bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of membrane fouling in membrane bioreactor process by coagulant addition
Authors: Mishima I. , Nakajima J.
Published: April 2009

The control of membrane fouling is an essential issue in membrane bioreactor (MBR) process. It has been recognized that the most important factors that affect membrane fouling are presence of soluble microbial products (SMP) and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in a reactor. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of the coagulant addition on the membrane fouling in the MBR process. Accordingly, laboratory scale batch experiments and MBR experiments were conducted using coagulant. In batch experiments, effective SMP removal and control of EPS release were observed by coagulant addition. Fe coagulant was slightly more effective than Al coagulant in the addition of same mole amount. Therefore, Fe was used as coagulant in MBR experiments. In MBR experiments, Fe solutions of 0 mg/L, 2,260 mg/L and 4,520 mg/L were added into the tanks (Run1, Run2 and Run3, respectively) with the flow rate of 200 mL/d. COD removal efficiencies of 97% and phosphorus removal efficiencies of 92% were observed by Fe addition in the MBR experiment. Membrane fouling occurred more often in Run1 than in the other two Runs. Membrane was cleaned 18, 9 and 5 times in Run1, Run2 and Run3, respectively during 40 days runs. This suggested that the membrane fouling was reduced by the coagulant addition. The protein and carbohydrate concentrations of the SMP in the fraction of 1 μm–0.4 μm in Run2 and Run3 were significantly lower than that in Run1 and the particle size of the activated sludge was obviously increased in Run2 and Run3. These results suggested that the coagulant addition is effective to control the membrane fouling.
Estimation of uncertainty in olfactometry
Authors: Higuchi T.
Published: April 2009

Estimation of uncertainty in odour measurement is essential to the interpretation of the measurement results. The fundamental procedure for the estimation of measurement uncertainty comprises the specification of the measurement process, expression of the measurement model and all influences, evaluation of the standard uncertainty of each component, calculation of the combined standard uncertainty, determination of a coverage factor, calculation of the expanded uncertainty and reporting. Collaborative study such as interlaboratory comparison of olfactometry yields performance indicators of the measurement method including repeatability and reproducibility. Therefore, the use of collaborative test results for measurement uncertainty estimation according to ISO/TS 21748 and ISO 20988 is effective and reasonable. Measurement uncertainty of the triangular odour bag method was estimated using interlaboratory comparison data from 2003 to 2007 on the basis of the simplest model of statistical analysis, and the expanded uncertainty of odour index ranged between 3.1 and 6.7. On the basis of the establishment of the estimation procedure for uncertainty, a coherent interpretation method for the measurement results will be proposed and more effective and practical quality control of olfactometry will be available.
Odour, covering and ventilation
Authors: Sivil D. , Hobson J. A.
Published: April 2009

A technique is described based on the decay in concentration of added SF6 to measure L0, the rate of leakage from an enclosure with no extraction of air. It is believed this measurement is much more precise than measurements of E0, the minimum rate of extraction which just prevents leakage. Three out of four enclosures studied had L0 values equating to residence times of air that were well under one hour. Relationships were developed between extraction rate and concentration and emission rate for enclosed odour sources based on mass transfer from water to air. These could be used to assess the benefits of minimising extraction rates while remaining within concentration limits set on the grounds of corrosion or toxicity. From these relationships a critical flow can be identified, termed Q50, at which both the emission rate and concentration of a particular species are at 50% of their maximum value. In any particular system, Q50 for one species, such as H2S, will in general not be the same as for another species, nor for odour concentration. As a consequence the benefit of reducing extraction rates based on H2S may not appear as good as it would based on an assessment of odour concentration. A second consequence is that as the rate of air extraction is varied, the ratio between two species or between H2S and odour concentration, is likely to vary.
Coagulation/flocculation of dye-containing solutions using polyaluminium chloride and alum
Authors: Zonoozi M. Hasani , Moghaddam M. R. Alavi , Arami M.
Published: April 2009

This study aims to compare the performance of Polyaluminium Chloride (PAC) and alum as coagulants to remove a specific type of dye (Acid Blue 292 (AB292)) from dye-containing solution. For this purpose, the influence of pH, coagulant dosage, coagulant aids (kaolinite and bentonite), and initial dye concentration on dye removal efficiency were examined. According to the results, removal of AB292 was absolutely dependent on the pH variations. The maximum dye removal occurred when pH was 7 and 5 for PAC and alum, respectively. Both coagulants efficiently removed the dye (about 85%) with a relatively low dosage (40 mg/l) in their optimum pH range. By adding kaolinite as a coagulant aid, the removal efficiencies tended to increase, especially for lower dosages of PAC and alum. With the increase of initial dye concentration, PAC and alum represented different behaviors. In the case of PAC, Q (the amount of the removed dye per unit mass of coagulant) increased at first and reached to a maximum value, 2.1 mg dye/mg PAC, and then decreased rapidly. While for alum, Q steadily increased with the increase of dye concentration and reached to 2.8 mg dye/mg alum. No reduction of Q occurred for alum with the increase of dye concentration in the range of 25–250 mg/l.
Synthesis of Ag-ZnO nanoparticles for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of acid red 88 in aqueous environment
Authors: Sathish Kumar Panneer Selvam , Manivel Arumugam , Anandan Sambandam
Published: April 2009

Photocatalytic activities were found to be enhanced when noble metals were deposited on the semiconductors because the metal nanoparticles store electrons within them and in turn are recognized to act as a sink for photoinduced charge carriers, promoting interfacial charge transfer processes. This motivates us to modify the bare ZnO powder by doping with nano sized silver to yield metal-semiconductor nanocomposites by simple material syntheses route to suppress detrimental recombination of the photogenerated charge carriers. The materials were characterized by different analytical techniques and it is potentially utilized for the photocatalytic degradation of an azo dye (Acid Red 88; AR88) in the visible region (λ>400 nm). A possible mechanism for the photocatalytic degradation of AR88 by Ag-ZnO in the absence and presence of other oxidizing agents (peroxomonosulfate (PMS), peroxodisulfate (PDS) & hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)) has been proposed. The extent of mineralization of the target pollutant was also evaluated using Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analysis.
Apparent hydrogen consumption in acid reactors: observations and implications
Authors: Dinamarca C. , Bakke R.
Published: April 2009

Investigations of hydrogen production by dark fermentation have received increasing attention as a green fuel production process. Research focus is mainly on yields and rates of hydrogen production under different operation conditions. The importance of hydrogen consumption is addressed here, based on results from lab-scale reactors. Experiments were run using mixed cultures and a variety of operating conditions: HRT 6-40 hours; temperature 25–55°C. Initial hydrogen yields between 0.8–1.5 mol H2/mol glucose and ≈50% H2 in headspace was observed, followed by a decrease in hydrogen production as the culture matures, resulting in hydrogen yields down to 0.02 mol H2/mol glucose. It is concluded that hydrogen or “hydrogen equivalents” consumption is significant, especially in reactors with high biomass concentration and/or high sludge age. Sustainable H2 production by dark fermentation alone is therefore not likely to be developed. The results suggest that it is possible to control and avoid significant H2 production in dark fermentation. Minimizing H2 production can be useful in preparation of organic feed for other bio-fuel production processes, such as methanogenic processes and bio-electrochemical H2 production.
Extreme events: being prepared for the pitfalls with progressing sustainable urban water management
Authors: Keath N. A. , Brown R. R.
Published: April 2009

It is widely accepted that new, more sustainable approaches to urban water management are required if cities and ecosystems are to become resilient to the effects of growing urban populations and global warming. Climate change predictions show that it is likely that cities around the world will be subject to an increasing number of extreme and less predictable events including flooding and drought. Historical transition studies have shown that major events such as extremes can expedite the adoption of new practices by destabilising existing management regimes and opening up new windows of opportunity for change. Yet, they can also act to reinforce and further entrench old practices. This case study of two Australian cities responding to extreme water scarcity reveals that being unprepared for extremes can undermine progress towards sustainable outcomes. The results showed that despite evidence of significant progress towards sustainable urban water management in Brisbane and Melbourne, the extreme water scarcity acted to reinforce traditional practices at the expense of emerging sustainability niches. Drawing upon empirical research and transitions literature, recommendations are provided for developing institutional mechanisms that are able to respond proactively to extreme events and be a catalyst for SUWM when such opportunities for change arise.
Anaerobic biodegradation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol by methanogenic granular sludge: role of co-substrates and methanogenic inhibition
Authors: Puyol D. , Mohedano A. F. , Sanz J. L. , Rodríguez J. J.
Published: April 2009

The influence of several co-substrates in the anaerobic biodegradation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (246TCP) by methanogenic granular sludge as well as in methanogenesis inhibition by 246TCP has been studied. 4 g-COD·L−1 of lactate, sucrose, volatile fatty acids (VFA) acetate:propionate:butyrate 1:1:1, ethanol, methanol, yeast extract (YE), and 2 g-COD·L−1 of formate and methylamine were tested. Two concentrations of 246TCP: 80 mg·L−1 and 113 mg·L−1 (this last corresponding to the EC50 for acetotrophic methanogenesis) were tested. Three consecutive co-substrate and nutrient feedings were accomplished. 246TCP was added in the second feed, and the 246TCP removal rate increased considerably after the third feed. Accumulated metabolites after ortho-dechlorination, either 4-chlorophenol (4CP) (when methanol, ethanol or VFA were used as co-substrates) or 2,4-dichlorophenol (24DCP) (with lactate) avoided the complete dechlorination of 246TCP. With methylamine and formate this compound was degraded only partially. Monochlorophenols biodegradation was partially achieved with YE, but both 24DCP and 2,6-dichlorophenol (26DCP) were accumulated. In the presence of sucrose para-dechlorination was observed. 246TCP was better tolerated by methanogens when ethanol and methanol were added because of the highest specific methanogenic activity achieved with these co-substrates. Methanol and ethanol were the best co-substrates in the anaerobic biodegradation of 246TCP.
The Value of Health in the Writings of H.D. Thoreau
Authors: Da Rocha Antonio Casado
Published: April 2009

By means of a survey of Thoreau's writings, this article analyses his thoughts on health, emphasising some features that fit well with contemporary debates in the philosophy of medicine. Thoreau understands health as an environmental value, one that cannot be achieved without a personal relation to nature, but he does not provide a static definition of health within a fixed hierarchy of values. Thus he avoids a certain degree of essentialism that, when imposed on his work, makes it seem more utopian and anti-scientific than it really is. The meaning of health for Thoreau is often contradictory and hard to disambiguate, and his context was different in many respects to ours, but his ideas on this topic still serve to criticise some of modern medicine's views on health and disease, and to steer it towards a more environmentally-informed approach to these phenomena.
'Ruined and Lost': Spanish Destruction of the Pearl Coast in the Early Sixteenth Century
Authors: Perri Michael
Published: April 2009

In the early sixteenth century, the area that today comprises eastern Venezuela and its offshore islands enriched Spain with pearls, supplied Spanish colonists with Indian slaves, and generated high hopes of finding interior civilisations rich in gold. However, the prosperity of Spanish colonies in this region (called the Pearl Coast) proved tragically short-lived, lasting less than two decades. Using Garrett Hardin's concept of the 'tragedy of the commons', this article examines Spanish overexploitation of both the oyster beds around the island of Cubagua and the native peoples along the mainland by competing groups of Spaniards. Building upon the works of historians such as Pablo Ojer and Enrique Otte, and utilising archival research and Otte's seldom-used compilations of primary documents, this article analyses the dramatic but little-known history of the Pearl Coast, where damage to the environment went hand in hand with the enslavement and decimation of native populations.
An Imperial, National and State Debate: The Rise and Near Fall of the Australian Forestry School, 1927-1945
Authors: Bennett Brett
Published: April 2009

A variety of debates that surrounded the opening of the Australian Forestry School at Canberra in 1927 illuminate the divergent beliefs about forestry education and conservation policy that many British imperial and Australian foresters and politicians held during the 1910s-1940s. A controversial English-born forester, Charles Edward Lane Poole, lobbied for the School's creation and headed it for many years. The Commonwealth Government supported the School throughout the 1920s-1940s amidst a variety of financial hardships and state criticisms. Many leading foresters throughout the British Empire who were born outside of Australia supported the School. But many professionally trained foresters and Australian politicians who had been born in Australia were more ambivalent or critical of the School. This article traces these contentious debates throughout the years leading up to and following the creation of the Australian Forestry School.
Phenolic Compounds Protect Cultured Hippocampal Neurons against Ethanol-Withdrawal Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Prokai-Tatrai Katalin , Prokai Laszlo , Simpkins James W. , Jung Marianna E.
Published: April 2009

Ethanol withdrawal is linked to elevated oxidative damage to neurons. Here we report our findings on the contribution of phenolic antioxidants (17β-estradiol, p-octyl-phenol and 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol) to counterbalance sudden ethanol withdrawal-initiated oxidative events in hippocampus-derived cultured HT-22 cells. We showed that ethanol withdrawal for 4 h after 24-h ethanol treatment provoked greater levels of oxidative damage than the preceding ethanol exposure. Phenolic antioxidant treatment either during ethanol exposure or ethanol withdrawal only, however, dose-dependently reversed cellular oxidative damage, as demonstrated by the significantly enhanced cell viability, reduced malondialdehyde production and protein carbonylation, compared to untreated cells. Interestingly, the antioxidant treatment schedule had no significant impact on the observed neuroprotection. In addition, the efficacy of the three phenolic compounds was practically equipotent in protecting HT-22 cells in spite of predictions based on an in silico study and a cell free assay of lipid peroxidation. This finding implies that free-radical scavenging may not be the sole factor responsible for the observed neuroprotection and warrants further studies to establish, whether the HT-22 line is indeed a suitable model for in vitro screening of antioxidants against EW-related neuronal damage.
Calcium Orthophosphates in Nature, Biology and Medicine
Authors: Dorozhkin Sergey V.
Published: April 2009

The present overview is intended to point the readers’ attention to the important subject of calcium orthophosphates. These materials are of the special significance because they represent the inorganic part of major normal (bones, teeth and dear antlers) and pathological (i.e. those appearing due to various diseases) calcified tissues of mammals. Due to a great chemical similarity with the biological calcified tissues, many calcium orthophosphates possess remarkable biocompatibility and bioactivity. Materials scientists use this property extensively to construct artificial bone grafts that are either entirely made of or only surface-coated with the biologically relevant calcium orthophosphates. For example, self-setting hydraulic cements made of calcium orthophosphates are helpful in bone repair, while titanium substitutes covered by a surface layer of calcium orthophosphates are used for hip joint endoprostheses and as tooth substitutes. Porous scaffolds made of calcium orthophosphates are very promising tools for tissue engineering applications. In addition, technical grade calcium orthophosphates are very popular mineral fertilizers. Thus ere calcium orthophosphates are of great significance for humankind and, in this paper, an overview on the current knowledge on this subject is provided.
Use of Naturally Available Reference Targets to Calibrate Airborne Laser Scanning Intensity Data
Authors: Vain Ants , Kaasalainen Sanna , Pyysalo Ulla , Krooks Anssi , Litkey Paula
Published: April 2009

We have studied the possibility of calibrating airborne laser scanning (ALS) intensity data, using land targets typically available in urban areas. For this purpose, a test area around Espoonlahti Harbor, Espoo, Finland, for which a long time series of ALS campaigns is available, was selected. Different target samples (beach sand, concrete, asphalt, different types of gravel) were collected and measured in the laboratory. Using tarps, which have certain backscattering properties, the natural samples were calibrated and studied, taking into account the atmospheric effect, incidence angle and flying height. Using data from different flights and altitudes, a time series for the natural samples was generated. Studying the stability of the samples, we could obtain information on the most ideal types of natural targets for ALS radiometric calibration. Using the selected natural samples as reference, the ALS points of typical land targets were calibrated again and examined. Results showed the need for more accurate ground reference data, before using natural samples in ALS intensity data calibration. Also, the NIR camera-based field system was used for collecting ground reference data. This system proved to be a good means for collecting in situ reference data, especially for targets with inhomogeneous surface reflection properties.
Automobility: Global Warming as Symptomatology
Authors: Backhaus Gary
Published: April 2009

The argument of this paper is that sustainability requires a new worldview-paradigm. It critically evaluates Gore’s liberal-based environmentalism in order to show how “shallow ecologies” are called into question by deeper ecologies. This analysis leads to the notion that global warming is better understood as a symptom indicative of the worldview that is the source for environmental crises. Heidegger’s ontological hermeneutics and its critique of modern technology show that the modern worldview involves an enframing (a totalizing technological ordering) of the natural. Enframing reveals entities as standing reserve (on demand energy suppliers). My thesis maintains that enframing is geographically expressed as automobility. Because of the energy needs used to maintain automobility, reaching the goal of sustainability requires rethinking the spatial organization of life as a function of stored energy technologies.
Learning Susceptibility of a Pathogen to Antibiotics Using Data from Similar Pathogens
Authors: Andreassen S. , Leibovici L. , Paul M. , Zalounina A.
Published: April 2009

Objectives: Selection of empirical antibiotic therapy relies on knowledge of the in vitro susceptibilities of potential pathogens to antibiotics. In this paper the limitations of this knowledge are outlined and a method that can reduce some of the problems is developed.

Methods: We propose hierarchical Dirichlet learning for estimation of pathogen susceptibilities to antibiotics, using data from a group of similar pathogens in a bacteremia database.

Results: A threefold cross-validation showed that maximum likelihood (ML) estimates of susceptibilities based on individual pathogens gave a distance between estimates obtained from the training set and observed frequencies in the validation set of 16.3%. Estimates based on the initial grouping of pathogens gave a distance of 16.7%. Dirichlet learning gave a distance of 15.6%. Inspection of the pathogen groups led to subdivision of three groups, Citrobacter, Other Gram Negatives and Acinetobacter, out of 26 groups. Estimates based on the subdivided groups gave a distance of 15.4% and Dirichlet learning further reduced this to 15.0%. The optimal size of the imaginary sample inherited from the group was 3.

Conclusion: Dirichlet learning improved estimates of susceptibilities relative to ML estimators based on individual pathogens and to classical grouped estimators. The initial pathogen grouping was well founded and improvement by subdivision of the groups was only obtained in three groups. Dirichlet learning was robust to these revisions of the grouping, giving improved estimates in both cases, while the group-based estimates only gave improved estimates after the revision of the groups.
Meeting Accreditation Criteria: Balancing Creativity With Adherence
Authors: Dickerson Pamela S.
Published: April 2009

Accreditation criteria for continuing nursing education provider units are established by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation to provide consistency in assuring the provider's capacity to provide quality continuing nursing education during the accreditation period. Although accredited providers are required to adhere to criteria, there are numerous ways organizations can be creative in meeting these standards.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(2):51–52.
Post-Hire Transitional Programs for International Nurses: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zizzo Kari A. , Xu Yu
Published: April 2009

Both the numbers and the proportions of international nurses in some Western countries are rapidly growing. There are numerous post-hire transitional programs designed to facilitate the transition of these nurses; however, little information is available on the evaluation of the “state-of-the-art” of these programs. A systematic review of 20 post-hire transitional programs for international nurses was conducted to evaluate the status of these programs regarding country of origin, research- versus non-research-based articles, proposed versus implemented programs, program structure and content (i.e., mentorship, formal language or communication training, length, single vs. multiple component, logistics support, and theoretical or conceptual framework), and indicators for program success. Data from this review indicate that most programs were not evidence-based. In addition, there is minimal research on transitional programs, especially their effectiveness. Implications and recommendations for practice and future research are elaborated here in light of the review findings.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(2):57–64.
Duty to Care
Authors: Pfrimmer Dale
Published: April 2009

The potential threat of a pandemic influenza outbreak has placed emergency preparedness in the health care spotlight. Hospitals are increasingly gearing up readiness plans in preparation. Most of these plans are related to the implementation of protocols and stockpiling of supplies, medications, and equipment. These plans are dependent on staff for implementation, but will nurses' duty to care for patients outweigh their competing obligations to their families and the risk of their own exposure?

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(2):53–54.
International Education: Developing Site Visit Guidelines to Enhance Understanding
Authors: DiFazio Rachel , Boykova Marina , Driever Marie J.
Published: April 2009

International educational activities, whether organized as study tours or conferences, often include visits to various health care or educational facilities. These visits can provide a unique perspective on health care delivery, nursing education, and nursing practice. To maximize learning during such visits, a clear focus and guidelines are needed. The experience of conducting a conference in Russia is used as a basis for developing recommendations and creating guidelines for site visits that promote understanding of the nursing role and the health care system in another country. This article describes the process of developing educational objectives and guidelines for clinical and educational site visits. It is hoped the examples will be useful in planning site visits for other international educational activities.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(2):91–96.
The Effects of Computer-Based Fire Safety Training on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Caregivers
Authors: Harrington Susan S. , Walker Bonnie L.
Published: April 2009

Older adults in small residential care facilities are at a high risk of fire death and injury because of their characteristics and environment. The authors investigated computer-based instruction as a way to teach fire emergency planning to caregivers from small residential care facilities. Study participants (
N
= 59) who completed the training significantly improved their scores from pretest to posttest when compared to a control group. Participants indicated on the course evaluation that the computers were easy to use (97%) and that they would like to use computers for future training courses (97%).

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(2):79–86.
Understanding the Experiences of Accelerated Second-Degree Nursing Students and Graduates: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Penprase Barbara , Koczara Sandra
Published: April 2009

The demand for accelerated second-degree nursing programs has grown considerably in the past two decades. These unique nursing programs developed in response to the nation's growing elderly population, the nursing shortage, and demands from students holding previous bachelor degrees. Accelerated second-degree nursing programs recognize that the students are adult learners and have already proven the ability to successfully complete the rigors required to obtain a bachelor degree. This article reviews the current literature related to accelerated second-degree nursing programs to understand the type of students who are successful, explore the implications these programs may have for the nursing community, and understand methods to improve accelerated second-degree nursing programs based on the characteristics of students' performance.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(2):74–78.
Forming Coalitions: Playing in the Sandbox
Authors: DeSilets Lynore D.
Published: April 2009

This column reviews continuing education relationships and coalitions that meet accreditation or approval criteria.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(3):101–102.
A Journey to Leadership: Designing a Nursing Leadership Development Program
Authors: Swearingen Sandra
Published: April 2009

Nursing leadership development is important in today's changing health care climate. Nurse leaders affect staff satisfaction, patient outcomes, and the fiscal status of most health care organizations. This article delineates why leadership development is important to nursing, how to strengthen nursing leadership, how to design a methodology for building an internal nursing leadership development program based on levels of curriculum content, and what members of an organization can help teach the curriculum.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(3):107–112.
Improving Critical Thinking and Clinical Reasoning With a Continuing Education Course
Authors: Cruz Dina Monteiro , Pimenta Cibele Mattos , Lunney Margaret
Published: April 2009

Background:

Continuing education courses related to critical thinking and clinical reasoning are needed to improve the accuracy of diagnosis.

Method:

This study evaluated a 4-day, 16-hour continuing education course conducted in Brazil. Thirty-nine nurses completed a pretest and a posttest consisting of two written case studies designed to measure the accuracy of nurses' diagnoses.

Results:

There were significant differences in accuracy from pretest to posttest for case 1 (
p
= .008) and case 2 (
p
= .042) and overall (
p
= .001).

Conclusion:

Continuing education courses should be implemented to improve the accuracy of nurses' diagnoses.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(3):121–127.
Preceptor Use of Classroom Assessment Techniques to Stimulate Higher-Order Thinking in the Clinical Setting
Authors: Davidson Judy E.
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this article is to provide examples of learning activities to be used as formative (interim) evaluation of an in-hospital orientation or cross-training program. Examples are provided in the form of vignettes that have been derived from strategies described in the literature as classroom assessment techniques. Although these classroom assessment techniques were originally designed for classroom experiences, they are proposed as methods for preceptors to stimulate the development of higher-order thinking such as synthesizing information, solving problems, and learning how to learn.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(3):139–143.
Relationship Between Educational Programs Offered at Midsize Hospitals in Japan and Novice Nurses' Anxiety Levels
Authors: Kuroda Tomoko , Kanoya Yuka , Sasaki Akiyo O. , Katsuki Takeshi , Sato Chifumi
Published: April 2009

Background:

This article describes training methods for novice nurses in midsize hospitals and examines how preceptorship is related to their anxiety levels.

Methods:

Questionnaires were sent to nurse managers in 15 hospitals; completed questionnaires were received from 11 hospitals. Sixty-three novice nurses evaluated the educational programs, and their anxiety levels were determined using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.

Results:

Ten hospitals performed group orientation. Among these, 8 hospitals had a preceptorship program. The novice nurses in hospitals with a preceptorship program reported that preceptorship offered learning opportunities.

Conclusion:

It is important that novice nurses receive appropriate education, which will reduce their anxiety.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(3):132–138.
Nurses Built the Hospital: A Readers' Theater Used in Nursing Orientation
Authors: Pestka Elizabeth
Published: April 2009

The nursing profession has a long history of helping to advance health care. This column describes contributions of the first nurses associated with a major medical center in the Midwest and their vision to build and staff a hospital to support the medical practice of a local physician and his two sons. The story comes to life as a readers' theater featured in department-wide orientation to the Department of Nursing.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(3):105–106.
Psychological Effects of Deployments on Military Families
Authors: Warner Christopher H. , Appenzeller George N. , Warner Carolynn M. , Grieger Thomas
Published: April 2009

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Identify stressors that occur among spouses of about-to-be deployed service members.

2.

Identify perceived barriers, among spouses, to mental healthcare.

3.

Identify the levels of depression and stress that occur among spouses of about-to-be deployed service members.
Food Allergies and Atopic Dermatitis: Differentiating Myth from Reality
Authors: Forbes Lisa R. , Saltzman Rushani W. , Spergel Jonathan M.
Published: April 2009

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Discuss the mechanisms behind food-related reactions.

2.

Describe a systematic approach to the evaluation of food allergy.

3.

Explain the relationship between IgE-mediated food allergy and atopic dermatitis.
Common Genodermatoses: What the Pediatrician Needs to Know
Authors: Mann Julianne A. , Siegel Dawn H.
Published: April 2009

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Identify the diagnostic criteria for tuberous sclerosis and discuss available treatment options for facial angiofibromas.

2.

Describe the diagnostic criteria for neurofibromatosis and recognize the segmental presentation of neurofibromatosis.

3.

Review the cutaneous manifestations of incontinentia pigmenti and discuss the presentation found in male patients.
Recommendations for Mental Health Care of Older Adults: Part 2—An Overview of Dementia, Delirium, and Substance Abuse
Authors: Flood Meredith , Buckwalter Kathleen C.
Published: April 2009

Expansion and diversification of the older adult demographic group is a key indication that nurses need to be aware of current recommended practice related to the most common mental health diagnoses in this age group. Such conditions include depression, anxiety, dementia, delirium, and substance abuse/dependence. This article, the second in a two-part series, focuses on key assessment components and suggested interventions for dementia, delirium, and substance abuse/dependence.
Technology, Cognitive Remediation, and Nursing: Directions for Successful Cognitive Aging
Authors: Vance David E. , McNees Patrick , Meneses Karen
Published: April 2009

Many older adults experience cognitive difficulties and declines as a part of normal aging. Nurses and other health care professionals will require assistance in technologies that can help older patients maintain or improve cognition. Cognitive remediation represents a well-established laboratory approach that augments cognitive functioning in older adults. Emerging technologies allow such cognitive remediation to be self-administered through gaming software, making it convenient, fun, and inexpensive to deliver. As such, guiding older patients, as well as some facilities, in this direction may be a way to help. However, certain caveats and suggestions are warranted.
Cognitive Training for Early-Stage Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia
Authors: Yu Fang , Rose Karen M. , Burgener Sandra C. , Cunningham Cindy , Buettner Linda L. , Beattie Elizabeth , Bossen Ann L. , Buckwalter Kathleen C. , Fick Donna M. , Fitzsimmons Suzanne , Kolanowski Ann , Pringle Specht Janet K. , Richeson Nancy E. , Testad Ingelin , McKenzie Sharon E.
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this article is to critically review and synthesize the literature on the effects of nonpharmacological cognitive training on dementia symptoms in early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementia. Electronic databases MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, PsycInfo, and the Cochrane Library were searched using the keywords
cognition
,
reality orientation, Alzheimer's disease, psychosocial factors, cognitive therapy, brain plasticity, enriched environments
, and
memory training
. The findings support that cognitive training improves cognition, activities of daily living, and decision making. Interventions are more effective if they are structured and focus on specific known losses related to the AD pathological process and a person's residual ability, or are combined with cognitive-enhancing medications. Nursing implications are also discussed.
Graduating Nurses' Self-Evaluation of Information Technology Competencies
Authors: Fetter Marilyn S.
Published: April 2009

Using a standardized instrument, graduating baccalaureate nurses reported moderate information technology skills. The students were most confident in their Internet, word processing, and systems operations skills; the students' rated themselves lowest on care documentation and planning, valuing informatics knowledge, skills development, and data entry competencies. Exposure to the latest informatics systems was a priority. Students want fair access to informatics and technology-rich clinical settings; more realistic informatics and technology simulations; enthusiastic and capable faculty; and better hardware, software, and literature-searching support in agencies, classrooms, laboratories, and residences. Nursing programs, clinical agencies, and policy makers need to recognize that students are advancing beyond acquiring informatics skills to integrating health information literacy into practice. To facilitate current and future skills attainment and innovation, nursing informatics education and evaluation must keep pace.
Using a Modified Electronic Health Record to Develop Nursing Process Skills
Authors: Kennedy Diane , Pallikkathayil Leonie , Warren Judith J.
Published: April 2009

In our study, we described the experiences and behaviors of beginning nursing students learning the nursing process using a modified electronic health record. Eight students led by an experienced nursing instructor from a midwestern university comprised the criterion purposive sample. Data were obtained from observations of the group, interviews with students and the teacher, and evaluation of care plans that were generated using the technology. Two foundational themes were identified through qualitative content analysis:

Techno-Savvy Students and Teacher, Simulated Technology, and Data-Rich Case Studies—a valuable hybrid “SEED” for learning.

Seeing, Hearing, and Doing—a catalyst for application and spontaneous interaction.

The concluding theme emerged: Honing the Data Gatherer and Data User Roles with a Modified Electronic Health Record—an authentic, learner-centered experience. Further study is needed to measure learning outcomes with similar technology-based, learner-centered activities.
Nursing Student and Faculty Perceptions of Computer-Based Instruction at a 2-Year College
Authors: Leski Joanne
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of computer-based instruction (CBI) from the students' perspective. The study was conducted among faculty and second-year nursing students at a community college. Fifteen students, the nursing director, and two laboratory staff members were interviewed using open-ended questions. A focus group was conducted among nine nursing faculty members to determine whether student perceptions differed from faculty expectations.

Comments made by students and faculty were coded, counted, and rank ordered. Analysis of the coded responses led to five major themes: Student Recollections of CBI Are Time Bound, CBI Enhances Learning Under Certain Conditions, CBI Hinders Learning Under Certain Conditions, Effective Application of CBI Depends on a Variety of Conditions, and CBI Benefits Nursing Education in Certain Areas. Three conclusions emerged: CBI should be applied to appropriate content areas, CBI should make reasonable demands on students, and CBI should occur in an environment with minimal distractions.
Effects of a Web-Based Course on Nursing Skills and Knowledge Learning
Authors: Lu Der-Fa , Lin Zu-Chun , Li Yun-Ju
Published: April 2009

The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of supplementing traditional classroom teaching with Web-based learning design when teaching intramuscular injection nursing skills. Four clusters of nursing students at a junior college in eastern Taiwan were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. A total of 147 students (80 in the experimental group, 67 in the control group) completed the study. All participants received the same classroom lectures and skill demonstration. The experimental group interacted using a Web-based course and were able to view the content on demand. The students and instructor interacted via a chatroom, the bulletin board, and e-mail. Participants in the experimental group had significantly higher scores on both intramuscular injection knowledge and skill learning. A Web-based design can be an effective supplementing learning tool for teaching nursing knowledge and skills.
Faculty Achievement Tracking Tool
Authors: Pettus Sarah , Reifschneider Ellen , Burruss Nancy
Published: April 2009

Faculty development and scholarship is an expectation of nurse educators. Accrediting institutions, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, and the Higher Learning Commission, all have criteria regarding faculty achievement. A faculty achievement tracking tool (FATT) was developed to facilitate documentation of accreditation criteria attainment.

Based on criteria from accrediting organizations, the roles that are addressed include scholarship, service, and practice. Definitions and benchmarks for the faculty as an aggregate are included. Undergoing reviews from different accrediting organizations, the FATT has been used once for accreditation of the undergraduate program and once for accreditation of the graduate program. The FATT is easy to use and has become an excellent adjunct for the preparation for accreditation reports. In addition, the FATT may be used for yearly evaluations, advancement, and merit.
Faculty Retirement: Stemming the Tide
Authors: Foxall Martha , Megel Mary Erickson , Grigsby Karen , Billings Judith Sims
Published: April 2009

The shortage of nursing faculty is becoming a crisis in schools of nursing and is contributing to the shortage of qualified graduates to add to the nursing workforce. Aging and retirement of existing faculty contribute to the crisis. Creating retention initiatives may encourage faculty to postpone retirement. This article explored the conditions and situations which would entice faculty to continue working beyond their intended retirement date. Faculty identified workload and responsibilities, available resources, personal and professional characteristics, and work environment as areas that could be developed into incentives to remain in the faculty workforce.
Alliance for Clinical Education (ACE): Setting Community Standards Through Collaboration
Authors: Preheim Gayle , Bader-Kail Kathlynn , Miller Margaret (Peg) E. , Kelly Jana Fae Berryman , Lynch Rebekah S.
Published: April 2009

Today's clinical nursing education challenges center around managing complex issues related to clinical placements. The increased numbers and varying levels of nursing students, acuity and intensity of the clinical setting, and rise of regulatory and accrediting mandates provided impetus for the establishment of the Alliance for Clinical Education (ACE). This article describes community standards established by partnering educational programs and clinical agencies in the Denver, Colorado, and surrounding areas. ACE is successfully confronting the challenges of effectively using scarce clinical placements, validating student orientation mandates, and facilitating the availability and development of qualified clinical faculty. Examples of tools and resources created by ACE to provide uniformity in meeting mutual expectations and requirements are de scribed. The power of collaboration and sharing expertise is described by current initiatives, which reflect the ability to influence policy and shape community standards to support excellence in clinical nursing education.
The Importance of Nursing Research
Authors: Tingen Martha S. , Burnett Anna H. , Murchison Rachel B. , Zhu Haidong
Published: April 2009

Nursing research has a tremendous influence on current and future professional nursing practice, thus rendering it an essential component of the educational process. This article chronicles the learning experiences of two undergraduate nursing students who were provided with the opportunity to become team members in a study funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research. The application process, the various learning opportunities and responsibilities performed by the students, and the benefits and outcomes of the experience are described. The authors hope that by sharing their learning experiences, more students will be given similar opportunities using the strategies presented in this article. Nursing research is critical to the nursing profession and is necessary for con tinuing advancements that promote optimal nursing care.
Waardenburg Syndrome in Four Mexican Patients
Authors: Aguilar Caso Sandra I. , Nieva Gabriela Ortiz
Published: April 2009

Waardenburg syndrome is a hereditary auditory-pigmentary syndrome. The major features include pigmentary disturbances and congenital deafness. Clinical findings are extremely variable, not only at the authors' institution but also in the literature. The authors describe four patients who presented with various clinical features and different genetic pedigree penetration.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:120–122.]
Refractive Errors and Strabismus in Children With Down Syndrome: A Controlled Study
Authors: Akinci Arsen , Oner Ozgur , Bozkurt Ozlem Hekim , Guven Alev , Degerliyurt Aydan , Munir Kerim
Published: April 2009

Purpose:

To evaluate the prevalence of refractive errors, strabismus, nystagmus, and congenital cataract in children with Down syndrome and control subjects of similar age.

Methods:

Seventy-seven children with Down syndrome and 151 control subjects were evaluated for the prevalence of ocular findings.

Results:

Ocular findings were discovered in 97.4% of children with Down syndrome and 42.4% of control subjects (
P
< .0001). The point prevalence of nystagmus, strabismus, hypermetropia, astigmatism, and congenital cataract was significantly higher in children with Down syndrome (
P
< .0001 for the first four categories, and
P
< .01 for congenital cataract).

Conclusion:

Evaluation, treatment, and regular review of ocular and refractive findings in children with Down syndrome is urgently needed.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:83–86.]
Optic Canal Diameter in Infantile Osteopetrosis
Authors: Barry Gerard , Khachikian Steve , Beck Avi , Belden Clifford , Pearce Jennifer , Simon John W.
Published: April 2009

Infants with osteopetrosis may present early for ophthalmologic examination because of threatened visual impairment, primarily related to optic nerve compression. The authors describe two children with osteopetrosis who had narrow optic canals on orbital computed tomography. These canals were statistically narrower than those of newly developed, age-matched controls. Optic canal diameters, in addition to visual evoked potential data, may be helpful in determining prognosis.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:112–114.]
Ophthalmic Abnormalities in Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Creavin Alexandra L. , Brown Ray D.
Published: April 2009

A comprehensive review of the available literature was performed to determine the common ophthalmic disorders in children aged 0 to 16 years with Down syndrome. The UK National Library for Health interface was used to search seven electronic databases, including MEDLINE and EMBASE. Terms related to Down syndrome, ophthalmology, and pediatrics were combined in the search strategy, which yielded 230 articles. Application of exclusion criteria left 23 articles to include in the review. Literature synthesis demonstrated that children with Down syndrome are at risk for several ocular disorders. Refractive error was a common finding, particularly hyperopia. Strabismus was also reported regularly, particularly esodeviation. Other frequent findings included poor visual acuity, nystagmus, and blepharitis, whereas cataract and glaucoma were less common but had potentially serious implications for future vision. Only one study compared routine pediatric examination to that of a pediatric ophthalmologist. The findings of this review confirm the need for an ophthalmic screening program for children with Down syndrome. Additional work should investigate how such a program could be best implemented and ascertain how to involve different professionals in such a service.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:76–82.]