bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thoracic Imaging in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Wiener M. David , Wiener Dana N. , Ravin Carl E.
Published: June 2007

Chest radiography is the most common radiological ex amination performed in the United States. Of the more than 260,000 radiological examinations performed an nually at our institution, slightly more than 21% are portable chest radiographs. Routine bedside radio graphs are common in the intensive care unit setting and are a vital component of daily rounds. Critical man agement decisions are often based in whole or in part on radiological findings; it is therefore imperative that in tensive care physicians understand the principles of chest radiography. Thoracic imaging of disease pro cesses most often encountered in the intensive care unit will be reviewed, with emphasis on chest radiographs. Newer imaging modalities, including computed tomog raphy, sonography, and magnetic resonance, will be dis cussed as they pertain to patients in intensive care units.
Analytic Reviews : Acid-Base Abnormalities in Cardiopulmonary Arrest: Varying Patterns in Different Locations Within the Hospital
Authors: McKay Dianne , Chazan Joseph A.
Published: June 2007

Arterial blood gas analysis performed in 67 episodes who suffered cardiopulmonary arrest revealed that the degree of acidemia correlated with the location of the patient within the hospital: emergency department (ED), general hospital bed (HB), or intensive care unit (ICU). Acidemia was most severe in patients who pre sented either in the ED (pH = 7.15) or in a HB (pH = 7.10) as a result of combined metabolic (bicarbonate ion [HCO 3-] = 20 ± 16 and 15 ± 10 mEq/L) and respiratory acidosis (arterial carbon dioxide tension [PaCO2] = 59 ± 30 and 50 ± 24 mm Hg). In contrast, patients in the ICU had only mild acidemia or even alkalemia (pH = 7.28); respiratory acidosis was un common in this setting (PaCO2 = 36 ± 18 mm Hg), and patients exhibited a degree of metabolic acidosis ([HCO3 - ] = 18 ± 8 mEq/L) similar to that seen in patients in EDS or HBS. This relative hypocarbia seen in patients in the ICU was attributed to the fact that most (14 of 22, 64% ) were already receiving mechanical ven tilation at the time of the cardiopulmonary arrest. Pa tients who were successfully resuscitated (20, 30% ) did not differ from those in whom resuscitation failed (47, 70% ) in degree of acidemia or location of arrest. Serum potassium levels obtained in 29 patients at the time of arrest revealed that serum potassium levels were greater than 5.2 mEq/L only 8 times; there was only one mea surement greater than 6.0 mEq/L, which did not corre late with the degree of acidemia.
Does Fibronectin Reduce Mortality in Sepsis? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cook Deborah J. , Grossman Jeffrey E. , Oxman Andrew D.
Published: June 2007

We examine the effect of fibronectin administration on mortality in sepsis. An English language literature search using MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCISEARCH, and compu terized databases of unpublished research in addition to bibliographic review was performed, and duplicate independent review of 41 articles by two observers identified six relevant randomized clinical trials. Study quality and descriptive information concerning the pop ulation, intervention, and outcome measurements were assessed. Three of six trials demonstrated favorable mor tality trends, but none reached statistical significance. Results of the 282 patients in all six trials yield a com mon odds ratio of 0.97 and a 95% confidence interval of 0.58 to 1.61. These results do not show a statistically significant effect favoring treatment, but neither do they exclude a clinically important benefit. The benefit of fibronectin in decreasing mortality in sepsis is not sup ported by these studies. However, methodological heterogeneity and the possibility of a Type II error, as well as our understanding of the role of fibronectin in the pathophysiology of sepsis, do not allow for a firm negative conclusion regarding the therapeutic efficacy of fibronectin in sepsis. A large, rigorously designed trial should be considered once investigators can reach a consensus regarding current methodological and patho physiological controversies.
Predicting Patient Outcome from Intensive Care: A Guide to APACHE, MPM, SAPS, PRISM, and Other Prognostic Scoring Systems
Authors: Seneff Michael , Knaus William A
Published: June 2007

Accurate prognosis is critical to the practice and im provement of intensive care. Recently, a number of gen eral prognostic scoring systems have been developed and their primary goal is to predict patient outcomes. We describe the principles underlying these systems and the methods they use to create predictions. We also explain how predictions of patient outcomes can be used to improve the precision of clinical trials, to evalu ate hospital and intensive care unit use and outcome, and eventually to assist in clinical decision-making.
Anencephalic Newborns: A Source of Transplantable Organs?
Authors: Truog Robert D.
Published: June 2007

A severe shortage of transplantable organs exists for in fants and children with life-threatening cardiac, renal, and hepatic disease. Newborns with anencephaly, a uni formly fatal neurological lesion, have been successfully used as sources of hearts and kidneys for transplanta tion. Both the number of anencephalic births each year as well as evidence that most of the organs from anence phalics are morphologically and functionally normal suggest that anencephalics could significantly contrib ute to the number of available infant organs. In addition, many parents of anencephalics have actively sought op portunities to donate their newborn's organs to achieve some good from an otherwise tragic pregnancy. In the United States, it is illegal to use anencephalics as organ sources until they are brain dead. One program recently employed intensive life support to sustain anencephal ics after birth until they became brain dead, but the program was terminated when only 2 of the 12 anence phalics enrolled eventually met brain-death criteria. Many believe that anencephalics, unique by virtue of their severe and imminently fatal neurological lesion, ought to be considered potential organ sources without regard for brain-death criteria. Several of these ethical formulations are analyzed and discussed.
Acute Pancreatitis: Work-up and Management
Authors: Seidner Douglas L. , Steinberg William M.
Published: June 2007

Acute pancreatitis is still a common clinical entity that causes significant morbidity and mortality. The most common etiological associations include chronic al coholism, biliary tract disease, iatrogenic (e.g., endo scopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography-induced), hypertriglyceridemia, and idiopathic varieties. New radiological techniques such as dynamic pancreatog raphy appear to be useful in diagnosing and determin ing the extent of necrotizing pancreatitis. Biochem ical variables such as the C-reactive protein and the trypsinogen-activated peptide seem promising in de tecting severe disease within the first few days of hospi talization. Computed tomographic-guided percutane ous aspiration of phlegmonous pancreatitis may be helpful in differentiating infected from noninfected masses. Although current studies have not identified any pharmacological agent as efficacious in improving sur vival, emergency sphincterotomy and removal of im pacted gallstones in severe gallstone pancreatitis may be beneficial in this regard. Prolonged (i.e., 7 day) perito neal dialysis may reduce the severity of pancreatic sep sis. Surgical drainage of infected fluid collections such as abscesses is a well-accepted adjunct to medical therapy. Surgical necrosectomy for necrotizing pancreatitis, however, which is advocated in some aggressive surgi cal units, is not yet commonplace and its role needs to be determined in controlled studies.
Apparel Manufacturer and Retailer Efforts to Reduce Child Labor: An Ethics of Virtue Perspective on Codes of Conduct
Authors: Wolfe Jennifer H. , Dickson Marsha A.
Published: June 2007

Child labor is currently an important worldwide issue. One industrial sector where children reportedly work is the apparel industry; however, recent reports suggest that the number of children assembling apparel is declining. Apparel manufacturers and retailers have been praised by international organizations for their contributions to reducing child labor. Implementing codes of conduct is the strategy chosen by many large apparel manufacturers and retailers to establish workplace standards, including minimum age of employment. This paper examines apparel manufacturer and retailer codes of conduct regarding child labor. The codes of conduct of 37 of the largest U.S. apparel manufacturers and retailers were content analyzed using the theory of virtue ethics as a framework. The codes of conduct were divided into those focusing on Legal aspects and those indicative of an Ethical perspective. Four Most Ethical business codes were identified. The ethical evaluation serves as the basis for recommendations made to assist the apparel industry in dealing with the issue of child labor in a global economy. Additionally, an industry-wide code of conduct addressing child labor is proposed.
Profiling Micro Apparel Enterprises in Botswana: Motivations, Practices, Challenges, and Success
Authors: Gobagoba Marina R. , Littrell Mary A.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this research was to develop a profile of micro apparel enterprises in Botswana and to examine the profile for cross-cultural applicability in relation to small business scholarship. Field interviews with 24 businesswomen revealed that the women employed an average of three workers and had operated their firms for three to five years. The profile identified motivations for initiating a business; business practices related to employees, product development, and marketing; challenges faced as the business was initiated and expanded; and factors used in defining success. The businesswomen integrated a broad range of motivational stimuli for business start-up; engaged in rigorous marketing, often through personal networks; faced marketing, finance, and management challenges; and defined success using extrinsic criteria, including improving lives for the people of Botswana. Research findings contributed to a first stage for development of technical assistance that can guide Botswana entrepreneurs in business start-up and growth.
Proximity of Clothing to Self Scale
Authors: Sontag M. Suzanne , Lee Jongnam
Published: June 2007

This paper presents methods and results of Phases One and Two of a multi-phase research program whose long-term goals are to develop an instrument for scaling people on the multidimensional attribute proximity of clothing to self (PCS) and to verify content and construct validity and reliability of the instrument, including the individual dimensions that comprise the PCS concept. Phase One resulted in (a) revised definitions of six PCS dimensions and (b) 78 PCS Scale items with established content validity. Both definitions and items are grounded in people’s experience of clothing in everyday life across age and gender. Completion of three rounds of confirmatory factor analyses in Phase Two resulted in a 24-item PCS Scale that has demonstrated construct validity and reliability for adolescents in high school. The initially hypothesized 6-factor scale was not confirmed for adolescents; content from the six dimensions was integrated into a 4-factor scale for use with this age group. Recommendations for further testing of construct validity of the PCS Scale across the life span are made.
The Commercialization of Old Order Amish Quilts: Enduring and Changing Cultural Meanings
Authors: Hawley Jana M.
Published: June 2007

Traditional Amish culture is an enduring culture that is characterized and driven by a simplicity that is sharply contrasted with the complex daily lives of contemporary mainstream Americans. Yet, Amish culture is not static; rather it is a dynamic culture that has realized change primarily driven by increased interaction with the non-Amish who have become interested in Amish-made products. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how quilts, a symbol of traditional Amish culture, have become a catalyst that has contributed to both change as well as perseverance in Amish culture. This research is based on a year of ethnographic participant observation in an Old Order Amish settlement. The commercialization of Amish quilts has created an important economic connection to the complex outside world and as a result has contributed to both enduring and changing cultural meaning.
Border Crossing: Active and Deep Learning in a Large Global Consumption Class
Authors: Hawley Jana M.
Published: June 2007

This article describes how a class on global consumers was transformed into an interactive class using both active and deep learning techniques. Good teachers understand that to achieve a level of lasting learning, students must be engaged on many levels. While much has been written about active learning, the concept of deep learning is limited, particularly when applied to a large class setting. This paper describes active and deep teaching strategies and provides learning exercises for their integration into the classroom. Analysis of open-ended student responses and end-of-semester quantitative responses indicated that active learning enriched the learning experiences and resulted in a deeper understanding of key concepts, thus supporting the idea that these techniques can be incorporated into a large lecture setting with relative ease and can make a significant impact on learning.
Interpretive Reading of Two Maidenform Bra Advertising Campaigns
Authors: Lyons Nancy N.
Published: June 2007

Students studying advertising can benefit from developing an historical appreciation of advertisements that were important in earlier times, as they are apt to mirror the society from which they emerged and thus will inform viewers about those eras. A classroom exercise was developed requiring students to use visual analysis as they examined slides from two Maidenform advertising campaigns. The exercise encouraged them to articulate aesthetic responses, to consider the reactions the ads must have generated among the viewers of the time, and to understand why the first campaign appealed to two decades of consumers, while the second campaign was short-lived. The project is useful because it provides a basis for understanding expectations and tastes of the past, and it helps us evaluate current advertising campaigns that provide insights to our culture.
An Analysis of Cross-Cultural Differences in Perceptual Modality Preferences of Fashion Design and Merchandising Students from South Korea, Swaziland, and the United States
Authors: Caldwell Lark F. , Workman Jane E. , Lee Seung-Hee , Khoza Lombuso
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to examine perceptual modality preferences of students from South Korea, Swaziland, and the United States who were enrolled in fashion design and merchandising classes. For each individual learning style, there are seven perceptual modality elements: Print, Interactive, Visual, Haptic, Kinesthetic, Olfactory, and Aural. Perceptual modality preferences are the preferred means by which information is obtained through the senses. Research indicates that perceptual modality preferences are influenced by cultural differences in family socialization, language, educational experiences, traditions, values, and beliefs. Students from South Korea (n = 151), Swaziland (n = 116) and the United States (n = 184) completed the Perceptual Modality Preferences Survey (PMPS). The PMPS measured students' perceived strengths and weaknesses for the seven perceptual modalities. ANOVA revealed that Korean, Swazi, and U.S. students differed significantly in six of the seven perceptual modality preferences: Print, Interactive, Visual, Haptic, Kinesthetic, and Olfactory but not Aural. Swazi students indicated the strongest preference for the Print modality. Korean and U.S. students shared common preferences for Interactive, Visual, and Kinesthetic modalities. Results of this study support the need for educators to recognize cultural differences in learning styles.
Development of an Automated Process for the Creation of a Basic Skirt Block Pattern from 3D Body Scan Data
Authors: Griffey Julia Voellinger , Ashdown Susan P.
Published: June 2007

Creating custom clothing manually is a labor-intensive process. 7hree-dimensional (3D) body scanning technology can provide the means to automatically create custom-fitted patterns, but methods are needed. A process for developing a basic block skirt pattern from body scans was developed. A mathematical concept for describing the human body in two dimensions was explored using all relevant surface 3D data. Using this method, prototype patterns were generated directlyfrom the scan data of ive participants and tested in afit test. The participants felt that the prototype skirtsfit their bodies well.
Transfer of Interferon Alfa Into Human Breast Milk
Authors: Kumar Anil R. , Hale Thomas W. , Mock Richard E.
Published: June 2007

Originally assumed to be antiviral substances, the efficacy of interferons in a number of pathologies, including malignancies, multiple sclerosis, and other immune syndromes, is increasingly recognized. This study provides data on the transfer of interferon alfa (2B) into human milk of a patient receiving massive intravenous doses for the treatment of malignant melanoma. Following an intravenous dose of 30 million IU, the amount of interferon transferred into human milk was only slightly elevated (1551 IU/mL) when compared to control milk (1249 IU/mL). These data suggest that even following enormous doses, interferon is probably too large in molecular weight to transfer into human milk in clinically relevant amounts.
Factors Influencing the Duration of Exclusive Breastfeeding in a Group of Turkish Women
Authors: Alikasşifoğglu Müjgan , Erginoz Ethem , Gur Emel Tasdelen , Baltas Zuhal , Beker Bahar , Arvas Ahmet
Published: June 2007

This study was conducted to evaluate the influence of demographic characteristics, hospital practices, maternal psychosocial factors, and knowledge about infant feeding and breast milk on duration of breastfeeding. The mothers of 91 healthy, term infants delivered at a university hospital between June 1998 and December 1998, and first seen in the well-child unit within 10 days of delivery, participated in the study. Forty-nine (54%) infants were exclusively breastfed at 4 months of age. Cox regression analysis showed a negative association between formula supplementation during the hospital stay and duration of exclusive breastfeeding. The median age for starting non–breast milk liquids was 1 month for those who received formula in the hospital and 3 months for those who did not ( P= .001). The hospital practices were more predictive of the duration of exclusive breastfeeding in this study group than mothers'knowledge of infant feeding or psychosocial factors. Thus, hospital practices should be reevaluated.
The Amount of Fluvoxamine in Milk Is Unlikely to Be a Cause of Adverse Effects in Breastfed Infants
Authors: Kristensen Judith H. , Hackett L. Peter , Kohan Rolland , Paech Michael , Ilett Kenneth F.
Published: June 2007

The aim of this study was to characterize milk/plasma (M/P) ratio, as well as relative infant dose and well-being, in 2 breastfeeding women taking fluvoxamine. The women (37 and 34 years old) and their infants (26 and 0.75 months old) were studied over a 24-hour dose interval at steady state. Fluvoxamine concentrations were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Infant exposure was measured as concentration in milk multiplied by an estimated milk production of 0.15 L/kg/d and normalized to the weight-adjusted maternal dose. M/P values of 1.34 and 1.21 were calculated for subjects 1 and 2, respectively, and relative infant doses were estimated to be 1.38% and 0.8%, respectively. No adverse effects in the infants were detected by the mother or on clinical examination, and fluvoxamine was not detected in the infants’ plasma (limit of detection 2 µ g/L). These limited data support the prescription of fluvoxamine to breastfeeding mothers after a careful, individual risk/benefit analysis is undertaken.
The Role of Interpersonal Comfort in Mentoring Relationships
Authors: Allen Tammy D. , Day Rachel , Lentz Elizabeth
Published: June 2007

This research examined interpersonal comfort as a potential mediating mechanism in mentoring relationships. Results indicated that interpersonal comfort mediated the relationship between gender similarity and protégé reports of career and psychosocial mentoring. Contrary to prediction, interpersonal comfort did not mediate relationships involving mentorship type (i.e., formal versus informal). However, we did find that informal mentoring and interpersonal comfort were positively associated with career mentoring. The research helps illustrate the important role that interpersonal comfort plays in the mentoring process.
Predictive Relationships between Web and Human Resource Use and Middle School Students' Interest in Science Careers: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Koszalka Tiffany A. , Grabowski Barbara L. , Darling Nancy
Published: June 2007

This study investigated relationships among the use of web and human resource during science class and science career interest. Results suggested that levels of science career interest could be predicted based on classroom use of web and human resources. Regular use of human resources was predictive of science career interests for boys and girls. Use of web resources was only predictive of girl's interests, on average, 7 points higher on a 36-point scale than girls who did not use web resources. Girls who used both resources scored 16 points higher than girls who used neither. Two other predictor variables found included (1) teachers who lacked science background and used web resources regularly and (2) level of student-centered instructional strategies used in the classroom. Further research is suggested.
The Relationship between Health Habits and Health Interests of Students and Employees in a Nontraditional University
Authors: Williams Margie Ford
Published: June 2007

This study investigated the health interests of students and full-time employees of a small, nontraditional university, and examined the relationships between selected health habits and correlated health interests. Health habits were assessed using the Wellness Check for Adults developed by the Rhode Island Health Department, and interest in health promotion programs was ascertained by the Health Interests Survey modified by the investigator. Significant (p < .05) differences between students and employees were found in their interest in 5 of the 11 health promotion programs listed. Responses to ranking 3 programs of most interest revealed that for students, exercising, weight control, and nutrition were prioritized, whereas employees ranked managing stress, nutrition, and weight control. Results of bivariate analyses (Mann-Whitney U) relating health habits to specific health interests varied in direction of association and in significance. The results suggest a need to ask potential participants what health promotion programming they would be interested in attending rather than developing programs based only on identified health risk behaviors. Implications for further research are addressed.
The Ethics of Caring
Authors: Sprengel Ann , Kelley Jane
Published: June 2007

Interest in the concept of caring and the ethics of caring has grown as technology and depersonalization of health care delivery have increased. Major concepts of the ethics of caring are reviewed, with special focus on relating caring and virtue ethics. Assuming that caring is a virtue, it is concluded that ethically virtuous nurses must possess the caring attributes and demonstrate caring actions.
Understanding Autobiographical Memories
Authors: Kovach Christine R.
Published: June 2007

This study examined the stability of autobiographical memory constructs and provided data about male styles of reminiscing that are useful for expanding the generalizability of the Autobiographical Memory Coding Tool. Six males ranging in age from 76 to 84 who lived in the community served as subjects. Subjects participated in two one-to-one reminiscence interviews that were conducted 8 weeks apart. Interpretations formulated by this sample of elderly men were both validating and lamenting. Dominant themes in the transcripts were joys, social connections, difficulties, and choices. The frequency with which memories involving choice and lack of choice were verbalized suggest that control may be an important issue for this sample. The interpretations were quite stable with 91% agreement between Time 1 and Time 2 transcripts.
An Exploratory Study of the Effectiveness of a Relaxation with Guided Imagery Protocol
Authors: Rees Barbara L.
Published: June 2007

An exploratory study was done to examine the effectiveness of a relaxation with guided imagery protocol in reducing anxiety and depression and increasing self-esteem in new mothers during the first 4 weeks postpartum. The results indicate that anxiety and depression declined and self esteem increased in subjects in both the experimental and control groups over the 4-week period. However, the decline in anxiety and the increase in self-esteem was greater in the experimental group than in the control group. The decline in depression was about the same in both groups. Further study, using more precise methodology and instrumentation, needs to be done to verify the results.
Healing Touch as a Nursing Intervention
Authors: Wetzel Wendy S.
Published: June 2007

From the context of postoperative wound infection care, this article describes the clinical use of Healing Touch, an integrated system of energetic healing techniques now being taught nationwide in cooperation with the American Holistic Nurses' Association. The author documents the progress of a patient with a significant wound infection as a consequence of cesarean birth. Along with standard medical care, the patient received Healing Touch treatments. This is an anecdotal report and is not intended to replace a structured study on wound healing.
Reawakening Spirit in Clinical Practice
Authors: Burkhardt Margaret A. , Nagai-Jacobson Mary Gail
Published: June 2007

This article describes processes for incorporating spirituality into clinical nursing practice. Spirituality is viewed as a unifying force manifested in the Self, which is expressed and experienced in the context of caring connections with oneself, others, nature, and God/life force. Spirituality relates to an inner knowing and source of strength reflected in one's being, one's knowing, and one's doing. The nurse's intentional, caring presence with clients makes possible the speaking and hearing of spiritual concerns. Such concerns are revealed in the context of one's life story. Nurturing the nurse's own spirit is essential for responding to the spirit in any interaction. Nurses frequently deal with issues of spirituality but may not label them as such. This article suggests processes through which nurses may more clearly identify spiritual issues. Spirit is understood to be both the source of and a manifestation of one's spirituality. By reawakening spirit in clinical practice, nurses will be more effective providers of holistic nursing care.
Transcultural Nursing Ethics
Authors: Ray Marilyn A.
Published: June 2007

Increased awareness of cultural diversity in contemporary society and nursing mandates the need for transcultural nursing ethics. The core of this ethics assumes that all discourse and interaction is transcultural because of strengths and differences in values and beliefs of individuals and groups within global society. Transcultural ethics addresses how people ought to live when subjectively sharing a common world. This article presents a framework and model with four parts: Transcultural Caring Dynamics, Principles, Transcultural Context, and Universal Source. These incorporate the ethics of virtue, principle, values, and belief, respectively. Interactive parts of the holistic process provide the foundation for assessing and analyzing transactions to facilitate understanding and direction toward culturally based ethical decision making.
Hispanic Cultural Health Beliefs and Folk Remedies
Authors: Gordon Sonia M.
Published: June 2007

Cultural awareness of health care practices and beliefs is increasing, but knowledge regarding Hispanic folk remedies and health care practices and beliefs is limited. This study used a focus group interview format for an open discussion of folk remedies and the health and illness practices of the participants. Eleven Hispanic women participated in a group interview that addressed the question, How do Hispanic health beliefs affect health care practices? Specifically, what actions are taken to treat symptoms of illness or injury? Qualitative data analysis of the 75 symptom and treatment statements was completed, and data were grouped according to symptom and complexity of treatments. This resulted in a rich compilation of remedies that Hispanics use in home treatments, with the emergence of a pattern comparable to the nursing process. This information adds to the current knowledge base of cultural health practices and provides a basis for continued research.
Tibetan Buddhist Medicine
Authors: Begley Shirley Spear
Published: June 2007

Tibetan medicine, at 2,500 years old, is considered the oldest surviving medical tradition. A combination of logical healing practices, spiritual methods, and mystical practice, this tradition has a holistic basis as one of its foundational theories. It is known as the earliest form of mind-body medicine and can lend much of its wisdom to holistic and psychosomatic medicine and nursing, as well as the emerging field of psychoneuroimmunology. A basic overview of Tibetan medicine, coupled with a Western-educated nurse's experience during the care of a Tibetan Buddhist monk, provided an expanded view of the riches inherent in transcultural holistic nursing.
Victims of Family Abuse
Authors: Kreidler Maryhelen C.
Published: June 2007

This article describes a short-term group offered to adult abuse survivors to aid in spiritual healing. The terms spiritual and spiritual distress are defined, the group format is delineated, and the need for all nurses to develop spiritual awareness when working with clients with family abuse histories is stated.
The Hysterectomy Experience
Authors: Kinnick Virginia , Leners Debra
Published: June 2007

Women who undergo a hysterectomy typically experience preoperative symptoms that severely affect quality of life. The purpose of this study was to understand the hysterectomy experience from the informants' perspective. The research design chosen was ethnography. Research aims included (a) describing the quality of life before hysterectomy, (b) understanding the decision-making process involved in having a hysterectomy, (c) describing the knowledge base women have about hysterectomies, (d) describing concerns and fears about hysterectomies, (e) making comparisons before and 3 months after the hysterectomy, and (f) discovering what advice women give each other about hysterectomies. Ethnographic interviews were conducted and analyzed according to the Spradley method. The informants provided researchers with valuable advice for professionals caring for women who elect to undergo a hysterectomy.
The Goddess and Healing
Authors: Abrahamsen Valerie
Published: June 2007

In prehistoric and ancient historical times, it was the Goddess who oversaw the health and well-being of human beings and women who controlled many healing processes, rituals, and practices. The professions of nursing and other health care fields owe much to this history yet have moved away from it in significant ways. Drawing on literary and archaeological sources, this study traces the history of healing in Graeco-Roman antiquity, describes the role of the Goddess and women in the healing function, discusses the communal aspects of healing both in the ancient world and in the modern West, and provides connections between the past and present that may empower today's nursing professionals.
Nursing and Alternative Medicine
Authors: Geddes Norma , Henry JoAnne Kirk
Published: June 2007

The burgeoning interest in alternative medicine in the past decade has created a demanding health care climate for professional nursing. Rising consumer consciousness and the cost of traditional Western medicine have together influenced an environment in which individuals and payers seek low-cost, high-value remedies. This article presents a definition of alternative medicine and an overview of related research initiatives. In addition, legal and practice considerations for professional nursing are discussed. The language of current nurse practice acts neither prohibits nor actively promotes alternative medicine practices. However, differences in the regulation of health care professionals, specifically physicians and nurses, create challenges for nurses as they respond to both consumer demand and the need for consumer protection, and work with physician colleagues in alternative medicine. Accompanying these challenges is the need to protect nurses' regulatory freedom and autonomy.
Prayer and Healing
Authors: Hughes Christina E.
Published: June 2007

This article examines the relationship between prayer and healing and its relationship to holistic health. The apparent healing that results from prayer mystifies researchers. Numerous theories may be offered as to the mechanism by which this healing occurs. The belief of the praying person in the power of the prayer itself may stimulate healing, as the placebo effect suggests. The relaxation response and the sense of self-efficacy gained through the act of praying may enhance the immune system. Despite these explanations of the mechanisms through which prayer promotes healing, there sometimes exists a facet of prayer and healing that defies rational explanation and seems to suggest the existence of a higher power. A case is presented that explores assistance from a higher power as a potential explanation for the healing.
Potential Benefits of Pet Ownership in Health Promotion
Authors: Jennings Lea B.
Published: June 2007

Pet ownership provides an opportunity to improve health. A pet may become a stimulus for exercise, reduce anxiety, and provide an external focus of attention. Pets are also a source of physical contact and comfort and may decrease loneliness and depression while promoting an interesting lifestyle. The benefits of pet ownership are consistent with the health promotion and disease prevention goals outlined in Healthy People 2000. These goals include (a) increasing physical activity and fitness and (b) improving mental health and preventing mental disorders. Assessment of pet ownership and discussion of potential health benefits facilitates a holistic understanding of our patients and ourselves.
Weight and Weight-Related Distress after Childbirth
Authors: Walker Lorraine O.
Published: June 2007

The aim of this study was to explore whether women's psychosocial context was related to weight status 1 year after childbirth. A survey sample of 149 women provided data on life-event stress, social support, and depressive symptoms; and three weight variables: body mass index, weight gain, and weight-related distress. Of the women, 32 (22%) reported gains of 25 kg and 50 (34%) met the criterion for high depressive symptoms. Low social support, low income, and high depressive symptoms were related to higher weight gain. Women with gains > 5 kg reported high depressive symptoms (53% vs. 28%) more often than women with lesser gains. Women who reported lowered self-esteem because of weight also had higher depressive symptoms, body mass indexes, and weight gains than women with increased or unaffected self-esteem. This study points to the importance of incorporating women's psychosocial context into counseling about weight management after childbirth.
Florence Nightingale
Authors: McDonald Lynn
Published: June 2007

Nightingale's passionate commitment to statistics was based on her faith in a god of order, who created a world that ran by law. God's laws could be known through research, as a result of which suitable interventions to better the world could be applied. Statistics were a vital component in her holistic approach to health care as a system. They served both to indicate serious problems and to assist in policy making, and then again to monitor the effects of the new policies. She pioneered the use of evaluative statistics and saw reforms achieved as a result of her advocacy. This article explores three key aspects selected from Nightingale's more than 40 years of applied statistical work: her adaptation of Quetelet's methodological foundations, the use of statistics in monitoring public health care systems, and her pioneering study of maternal mortality in childbirth.
Immigration and Ethnicity
Authors: Anderson Warren D. , Kelley Jane
Published: June 2007

International labor migration has increased the day-to-day encounters of persons from different cultural groups. The concept of ethnicity, its historical development, its ambiguity, and its role in the interactions between persons of different cultural groups are explored. The arena of health care for migrants brings to the fore issues of providing culturally competent care. In an ideal world, all nursing care of migrants would be delivered by skilled transcultural nurses; but in the real world, this is not yet the case. A case study of a Mexican migrant woman and a non-Hispanic Midwestern nurse is used as a background for examining the role of ethnicity in determining care needs and expectations and for providing nurses with a perspective that can improve nurse-client collaboration.
A Molecular View of Coping Behavior in Older Adults
Authors: Martin Peter , Rott Christoph , Poon Leonard W. , Courtenay Brad , Lehr Ursula
Published: June 2007

Objectives: The purpose of this studywas to assess age, gender, ethnicity, and education differences in specific (“molecular”) coping behaviors for three older adult age groups. Methods: Thirty-five specific coping reactions were assessed on the item level for 74 sexagenarians, 70 octogenarians, and 116 centenarians of the Georgia Centenarian Study. Results: A multivariate analysis of covariance revealed significant age group, gender, and education differences for 14 coping reactions. Four items were affected exclusively by age; five were affected only by gender; and three were affected only by education. One item showed age group and education differences; another showed gender and education differences. No ethnicity differences were obtained. The largest effect for an age group difference was found for accepting health problems. Discussion: The findings suggest that a molecular viewof specific coping behaviors in reaction to health problems, in addition to global measures of coping, is essential.
Social Capital and Philanthropy: An Analysis of the Impact of Social Capital on Individual Giving and Volunteering
Authors: Brown Eleanor , Ferris James M.
Published: June 2007

This article examines the impact of social capital on philanthropy. Based on extensive information on individuals’ embeddedness in various dimensions of social capital gathered in the Social Capital Community Benchmark Survey, two measures of social capital are extracted from the data via factor analysis. One relates to individuals’ associational networks; the second relates to their trust in others and in their community. These measures are then incorporated into models of religious giving, secular giving, and volunteering. The estimates confirm the importance of social capital in explaining the generosity of individuals. When social capital is included in giving equations, the direct influences of human capital (education) and religiosity fall, raising the question of whether previous understanding of their importance as determinants of giving and volunteering was overstated or, alternatively, whether the extent to which religion and education foster personal philanthropy by fostering associational networks and norms of trust and cooperation has been under-appreciated.
Contemporary Relationships between Firms in a Classic Industrial Locality: Evidence from the Social Change and Economic Life Initiative
Authors: Penn Roger
Published: June 2007

This paper details the historical and contemporary relationships between firms, across a wide spectrum of sectors, in Rochdale, Lancashire. This area was a classic example of an industrial district and the paper aims to examine the present forms of the sub-contracting relation between large and small firms in the light of the current interest in, and advocacy of, a norm of cooperation between firms of varying sizes within geographical areas. A typology of four possible forms of relation is outlined: satellite, active engagement, subordinate cooperation and independent cooperation, and empirical material, drawn from part of the Social Change and Economic Life Initiative of the Economic and Social Research Council, is presented to show how this typology relates to modem Rochdale. Using both case study and survey evidence the paper concludes that there was little sign of any increase in sub-contracting in Rochdale in the 1980s. It was concentrated within the machine making sector of engineering, was a traditional feature of inter-firm relations, and was used as a strategy of last resort. There was evidence that the relations between firms in this locality are becoming less integrated. There was little sign of the much discussed new forms of ties. In Rochdale any coordination of firms was overwhelmingly through external market relationships.
The Services Economy, Subcontracting and the New Employment Relations: Contract Catering and Cleaning
Authors: Rees Gareth , Fielder Sarah
Published: June 2007

Sociological discussion of expansion in services employment has been unnecessarily limited. An examination of developments in under-explored sectors such as personal services and `low-level' producer services demonstrates the fruitfulness of analysis in terms of the social and technical divisions of labour, especially with respect to the growth of subcontracting. However, contrary to theories of the `flexible firm', this restructuring is complex, reflecting the specificities of particular industries and even firms. These arguments are developed through an empirical analysis of contract catering and contract cleaning, based on case studies of two major companies, `Contract Cleaning Services' and `Global Catering'. Both industries have traditionally had strongly gendered occupational hierarchies, with women concentrated into the highly exploited operative grades. Contemporary restructuring has increased demand for such services through the expansion of subcontracting. However, the two industries have responded in divergent ways, with cleaning adopting a strategy of intensification, whilst catering has moved some way toward improving employment conditions through, for example, enhanced training and promotion possibilities.
A Changing Domestic Division of Labour? Issues of Measurement and Interpretation
Authors: Warde Alan , Hetherington Kevin
Published: June 2007

This paper is concerned to evaluate recent arguments about changes in the domestic division of labour. To this end it identifies different positions on the issue in the literature and deploys some evidence from a survey in Greater Manchester in 1990 to try to discriminate between competing views. We report findings, regarding couple households, about the sex-stereotyping of domestic tasks and about differences in the domestic labour contributions of wives, husbands and young people living in their parental home. The key determinants of variation among households are isolated. We explore attitudes towards sharing and fairness. The results suggest that, with some qualifications, gender stereotyping of specific domestic tasks and unequal contributions between men and women cannot have shifted much in recent years.
Social and Economic Change and the Organisation of Money within Marriage
Authors: Vogler Carolyn , Pahl Jan
Published: June 2007

This paper examines the methods couples use to organise money and the extent to which particular methods involve inequalities between men and women. It uses data on over 1200 households, drawn from the Social Change and Economic Life Initiative, a major British study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council. Various systems of allocation are identified and the paper discusses the determinants of these different systems and the extent to which patterns of allocation have changed over time, especially with regard to women's increased participation in the labour market. The results of this research do not support the theory that such changes in participation are leading, deterministically, to greater equality in household financial arrangements. Rather, the gendering of the responsibility for `breadwinning' continues and this has clear effects on both financial arrangements and inequalities within households.
Flexibility, Politics & Strategy: In Defence of the Model of the Flexible Firm
Authors: Procter Stephen J. , Rowlinson Michael , McArdle, Louise , Hassard John , Forrester Paul
Published: June 2007

This paper offers a defence of Atkinson's model of the flexible firm. It takes issue with two arguments against it: that the model needs to be understood at a political level, as part of a wider `post-industrial' vision; and that the observed increase in flexibility offers the model no support because of its `non-strategic' nature. On the first of these it is argued that flexibility operates on a different level from flexible specialisation and other varieties of `post-industrialism' and that to consider them together confuses rather than illuminates the debate. On the second, it is argued that the criticism relies on an unnecessarily restrictive view of strategy. Rather than being regarded as `plans', strategies should be regarded as `patterns' in decision-making. On the basis of this alternative conception the paper suggests ways in which the flexible firm model might be recast.
Japan as Number Two: Competitive Problems and the Future of Alliance Capitalism after the Burst of the Bubble Boom
Authors: Berggren Christian
Published: June 2007

The Japanese onslaught in export markets in the 1970s and 1980s evoked an enormous interest from academics of all kinds, who attempted to locate the causes of Japanese supremacy in production management, supplier relations and employment practices as well as in its forms of corporate control. Recently, the predictions of Japan as Number One have turned out to be wrong, and the United States has emerged as a pre-eminent competitor, not only in computers and multimedia, but also in traditional industries, such as autos. This article confronts the `Japan as Number One' literature with current dilemmas in the Japanese economy in general, and in autos and software in particular. Toyota's recent departure from important principles in its famous production system are also analysed. Further, this article deals with how employment practices in large companies are affected by the protracted recession. In the conclusion it is stressed that, although under severe pressure, Japan is not simply converging with Western `normalcy'. Its `alliance capitalism' is eroded but not eliminated and future studies of Japan must grasp its contradictions and contrasts in a very different way from the studies of the previous decade.