bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of CD14, IL1B, IL6, IL10 and TNFA functional gene polymorphisms with symptomatic dental abscesses
Authors: De Sá A. R. , Moreira P. R. , Xavier G. M. , Sampaio I. , Kalapothakis E. , Dutra W. O. , Gomez R. S.
Published: May 2007

Aim  To investigate in individuals with symptomatic dental abscesses the occurrence of functional polymorphisms within five genes involved with the immune response. The functional gene polymorphisms analysed were CD14 (−260 C/T), IL1B (+3954 C/T), IL6 (−174 G/C,), IL10 (−1082 G/A) and TNFA (−308 G/A).

Methodology  Genomic DNA obtained from oral swabs from individuals with symptomatic dental abscesses and asymptomatic inflammatory periapical lesions, without previous exacerbation, was submitted to restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analyses to determine each individual genotype. The chi‐square and principal components analysis tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results  A significant association was observed between the occurrence of the GG genotype or the G allele expression of the polymorphic locus−174 (G/C) of the IL6 gene, and the presence of the symptomatic dental abscesses in women and in individuals ≤35 years old. The principal components analysis suggested predominance of the symptomatic dental abscesses in individuals displaying: high‐producer IL6 genotype; intermediate and high‐producer IL1B genotypes and low‐producer TNFA genotype.

Conclusions  The present study suggests that genetic factors are associated with susceptibility to develop symptomatic dental abscesses.
Health literacy and the information needs and dilemmas of first‐time mothers over 35 years
Authors: Carolan Mary
Published: May 2007

Aim and objectives.  This paper aims to highlight the information‐based dilemmas of a particular group of healthcare patients, first‐time mothers over 35 years.

Background.  In recent years, there has been a proliferation of health‐related information and a move towards greater public access to health information as an important step towards patient education and empowerment. Information technologies, such as the Internet, have added considerable momentum to this trend. Many health professionals now consider the provision of detailed health information to patients as requisite for informed decision making. Within the literature there is some emphasis on the importance of patient understanding of information received; however, to date, few studies have considered information over‐consumption as problematic.

Methods.  Using in‐depth interviews, a sample of 22 first‐time mothers over 35 years was interviewed over three junctures: 35 weeks gestation, 10–14 days postpartum and six to eight months postpartum. Three focus group interviews of midwives and maternal and child health nurses were also conducted. This paper was undertaken as part of a larger project to evaluate the experience of first mothering over 35 years.

Results.  Mothers in this study were found to have access to large volumes of health information. This tendency was driven by both the women and the health professionals who cared for them. Midwives and maternal and child health nurses revealed a tendency to provide older first‐time mothers with considerable health information of a medical orientation, understanding that this is what the women required. However, despite common perceptions of empowerment, the consumption of medical‐type information proved frightening and many mothers described feeling overwhelmed by ‘knowing too much’.

Conclusion.  This study contributes to the limited understanding of the information needs of a growing group of childbearing women, first‐time mothers over 35 years. By providing an insight into the ‘downside’ of extensive health information, nursing staff, in particular, may consider the amount and type of information they distribute. Some suggestions are offered to health professionals to ameliorate the information‐based dilemmas of these women.

Relevance to clinical practice.  As the number of childbearing women over 35 years continues to grow, it is important for health professionals to understand the particular needs of this group. In doing so, doctors, midwives and maternal and child health nurses may be in a position to provide more meaningful maternal support.
An analysis of the experiences of clinical supervision on Registered Nurses undertaking MSc/graduate diploma in renal and urological nursing and on their clinical supervisors
Authors: Kilcullen Nora
Published: May 2007

Aims.  The aim of this study was to elicit clinical supervisors’ and supervisees’ experiences of clinical supervision while undertaking MSc/Graduate Diploma Programme in Renal and Urological Nursing.

Background.  Formal systems of clinical supervision have not been implemented in the Republic of Ireland. There is a growing awareness of their effectiveness in enhancing analytic skills and in helping to retain staff in clinical practice. Clinical supervision was incorporated in the MSc/Graduate Diploma Programme to enhance professional growth and development for students.

Design.  A qualitative descriptive research design was used in this study.

Methods.  A purposive sample of 10 Registered Nurses participated in the study; five were clinical supervisors and the other five were supervisees. The study was undertaken at a large teaching hospital in the Republic of Ireland. Data were collected by semi‐structured interviews and analysed using content analysis.

Results.  Following data analysis, six major categories emerged. These were, ‘positive aspects’‘negative aspects’, ‘factors, which had an impact on the process of clinical supervision’, ‘support’, ‘formal systems of clinical supervision’, ‘reflective practice in groups’.

Conclusions.  There was a general feeling that clinical supervision was a good experience for many members of this study group. The concept of clinical supervision was perceived as an inappropriate term to encompass the complexity of the clinical supervision sessions. This begs the question: is clinical supervision a practice with no name or should it be called something else? Giving a practice an appropriate name may empower registered nurses to implement this practice with confidence.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings of this study have implications for management and for the clinical environment, in terms of supporting and preparing practitioners to develop their critical and analytic skills.
Nurses’ knowledge of pain
Authors: Wilson Benita
Published: May 2007

Aim.  The aim of this study was to establish if postregistration education and clinical experience influence nurses’ knowledge of pain.

Background.  Inadequacies in the pain management process may not be tied to myth and bias originating from general attitudes and beliefs, but reflect inadequate pain knowledge.

Design.  A pain knowledge survey of 20 true/false statements was used to measure the knowledge base of two groups of nurses. This was incorporated in a self‐administered questionnaire that also addressed lifestyle factors of patients in pain, inferences of physical pain, general attitudes and beliefs about pain management.

Method.  One hundred questionnaires were distributed; 86 nurses returned the questionnaire giving a response rate of 86%. Following selection of the sample, 72 nurses participated in the study: 35 hospice/oncology nurses (specialist) and 37 district nurses (general). Data were analysed using SPSS.

Results.  The specialist nurses had a more comprehensive knowledge base than the general nurses; however, their knowledge scores did not appear to be related to their experience in terms of years within the nursing profession.

Conclusion.  Whilst educational programmes contribute to an increase in knowledge, it would appear that the working environment has an influence on the development and use of this knowledge. It is suggested that the clinical environment in which the specialist nurse works can induce feelings of reduced self‐efficacy and low personal control. To ease tension, strategies are used that can result in nurses refusing to endorse their knowledge, which can increase patients’ pain.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Clinical supervision will serve to increase the nurses’ self‐awareness; however, without power and autonomy to make decisions and affect change, feelings of helplessness, reduced self‐efficacy and cognitive dissonance can increase. This may explain why, despite educational efforts to increase knowledge, a concomitant change in practice has not occurred.
Development and validation of a learning needs assessment scale: a continuing professional education tool for multiple sclerosis specialist nurses
Authors: While Alison , Ullman Roz , Forbes Angus
Published: May 2007

Aim.  To develop and validate a learning needs assessment scale.

Background.  Learning needs analysis is a central component of continuing professional development but there is a lack of psychometrically developed learning needs assessment tools. Self‐assessment questionnaires are emerging as a key method. The development of a learning needs analysis scale for multiple sclerosis specialist nurses is described.

Design.  A psychometric approach comprising the three phases of the development and testing of the scale are outlined.

Method.  Phase 1: Item identification using a literature review; postal survey of stakeholders (n = 320), 20 nurse interviews; four nurse focus groups; five telephone interviews with people with MS. Phase 2: Refinement of draft scale and establishing face and content validity testing using an expert panel. Phase 3: Testing of draft scale using data from a postal survey (n = 47 MS specialist nurses) to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of scale, internal consistency and construct validity. Test–retest reliability was assessed using data from 17 MS specialist nurse respondents to calculate intra‐class correlation coefficients.

Results.  The data from the different study phases informed scale refinement. The validity and reliability of the scale was confirmed through testing.

Conclusion.  The study provides an example of how a robust learning needs assessment scale may be developed for a specialist area of nursing practice to be used in conjunction with more subjective approaches.

Relevance to clinical practice.  High quality nursing care depends upon a competent nursing workforce that engages in continuing professional development. This study provides an example of a psychometrically developed learning needs assessment scale to inform continuing professional development needs of nurses working in a specialist area of practice.
Development of explicit criteria for prioritization of hip and knee replacement
Authors: Escobar Antonio , Quintana José M. , Bilbao Amaia , Ibañez Berta , Arenaza Juan C. , Gutiérrez Luis , Azkárate Jesús , Güenaga Jose I. , Vidaurreta Ignacio
Published: May 2007

Rationale and aims  Among the problems to the publicly funded national health services are the waiting lists. Patients who need elective surgery generally have long waiting times before treatment. We aimed to develop a new prioritization tool for primary hip and knee replacement.

Methods  Criteria were developed using a modified Delphi panel process. We convened a panel of nine members who scored the scenarios created by the research team and by patient focus groups. We studied the level of agreement among the panelists and the contribution of the variables to the ratings of the panel using linear and logistic regression models. The priority scores of the variables and their levels were synthesized using the optimal scaling and standard linear regression methods.

Results  Seven variables, pain on motion, walking functional limitations, abnormal findings on physical examination, pain at rest, other functional limitations, social role, and other pathologies that could improve with joint replacement, were considered to create the different scenarios. The panel scored 192 scenarios. The disagreement among the panelists was very low (1%) with an intra‐class correlation coefficient of 0.72. Of the 192 scenarios, 45.8% were scored as urgent, 35.4% as preferred and 18.8% as ordinary. The variables that contributed most to the scores were pain on motion and walking functional limitations. When optimal scaling and regression techniques were applied, similar results were obtained.

Conclusion  This tool can evaluate and prioritize patients on a waiting list for hip or knee replacement. We also provide a simple and easy way to use an algorithm to estimate the treatment priority for individual patients.
Responses to flooding and drought stress by two citrus rootstock seedlings with different water‐use efficiency
Authors: García‐Sánchez Francisco , Syvertsen James. P. , Gimeno Vicente , Botía Pablo , Perez‐Perez Juan G.
Published: May 2007

Leaf water relations, net gas exchange and leaf and root constituent responses to 9 days of drought stress (DS) or soil flooding were studied in 6‐month‐old seedlings of Carrizo citrange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osb. ×Poncirus trifoliata L.; Carr] and Cleopatra mandarin (Citrus resnhi Hort. ex Tanaka; Cleo) growing in containers of native sand in the greenhouse. At the end of the drought period, both species had similar minimum stem water potentials but Cleo had higher leaf relative water content (RWC) and higher leaf osmotic potential at full turgor () than Carr. Flooding had no effect on RWC but osmotic adjustment (OA) and were higher in Cleo than in Carr. Net CO2 assimilation rate (ACO2) in leaves was decreased more by drought than by flooding in both species but especially in Carr. Leaf water‐use efficiency (ACO2/transpiration) was lower in Carr and was decreased more by DS and flooding stress than in Cleo. Higher values of intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) in stressed plants than in control plants indicated that non‐stomatal factors including chlorophyll degradation and chlorophyll fluorescence [maximum quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm, where Fm is the maximum fluorescence and F0, minimum fluorescence in dark‐adapted leaves)] were more important limitations on ACO2 than stomatal conductance. In both genotypes, leaf proline was increased by drought but not by flooding, whereas both stresses increased proline in roots. Soluble sugars in leaves were increased by DS, and flooding decreased leaf sugars in Cleo. In general, DS tended to increase the concentrations of Ca, K, Mg, Na and Cl in both leaves and roots, whereas flooding tended to decrease these ions with the exception of leaf Ca in Cleo. Based on water relations and net gas exchange, Cleo was more tolerant to short‐term DS and flooding stress than Carr.
Wheat SOC1 functions independently of WAP1/VRN1, an integrator of vernalization and photoperiod flowering promotion pathways
Authors: Shitsukawa Naoki , Ikari Chihiro , Mitsuya Tadayuki , Sakiyama Takeshi , Ishikawa Atsushi , Takumi Shigeo , Murai Koji
Published: May 2007

Heading time in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is determined by three characters – vernalization requirement, photoperiodic sensitivity and narrow‐sense earliness (earliness per se) – which are involved in the phase transition from vegetative to reproductive growth. The wheat APETALA1 (AP1)‐like MADS‐box gene, wheat AP1 (WAP1, identical with VRN1), has been identified as an integrator of vernalization and photoperiod flowering promotion pathways. A MADS‐box gene, SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CO 1 (SOC1) is an integrator of flowering pathways in Arabidopsis. In this study, we isolated a wheat ortholog of SOC1, wheat SOC1 (WSOC1), and investigated its relationship to WAP1 in the flowering pathway. WSOC1 is expressed in young spikes but preferentially expressed in leaves. Expression starts before the phase transition and is maintained during the reproductive growth phase. Overexpression of WSOC1 in transgenic Arabidopsis plants caused early flowering under short‐day conditions, suggesting that WSOC1 functions as a flowering activator in Arabidopsis. WSOC1 expression is affected neither by vernalization nor photoperiod, whereas it is induced by gibberellin at the seedling stage. Furthermore, WSOC1 is expressed in transgenic wheat plants in which WAP1 expression is cosuppressed. These findings indicate that WSOC1 acts in a pathway different from the WAP1‐related vernalization and photoperiod pathways.
Occupational risk assessment of aspergillosis after renal transplantation
Authors: Praz‐Christinaz S.M. , Lazor‐Blanchet C. , Binet I. , Boillat M.A. , Danuser B.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Returning to work after transplantation is a much‐discussed topic today, especially as a measure to avoid permanent work disability. Many transplant patients regain their ability to work 2–6 months after transplantation. However, returning to work should not endanger their health. This means that occupational risks such as occupational exposure to Aspergillus spores must be evaluated. We evaluated the community‐acquired aspergillosis risk and in particularly the occupational aspergillosis risk, using the example of a 39‐year‐old construction worker immunosuppressed after renal transplantation. On one hand the risk is linked to the exposure to microorganisms that the individual is likely to be subjected to, and on the other hand to the factors that modify his state of susceptibility or resistance to these infectious agents. The necessity of immunosuppressive therapy after transplantation elevates the aspergillosis risk, especially 1–6 months after transplantation. There are many professions in which exposure to Aspergillus spores can occur. The risk of acquiring aspergillosis at work exists, but is not quantifiable today. Nevertheless, the risk should be minimized during the period of vulnerability by preventive measures such as restriction of certain activities, changing work methods and reorganizing the work day to adapt to the risk, and wearing personal protective equipment, as well as attention to information about aspergillosis risk and about the likelihood of exposure in the patient's professional and leisure activities.
Work‐up for infectious diarrhea after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: single specimen testing results in cost savings without compromising diagnostic yield
Authors: Kamboj M. , Mihu C.N. , Sepkowitz K. , Kernan N.A. , Papanicolaou G.A.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Background. Diarrhea is a common complication of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Microbiologic stool studies are frequently ordered to rule out infectious etiology. The utility of examining multiple stool specimens per diarrheal episode has not been examined.

Methods. We performed a retrospective review of 169 adult and pediatric patients who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation at Memorial Sloan‐Kettering Cancer Center from January 1, 2000 though December 31, 2001, who had at least 1 microbiologic stool study. We report on the incidence of enteric pathogens in our population and diagnostic yield of stool studies. A diarrheal episode was defined as a 14‐day period from the date of the first stool study. Cost savings analysis was based on projected savings from implementation of proposed guidelines to the study population.

Results. A total of 1649 stool tests were performed (mean 10.6 tests per patient). An infectious cause of diarrhea was found in 45 (28.8%) patients. Diagnostic yield was 6.2% for Clostridum difficile toxin assay, 12.9% for viral cultures, and 1.3% for rotavirus enzyme immunoassay. Bacterial cultures for enteric pathogens, examination for parasites, and rotavirus antigen assay combined had 0.5% positive yield.

Conclusions. Testing of multiple specimens per diarrheal episode did not increase diagnostic yield. The estimated cost savings by implementing single testing for each type of stool study per diarrheal episode was $49,764 annually (in 2001 US dollars). Judicious use of stool tests to evaluate diarrhea results in significant cost savings without compromising diagnostic yield.
Clinical features and outcomes of cytomegalovirus retinitis after transplantation
Authors: Eid A.J. , Bakri S.J. , Kijpittayarit S. , Razonable R.R.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of the retina is a rarely encountered end‐organ disease after transplantation. In order to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of CMV retinitis after hematopoietic stem cell and solid organ transplantation, we performed a retrospective review of all cases of CMV retinitis at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota) during 1990–2004. During this 15‐year period, CMV retinitis was diagnosed in 14 eyes of 9 patients who had received kidney (n=5), liver (n=2), heart (n=1), and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (n=1). The mean age of the patients was 58 (standard deviation±11) years; 6 were male. The median time to diagnosis of CMV retinitis was 9 months (range, 4 months to 13 years) after transplantation. Four (44%) patients had concomitant pneumonitis or hepatitis. Five (55%) patients had bilateral retinitis. Retinal involvement was ≤10% in 8 eyes, >10% but ≤50% in 4 eyes, and >50% in 2 eyes. All patients received induction therapy with intravenous ganciclovir (n=8) or foscarnet (n=1) for a median of 43 days (range, 14–100 days) followed by maintenance therapy with intravenous or oral ganciclovir for a median of 88 days (range, 36–943 days) in 6 (67%) patients. One patient developed bilateral immune recovery uveitis during treatment, and later on progressed to develop rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. During the mean follow‐up period of 20 months, visual acuity improved in 4 (28.5%), was stable in 4 (28.5%), and worsened in 6 (43%) eyes. CMV retinitis recurred in 2 patients. In conclusion, CMV retinitis is a rare, progressive, and highly morbid infectious complication of transplantation. The severity of clinical disease at the time of diagnosis may predict poor outcome. Hence, early intervention may be crucial to prevent its progression to irreversible visual loss.
Elderly destitution in Ile‐Ife community of Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Fajemilehin Bolu R. , Ayandiran Emmanuel O. , Salami Kabiru K.
Published: May 2007

Many studies have been conducted on the elderly, but none has ever paid particular attention to the increasing rate of destitution in the rural communities, where the elderly serve as agents for sustenance and transmission of culture. This study is descriptive in nature and has adopted qualitative perspective in order to identify and examine the factors that have contributed to the state of elderly in destitution in Ile‐Ife, Nigeria. It has also examined the feelings and reactions of the subjects of the study and has documented how their lifestyles affect their health status. Sixteen elderly people in destitution were traced and interviewed in Ile‐Ife community. At each location, where an elderly in destitution was located, at least an elderly chief and a resident were located for interview. Data collected were analysed using Textbase Beta package for qualitative analysis. The study found that communal feud, violence and conflicts were factors that created unhappiness for the elderly, and the lack of adequate support from the immediate households consequently led to their homelessness. The study documented that the elderly in destitution lack good hygiene and nutrition, and equally suffer self‐neglect and mental confusion. The study concludes that peaceful coexistence, communal security, and familial care and support are important factors that promote happiness and successful ageing. It also maintains that focused health education is highly essential for the households and caregivers of the elderly in rural community.
The role of significant others in the care of women with breast cancer
Authors: Lindholm Lisbet , Mäkelä Carita , Rantanen‐Siljamäki Sinikka , Nieminen Anna‐Lena
Published: May 2007

This study seeks to gain knowledge of how significant others experience the nursing care of women with breast cancer and what their own caring needs might be. The overall research design is a clinical application research within the hermeneutic tradition. Thirty‐seven significant others have contributed their own narratives about the care on the basis of open, structured questions. The narratives have been submitted to an analysis of contents. The result shows that significant others have no given place in nursing care. Their place in nursing care is to look on, be present or be ignored. No matter what their place is, the significant others feel a need for caring conversations and information in an ethical manner. The faith and trust of significant others, the sharing, sense of communion and the information about woman's illness strengthen the significant others' own vitality. Their inmost desire concerns the sensitiveness of caregivers with regard to the woman's as well as the significant others' personal needs. If space is allowed and this desire meets with response, significant others can constitute a source of strength in the care of the woman suffering from breast cancer.
Clinical usefulness and feasibility of using Reality Orientation with patients who have dementia in acute care settings
Authors: O'Connell Bev , Gardner Anne , Takase Miyuki , Hawkins Mary T. , Ostaszkiewicz Joan , Ski Chantal , Josipovic Patricia
Published: May 2007

Reality Orientation (RO) was developed as a strategy to assist people with dementia to improve their orientation and everyday function. Although its efficacy has been extensively studied in long‐term care facilities, its effectiveness has rarely been examined in acute care settings. The aim of this review was to examine the studies cited in systematic reviews of RO to determine the potential clinical usefulness and the feasibility of using RO in acute care settings. Based on this information, the authors make recommendations for future research in this area. The feasibility of implementing RO in acute care poses challenges because of the short time a patient is in hospital and their ability to participate given their acute medical condition. Although the efficacy and feasibility of using RO in acute care settings have not been sufficiently examined, its potential to improve care should not be ignored. A comprehensive and rigorous study is necessary to investigate the usefulness of RO in the acute care setting and to help establish clinical guidelines for dementia care in the context of acute care nursing.
The exodus of health professionals from sub‐Saharan Africa: balancing human rights and societal needs in the twenty‐first century
Authors: Ogilvie Linda , Mill Judy E. , Astle Barbara , Fanning Anne , Opare Mary
Published: May 2007

Increased international migration of health professionals is weakening healthcare systems in low‐income countries, particularly those in sub‐Saharan Africa. The migration of nurses, physicians and other health professionals from countries in sub‐Saharan Africa poses a major threat to the achievement of health equity in this region. As nurses form the backbone of healthcare systems in many of the affected countries, it is the accelerating migration of nurses that will be most critical over the next few years. In this paper we present a comprehensive analysis of the literature and argue that, from a human rights perspective, there are competing rights in the international migration of health professionals: the right to leave one's country to seek a better life; the right to health of populations in the source and destination countries; labour rights; the right to education; and the right to nondiscrimination and equality. Creative policy approaches are required to balance these rights and to ensure that the individual rights of health professionals do not compromise the societal right to health.
Experiences of infertility: liminality and the role of the fertility clinic
Authors: Allan Helen
Published: May 2007

This paper explores the experiences of infertile women who occupy a liminal space in society, and argues that the fertility clinic served as a space to tolerate women's experiences of liminality. It provided not only rituals aimed at transition to pregnancy, but also a space where women's liminal experiences, which are caused by the existential chaos of infertility, could be tolerated. The British experience seemed to differ from the American one identified in the literature, where self‐management and peer group support are described as strategies used by infertile women to manage infertility. The British women in this study did not appear to draw so much on self‐management or peer group support to deal with their experiences of infertility. They appeared to be isolated in their experience. The clinic thus provided a space in which recognition was given to their intensely private experiences of difference from those in the outside fertile world and allowed them to manage these socially unacceptable, culturally taboo and invisible experiences. However, because of its very limited success rate in enabling women to become pregnant, rather than facilitating the transition of status from infertile to fertile woman, the clinic also served to reinforce the liminal experiences of those women who remained infertile. Inadvertently, the clinic offered a way of being in limbo while at the same time reinforcing the liminal experiences of women.
Diffusion through skin and model systems
Authors: DYER A. , HAYES G.G. , WILSON J. G. , CATTERALL R.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

A new approach has been made to the investigation of diffusion through skin. The experimental procedure is to arrange for a self‐exchange of radioactively labelled compounds through a skin or model membrane. A new mathematical solution for D*, the self‐diffusion coefficient for the molecule, is computed and the variation in self‐diffusion parameters noted with temperature, skin type, and model membrane. Some thermal analyses are given.

La diffusion a travers des modèles de peau
Methods for water resistance testing of sun protection products
Authors: GREITER F. , BILEK P. , DOSKOCZIL S. , WASHÜTTL J. , WURST F.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Water resistance of sun protection products has been found to be best determined by the following methods:

(1) Tests for determining UVL filter adherence to merino wool; this gives a rough value for orientation. Values in excess of 6% are suggestive of satisfactory adherence. (2) Tests for determining water resistance of sunscreen products on pig skin constitute a further essential step. Values in excess of 50% provide a realistic basis for tests in humans.

In addition to filter adherence the product base, i.e. primarily the emulsifiers, are of special significance. Adequate results can be obtained with both W/O and O/W systems.

Tests on volunteers are best done at the time of determining the sun protection factor, i.e. when simulating the events during a 2–3 h sunbath. Simulation should involve a single application of the test product in a pre‐defined quantity and all activities conmmonly done in sunlight, e.g. swimming, as well as intermittent exercises to induce sweating.

Values are considered as excellent, if 1 MED is not exceeded after 3 h exposure. Sun protection products with this characteristic qualify as adequate ‘all‐day’ sunscreen for individuals with average sensitivity.

Methodes pour mesurer la résistance à l'eau des produits anti‐solaires
Normal use levels of respirable cosmetic talc: preliminary study
Authors: AYLOTT R. I. , BYRNE G. A. , MIDDLETON J. D. , ROBERTS M. E.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

This preliminary study was undertaken to provide data from which a more comprehensive investigation to establish the safety in‐use of cosmetic talcs could be designed. Methods for collecting and analysing respirable talc generated during the use of loose face powder and adult and baby dusting powders were established.

Respirable particles in the air were separated from larger size particles by means of a cyclone and were collected on membrane filters. The collected dust was dissolved in acid and the solution was analysed for magnesium by atomic absorption spectroscopy. From the results the concentrations of talc in the air samples were calculated.

The method was used to monitor the in‐use levels of a range of cosmetic talcs. Mean concentrations in air sampled for 5 min from the start of use of Chinese grades and Italian 00000 grades of talc formulated for use as loose face powder, adult dusting powder and baby dusting powder were 0.48, 1.13 and 0.21 mg m−3, respectively. Higher levels were found with micronised adult dusting powder (mean concentration 1.9 mg m−3).

There was no evidence that the presence of perfume in the talc or the ambient relative humidity in the range 54–74% during use affected the levels of respirable talc, but high relative humidity <90% reduced the amount of respirable talc.

Utilisation des talcs cosmetiques: étude préliminaire des teneurs en talc respirable
E.S.R. study of free radicals formed in skin proteins by u.v. irradiation
Authors: MEYBECK A.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

In order to better understand the mechanisms of action, of sunlight on skin, a study of the free radicals formed by irradiation of its protein constituents, has been undertaken. Samples of stratum corneum keratin and of skin collagen have been u.v. irradiated, in a vacuum, at – 196°C, then transferred to an electron spin resonance spectrometer (E.S.R.). The E.S.R. signals have then been recorded at – 160°C and at increasing temperatures in order to follow the transformations of primary free radicals into secondary species more stable at room temperature.

For keratin, u.v. rays produce radicals of the type ‐NH‐CHR at low temperature but it is not possible to identify them more precisely. These free species react with combined glycine of neighbouring protein chains to form ‐NH‐CH‐CO‐(I) radicals, the E.S.R. spectrum of which can be observed from –60°C onwards. In the presence of air, rather unstable peroxide radicals are formed.

For irradiated collagen, the E.S.R. signals recorded at increasing temperatures show in addition to (I) some evidence of alanine free radicals (‐NH‐CH‐CH3 at – 160°C and ‐NH‐C(CH3)‐CO‐ from ‐20°C onwards).

These results allow a better understanding of the mechanisms which lead to premature ageing of the skin through sunlight exposure and to the transformation of collagen into even more cross‐linked proteins. In addition, this study of the free radicals formed in stratum corneum keratin, allows a more refined discussion of the protective effect of skin melanin pigments.

Etude par R.P.E. des radicaux libres formés par action de la lumière ultra‐violette sur les protéines de la peau
Dispersions of lamellar phases of non‐ionic lipids in cosmetic products
Authors: HANDJANI‐VILA R. M. , RIBIER A. , RONDOT B. , VANLERBERGHIE G.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Although aqueous dispersions of lipids in the form of particles having a lamellar structure (liposomes) are already known as excellent vehicles for pharmaceutical substances, their usefulness in cosmetic formulations has not been demonstrated. The present work shows the advantages obtained by application of such systems to the skin, and in particular the use of non‐ionic lipids in aqueous dispersions.

Thus, in comparison with classical formulations such as emulsions, these systems exhibit lower toxicity and permit closer control of the availability of active substances at the stratum corneum. As examples, compositions suitable for skin moisturising and for tanning products are presented.

Dispersions de phases lamellaires de lipides non‐ioniques en cosmétique
Moulding techniques in lipstick manufacture: a comparative evaluation
Authors: DWECK A. C. , BURNHAM C. A. M.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

This paper examines two methods of lipstick bulk manufacture: one via a direct method and the other via stock concentrates.

The paper continues with a comparison of two manufactured bulks moulded in three different ways – first by split moulding, secondly by Rotamoulding, and finally by Ejectoret moulding.

Full consideration is paid to time, labour and cost standards of each approach and the resultant moulding examined using some novel physical testing methods. The results of these tests are statistically analysed.

Finally, on the basis of the gathered data and photomicrographical work a theoretical lipstick structure is proposed by which the results may be explained.

Etude comparative des techniques de moulage dans la fabrication des rouges à lèvres
P‐aminobenzoic acid as a sunscreen and its behaviour on the skin
Authors: LEVEE GORDON J. , SAYRE ROBERT M. , MARLOWE EDWARD
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

PABA (p‐aminobenzoic acid), a highly regarded sunscreening agent, has recently been shown to exhibit different absorption characteristics when applied to excised hairless mouse epidermis than when in dilute alcoholic solution. In the present study the cause of the differences was investigated.

The results show that at normal application amounts, considerable quantities of randomly dispersed PABA micro‐crystals exist on the skin surface. The forward scattering spectrum of PABA on skin resembled more closely that of micro‐crystalline aggregates than that of PABA in solution.
Safety evaluation of gums and thickeners used in cosmetic formulations
Authors: GUILLOT J. P. , GIAUFFRET J. Y. , MARTINI M. C. , GONNET J. F. , SOULÉ G.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Safety tests have been carried out on gums and thickeners, continuing a study involving commonly used cosmetic ingredients (1, 2, 3, 4). The ocular and cutaneous tolerance tests have been conducted on the rabbit following the official French methods (5, 6) but with some complements or modifications (1, 2, 3, 4, 7). The test substances (listed in Table 1) were products from various suppliers and of different types and grades. None of the fifty samples tested provoked pathological lesions of the ocular mucous membrane; nevertheless, corneal irritation was noted with silicates, silica and bentonite, probably due to mechanical effect, when applied at relatively high concentration. The highest score on the primary cutaneous irritancy test (moderately irritant) was that for the gelled volatile hydrocarbon solvents. The repeated application test was continued for 6 weeks: no significant pathological reaction was observed. Only a slight intolerance was noted with the gels of volatile hydrocarbons and isopropyl myristate, but the irritant reactions were significantly reduced compared to those previously observed with the pure oils (1, 2). Consequently, based on these data, it can be concluded that the use of gums and thickeners involved in this publication presents no hazard for the skin.

Evaluation toxicologique d'agents gélifiants et épaississants utilisés en cosmetologie
Validation of a Swedish short self‐report measure of core affect
Authors: VÄSTFJÄLL DANIEL , GÄRLING TOMMY
Published: May 2007

This research aimed at validating two self‐report composite rating scales of core affect that are useful when quick assessments are required, for instance, of current mood or recalled, anticipated, and experienced emotional reactions. The ratings were derived from the Swedish Core Affect Scales (SCAS) comprising six self‐report rating scales of the two orthogonal dimensions of core affect, valence (unpleasantness–pleasantness) and activation (quietness–excitement). In three samples of university students who were requested to rate current moods, affect‐inducing sounds, or affect‐inducing pictures, the composite ratings were compared to SCAS, two widely used graphical rating scales of valence and activation, and skin conductance responses and the acceleratory peak of heart rate. Three different rating formats were also compared. The results showed that the composite ratings were reliable and yielded the expected correlations with the other ratings and with the physiological affect indicators. No effects of rating format were detected. It is concluded that the composite ratings of valence and activation may be used if quick assessments are called for. Choices can be made of any of three rating formats depending on purpose with the assessments.
Predictive value of clinical characteristics for ‘benign’ multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ramsaransing G. S. M. , De Keyser J.
Published: May 2007

We studied a cohort of 496 patients who had multiple sclerosis (MS) for at least 10 years. Ten years after disease onset, 151 had benign MS defined as an Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS) ≤3. Between benign and non‐benign patients we compared gender, age at clinical onset, relapsing–remitting or primary progressive, symptoms at onset, recovery from first relapse, time between first and second relapse, number of relapses in the first 5 years, use of immunomodulatory drugs, and EDSS scores at 2, 5 and 10 years. A multivariate regression analysis showed that a relapsing–remitting course, a low EDSS score at 5 years, and a low number of relapses in the first 5 years were predictive for benign MS at 10 years. Other factors had no additional value. Thirty‐five of the 51 patients (69%) with benign MS at 10 years were still benign at 20 years. A low 10‐year EDSS score was the only clinical variable associated with a benign course at 20 years. Our results suggest that within the first 5 years from onset it is not possible to predict a benign course. Disease course, EDSS score and relapse rate at 5 years are predictors for benign MS at 10 years.
A President for the European Union: A New Actor in Town?*
Authors: BLAVOUKOS SPYROS , BOURANTONIS DIMITRIS , PAGOULATOS GEORGE
Published: May 2007

In the post‐Constitution EU, the rotating Presidency would be replaced by a hybrid system combining a rotating component with the establishment of a permanent President for the European Council. Using a principal‐agent framework, we look at the supply and demand for formal leadership in the new system, accounting for the substantial institutional change in the format of the Presidency. We then examine the President's effectiveness and efficiency and discuss whether the President, as a new institutional actor, has the potential to evolve into an autonomous political actor in the EU. Our analysis suggests a discernible though by no means unconditional strengthening of the President's potential for an autonomous political role in the new EU institutional architecture.
Why Bother With Inter‐Regionalism? Negotiations for a European Union‐Mercosur Agreement*
Authors: DOCTOR MAHRUKH
Published: May 2007

The article examines why a decade of inter‐regional negotiations failed to result in an EU‐MERCOSUR agreement, notwithstanding motivating factors at the international, national and societal level. It focuses on inter‐regional trade and investment flows to underline the practical value of any agreement, but also considers strategic and ideational issues.
Comparing Non‐Hierarchical Governance in Action: the Open Method of Co‐ordination in Pensions and Information Society*
Authors: LODGE MARTIN
Published: May 2007

Non‐hierarchical modes of governance, such as the ‘open method of co‐ordination’ (OMC), require particular prerequisites to operate effectively. This article points to three essential components of any regime, then assesses their operation in two ‘real’ OMCs, pensions and information society. Given the finding of defective regimes, this article argues that the observed patterns are not surprising given the high demands that non‐hierarchical governance places on participants. In addition, the context of the politics of the EU suggests that non‐hierarchical governance is inappropriate as a means of inducing policy reform.
Monetary Integration of the New EU Member States: What Sets the Pace of Euro Adoption?
Authors: ANGELONI IGNAZIO , FLAD MICHAEL , MONGELLI FRANCESCO PAOLO
Published: May 2007

How fast should the new Member States of the European Union (NMS) relinquish their domestic monetary and exchange rate autonomy? While the Maastricht convergence criteria are attracting significant attention (particularly the inflation and deficit criteria), we think the debate should also examine the status of their economic structures and the progress of integration within the EU. Diverse aspects of the monetary integration of the NMS into the euro area are examined. We find less structural convergence is associated with less income convergence. The exchange rate regimes have a bearing on the speed of real convergence: for some NMS, and for some more time, exchange rate flexibility may still serve as a useful shock absorber.
Exchange Rate Regimes and Exchange Market Pressure in the New EU Member States*
Authors: VAN POECK ANDRÉ , VANNESTE JACQUES , VEINER MARET
Published: May 2007

Economic theory has stressed the vulnerability to currency crises of intermediate exchange regimes. ERM II constitutes a fixed but adjustable pegged exchange rate arrangement and can therefore be categorized as an intermediate regime, in contrast to polar regimes such as currency boards and freely floating exchange rates. Our regression results for eight new EU Member States reveal the role of economic fundamentals in explaining exchange market pressure in these countries and confirm the bipolar view on exchange rate regimes. We conclude that the new EU members should not enter ERM II before their fundamentals are strong enough to compensate for the vulnerability of the exchange rate regime. Otherwise the condition for entering EMU, i.e. preceding participation in ERM II without devaluation or serious tensions on the exchange market, could be jeopardized.
Enhanced Roles of Private Actors in EU Business Regulation and the Erosion of Rhenish Capitalism: the Case of Antitrust Enforcement
Authors: WIGGER ANGELA , NÖLKE ANDREAS
Published: May 2007

The 2004 antitrust reform is the most important change in the history of EU competition policy. It amounts to a major shift in both the mode of regulation (towards private enforcement) and the substance (towards the Anglo‐Saxon model). These changes erode crucial elements of the Rhenish variety of economic organization.
Principals’ and teachers’ attitudes and knowledge of inclusive education as predictors of effective teaching practices in Ghana
Authors: Kuyini Ahmed Bawa , Desai Ishwar
Published: May 2007

Surveys and observations were undertaken in selected primary schools in Ghana to determine whether principals’ and teachers’ attitudes towards and knowledge of inclusive education, as well as principals’ expectations of teachers in implementing inclusion, were predictors of effective teaching practices in their classrooms. The sample of 128 educators (20 principals and 108 teachers) drawn from 20 primary schools in two districts, were required to respond to questionnaire measures of Attitude Towards Inclusive Education Scale (ATIES), Knowledge of Inclusive Education Scale (KIES) and Principals’ Expectations Scale (PES). Of the total number of teachers (N = 108), 37 were observed during instructional delivery in their classrooms. The data were analysed by a variety of statistical procedures including Regression Analysis and Discriminant Function Analysis. In the context of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (Ajzen, 1985), the results showed that whilst attitudes towards inclusion (attitude element) and knowledge of inclusion (perceived behavioural control element) predicted effective teaching practices, principals’ expectations (subjective norm) did not. Implications for the implementation of effective inclusive practices in Ghanaian schools and the need for future research are discussed.