bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marennine, Promising Blue Pigments from a Widespread Haslea Diatom Species Complex
Authors: Gastineau Romain , Turcotte François , Pouvreau Jean-Bernard , Morançais Michèle , Fleurence Joël , Windarto Eko , Prasetiya Fiddy , Arsad Sulastri , Jaouen Pascal , Babin Mathieu , Coiffard Laurence , Couteau Céline , Bardeau Jean-François , Jacquette Boris , Leignel Vincent , Hardivillier Yann , Marcotte Isabelle , Bourgougnon Nathalie , Tremblay Réjean , Deschênes Jean-Sébastien , Badawy Hope , Pasetto Pamela , Davidovich Nikolai , Hansen Gert , Dittmer Jens , Mouget Jean-Luc
Published: May 2014

In diatoms, the main photosynthetic pigments are chlorophylls a and c, fucoxanthin, diadinoxanthin and diatoxanthin. The marine pennate diatom Haslea ostrearia has long been known for producing, in addition to these generic pigments, a water-soluble blue pigment, marennine. This pigment, responsible for the greening of oysters in western France, presents different biological activities: allelopathic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and growth-inhibiting. A method to extract and purify marennine has been developed, but its chemical structure could hitherto not be resolved. For decades, H. ostrearia was the only organism known to produce marennine, and can be found worldwide. Our knowledge about H. ostrearia-like diatom biodiversity has recently been extended with the discovery of several new species of blue diatoms, the recently described H. karadagensis, H. silbo sp. inedit. and H. provincialis sp. inedit. These blue diatoms produce different marennine-like pigments, which belong to the same chemical family and present similar biological activities. Aside from being a potential source of natural blue pigments, H. ostrearia-like diatoms thus present a commercial potential for aquaculture, cosmetics, food and health industries.
Combination of 2D/3D Ligand-Based Similarity Search in Rapid Virtual Screening from Multimillion Compound Repositories. Selection and Biological Evaluation of Potential PDE4 and PDE5 Inhibitors
Authors: Dobi Krisztina , Hajdú István , Flachner Beáta , Fabó Gabriella , Szaszkó Mária , Bognár Melinda , Magyar Csaba , Simon István , Szisz Dániel , Lőrincz Zsolt , Cseh Sándor , Dormán György
Published: May 2014

Rapid in silico selection of target focused libraries from commercial repositories is an attractive and cost effective approach. If structures of active compounds are available rapid 2D similarity search can be performed on multimillion compound databases but the generated library requires further focusing by various 2D/3D chemoinformatics tools. We report here a combination of the 2D approach with a ligand-based 3D method (Screen3D) which applies flexible matching to align reference and target compounds in a dynamic manner and thus to assess their structural and conformational similarity. In the first case study we compared the 2D and 3D similarity scores on an existing dataset derived from the biological evaluation of a PDE5 focused library. Based on the obtained similarity metrices a fusion score was proposed. The fusion score was applied to refine the 2D similarity search in a second case study where we aimed at selecting and evaluating a PDE4B focused library. The application of this fused 2D/3D similarity measure led to an increase of the hit rate from 8.5% (1st round, 47% inhibition at 10 µM) to 28.5% (2nd round at 50% inhibition at 10 µM) and the best two hits had 53 nM inhibitory activities.
Part Two: Evaluation of N-methylbupropion as a Potential Bupropion Prodrug
Authors: O'Byrne Paul , Williams Robert , Walsh John , Gilmer John
Published: May 2014

N-methylbupropion was selected as a potential prodrug from our in vitro screening of analogues of bupropion described in the preceding paper. This study describes in vivo pharmacokinetics of N-methylbupropion in the guinea-pig animal model, which is reported to best predict human metabolism of bupropion. The suitability of the guinea pig was established by studying N-demethylation of N-methylbupropion using S9 liver fractions. An LC-MS method was developed and validated to measure N-methylbupropion, bupropion and their metabolites in plasma and brain tissue. In separate studies, the prodrug was delivered by intraperitoneal injection (IP) to assess hepatic metabolism and then by oral gavage (PO) to assess the contribution from intestinal enzymes. Bupropion was administered in parallel. The pharmacokinetic profile of bupropion and N-methylbupropion were not comparable when dosed by intraperitoneal injection but when dosed orally, N-methylbupropion showed a comparable bupropion and metabolite PK plasma profile to bupropion. Plasma and brain levels of N-methylbupropion show that it is extensively metabolized to bupropion and its metabolites, and N-methyl-threo-hydrobupropion. This data coupled to the reduced DAT and NET system in vitro activity described in paper 1 would suggest that the N-methyl derivative of bupropion may have potential as an oral prodrug of bupropion in humans.
Automated Detection of Cloud and Cloud Shadow in Single-Date Landsat Imagery Using Neural Networks and Spatial Post-Processing
Authors: Hughes M. , Hayes Daniel
Published: May 2014

The use of Landsat data to answer ecological questions is greatly increased by the effective removal of cloud and cloud shadow from satellite images. We develop a novel algorithm to identify and classify clouds and cloud shadow, SPARCS: Spatial Procedures for Automated Removal of Cloud and Shadow. The method uses a neural network approach to determine cloud, cloud shadow, water, snow/ice and clear sky classification memberships of each pixel in a Landsat scene. It then applies a series of spatial procedures to resolve pixels with ambiguous membership by using information, such as the membership values of neighboring pixels and an estimate of cloud shadow locations from cloud and solar geometry. In a comparison with FMask, a high-quality cloud and cloud shadow classification algorithm currently available, SPARCS performs favorably, with substantially lower omission errors for cloud shadow (8.0% and 3.2%), only slightly higher omission errors for clouds (0.9% and 1.3%, respectively) and fewer errors of commission (2.6% and 0.3%). Additionally, SPARCS provides a measure of uncertainty in its classification that can be exploited by other algorithms that require clear sky pixels. To illustrate this, we present an application that constructs obstruction-free composites of images acquired on different dates in support of a method for vegetation change detection.
On the Semi-Automatic Retrieval of Biophysical Parameters Based on Spectral Index Optimization
Authors: Rivera Juan , Verrelst Jochem , Delegido Jesús , Veroustraete Frank , Moreno José
Published: May 2014

Regression models based on spectral indices are typically empirical formulae enabling the mapping of biophysical parameters derived from Earth Observation (EO) data. Due to its empirical nature, it remains nevertheless uncertain to what extent a selected regression model is the most appropriate one, until all band combinations and curve fitting functions are assessed. This paper describes the application of a Spectral Index (SI) assessment toolbox in the Automated Radiative Transfer Models Operator (ARTMO) package. ARTMO enables semi-automatic retrieval and mapping of biophysical parameters from optical remote sensing observations. The SI toolbox facilitates the assessment of biophysical parameter retrieval accuracy of established as well as new and generic SIs. For instance, based on the SI formulation used, all possible band combinations of formulations with up to ten bands can be defined and evaluated. Several options are available in the SI assessment: calibration/validation data partitioning, the addition of noise and the definition of curve fitting models. To illustrate its functioning, all two-band combinations according to simple ratio (SR) and normalized difference (ND) formulations as well as various fitting functions (linear, exponential, power, logarithmic, polynomial) have been assessed. HyMap imaging spectrometer (430–2490 nm) data obtained during the SPARC-2003 campaign in Barrax, Spain, have been used to extract leaf area index (LAI) and leaf chlorophyll content (LCC) estimates. For both SR and ND formulations the most sensitive regions have been identified for two-band combinations of green (539–570 nm) with longwave SWIR (2421–2453 nm) for LAI (r2: 0.83) and far-red (692 nm) with NIR (1340 nm) or shortwave SWIR (1661–1686 nm) for LCC (r2: 0.93). Polynomial, logarithmic and linear fitting functions led to similar best correlations, though spatial differences emerged when applying the functions to HyMap imagery. We suggest that a systematic SI assessment is a strong requirement in the quality assurance approach for accurate biophysical parameter retrieval.
Audio-Visual Perception System for a Humanoid Robotic Head
Authors: Viciana-Abad Raquel , Marfil Rebeca , Perez-Lorenzo Jose , Bandera Juan , Romero-Garces Adrian , Reche-Lopez Pedro
Published: May 2014

One of the main issues within the field of social robotics is to endow robots with the ability to direct attention to people with whom they are interacting. Different approaches follow bio-inspired mechanisms, merging audio and visual cues to localize a person using multiple sensors. However, most of these fusion mechanisms have been used in fixed systems, such as those used in video-conference rooms, and thus, they may incur difficulties when constrained to the sensors with which a robot can be equipped. Besides, within the scope of interactive autonomous robots, there is a lack in terms of evaluating the benefits of audio-visual attention mechanisms, compared to only audio or visual approaches, in real scenarios. Most of the tests conducted have been within controlled environments, at short distances and/or with off-line performance measurements. With the goal of demonstrating the benefit of fusing sensory information with a Bayes inference for interactive robotics, this paper presents a system for localizing a person by processing visual and audio data. Moreover, the performance of this system is evaluated and compared via considering the technical limitations of unimodal systems. The experiments show the promise of the proposed approach for the proactive detection and tracking of speakers in a human-robot interactive framework.
Measuring and Analysis of Urban Competitiveness of Chinese Provincial Capitals in 2010 under the Constraints of Major Function-Oriented Zoning Utilizing Spatial Analysis
Authors: Du Qingyun , Wang Yanxia , Ren Fu , Zhao Zhiyuan , Liu Hongqiang , Wu Chao , Li Langjiao , Shen Yiran
Published: May 2014

Urban competitiveness aids local development by encouraging the exploitation of opportunities for economic development and by enhancing overall performance. Previous studies have evaluated urban competitiveness primarily from an economic perspective and few studies have considered locational conditions as factors that might influence local industrialization and urbanization. In response to the publishing of a national plan for the development of major function-oriented zones (MFOZs) in 2010, the present essay employs MFOZs as constraints to enable a balanced and comprehensive study of urban competitiveness that includes four dimensions of competitiveness: Economic, social-cultural, environmental, and locational (accessibility and hypsography). A four-level hierarchical indicator system and an entropy weighting method were used to assess the urban competitiveness of 31 Chinese provincial capitals based on a spatial analysis of data acquired in 2010 using Geographic Information System technology. The results reveal the overall ranking of provincial capitals in terms of urban competitiveness and their performances with respect to the four dimensions of competitiveness. Unlike previous studies, this analysis was performed by overlaying the strategy of the national MFOZ with the urban competitiveness rankings. The development orientation of each provincial city is discussed according to its characteristics of urban competitiveness under the conditions of a MFOZ.
Attitudes toward Sustainability and Green Economy Issues Related to Some Students Learning Their Characteristics: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Micangeli Andrea , Naso Vincenzo , Michelangeli Emanuele , Matrisciano Apollonia , Farioli Francesca , Belfiore Nicola
Published: May 2014

The present paper proposes and describes a new method, called L2A (listen-to-apprise), conceived of in order to improve the commitment of all the participants involved in an educational process specifically dedicated to sustainability and the green economy. The first stage consists in listening to the students and, when possible, in listening to the environment, the people, and the territory, while, in the second stage, the acquired information is used to exploit everyone’s talents and to achieve the maximum advantage and satisfaction for all. The first phase of L2A is mainly dedicated to listening to the students via the submission of an on-line questionnaire that measures their learning preferences, self-efficacy and sensitivity to the themes of sustainability and the green economy. The investigation has been extended from Italy to Honduras, where the authors are involved in the development of major projects concerning sustainability. The results of the survey have been analyzed by means of standard significance and correlation analysis, and therefore, significant differences among the groups and correlations within each group have been detected. The results have been discussed in order to explain how the L2A method works and how useful and powerful a tool it could be to improve teaching, learning and practical activities.
Climatic Characteristics of Reference Evapotranspiration in the Hai River Basin and Their Attribution
Authors: Zhao Lingling , Xia Jun , Sobkowiak Leszek , Li Zongli
Published: May 2014

Based on the meteorological data from 46 stations in the Hai River Basin (HRB) from 1961–2010, the annual and seasonal variation of reference evapotranspiration was analyzed. The sensitivity coefficients combined with the detrend method were used to discuss the dominant factor affecting the reference evapotranspiration (ETo). The obtained results indicate that the annual reference evapotranspiration is dominated by the decreasing trends at the confidence level of 95% in the southern and eastern parts of the HRB. The sensitivity order of climatic variables to ETo from strong to weak is: relativity humidity, temperature, shortwave radiation and wind speed, respectively. However, comprehensively considering the sensitivity and its variation strength, the detrend analysis indicates that the decreasing trends of ETo in eastern and southern HRB may be caused mainly by the decreasing wind speed and shortwave radiation. As for the relationship between human activity and the trend of ETo, we found that ETo decreased more significantly on the plains than in the mountains. By contrast, the population density increased more considerably from 2000 to 2010 on the plains than in the mountains. Therefore, in this paper, the correlation of the spatial variation pattern between ETo and population was further analyzed. The spatial correlation coefficient between population and the trend of ETo is −0.132, while the spatial correlation coefficient between the trend of ETo and elevation, temperature, shortwave radiation and wind speed is 0.667, 0.668, 0.749 and 0.416, respectively. This suggests that human activity has a certain influence on the spatial variation of ETo, while natural factors play a decisive role in the spatial variation of reference evapotranspiration in this area.
Synthesis of a sucrose dimer with enone tether; a study on its functionalization
Authors: Pakulski Zbigniew , Gajda Norbert , Jawiczuk Magdalena , Frelek Jadwiga , Cmoch Piotr , Jarosz Sławomir
Published: May 2014

The reaction of appropriately functionalized sucrose phosphonate with sucrose aldehyde afforded a dimer composed of two sucrose units connected via their C6-positions (‘the glucose ends’). The carbonyl group in this product (enone) was stereoselectively reduced with zinc borohydride and the double bond (after protection of the allylic alcohol formed after reduction) was oxidized with osmium tetroxide to a diol. Absolute configurations of the allylic alcohol as well as the diol were determined by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy using the in situ dimolybdenum methodology.
OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE AND DEBT AS CORPORATE GOVERNANCE MECHANISMS: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS FOR SPANISH SMES
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ-CÁNOVAS Ginés , MÍNGUEZ-VERA Antonio , SÁNCHEZ-VIDAL Javier
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship between ownership structure and indebtedness for a sample of 2,544 Spanish small and medium enterprises. A System Generalized Method of Moments methodology is applied to control for the heterogeneity and endogeneity problems. The finding shows a negative effect of several measures of ownership on debt ratio. Therefore, the presence of an individual as main shareholder has a positive effect on debt, while the presence of a corporation as main shareholder exerts a negative influence. As research implications, this paper includes the agency problem based on principal-principal conflicts to explain the capital structure of small and medium enterprises, going beyond traditional principal-agent conflicts. The main practical implications of the paper is that owners who seek equity financing can use the results of this study for understanding better why investors are reluctant to invest in their small and medium enterprises. Policymakers can use the results of this study to develop better policies and to promote better provision of information for all stakeholders. About the contribution of this study, we are not aware of any paper that uses a panel of small and medium enterprises operating in a French-civil law country to examine the relationship between indebtedness and three different proxies of the ownership structure.
SETTINGS OF SHORT LEFT-TURN LANE AND SIGNAL PHASE SEQUENCE FOR ISOLATED SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS
Authors: Yao Ronghan
Published: May 2014

At signalized intersections, short left-turn lanes are often installed to improve capacity and level of service. However, the blockage or overflow of short left-turn lane often occurs when signal phasing is not coordinated with lane configuration and traffic demands. On the basis of probability theory, the probability of no blockage and overflow of the short left-turn lane is formulated under the three common signal phase plans when the lane next to a short leftturn lane is a through lane. For this case, it is shown that the left-through phasing should be adopted for the study approach when the short left-turn lane is very short and the volume of left-turn vehicles is high enough, and the leading or lagging left-turn phasing should be adopted for the study approach when the short left-turn lane is long enough and the volume of left-turn vehicles is low enough. To optimally allocate the space for each short left-turn lane and the green time for each lane group, a new optimization model is put forward to maximize intersection capacity and guarantee an acceptable level of service for each movement for isolated signalized intersections with short left-turn lanes. The usage of this model is demonstrated by an illustrative example. The results indicate that the intersection capacity can be maximized under the same level of service by integrating the configuration of traffic lanes and the split of signal phases. Finally, the procedure for using the proposed model is given for practical applications.
STREPTOCOCCAL OUTBREAK
Authors: Pritchard Vicki G , Kerry Carolyn S
Published: May 2014

This outbreak description could alert you to the potential for outbreaks, the desirability of early antibiotic therapy, and the value of educating caregivers.
ADULT REHABILITATION
Authors: Carlson Rochelle M
Published: May 2014

Nursing needs leaders to plan and direct rehabilitation in many situations where the only common healthcare provider is a nurse. The hope is that all healthcare workers will accept the challenge to wed rehabilitation with the care of the disabled adult.
Alteration in Urinary Elimination
Authors: Tunink Patricia M
Published: May 2014

INCONTINENCE IS OFTEN THE CAUSE FOR INSTITUTIONALIZING ELDERLY PEOPLE. EFFECTIVE NURSING DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT MAY PREVENT OR DELAY THIS OUTCOME.
Constipation: Impact of Etiological Factors
Authors: McShane Ruth E , McLane Audrey M
Published: May 2014

EXPANSION OF THE ROLE OF REGISTERED NURSES IN RETIREMENT PLANNING COULD HELP PREVENT A WHOLE RANGE OF HEALTH PROBLEMS AND PREVENTION HAS ALWAYS BEEN COST EFFECTIVE.
Managing Nocturnal Wandering Behavior
Authors: Young Sarah H , Muir-Nash Joanne , Ninos Mary
Published: May 2014

Nocturnal wandering is one of the most trying problems for Alzheimer victims and their families.
Legacy of the Country Doctor
Authors: Thorne Sally E , Robinson Carole A
Published: May 2014

Relationships formed in the context of health care are an important aspect of the experience of chronic illness for young and old alike.
GIVING AND GETTING SUPPORT AT THE WELLNESS CENTER
Authors: Utley Queen E , Hawkins Joellen W , Igou Jessie F , Johnson Edna E
Published: May 2014

THE EMPHASIS OF THIS NURSE-MANAGED WELLNESS CENTER, FROM ITS INCEPTION, HAS BEEN TO HELP CLIENTS STAY WELL, COPE WITH THE DEVELOPMENTAL TASKS OF OLDER ADULTHOOD, AND LEARN TO LIVE WITH THE CHRONIC CONDITIONS THAT ARE OFTEN A PART OF GROWING OLDER.
Screening for Osteoporosis
Authors: Reed A Thomas , Birge Stanley J
Published: May 2014

The good news is that treatment of osteoporosis has advanced significantly and a number of new therapeutic regimens have been developed which appear promising.
Tube Feeding - Related PNEUMONIAS
Authors: Pritchard Vicki
Published: May 2014

In the geriatric setting, nasogastric tube feedings are given to dependent vulnerable older people. The geriatric nurse should give particular attention to vulnerabilities that make older people dependent on and susceptible to domination by health-care personnel and to methods and conditions needed to preserve human dignity and safety.
PRESSURE SORE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT
Authors: Dimant Jacob , Francis Mary E
Published: May 2014

Pressure sores can and should be prevented. A multidisciplinary consistent approach through medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, dietary and infection control is vital to the success of a program.
AGING-RELATED EDUCATION: A National Survey
Authors: Solon Jerry A , Kilpatrick Nancy S , Hill Mary F
Published: May 2014

It can no longer be a question of whether to expand/enhance the nursing curriculum to encompass gerontological knowledge and geriatric practice in adequate measure.
Initiating Clinical Research in a Long-Term Care Setting
Authors: Brooke Virginia
Published: May 2014

The challenge of conducting research in a nursing home is associated with the emphasis in geriatric nursing on promoting the well-being of the client through care.
Elderly Image seen by Health-Care Professionals
Authors: Maddox Marjorie A , Tillery Betty J
Published: May 2014

During the past few years, there has been an increased awareness of the needs of the elderly. Health-care professionals share this increased awareness. While attitudinal changes have been demonstrated, what effect does this have upon the depiction of the elderly in professional journals?
HEALTH TEACHING STRATEGIES IN A DAY HOSPITAL
Authors: Doyle Doris
Published: May 2014

Older adults have the same right to health information as other individuals. Nurses have a duty to engage in health teaching appropriate to the needs and abilities of their elderly clients.
GYNECOLOGICAL HEALTH NEEDS OF ELDERLY WOMEN
Authors: Denny Mary Schemper , Koren Mary Elaine , Wisby Marian
Published: May 2014

Proper screening, education and referral of the elderly female are vital components of the nursing response to the gynecological health needs of older women.
CALMING AGGRESSIVE REACTIONS A Preventive Program
Authors: Mentes Janet C , Ferrario Joyce
Published: May 2014

Tales of abusive incidents directed toward long-term care staff enter the folklore of the institution. Reports of the frequency and severity of these incidents grow with the telling.
Feeding the FRAIL ELDERLY
Authors: Hogstel Mildred O , Robinson Nell B
Published: May 2014

Specific safety factors need to be considered in feeding elderly clients who are frail because many of them do not have the manual dexterity, energy, or ability to feed themselves.
PREVENT ELDER ABUSE: USING A FAMILY SYSTEMS APPROACH
Authors: Hamilton Gail P
Published: May 2014

Using the REAH tool's parameters, family problems can be identified early and interventions can be planned and implemented. Holistic care to the entire family may avert the crisis of elder abuse.
USING GUIDED IMAGERY to Combat Postsurgical Depression
Authors: Leja Ann M
Published: May 2014

GUIDED IMAGERY INVOLVES USING THE IMAGINATION TO PRODUCE FAVORABLE PHYSICAL CHANGES AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENTS-
Do Nursing Diagnoses Affect FUNCTIONAL STATUS?
Authors: Harrell Joanne S , McConnell Eleanor S , Wildman Diane S , Samsa Gregory P
Published: May 2014

One out of every five elderly individuals will enter a nursing home at some point in his life.
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES IN THE ELDERLY ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Authors: Talashek Marie L , Tichy Anna M , Epping Hugh
Published: May 2014

Recommendations for effective preventive techniques must be given as the incidence of STDs among the elderly population increases.
Causal Modeling as a Relevant Approach to Gerontological Nursing
Authors: Phillips Linda R
Published: May 2014

Nursing Theory Development
A Research Review: Family Caregivers of Chronically Ill African-American Elderly
Authors: Hines-Martin Vicki P
Published: May 2014

What resources are available in the research literature that can help support the nurse in assisting the African-American family in undertaking the role of caregiver?
Skin Problems: EPIDEMIOLOGY OF PRESSURE ULCERS IN A SKILLED CARE FACILITY
Authors: Burd Christine , Langemo Diane K , Olson Bette , Hanson Darlene , Hunter Susan , Sauvage Timothy
Published: May 2014

INTRODUCTION

Advances in medical and health care have contributed to increased longevity among the general population. While an increasing number of people are surviving lifethreatening conditions, a concomitant increase in the need for management of chronic health problems has emerged. Pressure ulcers are a common and serious secondary problem associated with chronic debilitated health states (Cooney, 1983; Shepard, 1987; Slater, 1 985), and pose a significant risk to the welfare of nursing home residents in terms of comfort and health.
RESEARCH CONSIDERATIONS Geropsychiatry Unit Evaluation
Authors: Kujawinski Josephine , Bigelow Penny , Diedrich Diane , Kikkebusch Paula , Korpan Phylis , Walczak Joanne , Maxson Ellen , Ropski Sue , Farran Carol J
Published: May 2014

The geriatric population is becoming an increasingly larger proportion of the United States population. By the year 2030, their number is predicted to increase by 77 million (Stetson, 1 990). Currently, about 5% of the geriatric population suffers from major depression and 1 7% from dementia (Bliwise, 1 987). As these numbers increase, so will the number of specialized geriatric psychiatry units to serve this population.

Although the general consensus is that these specialized geriatric psychiatry units best serve the interests of geriatric patients, little research has been done to actually prove their effectiveness. Program effectiveness could be tapped by measuring the cognitive and functional status of patients, which are vital if the patient is to maintain self-esteem and independence - both of which promote success whether the patient goes home or to institutional care. With this in mind, the staff nurses on the geropsychiatric unit of Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, conducted a pilot program evaluation study. The purpose was to measure the effect of the therapeutic milieu on the cognitive and functional status of the geropsychiatric patient.
DEVELOPMENTAL PROCESS: Family Caregivers of Demented Japanese
Authors: Kobayashi Sayuri , Masaki Harue , Noguchi Miwako
Published: May 2014

This study is based on detailed interviews of 49 caregivers of demented elderly family members to identify changes in perceptions and attitudes. Responses were used to formulate a 7-stage developmental process in the consciousness of caregivers, consisting of the "beginning process" (stages 1 to 4) and the "awakening process" (stages 5 to 7). Through an analysis of the characteristics displayed in these two processes, the development of caregivers' perceptions and attitudes was clarified.
NURSING HOME PATIENTS: Liaison Nurse Visits influence Recidivism
Authors: Chappell Hazel W , Murrell Diane
Published: May 2014

This study was completed at the 830-bed Department of Veterans Affairs Medicai Center in Lexington, Kentucky, by the community nursing coordinators. Recidivism was defined as the return of nursing home patients to the emergency room or readmission of these patients to the hospital.
TARGETED INTERVENTIONS: Use of the Mini-Mental State Exam
Authors: Agostinelli Blanche , Demers Kathleen , Garrigan Debbora , Waszynski Christine
Published: May 2014

Providing care to cognitively impaired clients can be a challenge in a variety of settings. Cognitive, functional, and behavioral manifestations of delirium and dementia complicate care planning and delivery. The most successful care is targeted to address each client's unique abilities, disabilities, needs, and concerns.
HOSPITALIZED ELDERS: The Difficulties Families Encounter
Authors: Bull Margaret J , Jervis Lori L , Her Ma
Published: May 2014

Previous studies of family caregiving focus on the stresses and burdens associated with providing care to an elder over a long period of time, with tnstitutionalization often viewed as respite from caregiving. The purpose of this study was to identify fhe sources and nature of difficulties family caregivers experience when an elder is hospitalized for an acute episode of a chronic illness. Data were collected in unstructured and semi-structured interviews with 253 family caregivers. The four major difficulties were categorized as: getting the elder admitted, problems with hospital care, planning for discharge, and personal difficulties dealing with the elder's hospitalization.
Nursing Care and Management of THE ELDERLY HIP FRACTURED PATIENT
Authors: Bradley Christine F , Kozak Cindy
Published: May 2014

This study examined the effects of a geriatric orthopaedic nursing education program of care for the elderly hip fractured patient on selected patient outcomes using a post-test non -equivalent control group design. The nursing staff of a 26-bed orthopaedic unit attended a one-day educational workshop focusing on common problems the elderly patient experiences in the acute care setting. Weekly patient care rounds were then implemented on the unit for the duration of the study. Development of clinical risks, perioperative complications, length of stay and maintenance of pre-admission residence status for patients admitted with a hip fracture to the experimental unit (n=90) were compared to patients admitted to three similar units (n=o3). Data were analyzed using one-tailed t tests and chi square technique, with alpha set at .05. A significant difference was found between the two groups with respect to time to first ambulation (2.1 days for the experimental group compared with 2.67 days for the control) and length of stay on the orthopaedic unit (17.38 days for the experimental group compared to 21 .68 days for the control). It was concluded that this type of program provides nursing staff with a sound knowledge base for the provision of effective care to the acutely ill elderly patient resulting in positive patient outcomes. This finding has direct implications for nursing practice and development of collaborative health team practice.
Applied Humanism: A Model for Managing Inappropriate Behavior Among Mentally Retarded Elders
Authors: Mooney Roger P , Mooney Debra Russell , Cohernour Karen L
Published: May 2014

The authors utilized the principles of applied humanism to manage socially inappropriate behaviors among elderly persons with moderate or severe mental retardation in a nursing home facility. The philosophy of applied humanism focuses on socially appropriate behavior and recognizes the importance of encouragement, responsibility, decision making and human relations. The principles of applied humanism are consistent wjth the principles of holistic health care and can be easily incorporated into nursing process.
Multi-Modal Assessment in Alzheimer's Disease ADL in Relation to PET, MRI and Neuropsychology
Authors: Souder Elaine , Saykin Andrew J , Alavi Abass
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Alzheimer's disease (AD) causes a deterioration in functional status which may best be understood as a multi-dimensional concept. Results of multi-modal functional assessment in two patients with probable AD and comparable MiniMental State Examination scores demonstrated the heterogeneity of disease profiles and individual variations in functional status. Measures included direct assessment of ADL performance (SAILS), self and family perception of "current" and "best ever" functioning (NBFADL60), neuropsychological test battery, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (FDGPET). The m ulti -modal assessment yielded complementary information, and permitted correlation of physiological and behavioral data. Future studies should examine the potential heuristic and clinical utility of this approach.
WHEN CARING LEAVES BRUISES: The Effects of Staff Education on Resident Aggression
Authors: Hagen Brad F , Sayers Dorie
Published: May 2014

Many gerontological nurses find that being hit (or otherwise physically attacked) by an elderly person they are providing nursing care to is one of the most difficult, emotionally distressing, and potentially dangerous aspects of their work, Nevertheless, as the level of cognitive impairment and acuity among clients in long-term care facilities continues to rise, nursing staff are more likely to encounter confused and potentially aggressive elderly clients under their care. Indeed, when the authors asked nursing staff in a long-term care facility in Western Canada what their most frustrating clinical nursing problem they faced on a day-to-day basis was, the staff unanimously identified physical aggression toward nursing staff by confused elderly residents. In response to this and other feedback the authors received from the long-term care facilit/s nursing staff, a nursing research project was conducted to determine the actual extent of physical aggression directed toward staff, and to determine the effect a staff education program might have on the incidence of physical aggression. This article will describe an education program which was delivered to the nursing staff of a Canadian long-term care facility, and the research project which was used to evaluate the program's effectiveness at reducing aggression in confused elderly residents.
Maintaining Ambulation in the Frail Nursing Home Resident: A NURSING ADMINISTERED WALKING PROGRAM
Authors: Koroknay Vivian J , Werner Perla , Cohen-Mansfield Jiska , Braun Judith V
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

This article describes a walking program that was implemented at a 550bed long-term care facility. The program was developed in order to promote functional mobility in the frail nursing home population. The aim of the program is to establish a nursing procedure that focuses on the individual resident's need to walk, and to improve or maintain the ambulatory status of the frail elderly. Twenty nursing home residents from the first three units on which the program was implemented were evaluated before and after the implementation of the program. The data show that the participants improved their ambulatory status after participating in the walking program. This improvement was accompanied by a decrease in the proportion of residents foiling.
ALTERNATIVE NURSING ENVIRONMENTS: Do They Affect Hospital Outcomes?
Authors: Clark Lillian R , Fraaza Vicki , Schroeder Susan , Maddens Michael E
Published: May 2014

The elderly population is projected to increase to 54 million by the year 2020 when approximately 1 in ó Americans will be elderly. As people live longer, chronic illness, disability and dependency become more likely. In 1 988, older people accounted for 33% of all hospital stays and 44% of all days of care in hospitals. It is anticipated that, by the year 2025, 63% of the U.S. health care budget will be devoted to services for the aged (Economics and Statistics Administration, 1993). Providing cost effective care while trying to meet the needs of this increasing geriatric population is a challenge on general medical floors in acute care settings. When faced with this dilemma at our hospital, a 921 -bed suburban teaching institution, a dayroom program which focused intensively on functional needs was implemented for confused, geriatric inpatients >65 years) who otherwise might have been restrained or required sitters. The dayroom was formerly a patient room on a 64-bed medical nursing unit. It was furnished with recliner chairs to accommodate a maximum of 4 patients. Nurses selected patients according to established criteria and guidelines. All nursing care was provided by one licensed practical nurse (LPN) for assigned patients from 7 AM to 7 PM. Other staff were assigned as needed to cover breaks. Informal data had suggested many positive results for the assigned patients, however, a formal evaluation was needed for this approach to continue or expand. Therefore a study was planned to evaluate this alternative nursing environment.
EFFECT OF CERUMEN ON INFRARED EAR TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT
Authors: Hasel Karen L , Erickson Roberta S
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

This pilot study examined whether the occlusion of one ear canal with cerumen affected the usual temperature difference between the ears as measured with an infrared thermometer. Ear-based temperature measurements were made in 14 elderly nursing home residents before and 3 to 4 days after irrigation to clear cerumen from the occluded ear. The presence of cerumen tended to lower the temperature reading, with a mean change of ~0.24±0.47°F (-0.13±0.47°C, p=0.08) and individual differences ranging from -0.9 to 0.4°F (-0.5 to 0.2°C), 43% of subjects (6/14) had values lower by -0.50F (-0.3°C) or more. The advantage of removing impacted cerumen before making infrared ear temperature measurements may be offset by the time and inconvenience of the irrigation procedure. Improved hearing may be a more important outcome of cerumen removal, with secondary benefit for temperature measurement.
PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTION FOR OLDER HIP FRACTURE PATIENTS
Authors: Houldin Arlene D , Hogan-Quigley Beth
Published: May 2014

Hip fracture is a major medical problem for older adults. Recent studies demonstrate that the incidence of hip fracture is increasing exponentially with age, so that the incidence doubles every 5 years after the age of 50 (Barangan, 1990). Research suggests that psychosocial variables are one determinant of recovery (Kauffman, Albright & Wagner, 1987; Mossey & Knott, 1990; Mossey, Mutran, & Knott, 1989). Although numerous studies suggest that psychological interventions in health care settings improve patient well-being and can help to reduce medical costs, little is known about the ability of psychological interventions to reduce psychological distress and to potentially improve outcomes in older hip fracture patients.
OLDER ADULTS AND SEXUALITY: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Johnson Beverly K
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to describe the multidimensional nature of sexuality in men and women age 55 and older and compare these men and women on selected dimensions of sexuality. The community-based sample of 1 61 older adults (men=69, women=92) completed a 77-item, anonymous questionnaire. Gender differences were found for selected demographics, health and health-related variables, and selected aspects (sexual interest, participation, arid satisfaction) of sexual activities. MANOVA yielded a significant multivariate F indicating men and women differed on the combination of seven dependent variables (self-esteem, intimacy, and sexual knowledge, attitudes, interest, participation, and satisfaction) while univariate Fs did not yield significant gender differences on each of the dependent variables. Study results described a multidimensional view of sexuality and aging which can be used to increase nurses' understanding of selected gender differences of older adults' sexuality.
SUPPORT GROUPS FOR VISITORS OF RESIDENTS IN NURSING HOMES
Authors: Campbell Janis M , Linc Linda G
Published: May 2014

Contrary to popular myth, family members and friends visit residents in nursing homes on a regular basis. A three-month retrospective review of visitor sign-in records preceded development of a family questionnaire. Based on the findings from the questionnaire, a family support program aimed at promoting communication between nursing home staff and visitors was developed. During the support program sessions, participants identified feelings they experienced about family members residing in nursing homes. One of the primary needs was to be more involved in their loved one's care. Another major issue was more communication with nursing staff about their loved one and the mental and physical effects from the aging process. As a result of the sessions, nursing staff and family members agreed that a mutual plan could be developed to enable visitors to assist with resident care needs including ways to promote comfort. The nursing home conducted staff in-service programs on communication techniques.
SOCIAL SUPPORT AND DEPRESSION in Widows and Widowers
Authors: Kanacki Lana S , Jones Patricia S , Galbraith Michael E
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

"The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine the relationships between social support and depression and the amount of social support used by 31 widows and 35 widowers. Participants completed the Personal Resource Questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, and a demographic questionnaire. A significant negative relationship was observed between perceived social support and depression. There was no difference in the amount of depression experienced by widows and widowers. There were no significant differences in the two groups' perceptions of support received from their environment or in the number of supportive contacts identified in their social networks.
Applying Watson's Theory for CARING AMONG ELDERS
Authors: Strickland Donna
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Caring is emerging as a significant concept for the nursing profession, and it is rapidly influencing nursing practice. In older adult care, where reduction istic medical cures are often not wanted or necessary, it seemed timely to take a closer look at Dr. Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring. The author and a volunteer used a particular format designed by Lee Glickstein called "Laughing Spirit Listening Circles" to apply Watson's theory with six elderly women weekly over a fourweek period. The main goals the volunteers had in creating this group was simply to listen to the women share their stories with one another, to be as present with them as possible, to not be directive in the group, but to be "in the flow" with whatever topics and issues emerged. Another purpose the author had in conducting these sessions was to receive feedback from the participants regarding this style of nursing practice. At the last session participants offered comments regarding their experience in this group with suggestions for how to include others. Unsolicited, the participants had much to say regarding their own personal experience at the retirement community around this issue of "presence" and "caring."
OBRA '87: Has It Resulted in Better Quality of Care?
Authors: Marek Karen Dorman , Rantz Marilyn J , Fagin Claire M , Krejci Janet Wessel
Published: May 2014

This study examines perspectives of a broad group of nursing home employees, regulators, advocates, and professional associations to describe progress made since the 1 990 implementation of the Nursing Home Reform legislation (OBRA '87) and to determine whether the legislation is perceived as affecting positive change for nursing home residents. Interviews were conducted with 59 residents and 1 32 professional and non-professíonal staff in six states. Important quality of care issues of resident rights, resident dignity, restraint use, resident assessment, as well as perspectives of residents themselves are explored. In general, OBRA '87 is viewed as positive, with all groups of respondents indicating that residents have benefited from it. They identify the focus on resident rights as the most important accomplishment. Empowerment of residents through involvement in care decisions is noted by many as an important achievement. Many conclude that quality of care has improved and restraint use has decreased. The MDS is a useful tool from the standpoint of nursing home staff and regulators. This appraisal sharply contrasts their opinions about the Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASARR) screening tool. We believe that PASARR should be reexamined and that changes should be made in the process and/or implementation of the tool.
Research-Based Practice: REDUCING RESTRAINTS IN AN ACUTE CARE SETTING-PHASE I
Authors: Cruz Virginia , Abdul-Hamid Marva , Heater Barbara
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this research utilization project was to select and implement a research-based Restraint Education Program for reducing the use of restraints in an acute care setting by changing the perception of the restraint coordinators about restraints in the direction of decreased importance. The Iowa Model, Research Based Practice to Promote Quality Care (Titler et al., 1 994) was selected to guide the change process. A multidisciplinary team reviewed the restraint policy and procedure, new restraint products and alternative restraint methods. After a review of the literature on restraint education programs, the committee concluded that education was the key component in decreasing the use of physical restraints. The research-based Restraint Education Program developed by Drs. Strumpf and Evans was selected as the educational program. Education sessions were developed and a pilot study was conducted with the restraint coordinators. The Perceptions of Restraint Use Questionnaire (PRUQ) (Strumpf & Evans, 1988) was administered before and after the education sessions. The results of the f-test showed a decrease in the post-test mean scores on 7 of the 17 items indicating a less important perception by the staff about the use of restraints. Four items had an increase in mean scores on the post-test indicating the restraint coordinators increased their perception of the importance of physical restraints with these items. The restraint education program was presented to the nursing staff throughout the institution. Risk management and quality assurance will monitor patients restrained and evaluate the nursing staff with the PRUQ in 3 months.