bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cox‐2 Inhibitor Attenuates NO‐Induced nNOS in Rat Caudal Trigeminal Nucleus
Authors: Varga Hedvig , Pardutz Arpad , Vamos Eniko , Plangar Imola , Egyud Eszter , Tajti Janos , Bari Ferenc , Vecsei Laszlo
Published: February 2007

Objective.—The aim of the present study was to determine which isoform of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme plays a role in the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) activation caused by nitroglycerin (NTG), in the most caudal part of the trigeminal caudal nucleus (TNC) of the rat.

Background.—Nitric oxide donor, NTG, can trigger migraine attack in migraineurs, but not in healthy persons. In rats, subcutaneous administration of NTG (10 mg/kg) increases significantly the number of nNOS‐immunoreactive neurons in the TNC after 4 hours, which could be attenuated by acetyl‐salicylate (Aspirin), a nonselective COX‐inhibitor.

Methods.—SPRD rats were divided into 3 groups: (1) control group (no drug administration), (2) NS398 (selective COX‐2 inhibitor) administration (1, 3, or 5 mg/kg), and (3) SC560 (selective COX‐1 inhibitor) administration (1, 5, or 10 mg/kg). Thirty minutes after drug administration, the animals received NTG (10 mg/kg) or placebo injection. Four hours later the animals were transcardially perfused and the cervical part of the TNC was removed for immunohistochemistry.

Results.—The selective COX‐2 inhibitor NS398 in contrast to the selective COX‐1 inhibitor SC560 attenuates the NTG‐induced nNOS expression dose‐dependently.

Conclusion.—These findings suggest that metabolites deriving from COX‐2 (but not COX‐1) may be the most important factors in the NTG‐induced nNOS expression. These data could help to better understand the pathogenesis of headaches and the action of antimigraine drugs.
Repeated Intracarotid Amobarbital Tests
Authors: Loddenkemper Tobias , Morris Harold H. , Lineweaver Tara T. , Kellinghaus Christoph
Published: February 2007

Summary:  Rationale: Our goal was to determine the frequency of repeated intracarotid amobarbital test (IAT) at our center and to estimate the retest reliability of the IAT for both language and memory lateralization.

Methods: A total of 1,249 consecutive IATs on 1,190 patients were retrospectively reviewed for repeat tests.

Results: In 4% of patients the IAT was repeated in order to deliver satisfactory information on either language or memory lateralization. Reasons for repetition included obtundation and inability to test for memory lateralization, inability to test for language lateralization, no hemiparesis during first test, no aphasia during first test, atypical vessel filling, and bleeding complications from the catheter insertion site. Language lateralization was reproduced in all but one patient. Repeated memory test results were less consistent across tests, and memory lateralization was unreliable in 63% of the patients.

Discussion: In spite of test limitations by a varying dose of amobarbital, crossover of amobarbital from one side to the other, testing of both hemispheres on the same day, practice effects, unblinded observers, fluctuating cooperation of the patients, and a biased sample of patients language lateralization was reproduced in all but one patient. In contrast, repeated memory test results were frequently contradictory. Memory results on IAT therefore seem much less robust than the results of language testing. Gain of reliable information versus the risks of complications and failed tests has to be considered when a patient is subjected to an IAT.
Pharmacokinetics and Drug Interactions with Zonisamide
Authors: Sills Graeme J. , Brodie Martin J.
Published: February 2007

Summary:  Polypharmacy is a widely employed treatment strategy in epilepsy, particularly for individuals with poorly controlled seizures. Drug combinations should be carefully considered to minimize the potential for unfavorable interactions. Older‐generation antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are well known for their pharmacokinetic interaction potential, which generally results from alterations in the metabolism of concomitant drugs due to effects on the cytochrome P450 (CYP) and uridine glucuronyl transferase enzyme systems. Newer agents, such as zonisamide, are less likely to cause adverse drug interactions. A series of interaction studies has revealed zonisamide to be without effect on the steady‐state pharmacokinetics of carbamazepine, phenytoin, sodium valproate, or lamotrigine. However, zonisamide is principally inactivated by CYP3A4‐dependent reduction. Consequently, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and phenobarbital all increase its clearance, an interaction that may necessitate a dosage increase, but which will also permit more rapid attainment of steady‐state zonisamide concentrations. Otherwise, zonisamide is essentially devoid of clinically significant interactions with other AEDs, oral contraceptives and, indeed, all other classes of therapeutic agents investigated to date. As a result, it is reasonable to conclude that zonisamide has a favorable pharmacokinetic profile and that it may be a useful and uncomplicated agent when employed as adjunctive therapy in refractory epilepsy.
Eslicarbazepine Acetate: A Double‐blind, Add‐on, Placebo‐controlled Exploratory Trial in Adult Patients with Partial‐onset Seizures
Authors: Elger Christian , Bialer Meir , Cramer Joyce A. , Maia Joana , Almeida Luis , Soares‐da‐Silva Patrício
Published: February 2007

Summary:  Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of eslicarbazepine acetate (BIA 2‐093), a new antiepileptic drug, as adjunctive therapy in adult patients with partial epilepsy.

Methods: A multicenter, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study was conducted in 143 refractory patients aged 18–65 years with ≥4 partial‐onset seizures/month. The study consisted of a 12‐week treatment period followed by a 1‐week tapering off. Patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: treatment with eslicarbazepine acetate once daily (QD, n = 50), twice daily (BID, n = 46), or placebo (PL, n = 47). The daily dose was titrated from 400 mg to 800 mg and to 1,200 mg at 4‐week intervals. The proportion of responders (patients with a ≥50% seizure reduction) was the primary end point.

Results: The percentage of responders versus baseline showed a statistically significant difference between QD and PL groups (54% vs. 28%; 90% CI =–∞, –14; p = 0.008). The difference between the BID (41%) and PL did not reach statistical significance (90% CI =–∞, –1; p = 0.12). A significantly higher proportion of responders in weeks 5–8 was found in the QD group than in the BID group (58% vs. 33%, respectively, p = 0.022). At the end of the 12‐week treatment, the number of seizure‐free patients in the QD and BID groups was 24%, which was significantly different from the PL group. The incidence of adverse events was similar between the treatment groups and no drug‐related serious adverse events occurred.

Conclusion: Eslicarbazepine acetate was efficacious and well tolerated as an adjunctive therapy of refractory epileptic patients.
An Update on Determination of Language Dominance in Screening for Epilepsy Surgery: The Wada Test and Newer Noninvasive Alternatives
Authors: Abou‐Khalil Bassel
Published: February 2007

Summary:  The intracarotid amobarbital procedure or Wada test has been the gold standard for lateralization of language dominance before epilepsy surgery. It is based on deactivation of language cortex with intracarotid anesthesia. However, it is an invasive test with risks and discomforts, and it also has limitations. There has been great interest in replacing the Wada test with a noninvasive procedure. One alternative, repetitive magnetic stimulation works by deactivating language cortex, but most other promising alternatives are based on brain activation. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), 15O‐water positron emission tomography, single photon emission computerized tomography, transcranial Doppler, and near infrared spectroscopy detect hemodynamic responses to language cortex activation, while magnetoencephalography more directly measures event‐related physiological activation. Some of the techniques also provide localization of language functions, whereas the Wada test is strictly a lateralization method. Based on widespread availability, fMRI will likely be the most widely used alternative.
WatershedCounting3D: A New Method for Segmenting and Counting Punctate Structures from Confocal Image Data
Authors: Gniadek Thomas J. , Warren Graham
Published: February 2007

Current research in cell biology frequently uses light microscopy to study intracellular organelles. To segment and count organelles, most investigators have used a global thresholding method, which relies on homogeneous background intensity values within a cell. Because this is not always the case, we developed WatershedCounting3D, a program that uses a modified watershed algorithm to more accurately identify intracellular structures from confocal image data, even in the presence of an inhomogeneous background. We give examples of segmenting and counting endoplasmic reticulum exit sites and the Golgi apparatus.
Role of an Acidic Cluster/Dileucine Motif in Cation‐Independent Mannose 6‐Phosphate Receptor Traffic
Authors: Tortorella Lori L. , Schapiro Florencia B. , Maxfield Frederick R.
Published: February 2007

The endocytic trafficking of the cation‐independent mannose 6‐phosphate receptor (CI‐MPR) involves multiple sorting steps. A cluster of acidic amino acids followed by a dileucine motif in the cytoplasmic tail has been proposed to mediate receptor sorting from the trans Golgi network (TGN) to late endosomes. Mutations in this motif impair lysosomal enzyme sorting by preventing association of CI‐MPR with coat proteins. The role of the acidic cluster/dileucine motif in the post‐endocytic transport of the receptor was examined using the CI‐MPR mutants, AC01 and D160E (Chen HJ, Yuan J, Lobel P. J Biol Chem 1997;272:7003–7012). Following internalization, wild type (WT) CI‐MPR is transported through sorting endosomes into the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC), after which it traffics to the TGN and other organelles. However, the mutants localize mostly to the ERC and only a small portion reaches the TGN, suggesting that the sorting of the CI‐MPR mutants from the ERC into the TGN is severely impaired. We observed no defect in receptor internalization or in the rate of tail mutant recycling to the cell surface compared to the WT. These results demonstrate that the acidic cluster/dileucine motif of CI‐MPR is critical for receptor sorting at early stages of intracellular transport following endocytosis.
Skin Integrity in the Pediatric Population: Preventing and Managing Pressure Ulcers
Authors: Quigley Sandy M. , Curley Martha A. Q.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To summarize clinical and empirical knowledge about pressure ulcers in infants and children and to describe an approach developed at Children's Hospital, Boston, to prevent and manage pressure ulcers

population. Acutely ill children with potential or actual alteration in skin integrity due to pressure ulcers

conclusions. The three‐pronged approach for pressure ulcer prevention and management developed by the Skin Care Task Force at the Children's Hospital, Boston, decreases unnecessary variation in practice surrounding the prevention and care of pressure ulcers in acutely ill children.

practice implications. The Skin Care Task Force recommends use of the Braden Q for pediatric risk assessment, a skin care algorithm for prevention of pressure ulcers, and a pressure ulcer algorithm for staging and managing pressure ulcers.
Breastfeeding Among Black Mothers: Evidence Supporting the Need for Prenatal Intervention
Authors: Timbo Babgaleh , Altekruse Sean , Headrick Marcia , Klontz Karl
Published: February 2007

purpose. To identify factors that might be targeted for intervention to increase breastfeeding among black mothers

design. Secondary analysis of the 1988 National Maternal Infant Health Survey

participants. Black mothers (N = 5,142) from a nationally representative sample of mothers who had births in 1988

main outcome measures. Breastfeeding rates

results. Factors associated with breastfeeding included a mother's plan to breastfeed; Women, Infants and Children (WIC) advice, or advice from a prenatal‐care provider on breastfeeding; and discussion of breastfeeding practices at prenatal birth classes.

conclusions. The results suggest that the prenatal period may be a critical time to influence a prospective black mother's decision to breastfeed her infant.
An Introduction to Pediatric Home Health Care
Authors: Madigan Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To provide an overview of the delivery of home health care services to pediatric patients

population. All pediatric patients

conclusions. Institution‐based nurses are integral in making referrals for home health care services and assuring home health care agencies have the needed information for providing seamless services.

practice implications. Institution‐based nurses are the first line in the transition to home and are key members in making the transition happen without unnecessary difficulty for the child and family. This article presents pragmatic information about home health care agencies and how they operate so that institution‐based nurses can maximize the benefit their pediatric patients receive from home health care.
Parental Consent for Bone Marrow Transplantation in the Case of Genetic Disorders
Authors: Prows Cynthia A. , McCain Gail C.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To describe the responses of mothers and fathers who were offered bone marrow transplantation (BMT) for their children with genetic disorders

design. Qualitative

setting. Private hospital rooms/offices

participants. Six mothers and 4 fathers of children with genetic disorders

results. The basic social‐psychological problem confronting the parents was the conflicting alternatives of life versus death for their children. It was certain that these children would die from their genetic disorders but without having to endure the pain and suffering of a BMT. The BMT would be difficult, possibly resulting in death, but with a chance of survival.

conclusions. Parents believed that BMT was the only chance of survival for their children, leaving them no choice except to pursue the BMT treatment
Standards to Prevent Complications of Urinary Catheterization in Children: Should and Should‐Knots
Authors: Carlson Doris , Mowery Bernice D.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To share standards for urinary, catheterization developed at Children's Hospital, Washington, DC, to prevent complications from using feeding tubes, inserting intermittent catheters too far into the bladder, or not inserting Foley catheters far enough into the bladder.

population. Infants and children requiring urinary catheterization.

conclusions. Using appropriate length urinary catheters and/or inserting catheterizing devices appropriate lengths based on sex, age, and purpose will help prevent knotting of catheters in the bladder and urethral trauma.

practice implications. Short urinary catheters should be used for intermittent urinary catheterization. If these are not available, standards for length of insertion of the catheterizing device should be followed. To prevent urethral trauma, Foley catheters should be inserted to the hub before inflation of the balloon.
Cultural Influences on the Sexual Attitudes, Beliefs, and Norms of Young Latina Adolescents
Authors: Villarruel Antonia M.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To describe the influence of cultural values familialism, gender‐role expectations, and religion on sexual attitudes, beliefs, and norms of young Latina adolescents.

design. Ethnography, focus group interviews. Setting. Community‐based agencies in two urban cities.

participants. Puerto Rican and Mexican‐American adolescents (10–15 years) and their mothers.

main outcome measures. Ethnographic interview guide.

results. The importance of family and the role of the extended network, dimensions of familialism, were evident in such patterns as respect for self and family, protection of self, child, and family. The protectiveness of families toward girls, gender differences in rules, value of virginity, and the importance of having a family, were findings consistent with Latino gender roles. However, there were also some important deviations from these roles. For example, virginity, although important, was not associated with religious doctrine or practice. The necessity of preventing pregnancy was also considered important.

conclusions. Latino cultural values need to be incorporated in primary and secondary prevention efforts to decrease the risks associated with early and unprotected sexual activity.
Perceived Needs of Parents of Critically Ill Children
Authors: Scott Linda D.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To identify the needs of parents of critically ill hospitalized children as perceived by the parents and critical care nurses, and to identify any differences between the two groups.

design. Descriptive, comparative.

setting. Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in a Midwestern hospital.

participants. A nonprobability convenience sample of parents or primary caregivers of critically ill children (n = 21) and pediatric critical care nurses (n = 17).

outcome measures. Critical Care Family Needs Inventory modified for pediatrics and demographic questionnaires.

results. Information, assurance, and proximity to the critically ill child were identified as priority needs of the PCGs in this study. Significant differences on specific needs were identified between PCG/nurse matched pairs; however, no significant differences were found in total scores between the two groups by a two‐tailed paired t test.

conclusions. This study supports the need to investigate interventions to better address parental needs of critically ill children. By consistent identification, prioritization, and incorporation of parental needs into the plan of care, nurses can assist the parents in the recognition and fulfillment of needs that have less perceived importance. Research‐based interventions will facilitate improved parental adaptation to their child's critical hospitalization.
Prescriptive Theory of Acute Pain Management in Infants and Children
Authors: Huth Myra Martz , Moore Shirley M.
Published: February 2007

Purpose. To present a middle‐range nursing theory of acute pain management that provides direction for practice and research.

CLIENT POPULATION. Patients from 6 months to 12 years old who have acute pain.

CONCLUSIONS. The potential of the proposed theory, Acute Pain Management in Infants and Children, is to assist nurses in managing clinical pain and to expand the knowledge and research base in children's pain.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. To provide clinicians with prescriptions for pain reduction and a conceptual basis for pain interventions. Statement and theory testing are needed to determine adequacy of this theory for infants and children experiencing acute pain.
Getting Nursing Research Going in a Community Hospital With Limited Resources
Authors: Smith Andrea B. , Curley Martha A. Q.
Published: February 2007

Role Play is an issues‐related forum to engender dialogue about the roles assumed by nurses who care for children and their families. This issue's column focuses on the nurse researcher role.
Parents' Reports of “Tricks of the Trade” for Managing Childhood Chronic Illness
Authors: Gallo Agatha M. , Knafl Kathleen A.
Published: February 2007

purpose. To examine how parents respond to and manage the challenges of childhood chronic illness.

design. Qualitative, comparative, secondary analysis.

participants. Fifty‐eight families (55 mothers, 44 fathers) with a school‐age child (6‐15 years old) with a chronic illness.

results. Three approaches to illness management were identified: strict adherence, flexible adherence, and selective adherence. These approaches varied in the extent to which parents developed and relied on target management behaviors that concurred with or deviated from the treatment plan prescribed by healthcare providers.

conclusions. The three management approaches contribute to understanding the processes associated with differing interactions between healthcare professionals and parents when a child has a chronic illness.
Children and Violence
Authors: Kelley Barbara , Beauchesne Michelle , Froese‐Fretz Ann , Kelley Barbara , Beauchesne Michelle
Published: February 2007

Ask the Expert provides answers to clinical questions for nurses in practice settings. Where possible, evidence from research is used to support the experts' recommendations.
Nebraska School Nurses Identify Emotional Maltreatment of School‐Age Children: A Replication of an Ohio Study
Authors: Pakieser Ruth A. , Starr Debra K. , LeBaugh Denise
Published: February 2007

Purpose. To determine how often school nurses identify emotional maltreatment using validated vignettes.

DESIGN. Survey, with 16 behavior vignettes, mailed to 550 Nebraska school nurses. Four forms represented nonwhite and white, male and female children. Demographic questionnaire included.

SETTING. Survey mailed with regular spring school nurses' newsletter.

PARTICIPANTS. One hundred twenty‐one school nurses completed and returned surveys.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES. Each vignette was an example of emotional abuse; subjects indicated “refer” or “not refer” decisions about the vignette. All items were positive for emotional abuse.

RESULTS. Sixty‐four of 121 (53%) respondents correctly identified 13 or more vignettes as referable for emotional maltreatment. No influence of child gender and race on reporting decision. No nurse characteristics correlated with referral rates.

CONCLUSIONS. None of the variables studied significantly influenced school nurses' identification of emotional abuse. Further research is needed to ascertain correlation between text vignettes and reporting, and to identify interventions to increase the rate of identifying emotional abuse.
Examination of Gavage Tube Placement in Children
Authors: Ellett Marsha L. Cirgin , Beckstrand Jan
Published: February 2007

issues and purpose. A primary issue in ensuring safe and effective enteral feeding by tube is achieving and maintaining correct tube position. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of tube placement errors, risk factors associated with these errors, and accuracy of commonly used bedside placement‐screening methods.

design and methods. In this descriptive study, 39 hospitalized children having one or more types of enteral tubes were studied prospectively. Tube placement was assessed across time, using three common placement‐screening methods compared to radiographs.

results. Tube placement error occurred in 43.5% of tubes at least once during the observation period. Children who were comatose or semicomatose, were inactive, had swallowing problems, or had Argyle tubes were more likely to have tube placement errors.

practice implications. Findings suggest that radiographs to document tube placement may be needed, at least on initial enteral tube insertion.
Face to Face With Sturge‐Weber Syndrome
Authors: Walker Mary B. , Hilbert Gail A. , Rinehart Joan
Published: February 2007

issues and purpose. Chronic illness is a way of life for parents of children with Sturge‐Weber syndrome (SWS), a rare progressive congenital disease that has as its defining feature a port wine stain. This case study describes the experience of one family living with a child with SWS.

conclusions. This family's struggle with a devastating syndrome and the ways in which they coped and maintained hope inform all those who care for families living with a chronically ill, disabled child.

practice implications. Social support is critical for families facing overwhelming care needs. Families also need anticipatory guidance about child rearing, developmental milestones, decision making, and coping strategies. Additionally, families may need help in mobilizing professional and family resources and in effectively using available services.
Parent Behavior and Child Distress During Urethral Catheterization
Authors: Kleiber Charmaine , McCarthy Ann Marie
Published: February 2007

issues and purpose. Researchers need a clear understanding of the natural behaviors parents use to help their children cope. This study describes the relationships between naturally occurring parent behaviors and child distress behaviors during urethral catheterization.

design and methods. In this descriptive study, researchers videotaped the behaviors of parent‐child interactions during urethral catheterization.

results. Parents used distraction to maintain calm behavior during the first part of the procedure and used more reassurance when the children started to become distressed. Seven of the nine children displayed calm behavior at least half the time following distraction. Parental reassurance did not decrease distress behavior in most children.

practice implications. Early implementation of developmentally appropriate nursing interventions to decrease child distress is imperative. Parents may need specific instruction and practice to continue the use of distraction throughout procedures, even when the child is upset.
The Misunderstood Child: The Child With a Nonverbal Learning Disorder
Authors: Little Liza
Published: February 2007

issues and purpose. To introduce nurses to the characteristics of nonverbal learning disorders (NLD) and their psychosocial trajectory in children. Despite the prevalence of learning disorders in children, few nursing professionals are familiar with NLD and their manifestations.

conclusions. The child with NLD faces unique challenges in the social, academic, visual‐spatial, motoric, and emotional spheres.

practice implications. Nurses can play a vital role in the identification, education, and provision of resources for these children.
Risky Sexual Behavior Among Adolescent Women
Authors: Taylor‐Seehafer Margaret , Rew Lynn
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. To review the epidemiology and etiology of risky sexual behavior in adolescent women, and to discuss implications for primary prevention.

CONCLUSION. Adolescent women who participate in risky sexual behavior are at risk for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Black, Hispanic, and out‐of‐home adolescent women, however, are at greatest risk. Factors contributing to risky sexual behavior include early initiation of sexual intercourse, inconsistent use of condoms and other barrier contraception, and unprotected sexual intercourse. Identified protective factors for early initiation of sexual activity include the development of healthy sexuality, family and school connectedness, and the presence of caring adults.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Effective clinical interventions target high‐risk adolescent women; incorporate environmental and cognitive‐behavioral components; use social learning theories; address differences in regards to culture, developmental stage, and sexual experience; and support family and school involvement.
Review of Research Studies That Evaluated the Impact of Treatment for Childhood Cancers on Neurocognition and Behavioral and Social Competence: Nursing Implications
Authors: Challinor Julia , Miaskowski Christine , Moore Ida , Slaughter Robert , Franck Linda
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Given the increasing incidence of childhood cancer, increasing survivor rates, and documented incidence of sequelae, nurses need evidence on which to base interventions for families at risk. The authors review and critique research studies that evaluated the impact of treatment for childhood cancers. Implications for nursing practice are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS. Research to evaluate the effects of treatment on neurocognition and behavioral and social competency of children with cancer has produced conflicting results. Most studies found deleterious effects on all three areas associated with childhood cancer treatment. Some studies, however, found no differences between childhood cancer survivors and children on therapy compared to normative data or healthy controls.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Knowledge of the short‐and long‐term impact of treatment for childhood cancer on neurocognition and behavioral and social competence allows nurses to design interventions that mitigate neurocognitive effects, decrease behavioral problems, and improve social competence.
Without Parental Consent: Conducting Research With Homeless Adolescents
Authors: Rew Lynn , Taylor‐Seehafer Margaret , Thomas Nancy
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. To identify the ethical and legal implications of conducting research with homeless adolescents and to discuss guidelines for conducting research without parental consent.

CONCLUSIONS. Ethical principles of capacity, risk, postponement, and truthful disclosure within the context of the rights of minors to consent to healthcare treatment form the basis of the argument for allowing adolescents to consent to participate in research without parental consent when there is minimal risk or when such consent could place them at increased risk for harm.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Adolescents who are the target population for clinical research or who are intended recipients of nursing care should be involved in setting priorities, purposes, and protocols. Parents and other adults from their communities should be included in developing strategies to protect their confidentiality and privacy while helping them achieve autonomy in making informed health‐related decisions.
Insights on Immunizations From Caregivers of Children Receiving Medicaid‐Funded Services
Authors: Evers Deborah B.
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Despite numerous programs aimed at improving immunization rates among American children, under‐immunization remains a significant problem. This study was conducted to gain insight into parents' /guardians' knowledge and attitudes regarding childhood immunizations.

DESIGN AND METHODS. Thirteen African‐American mothers and grandmothers participated in semistructured, audiotaped focus‐group interviews.

RESULTS. Four major themes emerged: health knowledge and beliefs about immunizations, system barriers that impede obtaining immunizations, facilitators that enhance obtaining immunizations, and suggestions for change.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Immunizations are one of the most important health advantages available to children. Therefore, nurses must become aware of the problem of underimmunization and work to address some of the concerns caregivers have identified in this study. The health and lives of the nation's children depend on it.
Television Viewing and Children's Health
Authors: Chen Jyu‐Lin , Kennedy Christine M. , Froese‐Fretz Ann
Published: February 2007

Ask the Expert provides research‐based answers to practice questions submitted by JSPN readers.
Publication Committee Restructuring: Streamlining Efforts to Better Serve SPN Members
Authors: Kuntz Kathleen Ryan , Nicholson Dana
Published: February 2007

News from the Society showcases SPN activities of interest to JSPN readers. This is the second in our series of reports highlighting the accomplishments of SPN committees.
Experiences of Students in Pediatric Nursing Clinical Courses
Authors: Oermann Marilyn H. , Lukomski Angela P.
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Learning may be inhibited if students experience undue stress in the clinical setting. This study described the stresses, challenges, and emotions experienced by pediatric nursing students.

DESIGN AND METHODS. Students (n = 75) completed a modified Pagana Clinical Stress Questionnaire at the end of their pediatric nursing clinical course. The comparison group of students (n = 383) was enrolled in nonpediatric clinical courses in the same nursing programs. RESULTS. The most stressful aspect of clinical practice was giving medications to children. High stress scores were related to more fear and disappointment in clinical practice. Students who experienced high stress were less stimulated by their clinical activities and developed less confidence in practice. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Knowledge of students' perceptions of clinical stress can help educators and clinicians promote a positive and rewarding clinical atmosphere.
Effectiveness of a Parent Education Intervention for At‐Risk Families
Authors: Cowen Perle Slavik
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Although many parenting programs exist to prevent child maltreatment, few are supported by research evidence. This study explored whether parents who completed the Bavolek Nurturing Program improved their parenting attitudes.

DESIGN AND METHODS. Secondary analysis of data from a larger study involved a convenience sample of 154 families from 15 county child maltreatment prevention councils.

RESULTS. On the pretest, parents demonstrated scores associated with maladaptive parenting practices. Posttest scores were consistent with nurturing parenting attitudes.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Effective and readily accessible parent education programs are highly indicated for prevention of child maltreatment. It is important for nurses to have the information either to provide effective parent education interventions or to be able to refer parents to effective programs.
Resources for Child Advocacy
Authors: Ekegren Kathryn , Ekegren Kathryn
Published: February 2007

The Advocate is a forum for exploring our roles as advocates for the children and families we serve.
Infant Behaviors as Indicators of Established Acute Pain
Authors: Fuller Barbara F.
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Many infant pain assessment tools use infant behaviors indicative of increased arousal. These tools were developed and tested using clinical situations involving acute immediate pain responses. Are these behaviors valid, clinical indicators of acute established pain (non‐procedurally caused) pain? Can these tools be used to assess acute established infant pain? This article explores research findings to answer these questions.

CONCLUSIONS. Findings suggest that behaviors indicative of increased arousal (e.g., crying, facial expressions that accompany crying) are nonspecific indicators of distress rather than independent indicators of established acute pain. Thus, the use of behaviors representing acute immediate pain responses to assess acute established pain, or the use of tools that incorporate these behaviors, can be misleading.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Always use acute immediate pain behavioral responses (behaviors indicative of increased arousal) in conjunction with clinical data concerning “likelihood of pain“ and consolability.
Spirituality in African‐American Mothers Coping With a Seriously Ill Infant
Authors: Wilson Sonja M. , Miles Margaret S.
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. To describe how African‐American mothers' spirituality helped them cope during the time of their infants' hospitalization for a serious illness.

DESIGN AND METHODS. Fourteen mothers whose infants were seriously ill in the early months of life were interviewed for this retrospective, descriptive study.

RESULTS. The core theme related to prayer. Four mothers reported a strengthened faith, while two mothers continued to have difficulty relating to God or attending church.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. These findings support the importance of understanding and respecting the spiritual needs and expressions of spirituality in African‐American mothers who are coping with a serious illness in one of their children.
Predicting the Distance for Nasojejunal Tube Insertion in Children
Authors: Cirgin Ellett Marsha L. , Beckstrand Jan
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. As no consistent predictor of insertion tube distance has been determined for intestinal feeding tubes and fluoroscopic placement is very expensive, this study sought a reliable method of blind placement.

DESIGN AND METHODS. This cross‐sectional study measured the internal distance from the lip to the pylorus in 387 children undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and compared those measurements to the external distances measured from the nose around the ear to the 10th rib and lip around the ear to the 10th rib.

RESULTS. Regression equations using height fitted in four age groups were the best predictors of the internal pyloric distances.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Predicting this distance with height may help healthcare providers be more successful in blind placement of intestinal feeding tubes. A table of predicted nasointestinal tube insertion distances is included.
Pediatric Nurses: Advocates Against Youth Violence
Authors: Gance‐Cleveland Bonnie
Published: February 2007

ISSUES AND PURPOSE. This article examines the issues of youth violence and the role of the pediatric nurse in addressing youth at risk for violence. An example of a school‐based violence prevention program is included.

CONCLUSIONS. Black adolescent males from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and violent communities tend to be at highest risk. However, the profile of risk for violence is expanding to include youth in rural and middle‐class suburban settings.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Pediatric nurses play a vital role in the identification of at‐risk youth and in the planning and evaluation of interventions for youth violence prevention.
An Introduction to Search Engines
Authors: Wilkas Lenore R. , Villarruel Antonia
Published: February 2007

Scientific Inquiry provides a forum to facilitate the ongoing process of questioning and evaluating practice, presents informed practice based on available data, and innovates new practices through research and experimental learning.
Volunteering—A Community Partnership
Authors: McDowell Betsy M.
Published: February 2007

Search terms:

Community service, volunteer workers
Cancer Pain in Children: The Selection of a Model to Guide Research
Authors: Van Cleve Lois , Bossert Elizabeth A. , Savedra Marilyn C. , Villarruel Antonia M.
Published: February 2007

Scientific Inquiry provides a forum to facilitate the ongoing process of questioning and evaluating practice, presents informed practice based on available data, and innovates new practices through research and experimental learning.
PERSONALITY DIMENSIONS EXPLAINING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN INTEGRITY TESTS AND COUNTERPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR: BIG FIVE, OR ONE IN ADDITION?
Authors: MARCUS BERND , LEE KIBEOM , ASHTON MICHAEL C.
Published: February 2007

Although the criterion‐related validity of integrity tests is well established, there has not been enough research examining which personality constructs contribute to their criterion‐related validity. Moreover, evidence of how well findings on integrity tests in North America generalize to non‐English speaking countries is virtually absent. This research addressed these issues with data obtained from employees and students in Canada and Germany (total N= 853). Specifically, we tested the hypotheses that (a) Honesty–Humility, as specified in the HEXACO model of personality, is relatively more important than the Big 5 dimensions of personality in accounting for the criterion‐related validity of overt integrity tests, whereas (b) the Big 5 are relatively more important in explaining the validity of personality‐based integrity tests. These predictions were tested using 2 criteria (counterproductive work behavior and counterproductive academic behavior) as well as 2 overt and 2 personality‐based integrity tests. We found evidence of the expected differences between types of integrity tests largely regardless of culture of the sample, specific test, criterion, or population under research, pointing to some degree of generalizability of findings in integrity testing research. Implications include theoretical refinements in research on integrity testing and encouragement of practical applications beyond North America.
RACIAL DIFFERENCES IN EMPLOYEE RETENTION: ARE DIVERSITY CLIMATE PERCEPTIONS THE KEY?
Authors: McKAY PATRICK F. , AVERY DEREK R. , TONIDANDEL SCOTT , MORRIS MARK A. , HERNANDEZ MORELA , HEBL MICHELLE R.
Published: February 2007

Given considerable racial differences in voluntary turnover (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2006, Table 28), the present study examined the influence of diversity climate perceptions on turnover intentions among managerial employees in a national retail organization. The authors hypothesized that pro‐diversity work climate perceptions would correlate most negatively with turnover intentions among Blacks, followed in order of strength by Hispanics and Whites (Hypothesis 1), and that organizational commitment would mediate these interactive effects of race and diversity climate perceptions on turnover intentions  (Hypothesis 2). Results from a sample of 5,370 managers partially supported both hypotheses, as findings were strongest among Blacks. Contrary to the hypotheses, however, White men and women exhibited slightly stronger effects than Hispanic personnel.
A META‐ANALYSIS OF THE ANTECEDENTS AND CONSEQUENCES OF WORKPLACE SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Authors: WILLNESS CHELSEA R. , STEEL PIERS , LEE KIBEOM
Published: February 2007

Sexual harassment (SH) has been identified as one of the most damaging and ubiquitous barriers to career success and satisfaction for women. This study meta‐analyzed data from 41 studies, with a total sample size of nearly 70,000 respondents, to examine several negative consequences of workplace SH as well as how situational factors may play a role in facilitating these occurrences. SH experiences are associated with negative outcomes such as decreased job satisfaction, lower organizational commitment, withdrawing from work, ill physical and mental health, and even symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder. In addition, organizational climate for SH figured prominently in facilitating these occurrences.
A Laboratory Evaluation of Ground Water Sampling Mechanisms
Authors: Barcelona M.J. , Helfrich JA , Garske E.E. , Gibb J.P.
Published: February 2007

The reliability of ground water monitoring information can be assured by careful selection of sample handling and analytical procedures. Sampling mechanism selection has been studied far less than analytical methodologies (Scalf et al. 1981, Nacht 1983). This study has as its primary goal the identification of reliable sampling mechanisms for purgeable organic compounds and gas‐sensitive chemical parameters in ground water. Carefully controlled sampling experiments were run to investigate the error contributed to chemical results due to sampling mechanism alone. Fourteen commercial sampling devices in five mechanistic categories were evaluated for their performance in sample collection for solution parameters, dissolved gases and purgeable organic compounds. Systematic errors related to sampling mechanism can reduce the accuracy of monitoring data by factors of two to three times that involved in analytical procedures.
Optimizing Pumping Strategies for Contaminant Studies and Remedial Actions
Authors: Keely Joseph F.
Published: February 2007

One of the more common techniques for controlling the migration of contaminant plumes is the use of pumping wells to produce desired changes in local flow rates and hydraulic gradients. When seeking to optimize an array of pumping well locations and discharge rates, it is important to consider the effects that non‐ideal aquifer conditions, well construction and demographic constraints produce. Heterogeneous and anisotropic aquifer conditions seriously complicate siting and discharge rate requirements for pumping wells because of the distorted cones of depression that result from withdrawing water in such settings. Proper screen selection, gravel pack emplacement and well development are crucial factors affecting the operational characteristics and economics of pumping wells; these factors are generally recognized, though often undervalued. The impacts that well depth and diameter, and screen length and position have on the effectiveness of pumping efforts are also often undervalued, with detrimental consequences. Perhaps the most difficult problems to overcome in designing pumping schemes, however, are posed by demographic constraints. Denial of property access, vandalism and the unpredictability of nearby water supply and irrigation pumpage tend to wreak havoc with the best of pumping strategies.
Long‐Term Confidence in Ground Water Monitoring Systems
Authors: Perazzo James A. , Dorrier Richard C. , Mack James P.
Published: February 2007

State‐of‐the‐art analytical techniques are capable of detecting contamination In the part per billion (ppb) range or lower. At these levels, a truly representative ground water sample Is essential to precisely evaluate ground water quality. The design specifications of a ground water monitoring system are critical in ensuring the collection of representative samples, particularly throughout the long‐term monitoring period.

The potential interfaces from commonly used synthetic well casings require a thorough assessment of site, hydrogeology and the geochemical properties of ground water. Once designed, the monitoring system must be installed following guidelines that ensure adequate seals to prevent contaminant migration during the installation process or at some time in the future. Additionally, maintaining the system so the wells are in hydraulic connection with the monitored zone as well as periodically Inspecting the physical integrity of the system can prolong the usefulness of the wells for ground water quality. When ground water quality data become suspect due to potential interferences from existing monitoring wells, an appropriate abandonment technique must be employed to adequately remove or destroy the well while completely sealing the borehole.

The results of an inspection of a monitoring system comprised of six 4‐inch diameter PVC monitoring wells at a hazardous well facility Indicated that the wells were improperly installed and in some cases provided a pathway for contamination. Subsequent down hole television inspections confirmed inaccuracies between construction logs and the existing system as well as identified defects in casing materials. An abandonment program was designed which destroyed the well casings in place while simultaneously providing a competent seal of the re‐drilled borehole.
The Application of Telemetry to Large‐Scale Horizontal Anisotropic Permeability Determinations by Surface Tiltmeter Survey
Authors: Loo Walter W. , Franz Klaus , Holzhausen Gary R.
Published: February 2007

An advanced two‐way radio link (transceiver units) and data logging system have provided a powerful means of real‐time series data collection and analysis. The application of this telemetry system to surface tiltmeter surveys provides significant cost savings for testing and analysis of deep, large‐scale horizontal anisotropic permeability and heterogeneity determinations.

The determination of horizontal anisotropic properties requires one pumping well and eight to 10 tiltmeter monitoring stations. The validity of the depth of the test may reach 4,000 feet below land surface. With the addition of one partially penetrating observation well, the entire three‐dimensional anisotropic permeability can be determined. With the addition of a fully penetrating well, the storage coefficient can be determined as well as leakage property (including vertical permeability of the confining layers). An example test case was analyzed for horizontal anisotropic permeability with remarkable success despite relatively unfavorable detection conditions.

A thorough understanding of the geology overlying the aquifer system must be made in order to assess the applicability of the surface tiltmeter survey to large‐scale horizontal anisotropic permeability determinations.