Shameli Kamyar , Ibrahim Nor Azowa , Wan Yunus Wan Md Zin
Published: June 2012

Recent environmental problems and societal concerns associated with the disposal of petroleum based plastics throughout the world have triggered renewed efforts to develop new biodegradable products compatible with our environment. This article describes the preparation, characterization and biodegradation study of poly(lactic acid)/layered double hydroxide (PLA/LDH) nanocomposites from PLA and stearate-Zn3Al LDH. A solution casting method was used to prepare PLA/stearate-Zn3Al LDH nanocomposites. The anionic clay Zn3Al LDH was firstly prepared by co-precipitation method from a nitrate salt solution at pH 7.0 and then modified by stearate anions through an ion exchange reaction. This modification increased the basal spacing of the synthetic clay from 8.83 Å to 40.10 Å. The morphology and properties of the prepared PLA/stearate-Zn3Al LDH nanocomposites were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), tensile tests as well as biodegradation studies. From the XRD analysis and TEM observation, the stearate-Zn3Al LDH lost its ordered stacking-structure and was greatly exfoliated in the PLA matrix. Tensile test results of PLA/stearate-Zn3Al LDH nanocomposites showed that the presence of around 1.0–3.0 wt % of the stearate-Zn3Al LDH in the PLA drastically improved its elongation at break. The biodegradation studies demonstrated a significant biodegradation rate improvement of PLA in the presence of stearate-Zn3Al LDH nanolayers. This effect can be caused by the catalytic role of the stearate groups in the biodegradation mechanism leading to much faster disintegration of nanocomposites than pure PLA.
Bioactive and Biodegradable Nanocomposites and Hybrid Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Allo Bedilu A. , Costa Daniel O. , Dixon S. Jeffrey , Mequanint Kibret , Rizkalla Amin S.
Published: June 2012

Strategies for bone tissue engineering and regeneration rely on bioactive scaffolds to mimic the natural extracellular matrix and act as templates onto which cells attach, multiply, migrate and function. Of particular interest are nanocomposites and organic-inorganic (O/I) hybrid biomaterials based on selective combinations of biodegradable polymers and bioactive inorganic materials. In this paper, we review the current state of bioactive and biodegradable nanocomposite and O/I hybrid biomaterials and their applications in bone regeneration. We focus specifically on nanocomposites based on nano-sized hydroxyapatite (HA) and bioactive glass (BG) fillers in combination with biodegradable polyesters and their hybrid counterparts. Topics include 3D scaffold design, materials that are widely used in bone regeneration, and recent trends in next generation biomaterials. We conclude with a perspective on the future application of nanocomposites and O/I hybrid biomaterials for regeneration of bone.
Two Decades of Negative Thermal Expansion Research: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Lind Cora
Published: June 2012

Negative thermal expansion (NTE) materials have become a rapidly growing area of research over the past two decades. The initial discovery of materials displaying NTE over a large temperature range, combined with elucidation of the mechanism behind this unusual property, was followed by predictions that these materials will find use in various applications through controlled thermal expansion composites. While some patents have been filed and devices built, a number of obstacles have prevented the widespread implementation of NTE materials to date. This paper reviews NTE materials that contract due to transverse atomic vibrations, their potential for use in controlled thermal expansion composites, and known problems that could interfere with such applications.
Pigmentation and Spectral Absorbance Signatures in Deep-Water Corals from the Trondheimsfjord, Norway
Authors: Elde Anette C. , Pettersen Ragnhild , Bruheim Per , Järnegren Johanna , Johnsen Geir
Published: June 2012

The pigmentation and corresponding in vivo and in vitro absorption characteristics in three different deep-water coral species: white and orange Lophelia pertusa, Paragorgia arborea and Primnoa resedaeformis, collected from the Trondheimsfjord are described. Pigments were isolated and characterized by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (LC-TOF MS). The main carotenoids identified for all three coral species were astaxanthin and a canthaxanthin-like carotenoid. Soft tissue and skeleton of orange L. pertusa contained 2 times more astaxanthin g−1 wet weight compared to white L. pertusa. White and orange L. pertusa were characterized with in vivo absorbance peaks at 409 and 473 nm, respectively. In vivo absorbance maxima for P. arborea and P. resedaeformis was typically at 475 nm. The shapes of the absorbance spectra (400–700 nm) were species-specific, indicated by in vivo, in vitro and the corresponding difference spectra. The results may provide important chemotaxonomic information for pigment when bonded to their proteins in vivo, bio-prospecting, and for in situ identification, mapping and monitoring of corals.
NMR and Electrochemical Investigation of the Transport Properties of Methanol and Water in Nafion and Clay-Nanocomposites Membranes for DMFCs
Authors: Nicotera Isabella , Angjeli Kristina , Coppola Luigi , Aricò Antonino S. , Baglio Vincenzo
Published: June 2012

Water and methanol transport behavior, solvents adsorption and electrochemical properties of filler-free Nafion and nanocomposites based on two smectite clays, were investigated using impedance spectroscopy, DMFC tests and NMR methods, including spin-lattice relaxation and pulsed-gradient spin-echo (PGSE) diffusion under variable temperature conditions. Synthetic (Laponite) and natural (Swy-2) smectite clays, with different structural and physical parameters, were incorporated into the Nafion for the creation of exfoliated nanocomposites. Transport mechanism of water and methanol appears to be influenced from the dimensions of the dispersed platelike silicate layers as well as from their cation exchange capacity (CEC). The details of the NMR results and the effect of the methanol solution concentration are discussed. Clays particles, and in particular Swy-2, demonstrate to be a potential physical barrier for methanol cross-over, reducing the methanol diffusion with an evident blocking effect yet nevertheless ensuring a high water mobility up to 130 °C and for several hours, proving the exceptional water retention property of these materials and their possible use in the DMFCs applications. Electrochemical behavior is investigated by cell resistance and polarization measurements. From these analyses it is derived that the addition of clay materials to recast Nafion decreases the ohmic losses at high temperatures extending in this way the operating range of a direct methanol fuel cell.
Dynamic Behavior of Hybrid APM (Advanced Pore Morphology Foam) and Aluminum Foam Filled Structures
Authors: Baumeister Joachim , Monno Michele , Goletti Massimo , Mussi Valerio , Weise Joerg
Published: June 2012

The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of different densities of hybrid aluminum polymer foam on the frequency behavior of a foam filled steel structure with different ratios between steel and foam masses. The foam filled structure is composed of three steel tubes with a welded flange at both ends bolted together to form a portal grounded by its free ends. Structure, internal and ground constraints have been designed and manufactured in order to minimize nonlinear effects and to guarantee optimal constraint conditions. Mode shapes and frequencies were verified with finite elements models (FEM) to be in the range of experimental modal analysis, considering the frequency measurement range limits for instrumented hammer and accelerometer. Selected modes have been identified with suitable modal parameters extraction techniques. Each structure has been tested before and after filling, in order to compute the percentage variation of modal parameters. Two different densities of hybrid aluminum polymer foam have been tested and compared with structures filled with aluminum foams produced using the powder compact melting technique. All the foam fillings were able to suppress high frequency membrane modes which results in a reduction of environmental noise and an increase in performance of the components. Low frequency modes show an increase in damping ratio only when small thickness steel frames are filled with either Hybrid APM or Alulight foam.
Down Regulation of CIAPIN1 Reverses Multidrug Resistance in Human Breast Cancer Cells by Inhibiting MDR1
Authors: Lu Dan , Xiao Zhibo , Wang Wenxiu , Xu Yuqing , Gao Shujian , Deng Lili , He Wen , Yang Yu , Guo Xiaofei , Wang Xuemei
Published: June 2012

Cytokine-induced apoptosis inhibitor 1 (CIAPIN1), initially named anamorsin, a newly indentified antiapoptotic molecule is a downstream effector of the receptor tyrosine kinase-Ras signaling pathway. Current study has revealed that CIAPIN1 may have wide and important functions, especially due to its close correlations with malignant tumors. However whether or not it is involved in the multi-drug resistance (MDR) process of breast cancer has not been elucidated. To explore the effect of CIAPIN1 on MDR, we examined the expression of P-gp and CIAPIN1 by immunohistochemistry and found there was positive correlation between them. Then we successfully interfered with RNA translation by the infection of siRNA of CIAPIN1 into MCF7/ADM breast cancer cell lines through a lentivirus, and the expression of the target gene was significantly inhibited. After RNAi the drug resistance was reduced significantly and the expression of MDR1mRNA and P-gp in MCF7/ADM cell lines showed a significant decrease. Also the expression of P53 protein increased in a statistically significant way (p ≤ 0.01) after RNAi exposure. In addition, flow cytometry analysis reveals that cell cycle and anti-apoptotic enhancing capability of cells changed after RNAi treatment. These results suggested CIAPIN1 may participate in breast cancer MDR by regulating MDR1 and P53 expression, changing cell cycle and enhancing the anti-apoptotic capability of cells.
Changes in the Amino Acid Composition of Bogue (Boops boops) Fish during Storage at Different Temperatures by 1H-NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ciampa Alessandra , Picone Gianfranco , Laghi Luca , Nikzad Homa , Capozzi Francesco
Published: June 2012

Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was employed to obtain information about the changes occurring in Bogue (Boops boops) fish during storage. For this purpose, 1H-NMR spectra were recorded at 600 MHz on trichloroacetic acid extracts of fish flesh stored over a 15 days period both at 4 °C and on ice. Such spectra allowed the identification and quantification of amino acids, together with the main organic acids and alcohols. The concentration of acidic and basic free amino acids was generally found to increase and decrease during storage, respectively. These concentration changes were slow during the first days, as a consequence of protein autolysis, and at higher rates afterward, resulting from microbial development. Two of the amino acids that showed the greatest concentration change were alanine and glycine, known to have a key role in determining the individual taste of different fish species. The concentration of serine decreased during storage, as highlighted in the literature for frozen fish samples. Differences in the amino acids concentration trends were found to be related to the different storage temperatures from day 4 onwards.
Everyday Eating Experiences of Chocolate and Non-Chocolate Snacks Impact Postprandial Anxiety, Energy and Emotional States
Authors: Martin François-Pierre J. , Antille Nicolas , Rezzi Serge , Kochhar Sunil
Published: June 2012

Social and psychological stressors are both a part of daily life and are increasingly recognized as contributors to individual susceptibility to develop diseases and metabolic disorders. The present study investigated how snacks differing in sensory properties and presentation can influence ratings of affect in consumers with different levels of dispositional anxiety. This study examines the relationships between a pre-disposition to anxiety and food using a repeated exposures design with three interspersed test days over a period of two weeks. The study was conducted on ninety free-living male (n = 28) and female (n = 62) Dutch participants aged between 18 and 35 years old, with a BMI between 18 and 25 kg/m2 and different anxiety trait levels assessed using State-Trait Anxiety Inventory tests. The study was randomized by age, gender, anxiety trait score, and followed a parallel open design. Three test products: dark chocolate, a milk chocolate snack and crackers with cheese spread (control), which differed in composition, sensory properties and presentation, were evaluated. Changes in self-reported anxiety, emotion, and energetic states were assessed as a function of eating the snacks just after consumption and up to one hour. The repeated exposure design over a period of two weeks enabled the investigations of potential cumulative effects of regular consumption of the food products. The milk chocolate snack resulted in the decrease of anxiety in high anxiety trait subjects, whereas dark chocolate and cheese and crackers respectively improved the anxiety level and the energetic state of low anxiety trait participants. The mood effects were not altered with repeated exposure, and the magnitude of changes was similar on each test day, which illustrates the repeatability of the effects of the food on subjective measures of postprandial wellness.
Multiplex Immunoassay Platforms Based on Shape-Coded Poly(ethylene glycol) Hydrogel Microparticles Incorporating Acrylic Acid
Authors: Park Saemi , Lee Hyun Jong , Koh Won-Gun
Published: June 2012

A suspension protein microarray was developed using shape-coded poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel microparticles for potential applications in multiplex and high-throughput immunoassays. A simple photopatterning process produced various shapes of hydrogel micropatterns that were weakly bound to poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)-coated substrates. These micropatterns were easily detached from substrates during the washing process and were collected as non-spherical microparticles. Acrylic acids were incorporated into hydrogels, which could covalently immobilize proteins onto their surfaces due to the presence of carboxyl groups. The amount of immobilized protein increased with the amount of acrylic acid due to more available carboxyl groups. Saturation was reached at 25% v/v of acrylic acid. Immunoassays with IgG and IgM immobilized onto hydrogel microparticles were successfully performed with a linear concentration range from 0 to 500 ng/mL of anti-IgG and anti-IgM, respectively. Finally, a mixture of two different shapes of hydrogel microparticles immobilizing IgG (circle) and IgM (square) was prepared and it was demonstrated that simultaneous detection of two different target proteins was possible without cross-talk using same fluorescence indicator because each immunoassay was easily identified by the shapes of hydrogel microparticles.
Biomarkers That Currently Affect Clinical Practice: EGFR, ALK, MET, KRAS
Authors: Vincent M.D. , Kuruvilla M.S. , Leighl N.B. , Kamel–Reid S.
Published: June 2012

New drugs such as pemetrexed, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and the Alk inhibitor crizotinib have recently enabled progress in the management of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). More drugs, especially Met inhibitors, will follow. However, the benefits of these agents are not uniform across the spectrum of NSCLC, and optimizing their utility requires some degree of subgrouping of NSCLC by the presence or absence of certain biomarkers. The biomarkers of current or imminent value are EGFR and KRAS mutational status, ALK rearrangements, and MET immunohistochemistry. As a predictor of benefit for anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies, EGFR immunohistochemistry is also of potential interest. Some of the foregoing biomarkers (EGFR, ALK, MET) are direct drivers of the malignant phenotype. As such, they are, quite rationally, the direct targets of inhibitory drugs. However, KRAS, while definitely a driver, has resisted attempts at direct pharmacologic manipulation, and its main value might lie in its role as part of an efficient testing algorithm, because KRAS mutations appear to exclude EGFR and ALK mutations. The indirect value of KRAS in determining sensitivity to other targeted agents or to pemetrexed remains controversial. The other biomarkers (EGFR, ALK, MET) may also have indirect value as predictors of sensitivity to chemotherapy in general, to pemetrexed specifically, and to radiotherapy and molecularly targeted agents. These biomarkers have all enabled the codevelopment of new drugs with companion diagnostics, and they illustrate the paradigm that will govern progress in oncology in the immediate future. However, in NSCLC, the acquisition of sufficient biopsy material remains a stubborn obstacle to the evolution of novel targeted therapies.
Repulsive bimodal atomic force microscopy on polymers
Authors: Gigler Alexander M , Dietz Christian , Baumann Maximilian , Martinez Nicolás F , García Ricardo , Stark Robert W
Published: June 2012

Bimodal atomic force microscopy can provide high-resolution images of polymers. In the bimodal operation mode, two eigenmodes of the cantilever are driven simultaneously. When examining polymers, an effective mechanical contact is often required between the tip and the sample to obtain compositional contrast, so particular emphasis was placed on the repulsive regime of dynamic force microscopy. We thus investigated bimodal imaging on a polystyrene-block-polybutadiene diblock copolymer surface and on polystyrene. The attractive operation regime was only stable when the amplitude of the second eigenmode was kept small compared to the amplitude of the fundamental mode. To clarify the influence of the higher eigenmode oscillation on the image quality, the amplitude ratio of both modes was systematically varied. Fourier analysis of the time series recorded during imaging showed frequency mixing. However, these spurious signals were at least two orders of magnitude smaller than the first two fundamental eigenmodes. Thus, repulsive bimodal imaging of polymer surfaces yields a good signal quality for amplitude ratios smaller than A01/A02 = 10:1 without affecting the topography feedback.
Diarylethene-modified nucleotides for switching optical properties in DNA
Authors: Barrois Sebastian , Wagenknecht Hans-Achim
Published: June 2012

Diarylethenes were attached to the 5-position of 2’-deoxyuridine in order to yield three different photochromic nucleosides. All nucleosides were characterized with respect to their absorption and photochromic properties. Based on these results, the most promising photochromic DNA base modification was incorporated into representative oligonucleotides by using automated phosphoramidite chemistry. The switching of optical properties in DNA can be achieved selectively at 310 nm (forward) and 450 nm (backward); both wavelengths are outside the normal nucleic acid absorption range. Moreover, this nucleoside was proven to be photochemically stable and allows switching back and forth several times. These results open the way for the use of diarylethenes as photochromic compounds in DNA-based architectures.
Nurses’ Knowledge About End-of-Life Care: Where Are We?
Authors: Choi Mona , Lee JuHee , Kim So-sun , Kim Doori , Kim Hokon
Published: June 2012

Background:

During the end-of-life stage, patients suffer from multiple symptoms or impairments of altered body systems. This study examined nurses’ knowledge of end-of-life care and also the relationship between the nurses’ knowledge and their characteristics.

Methods:

This was a descriptive, correlational study using a convenience sample of 368 Korean registered nurses working in cancer units, general wards, and intensive care units of a university health system. Twenty questions of the Palliative Care Quiz for Nursing (PCQN) were used to examine nurses’ knowledge of end-of-life care.

Results:

The mean score on the PCQN was 8.95 of a possible 20. Participants who had the end-of-life care education (
M
= 9.57,
SD
= 2.19) tended to score higher than those without this education (
M
= 8.47,
SD
= 2.34), and the difference was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Comprehensive continuing education programs on end-of-life care should be provided to fill the gap in knowledge and skill of staff nurses.
The Emotional Intelligence Profile of Successful Staff Nurses
Authors: Harper Mary G. , Jones-Schenk Jan
Published: June 2012

Background:

This study investigated the emotional intelligence (EI) profile of successful staff nurses to examine correlations among EI and demographic variables.

Methods:

This descriptive, exploratory study examined the EI of 42 participants using the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory.

Results:

Mean scores for total EI, scales, and subscales were all in the average range, indicating an ability to successfully navigate relationships in work and life. Nineteen percent of the participants scored below average on total EI, whereas 31% scored above average. A negative correlation between age and empathy was found. Relative areas of strength included stress tolerance, problem solving, self-regard, and self-actualization.

Conclusion:

The study findings suggested that successful staff nurses have average or higher levels of EI and that empathy among these nurses declines with age. Research on how empathy evolves, factors that influence empathy, and strategies to enhance EI among nurses is warranted.
Recommended Routine Vaccinations for Older Adults
Authors: Planton Jonathan , Meyer Jennifer O. , Edlund Barbara J.
Published: June 2012

A goal of primary prevention is to avoid the development of disease. Immunizations are one of several strategies used by clinicians in primary prevention. Influenza and pneumococcal disease—both preventable—cause significant morbidity and mortality in older adults who have an altered immune system, often have several chronic health problems, and are at higher risk for complications. Tetanus, while not as common in older adults, carries a high mortality rate in those 65 and older. These infections are associated with significant disability that results from hospitalizations for congestive heart failure, hip fracture, stroke, and pneumonia. The goal of immunizing older adults is to decrease functional decline and disability, as well as potential hospital admissions linked to these preventable diseases, which often exacerbate underlying health problems. Age-defined recommendations are available to guide clinicians on the appropriate vaccinations and schedules for administration to older adults.
Developing a Personal Health Record for Community-Dwelling Older Adults and Clinicians: Technology and Content
Authors: Monsen Karen A. , Westra Bonnie L. , Paitich Nadine , Ekstrom Dawn , Mehle Susan C. , Kaeding Maggie , Abdo Sajeda , Natarajan Gowtham , Ruddarraju Uday Kumar Raju
Published: June 2012

To empower older consumers and improve health outcomes, a consumer-friendly personal health record (PHR) is needed. The purpose of this article was to evaluate PHR technology and content for older community-dwelling consumers. Specific aims were to: (a) develop a secure, web-based application for a PHR to enable interoperable exchanges of data between consumers and clinicians; (b) develop structured, evidence-based shared care plan content for the PHR using an interface terminology standard; and (c) validate the shared care plans with consumers. An interoperable web-based form was developed. The standardized PHR content was developed by expert panel consensus using the Omaha System problem list and care plans, and validated by consumer interviews. Evidence-based shared care plans for 21 problems common among community-dwelling older adults were developed and encoded with Omaha System terms for data capture in the PHR. An additional problem, Neighborhood-workplace safety, was identified by consumers and will be added to the care plans.
Yoga for Osteoarthritis: Nursing and Research Considerations
Authors: Taibi Diana M. , Vitiello Michael V.
Published: June 2012

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability worldwide. Current treatment guidelines recommend nonpharmacological approaches such as yoga for firstline treatment of OA. Yoga is a promising mind-body practice that includes physical postures, breathing practices, and meditative mental focus. This article presents the current evidence, as well as a proposed conceptual model for future research. Current research on yoga for OA is scant but promising, showing some evidence of reduced pain, sleep disturbance, and disability. The conceptual model described here proposes musculoskeletal effects (strengthening, flexibility, relaxation), reduction of autonomic arousal, and therapeutic cognitive patterns (distraction, mindfulness) as potentially important mechanisms of yoga. This article also describes considerations for patients and health care providers when evaluating the potential usefulness and safety of yoga programs: yoga style, instructor qualifications, and amount of time spent in yoga practice.
Participation and Self-Management Strategies of Young Adult Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Berg Christine , Hayashi Robert J.
Published: June 2012

This study describes a connection between late effects, engagement in major life activities, and self-management strategies in young adult childhood cancer survivors. A mailed survey focused on late effects of pain, fatigue, depression, cognition, memory, and body image distortion and their impact on work, education, independent living, and community and social engagement. Additionally, survivors identified self-management strategies that minimize their late effects. Eighty-eight percent of the 42 responders struggled with at least one of the six late effects. Work and educational pursuits were affected, with memory and fatigue the most intrusive to daily activities. Self-management strategies of sleep/rest, fitness, quiet leisure, and support of family/friends were the most common. Reaching out to long-term follow-up cancer clinics, health professionals, survivors, or community resources were the least employed management strategies. Occupational therapists can look to community models for educating survivors about self-management, and take this opportunity to define new collaborative partnerships with long-term follow-up cancer clinics and community agencies to assist young adult survivors transitioning to adult roles.
Factors Associated with the Use of Advanced Practice Nurses/Physician Assistants in a Fee-for-Service Nursing Home Practice: A Comparison with Primary Care Physicians
Authors: Bakerjian Debra , Harrington Charlene
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this research was to examine factors associated with the use of advanced practice nurse and physician assistant (APN/PA) visits to nursing home (NH) patients compared with those by primary care physicians (PCPs). This was a secondary analysis using Medicare claims data. General estimation equations were used to determine the odds of NH residents receiving APN/PA visits. Ordinary least squares analyses were used to examine factors associated with these visits. A total of 5,436 APN/PAs provided care to 27% of 129,812 residents and were responsible for 16% of the 1.1 million Medicare NH fee-for-service visits in 2004. APN/PAs made an average of 33 visits annually compared with PCPs (21 visits). Neuropsychiatric and acute diagnoses and patients with a long-stay status were associated with more APN/PA visits. APN/PAs provide a substantial amount of care, but regional variations occur, and Medicare regulations constrain the ability of APN/PAs to substitute for physician visits.
Do Sound Levels and Space Contribute to Agitation in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia?
Authors: Joosse Laura L.
Published: June 2012

Individuals with dementia living in nursing homes may be exposed to non-therapeutic levels of sound. There is insufficient research examining the relationship between sound levels, personal space, and agitation in people with dementia. Using an observational designed study, 53 participants from four southeastern Wisconsin nursing homes were observed; data on sound levels, space, and agitation levels were obtained. Sound was a significant predictor of agitation. The accumulation of sound predicted agitated behavior and explained 16% of the variance,
F
(5, 47) = 4.520,
p
< 0.002, and adjusted
R
2
= 0.253. The findings suggest agitation may be a clue that sound in the environment is causing stress for residents with dementia.
Caregivers’ Deepest Feelings in Living with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Ricoeurian Interpretation of Family Caregivers’ Journals
Authors: Bursch Heide Christine , Butcher Howard Karl
Published: June 2012

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) challenges family caregivers with existential questions about what is the right thing to do for themselves and their care recipient. This study extracted themes spontaneously occurring in self-disclosure through expressive writing and sheds phenomenological insight into the deepest feelings revealed by caregivers of loved ones with AD. The personal journals of 24 caregivers were analyzed in the framework of Ricoeur’s philosophy of ethics based on the concept of personal identity. Caregivers reflected on themes in friendship, self-esteem, authenticity, and capacity to act with the ethical intention to stay present while the care recipient is disappearing. Engaging the text within Ricoeur’s ethically sensitive philosophy and methodology illuminated the benefit of writing interventions that allow caregivers to speak about conflicted states regarding their own humanity in the caregiver experience.
Meaning in Life: The Perspective of Long-Term Care Residents
Authors: Welsh Darlene , Moore Sharon L. , Getzlaf Beverley A.
Published: June 2012

A qualitative approach was used in the exploration of meaning in life for long-term care (LTC) residents. This hermeneutic phenomenological study, as described by van Manen, was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 11 LTC residents from a rural region in Atlantic Canada. Four themes emerged as enhancing meaning in life for the residents in this study: Connectedness, Survival Despite Declining Functional Capacity, Engaging in “Normal” Activities, and Seeking a Place of Refuge. In this article, we describe the emerging themes and the implications for LTC education, practice, and future research.
Un ejemplo de mundialización: El movimiento de biombos desde el Pacífico hasta el Atlántico (s. XVII-XVIII)
Authors: Baena Zapatero Alberto
Published: June 2012

El artículo analiza la circulación de objetos entre Asia, América y Europa a través de un estudio de caso: la producción y comercio de biombos. El análisis de las redes económicas asociadas al tráfico de obras de arte supera los límites nacionales o imperiales y nos obliga a romper con los planteamientos tradicionales de centro y periferia. Asimismo, las relaciones personales que implicó el proceso de encomienda de biombos o la difusión de estos objetos a través del movimiento de personas por cuatro continentes, muestran cómo el desarrollo de la economía mundial o la formación de imperios de dimensiones planetarias incentivó los intercambios en todos los niveles y dio como resultado el nacimiento de una nueva cultura material de carácter mundial.
La justicia en venta. El beneficio de cargos americanos de audiencia bajo Carlos II (1683-1700)
Authors: Sanz Tapia Ángel
Published: June 2012

El artículo trata la provisión y «beneficio» (venta) de los cargos de Justicia de las audiencias hispanoamericanas durante el siglo XVII, modificando y completando investigaciones anteriores. Estudia el proceso de venta de las plazas audienciales indianas (fiscales, oidores, alcaldes del crimen y fiscales protectores de indios) desde sus antecedentes con Felipe IV y su inicio mercantil en 1683 hasta finales de Carlos II. Junto al planteamiento de la Corona se ofrece un completo análisis anual de las plazas provistas y beneficiadas, cantidades abonadas y personas titulares, junto con algunos aspectos sociales de los compradores (origen, estatus, experiencia).
El clero rural, sus formas de intervención social y su politización (las Diócesis de Buenos Aires y Córdoba en la primera mitad del siglo XIX)
Authors: Ayrolo Valentina , Barral María Elena
Published: June 2012

El artículo busca mostrar los cambios en los modos de intervención del clero en el contexto del proceso de politización abierto en la región en la primera mitad del siglo XIX. Para su estudio se consideran algunas vías clave: las características de la gestión de las instituciones eclesiásticas locales y el papel de mediación del clero en un escenario de recomposición de vínculos entre los poderes civiles y eclesiásticos y de construcción de los Estados provinciales. Nos interesa especialmente observar los cambios y continuidades, así como las similitudes y especificidades, en estos modos de intervención social del clero rural de las diócesis de Buenos Aires y Córdoba, destacando las transformaciones en la reelaboración de su papel de intermediación como propagandistas de las diversas experiencias políticas.
Sailscapes. La construcción del paisaje del Océano Pacífico en el Giro del Mondo de Gemelli Carreri
Authors: García Redondo José María
Published: June 2012

Este trabajo analiza los procesos de representación y percepción del paisaje del océano Pacífico a partir de la narración del viaje de Gemelli Carreri (1698) a bordo del Galeón de Manila. Presenta el concepto «Sailscape» como construcción práctica y simbólica del entorno oceánico, como parte de la navegación y de la imaginación geográfica. Con el texto de Gemelli se ha ilustrado el análisis teórico del «sailscape» pacífico, atendiendo a la mirada del navegante y al recorrido de la nave como agentes espaciales en la construcción del paisaje.
Anexo documental: A bordo del Galeón de Manila: la travesía de Gemelli Carreri
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: June 2012

No disponible
Equipping the Online Counsellors-in-Training
Authors: Adeyemo David Akinlolu , Agokei Roland Chukwudi
Published: June 2012

In accordance with the rapid industrial and technological growth in this nuclear age, it is not a surprise that counselling has gone nuclear. Online counselling has been predicted to increase in the future, and it is important for counselling psychologists to continue to become involved in shaping and developing guidelines for the training, supervision, and practice of online counselling. This chapter addresses the training aspects of equipping the counsellor in training for online counselling. The chapter will explore understanding of online counselling, discovering personal theory, supervision, available and accessible technology, ethics, and competency issues. Within this, the authors discuss online counselling’s challenges to its advancement and present suggestions for the furtherance of the counselling process.
A Case Report of Meningioma Extending to the Middle Ear
Authors: Kusunoki Takeshi , Ikeda Katsuhisa , Miyashita Mie
Published: June 2012

Extracranial meningioma with extension into a middle ear is very uncommon. A 74-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with right ear bleeding when removing earwax. In this case, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, her past history and operative findings would consider as infiltrative growth from the right sphenoid ridge meningioma to the right middle ear via the right petrous pyramid and bilateral optic nerve. She underwent only partial extirpation with decompression for optic nerve, rather than total extirpation including middle ear and temporal bone, due to wide invasion of the middle cranial fossa and caversinus sinus.
The status of academic integrity amongst nursing students at a nursing education institution in the Western Cape
Authors: Theart Cecilia J. , Smit Ilze
Published: June 2012

Honesty is regarded as a basic ethical value in all educational programmes, and academic integrity is of undisputed importance in educational environments. The literature reviewed revealed that academic dishonesty is wide-ranging and also encountered in the nursing education environment. This phenomenon is of concern to the nursing fraternity because of the proven positive correlation between unethical academic practices and future unethical professional behaviour. Limited research data regarding academic dishonesty at nursing education institutions in South Africa and this correlation motivated the present study. The purpose was to examine the status of academic integrity amongst nursing students at a nursing education institution in the Western Cape. Formulated objectives guided investigation of several variables which impact upon academic integrity, for example the incidence of and student perceptions around academic dishonesty.A quantitative, descriptive survey design was used, with a self-reported questionnaire (based on literature review and study objectives) designed to obtain information about academic dishonesty. Provision was also made for qualitative input from the respondents by including three open-ended questions.It was found that academic dishonesty was a reality at the nursing education institution where this study was done. Cheating associated with plagiarism and assignments was identified as the main problem area. An unacceptably high level of dishonesty in completion of practical records was also an area of concern. The main recommendations are development and implementation of a code of honour and implementation of comprehensive academic integrity policies at the nursing education institution, with practical measures aimed at combating cheating in tests and examinations.
Universal Minimal Flows of Groups of Automorphisms of Uncountable Structures
Authors: Bartošová Dana
Published: June 2012

It is a well-known fact that the greatest ambit for a topological group G is the Samuel compactification of G with respect to the right uniformity on G. We apply the original description by Samuel from 1948 to give a simple computation of the universal minimal flow for groups of automorphisms of uncountable structures using Fraϊssé theory and Ramsey theory. This work generalizes some of the known results about countable structures
Anatomic Variations in Femoral Head Circulation
Authors: Kalhor Morteza , Horowitz Kevin , Gharehdaghi Jaber , Beck Martin , Ganz Reinhold
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this cadaveric study was to clearly define the blood supply to the femoral head to help further reduce the incidence of iatrogenic avascular necrosis (AVN). Thirty-five hips of twenty-eight fresh cadavers were injected with colored silicone. Anterior and posterior dissection was performed to assess the vessels contributing to femoral head vascularity. The medial femoral circumflex artery (MFCA) was found to be the main blood supply to the hip in twenty-nine specimens; the inferior gluteal artery (IGA) was found to be the main blood supply in six. The MFCA consistently provided at least one smaller-calibre inferomedial retinacular artery. The foveal artery provided no significant vascular contribution in any specimen. The quantity and calibre of superior retinacular vessels demonstrated their dominance in head vascularity, although inferior retinacular arteries were consistently present. To reduce the risk of iatrogenic AVN, branches of both the IGA and MFCA traversing the interval between the quadratus femoris and piriformis muscles must be protected during surgery. Since all intracapsular vessels penetrated the capsule near its distal attachment, distal capsulotomy carries a significantly higher risk of AVN than proximal capsulotomy, particularly posterolaterally and inferomedially.