bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeding ecology and growth of age 0 yearPlatichthys flesus(L.) in a vegetated and a bare sand habitat in a nutrient rich fjord
Authors: Andersen B. S. , Carl J. D. , Grønkjær P. , Støttrup J. G.
Published: February 2005

A study was carried out to investigate the diet and feeding strategies of age 0 year juvenile flounderPlatichthys flesusin two different micro‐tidal habitats in the nutrient enriched Mariager Fjord on the Danish east coast. Juvenile flounder and benthic macrofauna were sampled monthly from June to October 1999 in a bare sand habitat and a habitat covered by filamentous and mat forming macroalgae. The presence of the ‘opportunistic’ macroalgae created a shift in the dominance of surface dwelling prey such as epifaunal amphipods to more infaunal groups such as oligochaetes and polychaetes. The diet of the flounder varied considerably between the two habitats mainly reflecting prey availability relative to their abundance, prey spatial distribution, habitat structure and ontogenetic prey shifts as a function of total length. Flounder in the vegetated site fed on a diverse diet of copepods, polychaetes and oligochaetes, whereas those caught in the bare sand site fed primarily on the amphipodCorophium volutatorwhich was numerically dominant at this site. During the growth season, two diet shifts were observed: from copepods early in the season to macrofauna organisms and, later in the season, the inclusion of more hyperbenthic prey such asMysideaspp;Idoteaspp. and the common gobyPomatoschistus microps.
Long-term effects of pharmacotherapy on relapse prevention in alcohol dependence
Authors: Kiefer F. , Andersohn F. , Otte C. , Wolf K. , Jahn H. , Wiedemann K.
Published: February 2005

Background:

There is growing evidence that pharmacological treatment with two of the best validated anticraving drugs, acamprosate and naltrexone, is efficacious in promoting abstinence in recently detoxified alcohol-dependent subjects.

Objective:

The stability of effects after termination of treatment remains to be answered, especially when combining both the drugs.

Method:

After detoxification, 160 alcohol-dependent subjects participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Patients received naltrexone or acamprosate or a combination of naltrexone and acamprosate or placebo for 12 weeks. Patients were assessed weekly by interview, self-report, questionnaires and laboratory screening. Additionally, follow-up evaluation based on telephone interview of participants, general practitioners and relatives was conducted 12 weeks after terminating the medication.

Results:

At week 12, the proportion of subjects relapsing to heavy drinking was significantly lower in the group with combined medication compared with both placebo and acamprosate (P< 0.05). No difference was detectable between acamprosate and naltrexone, both of which were superior to placebo (P< 0.05). Relapse rates were 28% (combined medication), 35% (naltrexone), 50% (acamprosate) and 75% (placebo). After follow-up (week 24), combined medication led to relapse rates significantly lower than placebo, but not lower than acamprosate. Again, both naltrexone and acamprosate were superior to placebo. Relapse rates were 80% (placebo), 54% (acamprosate), 53% (naltrexone) and 34% (combined medication).

Conclusions:

The results of this study highlight the stability of effects of pharmacotherapy on relapse prevention in alcohol dependence.
Platinum‐Containing Diamond‐like Carbon Thin Films
Authors: Lee Howard , Ting Jyh‐Ming
Published: February 2005

This paper reports a composite thin film of platinum–diamond‐like carbon (Pt‐DLC). “Nonreactive” and reactive rf sputter deposition techniques were used for the preparation of these thin films under various ratios of Ar/CH4. As‐deposited thin films were characterized for microstructures using transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, compositions using electron probe for microanalysis, surface morphology using scanning electron microscopy, and sheet resistance using four‐point probe. Correlations among the growth parameter, film composition, and structure are presented. Such correlations were found to depend on the deposition technique. Improved electrical conductivity and reduced film stress were also found due to the addition of platinum to DLC.
Optimization of Chemical Vapor Deposition Parameters for Fabrication of Oxidation‐Resistant Mullite Coatings on Silicon Nitride
Authors: Zemskova Svetlana M. , Jones Camille Y. , Cooley Kevin M. , Haynes J. Allen
Published: February 2005

Fabrication of mullite (3Al2O3·2SiO2) coatings by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using AlCl3–SiCl4–H2–CO2 gas mixtures was studied. The resultant CVD mullite coating microstructures were sensitive to gas‐phase composition and deposition temperature. Chemical thermodynamic calculations performed on the AlCl3–SiCl4–H2–CO2 system were used to predict an equilibrium CVD phase diagram. Results from the thermodynamic analysis, process optimization, and effects of various process parameters on coating morphology are discussed. Dense, adherent crystalline CVD mullite coatings ∼2 μm thick were successfully grown on Si3N4 substrates at 1000°C and 10.7 kPa total pressure. The resultant coatings were 001 textured and contained well‐faceted grains ∼0.3–0.5 μm in size.
Investigations of Electrical Properties in Silica/Indium Tin Oxide Two‐Layer Film for Effective Electromagnetic Shielding
Authors: Kim Sang Woo , Lee Jong‐Ho , Kim Joosun , Lee Hae‐Weon
Published: February 2005

The effect of zinc ions added to silica film on the electrical and structural properties of a silica/indium tin oxide two‐layer film which had been prepared by solution coating for electromagnetic shielding of displays was studied. The volume resistivity of the undoped silica/indium tin oxide film was more than 3 times as high as that of the zinc‐doped silica/indium tin oxide film. The addition of divalent cations, zinc ions, to the overcoated layer led volume resistivity of the two‐layer film to decrease significantly and also caused a long‐term increase in stability. The decrease in volume resistivity was due to the addition of zinc ions that changed the interface ionization and helped to enhance the electrical conductivity in the two‐layer film.
Effect of Acceptor and Donor Dopants on the Dielectric and Tunable Properties of Barium Strontium Titanate
Authors: Liang Xiaofeng , Meng Zhongyan , Wu Wenbiao
Published: February 2005

The effects of different concentrations of Mn2+, Mg2+, Al3+, Fe3+, La3+, and Nb5+ on the dielectric and tunable properties of Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 ceramics were investigated. It was found that doping in small amounts with acceptor ions such as Mg2+, Fe3+, and Al3+ could meliorate the dielectric properties clearly. Decrease of dielectric loss was attributed to the formation of compensating defects originating from acceptor substitution. It was concluded that the tunability was linked to both the dielectric constant and the grain size. A higher figure of merit was obtained by doping the ceramics with smaller ions of Al and Fe, compared to Ti.
Spectroscopic Properties of Er3+‐Doped Na2O–La2O3–Al2O3–SiO2 Glasses
Authors: Zhang Debao , Chen Baoyu , Liu Zhuping , Li Shunguang , Hu Lili
Published: February 2005

Er3+‐doped sodium lanthanum aluminosilicate glasses with compositions of (90−x)(0.7SiO2·0.3Al2O3)·xNa2O·8.2La2O3· 0.6Er2O3·0.2Yb2O3·1Sb2O3 (in mol%) (x= 12, 20, 24, 40, 60 mol%) were prepared and their spectroscopic properties were investigated. Judd–Ofelt analysis was used to calculate spectroscopic properties of all glasses. The Judd–Ofelt intensity parameter Ωt (t= 2, 4, 6) decreases with increasing Na2O. Ω2 decreases rapidly with increasing Na2O while Ω4 and Ω6 decrease slowly. Both the fluorescent lifetime and the radiative transition rate increase with increasing Na2O. Fluorescence spectra of the 4I13/2 to 4I15/2 transition have been measured and the change with Na2O content is discussed. It is found that the full width at half‐maximum decreases with increasing Na2O.
Fabrication of High‐Strength Continuous Zirconia Fibers and Their Formation Mechanism Study
Authors: Liu He‐Yi , Hou Xian‐Qin , Wang Xin‐Qiang , Wang Yan‐Ling , Xu Dong , Wang Chen , Du Wei , Lü Meng‐Kai , Yuan Duo‐Rong
Published: February 2005

Continuous zirconia fibers with a nanometer ceramic structure and a tensile strength up to 2.8 GPa were fabricated by pyrolyzing polyacetylacetonatozirconium precursor fibers through a special atmosphere heat treatment. DSC‐TGA, GC‐MS, IR, SEM, and TEM were used to study the fiber transformation mechanism during heating. Results showed that special atmosphere heat treatment could make the organics in the fibers come out directly without carbonization and remove them almost entirely under 400°C, and the obtained zirconia fibers had few defects, good continuity, and high strength.
Elastic Properties of Nickel‐Based Anodes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells as a Function of the Fraction of Reduced NiO
Authors: Radovic Miladin , Lara‐Curzio Edgar
Published: February 2005

The changes in porosity and elastic moduli of YSZ‐containing nickel‐based anode materials for solid oxide fuel cells were studied as a function of the fraction of reduced NiO. Anode samples were reduced in a gas mixture of 4% hydrogen and 96% argon for different periods of time at 800°C and their Young's and shear moduli were determined afterward at room temperature using resonant ultrasound spectroscopy and impulse excitation. It was found that the magnitude of Young's and shear moduli decreased significantly with increasing fraction of reduced NiO and that the magnitude of the elastic moduli of a fully reduced Ni–YSZ anode was ∼45% lower than that of unreduced NiO–YSZ. Because the elastic moduli of NiO are close to those of Ni, the observed decrease in the magnitude of the elastic moduli was found to be caused mainly by the significant increase in the porosity of the sample as a result of NiO reduction. Expressions are presented for the amount of porosity and the magnitude of the elastic moduli as a function of the fraction of reduced NiO.
Influence of Microstructure on the Electrical Properties of Iron‐Substituted Calcium Titanate Ceramics
Authors: Figueiredo Filipe M. , Kharton Vladislav V. , Waerenborgh João C. , Viskup Alexander P. , Naumovich Eugene N. , Frade Jorge R.
Published: February 2005

CaTi0.8Fe0.2O3–δ ceramics with grain sizes that varied from 2 to 10 μm were obtained and studied using SEM, TEM, Mössbauer spectroscopy, impedance spectroscopy, and electrochemical oxygen permeability measurements. Smaller grains developed a core–shell microstructure that consisted of a pure CaTiO3 core and an iron‐rich microdomain structure at the shell. The effect of grain size on electronic conductivity was negligible. The ionic conductivity was higher for the ceramics with core–shell grains, which suggested that fast oxygen transport along microdomain walls may have occurred. For the homogeneous ceramics, the ionic conductivity decreased with decreased grain size, in which case the grain boundary represented an additional resistance, probably because of the depletion of oxygen vacancies.
Experimental Determination and Thermodynamic Calculation of the Zirconia–Calcia–Magnesia System at 1600°, 1700°, and 1750°C
Authors: Serena Sara , Sainz Maria Antonia , Caballero Angel
Published: February 2005

Phase relations in the ternary system ZrO2–CaO–MgO were experimentally established at 1600°, 1700°, and 1750°C. The investigation was based on powder X‐ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy, and electron probe microanalysis, on 24 ternary compositions. The compositions were prepared using attrition milling of respective oxides and carbonates as raw materials. The results obtained allowed construction of the corresponding isothermal sections, which verified the existence of the cubic‐ZrO2–CaZrO3 phase compatibility field at the three temperatures. Finally, experimental results also were compared with the thermodynamic assessment previously reported of the system ZrO2–CaO–MgO.
Accelerated Aging in 3‐mol%‐Yttria‐Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Ceramics Sintered in Reducing Conditions
Authors: Bartolomé José F. , Montero Isabel , Díaz Marcos , López‐Esteban Sonia , Moya José S. , Deville Sylvain , Gremillard Laurent , Chevalier Jerome , Fantozzi Gilbert
Published: February 2005

The aging behavior of 3‐mol%‐yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia (3Y‐TZP) ceramics sintered in air and in reducing conditions was investigated at 140°C in water vapor. It was observed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) that 3Y‐TZP samples sintered in reducing conditions exhibited significantly higher tetragonal‐to‐monoclinic transformation than samples with similar density and average grain size values but obtained by sintering in air. This fact is explained by the increase of the oxygen vacancy concentration and by the presence at the grain boundary region of a new aggregate phase formed because of the exolution of Fe2+ ions observed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Solid Freeforming of Braille Patterns on Clay Products
Authors: Zhang Yong , Yang Shoufeng , Evans Julian R. G.
Published: February 2005

An aqueous suspension of clay was delivered through an electromagnetic ink‐jet printer head onto partially dried clay tile to produce patterns in relief. The patterns formed Braille symbols intended for tactile recognition by visually impaired persons (VIP). This solid freeforming procedure means that conventional clay products such as wall tile, although mass‐produced, can acquire individuation so that tactile information can be delivered to VIPs to assist, for example, in navigation in the built environment.
Self‐care in diabetes: model of factors affecting self‐care
Authors: Sigurðardóttir Árún K
Published: February 2005

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this paper is to explore self‐care in diabetes and to present a model of factors that affect self‐care according to reviewed literature.

Background.  Self‐care in diabetes is crucial to keep the disease under control. Self‐care consists at least four aspects: (i) self‐monitoring of blood glucose, (ii) variation of nutrition to daily needs, (iii) insulin dose adjustments to actual needs and (iv) taking exercise regularly. It is known that diverse factors influence self‐care such as knowledge, physical skills and emotional aspects and self‐efficacy which have been listed as being of high importance.

Methods.  The searched databases were ProQuest, PsycINFO and Medline from 1995 to 2002. The search terms were ‘self‐care’ or ‘self‐management’ coexisting with diabetes and ‘self‐efficacy’. The search was limited to English and adults with type 1 diabetes.

Results.  The main components of the model clarify how knowledge, physical skills and emotional factors as well as self‐efficacy influence self‐care which again affects metabolic control. Flexible self‐care indicates high level of self‐care when patients are able to care for and manage the disease in a responsible and flexible way that does not affect their life extensively, resulting in adequate glycosylated haemoglobin value. Self‐efficacy is a strong predictor of flexible self‐care and affects metabolic control through increased perceived ability to conduct self‐care.

Conclusions.  The review illuminated that benefits of self‐care should be emphasized and knowledge of the Diabetes Complication and Control Trial results can contribute to better self‐care. However, factors affecting flexible self‐care still require better identification.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The review emphasizes and adds to the topic, that in daily practice health care practitioners must assess diabetes‐related knowledge, physical skills and emotional factors in combination with self‐efficacy and the four self‐care areas. The effects of self‐monitoring of blood glucose needs better clarifications as it is now regarded the cornerstone of flexible self‐care.
Pressure ulcers: validation of two risk assessment scales
Authors: Defloor Tom , Grypdonck Maria FH
Published: February 2005

Aims and objectives.  To compare the predictive value of two pressure ulcer risk assessment scales (Braden and Norton) and of clinical judgement. To evaluate the impact of effective preventive measures on the predictive validity of the two risk assessment scales.

Methods.  Of the 1772 participating older patients, 314 were randomly selected and assigned to the ‘turning’ group; 1458 patients were assigned to the ‘non‐turning’ group. Using the Braden and the Norton scale the pressure ulcer risk was scored twice weekly during a four‐week period. Clinical assessment was monitored daily. The patients at risk in the ‘turning’ group (Braden score <17 or Norton score <12) were randomly assigned to a two‐hour turning schedule or to a four‐hour turning schedule in combination with a pressure‐reducing mattress. The ‘non‐turning’ group received preventive care based on the clinical judgement of the nurses.

Results.  The diagnostic accuracy was similar for both scales. If nurses act according to risk assessment scales, 80% of the patients would unnecessarily receive preventive measures. The use of effective preventive measures decreased the predictive value of the risk assessment scales. Nurses predicted pressure ulcer development less well than the Braden and the Norton scale. Only activity, sensory perception, skin condition and existence of old pressure ulcers were significant predictors of pressure ulcer lesions.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The effectiveness of the Norton and Braden scales is very low. Much needless work is done and expensive material is wrongly allocated. The use of effective preventive measures decreases the predictive value of the risk assessment scales. Although the performance of the risk assessment scales is poor, using a risk assessment tool seems to be a better alternative than relying on the clinical judgement of the nurses.
Nurses’ concerns about using information systems: analysis of comments on a computerized nursing care plan system in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Ting‐Ting
Published: February 2005

Aims and objectives.  The purpose of this study was to pursue a deeper understanding of nurses’ perceptions of a computerized nursing care plan as written in comments on a survey.

Background.  Studies have examined nurses’ perceptions of computer use, but comments written on surveys of computerized nursing care planning have never been reported and the pattern and meaning of such feedback have not been systematically analysed.

Design.  Of 738 nurses in Taiwan who completed a two‐part survey to evaluate a computerized nursing care plan, 202 responded on part II to an open‐ended question about overall perceptions of a nursing information system.

Methods.  A sample of 10 questionnaires with comments was subjected to qualitative content analysis. Key words and phrases were identified, then grouped into categories, which were used to code the remaining respondents’ comments. Another 20 were used to pilot test these coding categories. The final coding categories were applied to all 202 questionnaires with comments for data analysis.

Results.  Nurses were concerned about inconvenient access to computers; reduced work efficiency; inability to individualize patient care and nursing specialty deficiencies; poor content design, system function, and system integration; using the system as a policy requirement; and privacy and legal issues.

Conclusions.  Hardware availability, content design and user training/education programmes are critical issues that affect nurses’ use of computers in their daily practice.

Relevance to clinical practice.  These comments can be applied in strategic planning and staff development programmes to further use of information systems in patient care.
HIV nursing consultants: patients’ preferences and experiences about the quality of care
Authors: Hekkink Christine F , Wigersma Lode , Joris Yzermans C , Bindels Patrick JE
Published: February 2005

Aim and objectives.  We were interested to find out how human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐patients judge the quality of care received from their HIV nursing consultants, compared with the care delivered by HIV specialists and general practitioners. Furthermore, we were interested in how the opinions of HIV patients on the HIV nursing consultant compared with the opinions of patients with rheumatic diseases on the care they receive from their specialized nurses.

Background.  The role of nurses has changed over the years. For patients with chronic diseases there seems to be an increasing role for nursing consultants in the delivery of care. In evaluating quality of care, patients’ views are considered important especially for the chronically ill who can be seen as experts by experience.

Methods.  Between February 1999 and June 2000, 250 patients, receiving care from both general practitioner and specialist, received a questionnaire [Quality of Care Through the Patient's Eyes (QUOTE)‐HIV] to assess HIV‐related quality of care, as perceived by them. Aspects were formulated as ‘importance’ and ‘performance’ statements. Items were scored on 4‐point scales. A ratio score (Rij = Pij/Iij) was calculated by dividing the perceived performance score (P) of an individual patient (i), on a health service (j) by his importance score (I). A comparison was made with patients with rheumatic diseases by using data from the QUOTE‐Rheuma.

Results.  Patients judged the quality of care from the HIV nursing consultant as predominantly good. Five aspects showed an unfavourable ratio score (R < 1.0) which indicates room for improvement. On the dimensions ‘professional performance’ and ‘attitude of the professional’ the HIV nursing consultant scores between the general practitioner and the HIV specialist. Patients with rheumatic diseases seemed to be more satisfied than HIV patients with the care from their nurse consultant.

Conclusions.  The HIV nursing consultants have an important role in the care of patients infected with HIV. The HIV nursing consultants are judged as good and are ranked in between the general practitioner and the HIV specialist. Given the orientation towards a more integrated care for chronically ill patients, there should be more attention paid to the position of the HIV nursing consultant.

Relevance to clinical practice.  In the Netherlands and in the United Kingdom there is a tendency to a greater degree of differentiation of tasks in health care. This study shows that there is room for a position like the nursing consultant and that this is highly valued by patients.
Self‐concept: comparison between school‐aged children with congenital heart disease and normal school‐aged children
Authors: Chen Chi‐Wen , Li Chung‐Yi , Wang Jou‐Kou
Published: February 2005

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the self‐concept of school‐aged children with congenital heart disease to those of normal school‐aged children. The primary objective was to analyse results of the Self‐Concept Scale questionnaire administered to children with congenital heart disease aged 9–12 years. Sixty‐four children with congenital heart disease (study group), and 71 without congenital heart disease (control group), completed the questionnaire.

Background.  Little attention has focused on school‐aged children with congenital heart disease who are in the important stages of developing self‐concept.

Results.  The mean score on the Physical self‐concept of the Self‐Concept Scale was significantly lower for the study group than the control group (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between children with congenital heart disease and normal children in terms of family self‐concept, school self‐concept, appearance self‐concept, emotional self‐concept and general self‐concept for the Self‐Concept Scale.

Conclusions.  Nurses should use the study findings to encourage positive self‐concept development and improve their patient education about physical activity before the child is discharged. Thus, children with congenital heart disease could leave the hospital with a clear understanding of their body and condition, and how it affects daily life.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The results of this study may provide more holistic views on self‐concept for clinical nurses working with children who have congenital heart disease and their families and for school nurses working with elementary school children.
Nursing observations during the first 24 hours after a surgical procedure: what do we do?
Authors: Zeitz Kathryn
Published: February 2005

Aims and objectives.  The purpose of the study was to describe what constitutes postoperative nursing monitoring during the initial 24 hours on the ward including the components of observation, frequency and time spent with patients.

Background.  The literature provides little guidance as to the best practice of postoperative surveillance. To understand the practice of monitoring patients after returning to the ward from a surgical procedure it is important to describe the current practice.

Design.  The study involved a non‐participant observation of nursing practice.

Method.  Data were generated via observation of postoperative patients in the first 24 hours after returning to the ward. This occurred in the general surgical units of two different South Australian hospitals over an 8‐week period.

Results.  A total of 81 patients were observed for 282 patient hours. Vital sign collection generally reflected a traditional pattern of hourly for the first four hours, reducing to four hourly across the 12‐ to 24‐hour period. The frequency and duration of patient–nurse interactions, observations recorded and the collection of other clinical data such as pain, oxygen saturations and nausea are also discussed.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings presented here depict the current nursing practice of postoperative monitoring in two different settings, providing insight into what constitutes contemporary postoperative surveillance.

Conclusion.  Before inroads can be made to identify the best practice of postoperative patient surveillance a clear cognisance of practice needs to be identified.
Survival of intimate partner violence as experienced by women
Authors: Flinck Aune , Paavilainen Eija , Åstedt‐Kurki Päivi
Published: February 2005

Aims and objectives.  The study set out to describe women's experiences of intimate partner violence, the consequences of such violence, the help they received and women's experiences of their survival.

Background.  Social and health professionals do not have sufficient ability to identify and help families who suffer from intimate partner violence. Methods for identifying and treating partner violence not have been developed adequately.

Method.  The study was conducted in Finland by loosely formulated open‐ended interviews with seven battered women. The data were analysed by inductive qualitative content analysis.

Findings.  Women had past experience of maltreatment and a distressing climate at their parental home. Women experienced both themselves and their spouse as having weak identities; their ideals, patterns of marriage and sexuality were different. Violence occurred in situations of disagreement. Women tried to strike a balance between independence and dependence in the relationship. The different forms of couple violence were interlinked. The women sought help when their health and social relationships got worse. An awareness of the problem, taking action, counselling and social relationships helped them survive. Religiousness was a factor that involved commitment to the couple relationship, made religious demands on women and promoted the recovery of integrity.

Conclusions.  Intimate partner violence was associated with the family model, childhood experience of maltreatment, the partners’ weak identity and conflicts between individualism and familism. Social and healthcare professionals need competence in early intervention and skills to discuss moral principles, sexuality, and violence in a way that is free of prejudice and condemning attitudes. Spiritual approaches in the context of interventions should be taken into consideration.

Relevance to clinical practice.  In a clinical context, nurses should be aware of the symptoms of violence, and they should have skills in dealing with intimate moral and spiritual issues.
Graduate nurses’ communication with health professionals when managing patients’ medications
Authors: Manias Elizabeth , Aitken Robyn , Dunning Trisha
Published: February 2005

Aim and objectives.  The aim was to examine how graduate nurses communicated with other health professionals about their medication management activities in the acute care context. The objectives were to determine the types of information communicated about patients’ medications and the communication processes used during interactions with other nurses, doctors and pharmacists.

Background.  Graduate nurses are challenged with enormous responsibilities and their competence is constantly tested in an ever‐changing arena. One of their responsibilities involves communicating with other health professionals about patients’ medications.

Design.  A qualitative exploratory research design was used for this study.

Methods.  Participant observation and semi‐structured interviews were conducted to elicit information from 12 graduate nurses with university degrees employed in a metropolitan public hospital, in Melbourne, Australia. Graduate nurses were observed once for two hours and interviewed on the same day of the observation at a mutually convenient time. The purpose of these interviews was to clarify activities observed and to obtain further information.

Results.  The results highlighted how work dynamics of the clinical setting had an impact on the ability of graduate nurses to communicate effectively with other nurses, doctors and pharmacists. These work dynamics included the availability of doctors and the structure of ward rounds. The results also demonstrated the value graduate nurses placed on communicating particular information such as evaluating the effect of medication changes and organizing discharge medication.

Conclusions.  Graduate nurses were effective in communicating about medication management activities when they initiated or were prepared for such interactions. When graduate nurses were not prepared, such as during impromptu ward rounds, they did not participate effectively and important information was not communicated.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important to understand how collegial communication facilitates accurate exchange of information and effective decision‐making to achieve optimal health care outcomes for patients.
Difference in the colour and colour change of dental resin composites by the background
Authors: LEE Y.‐K. , LIM B.‐S. , KIM C.‐W.
Published: February 2005

summary  The objective of this study was to evaluate the difference in the colour and colour change of dental resin composites over commonly used two backgrounds. Colour of five uncured and cured resin composites before and after polishing with 600‐, 1000‐ or 1500‐grit SiC paper was measured according to the CIELAB colour scale relative to the illuminant D65 over a white background (WB; reflectance = 91·57%) and a light trap (LT; reflectance = 0·01%) on a reflection spectrophotometer with the SCE geometry. Colour difference (ΔE*ab) by the background, and by the specimen conditions over each of two backgrounds was calculated. ΔE*ab values between the same specimen by the background were 2·38–11·60. ΔE*ab values by the specimen condition were varied by the background, and ΔE*ab between cured/polished specimens over WB were significantly higher than those over LT (P < 0·05) except a few cases. Background influenced three‐colour coordinates of CIE L*, a*, and b* values differently depending on the material and the specimen condition. Background significantly influenced the colour coordinates and colour difference by the specimen conditions. As the light trap can eliminate the influence of variations at the background, measured colour over the light trap can be the colour of material itself. Correlation between the measured colour and varied shades of background should be further studied.
Natural course of non‐reducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint: changes in electromyographic activity during chewing movement
Authors: SATO S. , KAWAMURA H.
Published: February 2005

summary  The purpose of this study is to examine whether electromyographic activity (EMG) during chewing movement changes towards the control level spontaneously in the subsequent course after diagnosis in patients with non‐reducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) who do not receive any treatment. In 15 such patients, EMG data were examined at initial visit and at a mean follow‐up of 21·7 months. As a control, 23 persons who had no TMJ dysfunction were studied. The results of EMG were compared among patients at initial visit, those at follow‐up, and controls. The patients’ clinical signs and symptoms were alleviated during the follow‐up period. Duration of muscle contraction, cycle time and integrated EMG value (IEMG) at initial visit in patients were significantly different from those in the controls. In patients, IEMG for chewing‐side masseter during chewing in the TMJ‐affected side was greater at follow‐up (14·2 ± 8·01 μV s) than that at initial visit (10·5 ± 3·69 μV s) (P < 0·05). In patients, duration of muscle contraction or cycle time at follow‐up was not different from that at initial visit. Patients with non‐reducing disc displacement of the TMJ showed spontaneous increasing of IEMG without any treatment in the subsequent course after diagnosis, coupled with improvement of clinical signs and symptoms. Duration of muscle contraction or cycle time did not change towards the control level. The results presented are useful as control data to understand the true effect of a particular treatment for patients with non‐reducing disc displacement of the TMJ.
Temporomandibular disorder subtypes according to self‐reported physical and psychosocial variables in female patients: a re‐evaluation
Authors: SUVINEN T. I. , READE P. C. , HANES K. R. , KÖNÖNEN M. , KEMPPAINEN P.
Published: February 2005

summary Several studies support the relevance of psychological and psychosocial factors in the assessment and management of chronic musculoskeletal pain disorders, including temporomandibular pain disorders (TMDs). The aim of this study was to re‐evaluate subtyping approach used in an earlier study (TI Suvinen, KR Hanes, JA Gerschman, PC Reade.J Orofac Pain1997;11:200) and to compare perceived physical symptoms, psychological, coping and psychosocial variables between subtypes of patients who seek treatment for their temporomandibular pain and dysfunction. A total of 41 consecutive female patients were assessed multiaxially for physical symptoms, coping style and effectiveness and illness behaviour by a previously validated Temporomandibular Pain Dysfunction Questionnaire (TI Suvinen, KR Hanes, JA Gerschman, PC Reade.J Orofac Pain1997;11:200). Additional measures of psychosocial variables included the global scores of the Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventory and Part I of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory. Subtypes were generated using an iterative partitioning method, k‐means cluster analysis. Three clusters were identified and termed asSimple(22%),Intermediate(41%) andComplex(37%)temporomandibular disorders subtypes. Significant differences (P < 0·05) were found between clusters in psychological (coping style and effectiveness, disease conviction and affective disturbance) and in psychosocial variables (daily interference and social, work and family satisfaction), but not between physical variables. The results support previous studies that have shown differences in psychosocial variables in the presentation and subtyping of TMDs and the biopsychosocial orientation in assessment. The findings need to be reverified in a larger sample along specific physical diagnoses, but it is tentatively proposed how the three subtypes could be used in the classification of temporomandibular pain patients to guide management, based on the constellation of predominant psychological and psychosocial illness impact variables.
Jasmonate‐regulated Arabidopsis stress signalling network
Authors: Devoto Alessandra , Turner John G.
Published: February 2005

Plants respond to biotic and abiotic factors in the external environment. These include wounding, pathogen and pest attack, and changes in light and temperature. They also respond to internal signals produced during development, such as during the formation of flowers. These responses generally involve the re‐programming of gene expression. Biotic and abiotic stress signal perception responses have commonly been represented as three pathways, which can be distinguished by the production of jasmonates, ethylene or salicylic acid. Each of these pathways therefore involves the perception of the stress, the synthesis of the signal molecule, the perception of the signal molecule and the ensuing response. An added complication is that these signalling pathways act both locally, at the point of the stress, and systemically. Much of what we know about these signalling pathways has come from studies of responses to the signal molecules, and of mutants altered in the production of, or sensitivity to, these signal molecules. This has provided clear indications that the pathways interact significantly. Because biotic and abiotic stresses induce the production of all three of these signal molecules, albeit in differing amounts, it is more appropriate to view the response output as the integration of a signalling network that involves the production of jasmonates, salicylic acid and ethylene.

In this review, we provide an update on the regulation of jasmonic acid biosynthesis and the suggested roles for different biologically active intermediates in this pathway in Arabidopsis, and describe the jasmonate signalling mutants identified so far. We also examine how outputs from the jasmonate, salicylic acid and ethylene signalling pathways are integrated in the regulation of stress response and plant development. We use Boolean gates as a tool to represent the molecular networks and provide a qualitative description of the transmission of the signals. Finally, we illustrate how protein degradation, a common mechanism regulating many plant processes, may act as the ultimate level of integration between signalling pathways.
The interaction of cytokinin with other signals
Authors: Rashotte Aaron M. , Chae Hyun Sook , Maxwell Bridey B. , Kieber Joseph J.
Published: February 2005

Cytokinins are important signalling molecules in plants, and recent studies have begun to shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying their biosynthesis and response pathways. However, from the time of their discovery, it has been clear that cytokinins interact with other signals to regulate plant growth and development. Herein the interaction of cytokinin with three other signals: light, ethylene, and auxin is discussed. The interaction between light and cytokinin signalling, highlighted by recent analysis of cytokinin signalling mutants is reviewed. A discussion of another aspect of cytokinin cross‐talk, its induction of ethylene biosynthesis in etiolated Arabidopsis seedlings, and recent studies that have begun to elucidate the mechanism underlying this regulation is also presented. Finally, there is a brief review of the interaction of auxin and cytokinin, and present novel expression profiling data of Arabidopsis seedlings treated with combinations of these two hormones, which provide insight into this interaction.
Ethylene signalling and response pathway: a unique signalling cascade with a multitude of inputs and outputs
Authors: Stepanova Anna N. , Alonso Jose M.
Published: February 2005

Plants as immobile organisms need to constantly monitor the changes in the environment to modify and adjust developmental and metabolic pathways accordingly. The responses to these environmental cues require an integrative mechanism where external and internal signals are detected and processed to trigger an appropriate ‘reaction’ in the plant. Hormones play a key role in mediating some of these integrative processes and in generating the response reactions. The identification and characterization of the basic hormone signalling components and their interactions represent the first step towards comprehensive understanding of plant responses to intrinsic and extrinsic cues. A relatively well‐characterized ethylene signalling and response pathway, together with numerous evidences of its interactions with other signalling/response pathways, provide an excellent example to illustrate our current knowledge and perspective on how signal integration occurs in plants.
Interactive effects of inorganic phosphate nutrition and carbon dioxide enrichment on assimilate partitioning in barley roots
Authors: Sicher Richard C.
Published: February 2005

The combined effects of inorganic phosphate (Pi) insufficiency and CO2 enrichment on metabolite levels and carbon partitioning were studied using roots of 9‐, 13‐ and 17‐day‐old barley seedlings (Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Brant). Plants were grown from seed in controlled environment chambers providing 36 ± 1 Pa (ambient) or 100 ± 2 Pa (elevated) CO2 and either 1.0 mM (Pi sufficient) or 0.05 mM (Pi insufficient) Pi. When values were combined for both Pi treatments, plants grown under enhanced CO2 showed increased root dry matter, adenylates (ATP + ADP), glutamine and non‐ structural carbohydrates other than starch. In contrast with shoots, enhanced CO2 partially reversed the inhibition of root dry matter formation imposed by Pi insufficiency. The Pi‐insufficient treatment also increased sucrose, glucose and fructose levels in barley roots. The Pi and CO2 treatments were additive, so that the highest soluble carbohydrate levels were observed in roots of Pi‐insufficient plants from the elevated CO2 treatment. Pi limitation decreased dry matter formation, acid‐extractable Pi, nitrate, hexose‐phosphates, glutamate, glutamine and acid invertase activity of barley roots in plants grown in both ambient and elevated CO2. Adenylate levels in roots were unaffected by the moderate Pi insufficiency described here. Thus, the reduced hexose‐phosphate levels of Pi‐insufficient roots were not likely to be the result of low adenylate concentrations. The above results suggest that the capacity of barley roots to utilize carbohydrates from the shoot is inadequate under both Pi‐insufficient and CO2‐enriched treatments. In addition, the Pi and CO2 treatments used here alter the nitrogen metabolism of barley roots. These findings further emphasize the importance of avoiding nutrient stress during CO2 enrichment experiments.
What is base excision repair good for?: knockout mutants for FPG and OGG glycosylase genes in Arabidopsis
Authors: Murphy Terence M.
Published: February 2005

Strains of Arabidopsis thaliana that lack a DNA glycosylase to recognize and remove 7,8‐dihydro‐8‐oxoguanine from their DNA are expected to be compromised in their ability to deal with this highly mutagenic base, which is formed in the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We have identified two strains, one containing a Ds insertion in an exon of the gene that codes for oxoguanine glycosylase and one containing a T‐DNA insertion in the gene that codes for formamidopyrimidine glycosylase (both EC 3.2.2.23), and have crossed them to produce the double mutant. The homozygous mutant strains showed no phenotypic difference from the wild type in growth, development or reproductive potential under either normal conditions or conditions known to induce the formation of ROS. The lack of phenotype may be ascribed to the redundant nature of the base excision repair pathway in Arabidopsis. Longer multigenerational studies may be needed to determine the quantitative selective advantage of individual DNA glycosylase genes.
The genetics of adaptive responses to drought stress: abscisic acid‐dependent and abscisic acid‐independent signalling components
Authors: Riera Marta , Valon Christiane , Fenzi Francesca , Giraudat Jérôme , Leung Jeffrey
Published: February 2005

Drought stress is the major limitation to crop productivity. However, crops are genetically complex with many loci contributing quantitatively to a given physiological trait. Nonetheless, significant in‐roads into the molecular mechanisms of drought‐adaptive responses have been made from the use of Arabidopsis thaliana. In this special review, we will discuss results gleaned from reverse and forward genetic studies that revealed the involvement of both ABA‐dependent and ABA‐independent components. In particular, mutant analyses have highlighted the surprising prevalence of RNA metabolism in many key steps. We will also discuss our recent use of infrared thermography to visualize stomatal closure in response to dehydration as a means to identify novel regulatory genes. This has allowed us to recover mutations belonging to at least eight complementation groups. Analysis of six of these loci revealed that all of their corresponding mutations affect either abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis or perception. Hence, in contrast to molecular studies on gene networks which pointed to the clear existence of multiple ABA‐independent pathways in the control of dehydration tolerance, our results reinforce ABA‐based signalling pathways as the predominant factor in primary or rapid responses. Finally, we will provide some details learned from the molecular analysis of OPEN STOMATA1 (OST1), a gene that encodes an ABA‐activated kinase issued from this targeted genetic approach.
Incidence of adrenal involvement and assessing adrenal function in patients with renal cell carcinoma: Is ipsilateral adrenalectomy indispensable during radical nephrectomy?
Authors: Yokoyama Hiroshi , Tanaka Masatoshi
Published: February 2005

OBJECTIVE

To determine the value of ipsilateral adrenalectomy with radical nephrectomy, by investigating the clinical aspects of adrenal involvement and adrenocortical function in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The demographic, clinical and pathological data of adrenal involvement were reviewed in 247 patients with RCC. To evaluate adrenocortical function, 14 patients (adrenalectomy in eight, adrenal‐sparing in six) had a rapid adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test before and 2 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

There was adrenal involvement with RCC in seven of the 247 (2.8%) patients (a solitary adrenal metastatic tumour in four and direct extension into the adrenal gland in three). All adrenal involvement was detectable on abdominal computed tomography before surgery, and these patients had a large primary renal tumour of > pT2 and/or distant metastasis. Plasma cortisol levels declined significantly more in response to the rapid ACTH stimulation test in those treated by adrenalectomy than in those with spared adrenal glands at 2 weeks after surgery (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference between the groups before surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that unconditional ipsilateral adrenalectomy with radical nephrectomy for RCC should be avoidable, and thus preserve the reserve of adrenocortical function, as preoperative imaging, especially thin‐slice multidetector helical computed tomography, can detect adrenal involvement with RCC in most cases. Unilateral adrenalectomy might cause an irreversible impairment of the reserve of adrenocortical function.