bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reported food intolerance and respiratory symptoms in young adults
Authors: Woods RK , Abramson M , Raven JM , Bailey M , Weiner JM , Walters EH
Published: February 2003

The aim of the study was to assess the ability of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire to provide data on the prevalence, type and reported symptoms associated with food intolerance from a group of young adults in Melbourne. Six hundred and sixty nine randomly selected subjects completed the questionnaire with 553 attending the laboratory for skin-prick tests, anthropometry, and ventilatory function tests. A further 207 symptomatic participants completed the questionnaire, with 204 of them attending the laboratory. Seventeen per cent of all respondents reported food intolerance or food allergy. A wide variety of food items was cited as being responsible for food-related illnesses. Those with current asthma did not report food-related illness more frequently than those without asthma. Respondents who reported respiratory symptoms following food ingestion were more likely to be atopic, to have used inhaled respiratory medications in the previous 12 months, reported less exposure to regular passive smoking over the past 12 months and weighed more. These associations between respiratory symptoms and food intolerance require further prospective investigation and verification. The importance of using appropriate dietary methodology in future studies for determining diet-disease relationships was highlighted by this study.
Airway dynamics, oesophageal pressure and cough
Authors: Lavietes MH , Smeltzer SC , Cook SD , Modak RM , Smaldone GC
Published: February 2003

This study hypothesizes that: peak supramaximal airflow during cough reflects expiratory muscle effort, and that expiratory muscle function during cough might be assessed from the airflow signal alone. We monitored airflow and oesophageal pressure (Poes) in normal subjects during cough generated under two conditions: 1) voluntarily from functional residual capacity (FRC); and 2) involuntarily after inhalation of citric acid (CA). Maximal expiratory cough flow was quantified as the quotient of maximal flow during a given cough divided by maximal flow at the matched volume of thoracic gas (Vtg) as identified on the maximal expiratory flow-volume curve. We found: flow ratios correlated poorly with Poes; the variance of flow ratios associated with a series of voluntary coughs was poorly explained by Poes. During CA inhalation, when the Vtg compressed during cough could not be controlled, correlation of Poes with flow ratio remained poor. We conclude that to study the motor limb of the cough reflex, measurements of both airflow and oesophageal pressure are required.
Radiographically occult lung cancer treated with fibreoptic bronchoscopic electrocautery: a pilot study of a simple and inexpensive technique
Authors: van Boxem TJ , Venmans BJ , Schramel FM , van Mourik JC , Golding RP , Postmus PE , Sutedja TG
Published: February 2003

The curative potential of bronchoscopic intervention, e.g. photodynamic therapy (PDT) and brachytherapy, for resectable radiographically occult lung cancer has been reported previously. Bronchoscopic electrocautery is currently feasible using an insulated flexible bronchoscope to coagulate and vaporize tumour tissue. Since the lesions are usually small, noninvasive bronchoscopic electrocautery may be able to eradicate radiographically occult lung cancer completely. In a prospective study, 13 patients with 15 radiographically occult lung cancer lesions were treated with bronchoscopic electrocautery. The duration of follow-up was > or = 16 months. The median age of the patients was 69 yrs (range 48-79 yrs). Fibreoptic bronchoscopy under local anaesthesia was used to coagulate the occult lung cancer. Approximately 30 W of energy was applied until visible necrosis of the tumour area became apparent. There were no immediate complications. In 10 patients with 12 lesions, a complete response (CR) was obtained (CR rate 80%; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 52-96%). Median duration of follow-up was 21 months (range 16-43 months). Bronchoscopic electrocautery did not obtain a CR in the remaining three patients, but PDT also failed to achieve CR. Two patients underwent radical resection, and the tumours were histologically confirmed to be more invasive. One patient received external radiotherapy. Three patients with a CR died during follow-up, two as a result of myocardial infarction and apoplexy, and one because of metastasis from his previously resected T3N1 primary large cell cancer. Current data show bronchoscopic electrocautery to be equally effective and potentially as curative as photodynamic therapy for treating patients with radiographically occult lung cancer. Obvious advantages are that it is an inexpensive and simple procedure, which does not cause photosensitivity.
Depressive reactions to lung cancer are common and often followed by a poor outcome
Authors: Buccheri G
Published: February 2003

In diverse human malignancies, including lung cancer, quality of life (QOL) affects the clinical outcome of patients. Many QOL dimensions, however, are influenced by physical status. The current study was undertaken to delineate the role of depression, a state of mind not necessarily influenced by somatic factors. All patients, seen for a newly diagnosed carcinoma of the lung, received a copy of the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) proposed by W.W.K. Zung. One hundred and thirty three patients were able and willing to complete the questionnaire. A depression index was calculated, as originally described. Nineteen other prognostically important variables were recorded and available for evaluation. Among the 95 patients who completed all 20 items included in the questionnaire, 53 had an SDS index < or = 50 (no depression), while 42 were moderately or severely depressed (SDS index >50). The survival of depressed patients was significantly lower (p=0.048). Diverse SDS subscales were associated with survival, in either univariate or multivariate analysis. SDS item 19, "I feel that others would be better off if I were dead", emerged as the most significant one. A multivariate model of survival, constructed using only SDS data, had a global Chi-squared value of 29.78, and a p-value of 0.00023. Based on this evidence, it appears that a relationship does exist between patients' depression and prognosis, at least in lung cancer. Further studies are needed to clarify the prognostic effect of depression in more specific (and homogeneous) subgroups of patients.
Accuracy of thermistors and thermocouples as flow-measuring devices for detecting hypopnoeas
Authors: Farre R , Montserrat JM , Rotger M , Ballester E , Navajas D
Published: February 2003

The aim of this work was to assess the accuracy of thermistors/thermocouples as devices for detecting hypopnoeas in sleep studies. Conventional thermistor/thermocouples were studied with a respiratory model allowing the simulation of inspiratory (22 degrees C) and expiratory (37 degrees C) flows. The thermistor signal (V'th) was compared with a pneumotachograph (V'th): 1) for sinusoidal and square-wave airflows (+/-0.05 to +/-0.8 L.s(-1), 10-20 breaths.min(-1) (bpm)); 2) when changing the distance from the thermistor to the nose (0-20 mm); and 3) when doubling the section of the nostrils. The thermistor was strongly nonlinear and flow reductions (hypopnoeas) were underestimated: a 50% reduction in V' (+/-0.5 L.s(-1), 15 bpm, sinusoidal) resulted in only an 18% reduction in V'th. V'th depended considerably on the airflow pattern: for V'=+/-0.5 L.s(-1), V'th increased by 100% from sinusoidal (20 bpm) to square-wave (10 bpm). For V'=+/-0.5 L.s(-1), 15 bpm, sinusoidal flow, V'th increased by 79% when the distance thermistor-nose varied from 20-0 mm, and V'th decreased by 37% when doubling the nose section. We concluded that thermistor/thermocouples are inaccurate flow-measuring devices when used at the airflow conditions typical of sleep studies. Their use for quantifying hypopnoeas may lead to considerable underdetection of these respiratory events.
Assessment of the lactate biosensor methodology
Authors: Detry B , Nullens W , Cao ML , Frans A , Robert A , Clerbaux T
Published: February 2003

The rapid determination of lactate level is useful for clinical emergencies, as in the case of shock conditions or during surgical operations, as well as in numerous cases of respiratory failure, in cardiac or paediatric pathology and during exercise tests. Moreover, it is of prognostic significance in critically ill patients. Photometric methods are slow and, even when performed in good conditions, will give results only 30 min after blood collection, during which time the clinical condition of the patient may change. In this study, we have assessed the lactate biosensor, a method that yields lactate measurements in less than 1 min with only 100 microL of biological fluid. In order to test the validity of this method, we performed comparisons between the Sigma classical enzymatic reference method and two commercially available biosensors: the Ciba-Corning biosensor 865 and the Yellow Springs lactate biosensor. Lactate measurements were performed in heparinized arterial blood samples without antiglycolitic agent (n=71). In order to cover a wide range of lactate levels, samples came from patients admitted to the intensive care unit for severe conditions and patients addressed for bicycle exercise testing. Each whole blood sample was processed in duplicate by both biosensors. For plasma measurement, subsamples of whole blood were centrifuged and the resulting plasma were processed by the biosensors and the Sigma method. Two parameters that can potentially influence lactate measurement were also investigated: haematocrit and total protein levels. The data showed that measurements performed on plasma are satisfactory for both biosensors. For whole blood, the Ciba-Corning device gives accurate results but the Yellow Springs apparatus seriously underestimates lactate levels. This underestimation is strongly influenced by the haematocrit level, so that a correction factor can be calculated (based on the haemoglobin level), which allows accurate "corrected" results to be obtained for whole blood with the Yellow Springs analyser.
Eleven peak flow meters: a clinical evaluation
Authors: Folgering H , vd Brink W , v Heeswijk O , v Herwaarden C
Published: February 2003

Peak flow meters are essential tools in the management of asthma. Many types are on the market. A computer-driven piston pump is normally not available for evaluation of the various meters. Comparison with values from a pneumotachograph is an accepted way of testing peak flow meters. This study aims at comparing 11 peak flow meters, for accuracy and linearity. Seven adult peak flow meters were tested: Miniwright with an equidistant scale (Clement Clarke); Personal Best (Healthscan); Wright Pocket fdE (Ferraris); Vitalograph (Vitalograph); Assess (Healthscan); Pocket Peak flow meter (Micro Medical); and Truzone (Monaghan). Furthermore, four low-range (LR) peak flow meters were tested: LR Miniwright with equidistant scale (Clement Clarke); LR Personal Best (Healthscan); LR Wright Pocket (LR Ferraris); and LR Pocket peak flow meter (LR Micro Medical). Two test series were performed: in the first one, a peak flow meter was connected downstream in series with a Fleisch #4 pneumotachograph. One subject performed 50 partial forced expiratory manoeuvres through this ensemble. In the second series, 50 adult patients and 25 healthy children performed sequential maximal forced expiratory manoeuvres on each peak flow meter, and on the pneumotachograph. A ranking system was devised for the various parameters of agreement of the meters with the pneumotachograph. Substantial differences in the quality of the adult meters were found. The adult peak flow meters with the closest agreement to the pneumotachograph were Personal Best and Micro Medical. In the low-range peak flow meters, the lowest differences were seen in the LR Personal Best and LR Micro Medical.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the thorax in the evaluation of asbestosis
Authors: Bekkelund SI , Aasebo U , Pierre-Jerome C , Holmboe J
Published: February 2003

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting subclinical morphological changes caused by asbestos exposure. Conventional chest radiographs according to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) categories 0-11 and spirometric data were compared with MRI in 17 men with mean (+/-2SD) asbestos exposure time of 24.6+/-13.0 yrs. Mean age was 62.0+/-9.4 yrs. The inclusion criterion was an ILO score of 2 or more. Electrocardiographic registrations and antirespiratory movement artefact techniques were used in all MRI examinations to avoid movement artefacts. Mean ILO grading was found to be 7.7+/-3.8 on chest radiography and 9.8+/-2.0 with MRI (p=0.01). Five patients had a higher ILO stage as evaluated by MRI, but in nine patients the staging remained unchanged. MRI revealed mediastinal adenopathy in four patients. Forced expiratory volume in one second (expressed as a percentage of the predicted value) was negatively correlated with ILO score as assessed by MRI (r=-0.4, p=0.032). Magnetic resonance imaging seems to be more sensitive than conventional radiographs in detecting subclinical fibrosis as well as the extent of pleural asbestosis.
Thoracoscopy--state of the art
Authors: Loddenkemper R
Published: February 2003

"Medical" thoracoscopy as compared with "surgical" thoracoscopy (which is more precisely known as video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)) has the advantage that it can be performed under local anaesthesia or conscious sedation, in an endoscopy suite, using nondisposible rigid instruments. Thus, it is considerably less invasive and less expensive. The main diagnostic and therapeutic indications for medical thoracoscopy are pleural effusions and pneumothorax. Due to its high diagnostic accuracy, approaching almost 100% in malignant and tuberculous pleural effusions, it should be used when pleural fluid analysis and needle biopsy are nondiagnostic. In addition, medical thoracoscopy provides staging for lung cancer and diffuse malignant mesothelioma. Talc poudrage, as the best conservative method for pleurodesis in 1998, can also be performed with medical thoracoscopy. It can also be effectively used in the early management of empyema. In spontaneous pneumothorax it allows staging, thereby facilitating treatment decisions, and in addition coagulation of eventual blebs and talc poudrage for efficient pleurodesis. Medical thoracoscopy is a safe procedure which is even easier to learn than flexible bronchoscopy. Due to its high diagnostic and therapeutic efficiency, it should be applied increasingly in the management of the above-mentioned pleuropulmonary diseases.
High-frequency ventilation augments the effect of inhaled nitric oxide in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
Authors: Hoehn T , Krause M , Hentschel R
Published: February 2003

Does inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) during high-frequency ventilation (HFV) lead to a more pronounced improvement in oxygenation than iNO during conventional ventilation? We report two cases of newborn infants with profound hypoxaemia, who did not respond with an increase in arterial oxygenation following iNO therapy during conventional mechanical ventilation. The first infant was a term neonate with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) following postnatal hypoxia, the second patient a premature infant of 29 weeks of gestation with PPHN secondary to lung hypoplasia and perinatal asphyxia. After the initial failure of iNO we switched both neonates to HFV without NO, which did not lead to a significant improvement of oxygenation in either case. Shortly after the initiation of HFV a second trial of iNO was started. Both infants responded favourably to iNO with a marked and sustained increase in arterial oxygenation and absent right-to-left shunting via the ductus arteriosus and the foramen ovale. We conclude that the favourable response to inhaled nitric oxide is dependent on the degree of lung expansion and is more readily achieved by the use of high-frequency ventilation than conventional ventilation.
Depression of phenytoin metabolic capacity by 5-fluorouracil and doxifluridine in rats
Authors: Konishi Hiroki , Yoshimoto Takashi , Morita Kunihiko , Minouchi Tokuzo , Sato Takashi , Yamaji Akira
Published: February 2003

It has been found in clinical practice that the serum level of phenytoin, of which metabolism is mediated by hepatic CYP2C enzymes, was markedly elevated by co-administration of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and doxifluridine (5′-deoxy-5-fluorouridine; 5′-DFUR), a prodrug of 5-FU, but the detailed mechanisms are unclear. A study using rats was undertaken to examine the effects of 5-FU and 5′-DFUR on phenytoin metabolism in hepatic microsomes and phenytoin pharmacokinetics in-vivo. Neither 5-FU nor 5′-DFUR exhibited direct inhibitory effects on hepatic microsomal phenytoin p-hydroxylation, a major metabolic route catalysed by CYP2C in rats, as in humans. 5-FU and 5′-DFUR were injected intraperitoneally into male rats as single doses (1.68 mmol kg−1) and repeated doses (0.24 mmol kg−1 for 7 days). Control rats received vehicle alone. A significant reduction in the activity of phenytoin p-hydroxylation was observed 4 days after the last administration irrespective of the agents and their treatment regimens, although the activity was unchanged on Day 1. Pharmacokinetic analysis of phenytoin revealed that the elimination rate constant and the total clearance was decreased by 70–75 % in both the 5′-DFUR-treated and 5-FU-treated rats, indicating that the decrease in the metabolic capacity of phenytoin was responsible for the change in phenytoin disposition in-vivo. On the other hand, 5-FU significantly depressed the total P450 content, NADPH cytochrome c reductase activity and activities of progesterone hydroxylations. However, the depressive effects of 5′-DFUR were not very potent relative to those of 5-FU, which can be explained by the fact that 5-FU is derived from 5′-DFUR to only a small extent. According to a recent report, phenytoin p-hydroxylation and progesterone 2α-/21-hydroxylations share common CYP2C enzymes as their catalysts. Because there was a difference in the modulation profiles between phenytoin p-hydroxylation and progesterone 2α-/21-hydroxylations after exposure to 5′-DFUR, 5′-DFUR might modulate phenytoin metabolism without loss of catalytic ability for other substrates, unlike 5-FU. The present study suggested that the down-regulation of hepatic CYP2C enzymes occurs by 5-FU exposure even at a low level, and provided a fundamental explanation for the drug interaction encountered in clinical practice.
Anti- and pro-oxidant activity of rutin and quercetin derivatives
Authors: Kessler Marc , Ubeaud Geneviève , Jung Louis
Published: February 2003

Some semi-synthetic flavonoids, particularly derivatives of rutin, are used as therapeutic agents in the treatment of diseases involving free radicals. Here, for the first time, a complete study has been made of the relationship between the structure of such molecules and their superoxide, hydroxyl and peroxyl radical scavenging activity. The molecules chosen for this study were rutin, its aglycone (quercetin), and their methyl ethyl and hydroxyl-ethyl derivatives. Our results are consistent with the general agreement on the structural requirements for free radical scavenging activity. Moreover, we have shown that alkylation of the hydroxyl in position 7 enhanced the scavenging, and also that in a Fenton reaction system, some quercetin derivatives with free catechol moiety or free hydroxyl in position 3 (or both) were pro-oxidant, through superoxide radical and hydrogen peroxide production. Although the structural features needed for pro-oxidant activity are not entirely clear, it appears that to avoid pro-oxidant behaviour, the hydroxyl group in position 3 should be blocked to prevent its auto-oxidation. Thus, flavonoids cannot only be considered purely as antioxidants, since under certain reaction conditions they can also display pro-oxidant activity. This unexpected behaviour could explain, in part, the observed toxicity of some flavonoids in-vivo.
Synthesis and biochemical evaluation of some novel benzoic acid based esters as potential inhibitors of oestrone sulphatase
Authors: Owen Caroline , James Karen , Sampson Luther , Ahmed Sabbir
Published: February 2003

Oestrone sulphatase is an important target in the fight against hormone-dependent breast cancer. In an effort to investigate the reported definitive pharmacophore for oestrone sulphatase and continue our search for potent inhibitors of this enzyme, we have undertaken extensive synthesis, biochemical evaluation and physicochemical property determination of a range of benzoic acid based esters. Here, we report the initial results of our study into a series of straight chain alkyl esters of 4-sulphonylbenzoic acid. Using these compounds, we have investigated the involvement of two physicochemical properties, namely logP and pKa. The results of this study show that there was a strong correlation between the inhibitory activity and the logP of the parent compound. Within the series of compounds studied, hydrophobicity appears to be a more important factor than pKa in determining the overall inhibitory activity. In a previous report, we showed that pKa plays an important role in stabilizing the phenoxide ion resulting from the hydrolysis of the sulphamate group. Here, we propose that although pKa is an important factor in determining the overall inhibitory activity when a wide range of compounds are considered, both hydrophobicity and pKa need to be considered in the design of potential inhibitors of oestrone sulphatase.
Iso-S-petasin, a hypotensive sesquiterpene from Petasites formosanus, depresses cardiac contraction and intracellular Ca2+ transients in adult rat ventricular myocytes
Authors: Esberg Lucy B , Wang Guei-Jane , Lin Yun-Lian , Ren Jun
Published: February 2003

Petasites formosanus is an indigenous species of the medicinal plant Petasites which has been used to treat hypertension. Both S-petasin and its isoform iso-S-petasin have been shown to be the effective ingredients in P. formosanus. However, their effect on heart function has not been revealed. This study was to examine the effect of iso-S-petasin on cardiac contractile function at the myocyte level. Ventricular myocytes were isolated from adult rat hearts and were stimulated to contract at 0.5 Hz under 1.0 mm extracellular Ca2+. Contractile properties were evaluated using an lonOptix MyoCam system including peak shortening (PS), time to PS (TPS), time to 90% re-lengthening (TR90) and maximal velocity of shortening/re-lengthening (±dL/dt). Intracellular Ca2+ properties were assessed by fura-2 and presented as Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) and intracellular Ca2+ decay. Acute application of iso-S-petasin (10−7 to 10−4 M) elicited a concentration-dependent inhibition in PS and CICR, with maximal inhibitions of 51.0% and 31.0%, respectively. iso-S-petasin also induced a concentration-dependent inhibition of ± dL/dt without affecting TPS, TR90, baseline intracellular Ca2+ level or intracellular Ca2+ decay. Elevation of extracellular Ca2+ from 1.0 mm to 2.7 mm significantly antagonized the iso-S-petasin-induced depression in PS and CICR. These results demonstrated a direct depressant action of iso-S-petasin on ventricular contraction, which may work in concert with its antihypertensive action to reduce the cardiac load. The iso-S-petasin-induced decrease in CICR may play a role in its cardiac depressant effect.
A cost- and time-effective hardware-in-the-loop simulation platform for automotive engine control systems
Authors: Lee W , Yoon M , Sunwoo M
Published: February 2003

A new PC-based hardware-in-the-loop simulation (HILS) platform is developed for designing an automotive engine control system. The HILS equipment consists of a widely used PC and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) I/O boards instead of a powerful computing system and custom-made I/O boards. These features make the HILS equipment more cost effective and flexible. The HILS uses an automatic code generation extension, REAL-TIME WORKSHOP® of the MATLAB® tool-chain, which is one of the standard tools for modelling and off-line simulation in the area of controller design. This helps the control system developers to handle the controlled-object model more easily and to test the control system more comfortably and time effectively. The mean value engine model, which is used in the control design phase, is imported in this HILS. The engine model is supplemented with some I/O subsystems and I/O boards to interface actual input and output signals in real time. The I/O subsystems are designed to synchronize the status of the engine model with the control system as well as to convert the raw data of the I/O boards to the appropriate forms for proper interfaces. To prove the feasibilities of the proposed environment, a pilot project for the development of an air-to-fuel ratio control system is carried out. The HILS environment is proved to be an efficient tool to develop various control functions and to validate the software and hardware of the engine control system.
Disc machine study of contact isolation during railway track sanding
Authors: Lewis R , Dwyer-Joyce R. S. , Lewis J
Published: February 2003

An experimental study has been carried out to investigate the effect of sanding on the electrical isolation of a wheel/rail contact. Sand is applied to the wheel/rail interface to increase adhesion in both braking and traction. Train detection, for signalling purposes, can be by means of track circuits. Signalling block occupancy is triggered by the wheelset of the train ‘shorting out’ the track circuit. Sand in the wheel/rail interface means that contact between the wheelsets and the track may be compromised, inhibiting train identification. Tests were performed on a twin-disc machine where rail and wheel steel discs are loaded together and driven under controlled conditions of rolling and slip. Sand was fed into the disc contact through a standard compressed air sanding valve. The electrical circuit used was a simplified simulation of the TI21 track circuit. The application of sand with and without water to the discs was carried out under a range of mild and severe test conditions. The results indicated that a transition exists in the sand flowrate below which there is a measurable, but not severe, change in voltage, but above which the contact conductance decreases by an order of magnitude and the voltage tends towards its open-circuit value. The total isolation time also showed a similar transition. Contact resistance was modelled assuming full disc separation by a sand layer and partial disc contact with some sand present. Traction was monitored during the tests. A wet contact showed approximately half the traction of a dry contact. The addition of sand increased the traction to levels observed in a dry contact. Idealizations inherent in the test method mean that it represents a severe case. The disc geometry is smaller than a wheel/rail contact and both are in rotational motion. The sand nozzle was placed closer to the interface, leading to greater sand entrainment and low inductance. A fast data acquisition rate made the test circuit more sensitive to small fluctuations in isolation than an actual track circuit. Given these limitations, it is likely that the test method, at its present stage of development, should be used as a means to assess qualitatively the relative effects on electrical isolation of different contaminants.
A three-dimensional model for the lateral and vertical dynamics of wagon-track systems
Authors: Sun Y. Q. , Dhanasekar M , Roach D
Published: February 2003

Lateral and vertical dynamics of the wagon and track affects the maintenance and safety of the heavy haul railway operation. With a view to understanding this aspect comprehensively, a three-dimensional wagon-track system dynamics (WTSD) model is developed and presented. The model consists of a full wagon with 37 degrees of freedom (DOF), a four-layer track with discretely supported rails and a wheel-rail interface representing Kalker's creep and Hertzian contact parameters. The model has been validated using two sets of field data: one dealing with vertical impact due to the flat wheel and the other dealing with lateral hunting. The effect of detailed track modelling on lateral hunting is discussed, and the capability of the three-dimensional WTSD model in predicting lateral impact is demonstrated.
Metacognitive knowledge about problem‐solving methods
Authors: Antonietti Alessandro , Ignazi Sabrina , Perego Patrizia
Published: February 2003

Background. The effective application of a problem‐solving method requires the knowledge of what task is relevant, what the abilities involved are and how much effort is needed. However, as yet too little is known about these metacognitive representations. Aim. This study was aimed at describing beliefs about problem‐solving methods and at assessing whether they vary according to the kind of method and of problem and are modified by psychological courses attended. Sample. Forty‐six Italian undergraduates in psychology and 37 in nonpsychological disciplines. Methods. Participants had to rate how frequently each of five problem‐solving methods (free production, analogy, step‐by‐step analysis, visualisation and combining) is employed and how effective and easy each one is to apply. Ratings were requested for interpersonal, practical and study problems. Participants were also asked to identify which abilities they thought would be involved in each method. Results. According to students’ ratings, the most frequently used problemsolving method was analogy, which was also considered the easiest method to apply, whereas step‐by‐step analysis and combining were considered the most difficult. Problem‐solving techniques were perceived as being relevant above all for practical problems, whereas they were conceived as less suitable for interpersonal problems. For study problems the most relevant strategy was step‐by‐step analysis. Students were aware of the abilities relevant to each problem‐solving method. Conclusions. Undergraduates both in psychology and non‐psychological disciplines can identify some critical features in the methods used to solve problems, even though some misconceptions emerged. Since metacognition plays a causal role in problem‐solving, trainers should take into account trainees’ folk representations of problem‐solving strategies.
An evaluation of the factor structure and predictive utility of a test anxiety scale with reference to students’ past performance and personality indices
Authors: McIlroy David
Published: February 2003

Background. Scales of test anxiety have developed in parallel with the evolution of the test anxiety construct. A recently refined version of the Revised Test Anxiety scale offers the prospect of independently assessing different test anxiety factors. Aims. The study aims to ascertain if the four‐factor structure of the RTA scale found in Egyptian and American samples can be replicated in an Irish sample, and to examine the comparative predictive utility of cognitive and emotionality factors in relation to examination performance. The study also examines whether results support an Interference or Deficits Model of test anxiety, and assesses the relationship of test anxiety to personality variables believed to be relevant to academic performance. Sample. The participants were 117 male and female psychology students from the University of Ulster. Their average age was 23 years. Method. Data were analysed using correlation analysis, multiple regression, factor analysis and ANOVA. Examination performance was the criterion variable; predictor variables were the four factors of test anxiety, three personality measures and previous examination performance. Results. Four‐factor test anxiety invariance across diverse populations is supported by the model in the analysis. Cognitive factors are significant negative predictors of performance. The data do not support either an Interference or Deficits Model of test anxiety, and personality factors, especially self‐efficacy, were significantly (negatively) related to test anxiety. Conclusions. The two cognitive factors have emerged as the most substantial negative predictors of examination performance. Attention to these factors and to relevant personality indices are commended as a potentially fruitful strategy for remedial intervention.
Effects of student teachers’ coping behaviour
Authors: Admiraal Wilfried F. , Korthagen Fred A.J. , Wubbels Theo
Published: February 2003

Background. When teachers employ ineffective ways of coping with stressful encounters with pupils, this may result in feelings of distress and diminished learning opportunities for pupils. In the case of beginning teachers, in particular, problematic classroom interactions cause feelings of distress and may result in dysfunctional teaching. Aim. This study examined the functional relationship between student teachers’ coping behaviour and the immediate outcomes resulting from stressful encounters in the classroom. Sample. About 300 responses related to problematic events were studied in a sample of 27 student teachers enrolled in a graduate teacher education programme. Method. We assessed the daily difficulties which the participants experienced in the classroom, the ways they coped with these events, and two immediate outcomes (the pupils’ time‐on‐task and the student teachers’ satisfaction with the outcome). Results. In situations where pupil misbehaviour had been appraised as problematic, student teachers demonstrated effective coping behaviour when they consistently raised tension in the interaction with their pupils, and varied the intensity of activities. As expected, the relation between coping behaviour and pupils’ time‐on‐task was less strong in other classroom events (e.g., instruction or classroom organisation). Conclusions. Student teachers have to be intrusive in order to change pupils’ misbehaviour and get them working. Inactive behaviour on the part of student teachers was found to be ineffective in changing pupil misbehaviour. However, we cannot conclude that a particular coping behaviour employed by student teachers is effective or dysfunctional in changing pupils’ time‐on‐task without examining long‐term outcomes as well.
Implicit and explicit dialogue structuring in virtual learning groups
Authors: Hron Aemilian , Hesse Friedrich W. , Cress Ulrike , Giovis Christos
Published: February 2003

Background. The promotion of virtual learning groups by instructional means is gaining importance with the spread of telematic learning. In virtual learning groups, students discuss certain learning materials or cooperate in problem solving by means of computer‐mediated communication. Due to the specific features of electronic communication, supportive means appear to be necessary for such learning situations. Aims. The investigation focuses on testing two different forms of dialogue structuring in virtual learning groups, in which students discuss a given subject matter together and clarify problems in understanding by means of synchronous computer‐mediated communication. Sample. Forty‐five students from various disciplines at the University of Tubingen, except students of physics, participated in the investigation. Method. An experiment was conducted involving three‐person groups in a telematic setting with two different kinds of dialogue structuring: implicit structuring induced group discussion on the subject matter by working on key questions in a preceding learning phase, whilst explicit structuring provided additional rules for discussion. These rules prompted group members to argue and aimed at directing them to equal participation. Results. Compared to a control group, both implicit and explicit structuring showed greater orientation on the subject matter and showed less off‐task talk. Moreover, explicit structuring led to more coherence in subject matter discussion with regard to the completion of topics. However, post‐test performance showed no significant difference in knowledge over that of the control group. Conclusion. The results of the investigation show that dialogue structuring can be an adequate pedagogical approach for virtual learning groups.
The role of repetition in the processes of memorising and understanding: A comparison of the views of German and Chinese secondary school students in Hong Kong
Authors: Dahlin Bo , Watkins David
Published: February 2003

Background. Previous research has found that students and teachers in countries of the Far East often see memorisation and understanding as working together to produce higher quality outcomes. In contrast, in the West it is more common to associate memorising with 'surface’ and understanding with ‘ deep’ approaches to learning. Aim. The main purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of the role of repetition in the processes of memorising and understanding among students with Western (German) and Asian (Chinese) backgrounds. In particular, we were interested in finding indications of possible cultural differences in the experiences of the two ethnic groups. Sample. The participants were 48 Chinese (HKC) and 18 German senior secondary school students in Hong Kong. Method. The study used a qualitative research approach. Data were gathered by semi‐structured in‐depth interviews. Interview transcripts were analysed in order to uncover, categorise and describe the variation of experiences and conceptions of the role of repetition. The two ethnic groups were then compared as to how many interviews were found in each category. Results. A similar proportion of both groups remembered being encouraged to recite by their parents, but the HKC students more often said they were made to recite by their primary teachers. While the HKC students focused on the value of the content of these early memories, the German students focused on the value of the activity itself. Moreover, while the German students tended to downplay the role of repetition in the process of understanding, the HKC students sometimes emphasised repetition combined with ‘ attentive effort’. By such effort they tried to discover new meanings in the materials studied, in order to deepen their understanding. Conclusion. While the findings of this study cannot be considered definitive, it suggested that the emphasis on attentive effort among HKC students is with a traditional, Confucian perspective on learning. The results indicate that ‘ the intention to both memorise and understand’, found in investigations of the study approaches of HKC students, may arise of being simultaneously aware of two possibilities inherent in repetition: a deep impression on the mind and discovering new meaning. Finally, is argued that the differences between the two ethnic groups are consistent earlier research findings that Chinese, unlike Western, students tend to effort attributions more salient than ability attributions.
Pupils’ causal attributions for difficult classroom behaviour
Authors: Miller Andy , Ferguson Eamonn , Byrne Irene
Published: February 2003

Background. Studies of causal attributions within educational contexts have tended to concentrate on academic performance. There have been a smaller number of investigations of teachers’ attributions for pupils’ behaviour in school. Aims. The present study examines the causal attribution made by pupils for difficult behaviour in classrooms. It reveals the structure of these attributions and serves as a comparison with the teacher studies. Sample. The participants were 105 pupils (52 males and 53 females) in the first year of secondary schooling, all drawn from the same inner city school. Method. Four initial small group interviews were used to identify a wide range of factors that pupils viewed as being causes of difficult classroom behaviour in the 18 primary schools they had previously attended. A questionnaire was then constructed incorporating items from these discussions and administered to the whole of the year group of pupils, but omitting the participants in the initial group discussions. Results. The results of a factor analysis indicated that pupils’ attributions for misbehaviour at school were best represented by four factors: (1) ‘ fairness of teacher's actions’, (2) ‘ pupil vulnerability’, (3) ‘ adverse family circumstances’ and (4) 'strictness of classroom regime’. While there were no gender differences, pupils saw the ‘ fairness of teacher's actions’ and ‘ pupil vulnerability’ as more significant contributors to pupil misbehaviour than either ‘ adverse family circumstances’ or 'strictness of classroom regime’. Conclusion. The attributions by pupils for difficult classroom behaviour differ markedly from those obtained in studies of teachers. Policy and practice initiatives which do not attend to conflicting attributional styles are unlikely to succeed in improving levels of pupil behaviour in schools.
The maintenance of cooperative and helping behaviours in cooperative groups
Authors: Gillies Robyn M.
Published: February 2003

Background. This study was a full‐year investigation of whether children, who had previously been trained to cooperate and help each other, were able to use these behaviours in reconstituted groups without additional training one year later. Aims. (i) To examine whether children who have previously been trained to cooperate demonstrate more cooperative and helping behaviours in their groups than children who had not been trained and (ii) to determine the effect of prior training on children's learning. Sample. The study involved 144 Grade 2 children (mean age = 94.5 months; third year of schooling), from nine schools in a similar socio‐demographic area of Brisbane, Australia. Sixty‐four children, who had been trained in cooperative group behaviours in the previous year, were assigned to the Trained groups and 80 children, who had not received any training, were assigned to the Untrained groups. Method. The children worked in four‐person, mixed‐ability (high‐, medium‐, and low‐ability), gender‐balanced groups (2 males, 2 females) for one six‐week social studies unit of work each term for three school terms. Videotaping occurred in the 5‐6 week of each work unit. Videotapes were coded for behaviour and verbal interactions. Learning outcomes data were also collected. Results. The children in the trained groups exhibited more cooperative behaviour and they provided more explanations, both in response to explicit and implicit requests for help across the three periods of time. The children in the trained groups used higher level cognitive strategies such as providing specific concrete facts and reasons in their interactions and they also obtained higher scores on the learning outcomes questionnaire than their untrained peers. Conclusion. Young children who have been trained to cooperate and help each other are able to demonstrate these behaviours in reconstituted groups without additional training a year later.
Non‐formal learning and tacit knowledge in professional work
Authors: Eraut Michael
Published: February 2003

Background. This paper explores the conceptual and methodological problems arising from several empirical investigations of professional education and learning in the workplace. Aims. 1. To clarify the multiple meanings accorded to terms such as ‘ non‐formal learning’, ‘ implicit learning’ and ‘ tacit knowledge’, their theoretical assumptions and the range of phenomena to which they refer. 2. To discuss their implications for professional practice. Method. A largely theoretical analysis of issues and phenomena arising from empirical investigations. Analysis. The author's typology of non‐formal learning distinguishes between implicit learning, reactive on‐the‐spot learning and deliberative learning. The significance of the last is commonly overemphasised. The problematic nature of tacit knowledge is discussed with respect to both detecting it and representing it. Three types of tacit knowledge are discussed: tacit understanding of people and situations, routinised actions and the tacit rules that underpin intuitive decision‐making. They come together when professional performance involves sequences of routinised action punctuated by rapid intuitive decisions based on tacit understanding of the situation. Four types of process are involved‐reading the situation, making decisions, overt activity and metacognition‐and three modes of cognition‐intuitive, analytic and deliberative. The balance between these modes depends on time, experience and complexity. Where rapid action dominates, periods of deliberation are needed to maintain critical control. Finally the role of both formal and informal social knowledge is discussed; and it is argued that situated learning often leads not to local conformity but to greater individual variation as people's careers take them through a series of different contexts. This abstract necessarily simplifies a more complex analysis in the paper itself.
Variation in contrasting forms of ‘ memorising’ and associated observables
Authors: Meyer J. H. F.
Published: February 2003

Background. There is a posited conceptual distinction in the student learning literature in higher education between contrasting forms of ‘ memorising’: as a process of rehearsal which is usually equated with rote learning, and as a process of committing to memory material that in two separate senses is temporally either ‘ understood’ before or after the event. Aims. The present study reports on the operationalisation of these contrasting forms of ‘ memorising’ and investigates their empirical association with one another, their gender sensitivity, and their joint association with other modelling sources of explanatory variation in student learning. Samples. Two samples of entering first‐year economics students at the Universities of South Australia (N = 896) and Adelaide (N = 448) which are combined in the present study (N = 1344). The combined sample is further distinguishable by gender (females, N = 662, males, N = 682). Method. Students were surveyed prior to the commencement of lectures and reported retrospectively on their most recent school‐based learning experiences. Resultant data in the form of inventory responses were subjected to exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, multivariate analysis of variance, and correlation analysis. Results. Empirically the three forms of ‘ memorising’ are independent of one another and they are furthermore sensitive to gender‐based response differences in terms of both location and structure. Forms of ‘ memorising’ are respectively associated in a theoretically congruent manner with ‘ deep'level processes, learning pathologies, and contrasting conceptions of learning. Conclusions. The unqualified use of ‘ memorising’ in studies of student learning is contra indicated. Contrasting forms of ‘ memorising’ represent discrete sources of explanatory variation that can be used to construct finer grained models of student learning in process terms.