bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production and behavioural responses of high‐ and low‐yielding dairy cows to different periods of access to grazing or to a maize silage and soyabean meal diet fed indoors
Authors: Hernandez‐Mendo O. , Leaver J. D.
Published: December 2006

The study examined whether high‐yielding cows grazing pasture respond differently from low‐yielding cows in milk production and feeding behaviour, to increasing the time made available for eating a maize silage and soyabean meal (TAMS) diet indoors and reducing the time available for grazing (TAG). Two experiments, each lasting 42 d, were carried out in spring (Experiment 1) and autumn (Experiment 2) using Holstein‐Friesian cows at two different levels of milk yield (MYL). Milk production and feeding behaviour were examined for TAG + TAMS systems of 19 h, TAG plus 1 h TAMS (19 + 1), and 5 h TAG plus 15 h TAMS (5 + 15). There were two levels of concentrate (0 and 6 kg d−1), and in the spring experiment two sward heights (4–6 and 8–10 cm) were also studied. Milk yield, persistency of milk yield, liveweight change and estimated total DM intake were significantly higher on the 5 + 15 than on the 19 + 1 grazing system in Experiment 1 but not in Experiment 2. There were no significant interactions of TAG + TAMS treatment with MYL for any production or behavioural measurements except for maize silage feeding time, where high MYL cows spent a significantly greater time eating maize silage than low MYL cows on the 5 + 15 treatment but not on the 19 + 1 treatment. It can be concluded that high‐ and low‐yielding cows respond similarly in milk production and feeding behaviour to different combinations of TAG and TAMS. In autumn, estimated daily intakes of herbage were lower on both grazing treatments relative to spring, resulting from lower rates of herbage intake with no compensatory increase in grazing time. In contrast, rates of intake of maize silage were higher in autumn especially on the 19 + 1 system. These results may imply a change of preference from herbage to maize silage between spring and autumn.
Diet selection of dry and lactating beef cows grazing extensive pastures in late autumn
Authors: Farruggia A. , Dumont B. , D'hour P. , Egal D. , Petit M.
Published: December 2006

The diet selection, made by twelve dry and twelve lactating spring‐calving Salers beef cows at the end of the grazing season on an extensively grazed natural mountain pasture in central France, was compared. Sward structure, selection bites, daily grazing time and digestibility of the diet were measured in mid‐October (P1) and mid‐November (P2). Live weights were measured twice monthly throughout the experiment. Daily milk production was assessed in the week before the grazing behaviour measurements. Lactating cows grazed more selectively than dry cows: they took more bites on green patches (0·20 vs. 0·13 of total bites, P < 0·01; Jacob's selectivity index: 0·13 vs. −0·25, P < 0·001), which is consistent with the higher overall nitrogen concentration in faeces (18·1 vs. 17·3 g kg−1 DM, P < 0·05). Lactating cows tended to slightly increase their daily grazing time compared with dry cows (on average 9·9 vs. 9·5 h, P = 0·07) and grazed faster in mid‐November (74 vs. 69 bites min−1, P < 0·05). The lactating cows lost more live weight (−24 vs. −12 kg cow−1, P < 0·05) between P1 and P2. A positive correlation was found between consumption of green patches by lactating cows and their daily milk production in P2 (r = 0·574, P = 0·05), whereas no correlation occurred between individual milk production and liveweight loss. Dry cows were less selective, which supports management practices that promote the use of cows with low requirements on extensively grazed pastures in late season.
The effect of initial spring grazing date and subsequent stocking rate on the grazing management, grass dry matter intake and milk production of dairy cows in summer
Authors: Kennedy E. , O'Donovan M. , Murphy J. P. , O'Mara F. P. , Delaby L.
Published: December 2006

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of an early (February; F) or delayed (April; A) primary spring grazing date and two stocking rates, high (H) and medium (M), on the grazing management, dry matter (DM) intake of grass herbage and milk production of spring‐calving dairy cows grazing a perennial ryegrass sward in the subsequent summer. Sixty‐four Holstein‐Friesian dairy cows (mean of 58 d in milk) were assigned to one of four grazing treatments (n = 16) which were imposed from 12 April to 3 July 2004. Cows on the early spring‐grazing treatment were grazed at 5·5 cows ha−1 (treatment FH) and 4·5 cows ha−1 (treatment FM) while cows on the late‐grazing treatment were grazed at 6·4 cows ha−1 (treatment AH) and 5·5 cows ha−1 (treatment AM). The organic matter digestibility and crude protein concentration of the grass herbage were higher on the early‐grazing treatment than on the late‐grazing treatment. The cows on the FM treatment had significantly (P < 0·001) higher milk (24·5 kg), solids‐corrected milk (22·5 kg), fat (P < 0·01, 918 g) and protein (831 g) yields than the other three treatments. Cows on the FM treatment had a higher (P < 0·001) DM intake of grass herbage by 2·3 kg DM per cow per day than cows on the AH treatment, which had a DM intake significantly lower than all other treatments (15·2 kg DM per cow per day). The results of the present study showed that grazing in early spring has a positive effect on herbage quality in subsequent grazing rotations. The study also concluded that early spring‐grazed swards stocked at a medium stocking rate (4·5 cows ha−1; FM) resulted in the highest DM intake of grass herbage and milk production.
Effect of maize grain and herbage allowance on estimated metabolizable energy intake and animal performance in beef cattle finishing systems
Authors: Machado C. F. , Morris S. T. , Hodgson J. , Berger H. , Auza N. J.
Published: December 2006

This study investigated the effects of levels of supplementation with maize grain and herbage allowance (HA) on grass herbage and maize intake, animal performance and grazing behaviour in two replicated grazing experiments with Angus beef cattle in Argentina. In Experiment 1, the response to increasing HA (2·5, 5·0 and 7·5 kg DM herbage 100 kg−1 live weight (LW) d−1 with and without 0·5 kg DM maize grain 100 kg−1 LW d−1) was investigated. In Experiment 2, the responses to level of maize grain offered (0, 0·5 and 1·0 kg DM maize grain 100 kg−1 LW d−1) at an HA of 2·5 kg DM herbage 100 kg−1 LW d−1 and an HA of 5·0 kg 100 kg−1 LW d−1 without maize grain were assessed. In Experiment 2, soyabean meal was added to control the crude protein concentration in the diet. Two methods were used for intake estimations: pre‐ and post‐feeding herbage mass difference, and the use of the n‐alkane and 13C technique. The latter predicted most accurately the metabolizable energy requirements calculated from live weights and liveweight gain of beef cattle attained in each treatment in both experiments. Increasing HA significantly increased herbage intake and liveweight gain (P < 0·01), and general quadratic relationships between these variables could be fitted across experiments despite differences in animal and pasture characteristics. Increasing the amount of maize grain offered significantly reduced herbage intake and grazing time, but increased liveweight gain and digestibility of the diet. Substitution rate increased with increasing HA in Experiment 1 but was not affected by level of maize supplementation in Experiment 2. These relationships will aid the development of grazing management models for Argentinean conditions.
Molecular genetic discrimination of Buffel grass genotypes and F1 hybrids for breeding purposes using amplified fragment length polymorphism analyses
Authors: Griffa S. , Díaz D. , Ribotta A. , Lanza Castelli S. , Muñoz N. , López Colomba E. , Luna C. , Grunberg K. , Biderbost E.
Published: December 2006

Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) is an apomictic species that is widely adapted to arid and semi‐arid, tropical and warm climates. Six apomictic cultivars used as male parents, one sexual line used as the female parents and 15 putative F1 genotypes were studied using the amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique for their evaluation and recognition. The NTSYS programme and Jaccard's Index were used to establish the genetic similarity; and a phenogram was constructed. A total of 152 bands was recorded. Three primer combinations were sufficient to identify the genotypes. The maximum proportion of polymorphisms was 0·835, and 0·510 of the polymorphisms consisted in individual bands that strictly diagnosed unique genotypes. Texas 4464 and Americana cultivars were the most different from the sexual line, indicating that they might be the best genotypes for future crossing. Two hybrids were identified among F1 material to demonstrate the usefulness of the AFLP technique in characterizing genotypes and recognizing hybrids in Buffel grass for breeding purposes.
Spring and autumn establishment of Caucasian and white clovers with different sowing rates of perennial ryegrass
Authors: Black A. D. , Moot D. J. , Lucas R. J.
Published: December 2006

The effect of sowing date (SD) and sowing rate of perennial ryegrass (PRG) on the establishment of Caucasian and white clovers in New Zealand was assessed. Clovers were sown in spring on 24 September (SD1) and 9 November (SD2) 1999, and in autumn on 4 February (SD3) and 31 March (SD4) 2000. On each date, clovers were sown with 0, 3, 6 or 12 kg ha−1 of PRG. Total herbage dry matter (DM) production up to 6 November 2000 was 13–16 t DM ha−1 for SD1 and SD2 when sown with 3–12 kg ha−1 of PRG, and 7–10 t DM ha−1 for sown clover monocultures. For SD3 and SD4, total herbage production was 6–9 t DM ha−1 with PRG, while total herbage production of clover monocultures was 5·4 t DM ha−1 for SD3 and 2·6 t DM ha−1 for SD4. By 6 November 2000, white clover contributed proportionately more than 0·15 of herbage mass when sown with 3–12 kg ha−1 of PRG on SD1, SD2 or SD3, but less than 0·09 when sown on SD4. The proportion of Caucasian clover never exceeded 0·09 of herbage mass in any of the swards. White clover was successfully established in spring and in autumn with 3–12 kg ha−1 of PRG provided the 15‐mm soil temperature was above 14 °C. None of the combinations of Caucasian clover and PRG provided an adequate proportion of legumes during the establishment year. This unsuccessful establishment of Caucasian clover with PRG was attributed to its inability to compete for available light as a seedling due to slow leaf area expansion from secondary shoot development and a high root:shoot ratio. Alternative establishment strategies for Caucasian clover may include the use of slow establishing grasses, cover crops and temporal species separation.
Development and growth characteristics of Caucasian and white clover seedlings, compared with perennial ryegrass
Authors: Black A. D. , Moot D. J. , Lucas R. J.
Published: December 2006

Seedling competition for resources during establishment affects the potential success of individual species within a pasture. Germination, emergence and leaf expansion are key characteristics that contribute to the competitive ability of species. In this study, development and growth characteristics of Caucasian clover, white clover and perennial ryegrass (PRG) seedlings were quantified. A base temperature of <4°C and an optimum temperature of ∼27°C were found for development in each species. Thermal time (Tt) requirements for 75% of final germination were lower for Caucasian clover (46°C d) and white clover (40°C d) than for PRG (76°C d), but Tt requirements for 50% of final emergence were similar (∼110°C d). The phyllochron (°C d leaf−1) for primary stem leaves was slower for Caucasian clover (109°C d) than for white clover (94°C d) and PRG (101°C d). Appearance of the first PRG tiller, which indicates the initiation of secondary leaf development, occurred after 373°C d, compared with 532°C d for the first white clover stolon. Caucasian clover crown shoots did not develop until >1180°C d. Consequently, white clover and PRG had more leaves (∼15 plant−1) and faster shoot relative growth rates (∼0·062 mg mg−1 d−1) than Caucasian clover (5 leaves plant−1, 0·049 mg mg−1 d−1).
Mannan‐mediated gene delivery for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Tang Choon K. , Lodding Jodie , Minigo Gabriela , Pouniotis Dodie S. , Plebanski Magdalena , Scholzen Anja , McKenzie Ian F. C. , Pietersz Geoffrey A. , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: December 2006

Recent years have seen a resurgence in interest in the development of efficient non‐viral delivery systems for DNA vaccines and gene therapy. We have previously used oxidized and reduced mannan as carriers for protein delivery to antigen‐presenting cells by targeting the receptors that bind mannose, resulting in efficient induction of cellular responses. In the present study, oxidized mannan and reduced mannan were used as receptor‐mediated gene transfer ligands for cancer immunotherapy. In vivo studies in C57BL/6 mice showed that injection of DNA encoding ovalbumin (OVA) complexed to oxidized or reduced mannan‐poly‐L‐lysine induced CD8 and CD4 T‐cell responses as well as antibody responses leading to protection of mice from OVA+ tumours. Both oxidized and reduced mannan delivery was superior to DNA alone or DNA‐poly‐L‐lysine. These studies demonstrate the potential of oxidized and reduced mannan for efficient receptor‐mediated gene delivery in vivo, particularly as DNA vaccines for cancer immunotherapy.
T‐cell migration: a naive paradigm?
Authors: Cose Stephen
Published: December 2006

Naive T cells have long been thought to recirculate exclusively between secondary lymphoid organs via the lymph and blood. Evidence is now emerging that this view may be too simplistic and that naive T cells routinely traffic through non‐lymphoid organs in a manner similar to that of memory T cells, albeit in lower numbers. This represents a fundamental shift in the current paradigm of T‐cell migration through different types of tissue. This review summarizes these recent findings, along with the similarities and differences in migratory properties of naive and memory T cells, and discusses how and why naive T cells might access non‐lymphoid tissues.
Expert intrapartum maternity care: a meta‐synthesis
Authors: Downe Soo , Simpson Louise , Trafford Katriona
Published: December 2006

Title. Expert intrapartum maternity care: a meta‐synthesis

Aim.  This paper reports a meta‐synthesis exploring the accounts of intrapartum midwifery skills, practices, beliefs and philosophies given by practitioners working in the field of intrapartum maternity care who are termed expert, exemplary, excellent or experienced.

Background.  Expertise in nursing and medicine has been widely debated and researched. However, there appear to be few studies of practitioners’ accounts of expertise in the context of maternity care. Given current international debates on the need to promote safe motherhood, and, simultaneously, on the need to reverse rising rates of routine intrapartum intervention, an examination of the nature of maternity care expertise is timely.

Method.  A systematic review and meta‐synthesis were undertaken. Twelve databases and 50 relevant health and social science journals were searched by hand or electronically for papers published in English between 1970 and June 2006, using predefined search terms, inclusion, exclusion and quality criteria.

Findings.  Seven papers met the criteria for this review. Five of these included qualified and licensed midwives, and two included labour ward nurses. Five studies were undertaken in the USA and two in Sweden. The quality of the included studies was good. Ten themes were identified by consensus. After discussion, three intersecting concepts were identified. These were: wisdom, skilled practice and enacted vocation.

Conclusion.  The derived concepts provide a possible first step in developing a theory of expert intrapartum non‐physician maternity care. They may also offer more general insights into aspects of clinical expertise across healthcare groups. Maternity systems that limit the capacity of expert practitioners to perform within the domains identified may not deliver optimal care. If further empirical studies verify that the identified domains maximize effective intrapartum maternity care, education and maternity care systems will need to be designed to accommodate them.
The effectiveness of implementing a bladder ultrasound programme in neurosurgical units
Authors: Lee Yuh‐Yun , Tsay Wen‐Lin , Lou Meei‐Fang , Dai Yu‐Tzu
Published: December 2006

Title. The effectiveness of implementing a bladder ultrasound programme in neurosurgical units

Aim.  This paper reports an evaluation of the differences among rates of unnecessary catheterization, urinary retention and urinary tract infection before and after implementing a bladder ultrasound programme to assess urine volume.

Background.  Bladder ultrasound is a non‐invasive alternative to urethral catheterization for the determination of bladder urine volume. Much of the literature available on bladder ultrasound technology addresses the accuracy of the equipment, with little research on the clinical outcomes or benefits of the intervention.

Methods.  A quasi‐experimental design was adopted. Data were collected from March 2001 to May 2001 in a control group in two neurosurgical units in Taiwan. During July and August 2001, nurses were taught how to operate a portable ultrasound machine and how to implement the programme. Data were collected from September to November 2001 in the study group.

Results.  The rates of unnecessary catheterization in the control group and the study group were 35·3% and 7·0%, respectively. The urine volume (more than 500 mL) in the control group and the study group were 13·4% and 20·3%, respectively. The study group had a statistically significantly lower average catheterization volume than that of the control group (676·9 mL vs. 777·1 mL, t = 1·84, P < 0·05). During 3 months before and after the implementation of the programme, the urinary tract infection rates in the control group and the study group were 3·47% and 2·87%, respectively. After 6 months the urinary tract infection rates decreased to 1·39%.

Conclusion.  The bladder ultrasound programme was successful and could be used to manage patients with urination disorders in neurosurgical units.
Spiritual care in Christian parish nursing
Authors: Van Dover Leslie , Pfeiffer Jane Bacon
Published: December 2006

Title. Spiritual care in Christian parish nursing

Aim.  This paper reports the development of a substantive theory to explain the process parish nurses use to provide spiritual care to parishioners in Christian churches in a context where patients and nurses share a common set of values.

Background.  Despite a surge of interest in spirituality and spiritual care in nursing, consensus is lacking on how care should be conceptualized and provided.

Method.  Grounded theory method was used to explore and describe the processes 10 American parish nurses experienced and used as they gave spiritual care. Data were collected between 1998 and 2001. Participants were interviewed and audiotapes transcribed verbatim. Constant comparative methods were used to analyse more than 50 separate incidents reported by the nurses.

Findings.  From its initial emergence as the core category, ‘Bringing God Near’ became a Basic Social Process theory of giving spiritual care for these parish nurses. This Basic Social Process became a theory through writing theoretical memos that described how the ‘main concern’ of the nurses to give spiritual care was resolved. Phases within the process include: trusting God, forming relationships with the patient/family, opening to God, activating/nurturing faith and recognizing spiritual renewal or growth. The essence is bringing God near to people as they face health challenges. Findings from the study and spiritual care literature are integrated in the discussion.

Conclusion.  The parish nurses' spiritual challenge is to respond to what God is directing the nurse to be and do to strengthen people spiritually. This spiritual care can help restore the patient's sense of well‐being, and encourage growth in faith. Those interested in providing and teaching spiritual care in the church context will find this theory useful as a conceptual guide.
Patients’ accounts of the differences in nurses’ and general practitioners’ roles in primary care
Authors: Redsell Sarah , Stokes Tim , Jackson Clare , Hastings Adrian , Baker Richard
Published: December 2006

Title. Patients’ accounts of the differences in nurses’ and general practitioners’ roles in primary care

Aim.  This paper reports a study of patients’ accounts of the differences in nurses’ and general medical practitioners’ roles in primary care.

Background.  Nurses are now diagnosing and treating illnesses including conducting first contact care consultations. However, the findings of international studies reporting patients’ views of developments in nursing roles are not consistent. Whilst some studies report higher satisfaction following nurse consultations, others suggest that patients do not want nurses to replace general medical practitioners. Healthcare professionals’ views of the boundaries of their roles have been studied, but patients’ views have not been reported.

Method.  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 28 adults attending general practices for urgent ‘same day’ appointments during 2004. Participants were interviewed prior to their consultation with either the nurse or general medical practitioner and 19 participants were interviewed after the consultation. Data collection and analysis were concurrent, and based on the constant comparative method.

Findings.  Participants’ views reflected traditional hierarchies in primary care. They preferred to consult with general medical practitioners if they perceived their symptoms to be serious and with nurses for minor symptoms and reassurance. They thought that nurses had more time for them and were more compassionate. Interpersonal/relational continuity of care was important and for most participants this was with a general medical practitioner who knew them. Participants trusted known practitioners; they also placed trust in professional groups and familiar structures such as the practice.

Conclusion.  New nursing services should incorporate patients’ views on continuity of care provider when developing models of care delivery. Patient information leaflets in general practices should be used to explain the roles of general practitioners and nurse practitioners/practice nurses. As these roles develop further, more research is needed into all aspects of their implementation and patients’ views should particularly be evaluated.
Psychometric properties of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire among nurses
Authors: Kanste Outi , Miettunen Jouko , Kyngäs Helvi
Published: December 2006

Title. Psychometric properties of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire among nurses

Aim.  This paper reports a study investigating the psychometric properties of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire among nurses.

Background.  Although the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire is one of the most widely used instruments to measure the multifactor leadership theory in organizational sciences, inconsistent research findings have been reported for its psychometric properties. Little is known about these properties.

Method.  Data were gathered by postal questionnaires in 2001–2002 with nurses working in different healthcare organizations in Finland. A follow‐up study was performed 1‐year later. The sample consisted of 601 nurses and nurse leaders, and the follow‐up study had 78 respondents. The internal consistency of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire was explored using Cronbach's α coefficient and item‐analysis, and the test–retest reliability using Pearson product moment correlation coefficient and intra‐class correlation coefficient (single measure intra‐class correlation coefficient). The factor structure was studied using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses.

Results.  The internal consistencies of the leadership subscales were satisfactory. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire was fairly stable measured at the 1‐year interval. Although the data fail to support the full nine‐factor model, a reduced set of items from the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire appears to show evidence of the three‐ and six‐factor structures. Exploratory factor analysis showed evidence for the three‐factor structure consisting of three distinctive, yet partly related leadership subscales. Confirmatory factor analysis showed evidence for the six‐factor structure.

Conclusion.  The psychometric data suggest that a modified version of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire is a highly suitable instrument to measure multidimensional nursing leadership. Validity and reliability were supported. The results can be used in studies applying the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire.
Junior staffing changes and the temporal ecology of adverse incidents in acute psychiatric wards
Authors: Bowers Len , Jeffery Debra , Simpson Alan , Daly Christina , Warren Jonathan , Nijman Henk
Published: December 2006

Title. Junior staffing changes and the temporal ecology of adverse incidents in acute psychiatric wards.

Aim.  This paper reports an examination of the relationship between adverse incident rates, the arrival of new junior staff on wards, and days of the week on acute psychiatric wards.

Background.  Incidents of violence, absconding and self‐harm in acute inpatient services pose risks to patients and staff. Previous research suggests that the arrival of inexperienced new staff may trigger more adverse incidents. Findings on the relationship between incidents and the weekly routine are inconsistent.

Method.  A retrospective analysis was conducted of formally reported incident rates, records of nursing student allocations and junior doctor rotation patterns, using Poisson Regression. Variance between days of the week was explored using contingency table analysis. The data covered 30 months on 17 psychiatric wards, and were collected in 2002–2004.

Findings.  The arrival of new and inexperienced staff on the wards was not associated with increases in adverse incident rates. Most types of incidents were less frequent at weekends and midweek. Incident rates were unchanged on ward‐round days, but increased rates were found on the days before and after ward rounds.

Conclusion.  Increased patient tension is associated with raised incident rates. It may be possible to reduce incident rates by moderating stimulation in the environment and by mobilizing support for patients during critical periods.
Effects of aquatic exercise on flexibility, strength and aerobic fitness in adults with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee
Authors: Wang Tsae‐Jyy , Belza Basia , Elaine Thompson F. , Whitney Joanne D. , Bennett Kim
Published: December 2006

Title. Effects of aquatic exercise on flexibility, strength and aerobic fitness in adults with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.

Aim.  This paper reports a study of the effects of aquatic exercise on physical fitness (flexibility, strength and aerobic fitness), self‐reported physical functioning and pain in adults with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.

Background.  Osteoarthritis is a common cause of disability and a primary reason for hip and knee joint replacement. Exercise is important for preventing and/or managing the functional limitations associated with joint disease. Aquatic exercise is thought to be beneficial and is often recommended for people with osteoarthritis; however, few studies have examined the effects on people with osteoarthritis, and these have yielded inconsistent results.

Methods.  A two‐group randomized controlled trial with a convenience sample was used. Participants were recruited from community sources and randomly assigned to a 12‐week aquatic programme or a non‐exercise control condition. Data for 38 participants were collected at baseline, week 6, and week 12 during 2003 and 2004. Instruments were a standard plastic goniometer, a handheld dynamometer, the 6‐minute walk test, the multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire, and a visual analogue scale for pain.

Results.  Repeated measures analysis of variance showed that aquatic exercise statistically significantly improved knee and hip flexibility, strength and aerobic fitness, but had no effect on self‐reported physical functioning and pain. The exercise adherence rate was 81·7%, and no exercise‐related adverse effect was observed or reported.

Conclusions.  Beneficial short‐term effects of aquatic exercise were found in adults with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. Although the programme may not offer pain relief or self‐reported improvements in physical functioning, results suggest that aquatic exercise does not worsen the joint condition or result in injury. Nurses engaging in disease management and health promotion for these patients should consider recommending or implementing aquatic classes for patients.
Diversity of flower‐visiting bees in cereal fields: effects of farming system, landscape composition and regional context
Authors: HOLZSCHUH ANDREA , STEFFAN‐DEWENTER INGOLF , KLEIJN DAVID , TSCHARNTKE TEJA
Published: December 2006

Agri‐environment schemes promote organic farming in an attempt to reduce the negative effects of agricultural intensification on farmland biodiversity and ecosystem services such as pollination. Farming system, landscape context and regional differences may all influence biodiversity, but their relative impact and possible interactions have been little explored.

The study was performed in three regions (150 km apart, 400–500 km2 per region) differing in land use intensity. Within each region, seven pairs of conventionally and organically cultivated wheat fields (mean size 4 ha, 42 study fields) were selected to encompass a gradient from heterogeneous to homogeneous landscapes within a 1‐km radius around each field.

Farming system had the greatest influence on biodiversity. Higher bee diversity, flower cover and diversity of flowering plants were recorded in organic compared with conventional fields. Bee diversity was related both to flower cover and diversity of flowering plants, suggesting plant‐mediated effects of the farming system.

Differences in bee diversity between organic and conventional fields increased with the proportion of arable crops in the surrounding landscape, indicating that processes at the landscape level modified the effectiveness of organic farming in promoting biodiversity. Similar patterns for flower cover and diversity of flowering plants suggested that landscape effects on bee diversity were mainly resource‐mediated. After statistically removing the variance explained by flower parameters, residual bee diversity increased with increasing landscape heterogeneity.

Bee diversity differed between the three regions, but the effects of farming systems and landscape context were independent of regional differences.

Synthesis and applications. Bee diversity in wheat fields was mainly influenced by farming system, but an understanding of local bee diversity needs to incorporate both landscape and regional perspectives. The consistency of the results in three regions provides a reliable basis for management decisions. Agri‐environment schemes that promote organic farming in homogeneous landscapes where there are few remaining flower‐rich habitats could have the highest relative impact. However, while organic farming could help to sustain pollination services by generalist bees in agricultural landscapes, other measures are required to conserve more specialized bee species in semi‐natural habitats.
Being an intensive care nurse related to questions of withholding or withdrawing curative treatment
Authors: Hov Reidun , Hedelin Birgitta , Athlin Elsy
Published: December 2006

Aims and objectives.  The aim of the study was to acquire a deeper understanding of what it is to be an intensive care nurse in situations related to questions of withholding or withdrawing curative treatment.

Background.  Nurses in intensive care units regularly face critically ill patients. Some patients do not benefit from the treatment and die after days or months of apparent pain and suffering. A general trend is that withdrawal of treatment in intensive care units is increasing. Physicians are responsible for decisions concerning medical treatment, but as nurses must carry out physicians’ decisions, they are involved in the consequences.

Design and methods.  The research design was qualitative, based on interpretative phenomenology. The study was carried out at an adult intensive care unit in Norway. Data were collected by group interviews inspired by focus group methodology. Fourteen female intensive care nurses participated, divided into two groups. Colaizzi's model was used in the process of analysis.

Results.  The analysis revealed four main themes which captured the nurses’ experiences: loneliness in responsibility, alternation between optimism and pessimism, uncertainty – a constant shadow and professional pride despite little formal influence. The essence of being an intensive care nurse in the care of patients when questions were raised concerning curative treatment or not, was understood as ‘being a critical interpreter and a dedicated helper.’

Conclusions.  The findings underpin the important role of intensive care nurses in providing care and treatment to patients related to questions of withholding or withdrawing curative treatment.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings also show the need for physicians, managers and intensive care nurses themselves to recognize the burdens intensive care nurses carry and to appreciate their knowledge as an important contribution in decision making.
A first‐line nurse manager's goal‐profile
Authors: Johansson Gunilla , Pörn Ingmar , Theorell Töres , Gustafsson Barbro
Published: December 2006

Aim.  The aim of this case study was to acquire understanding concerning the first‐line nurse manager's goal‐profile, i.e. prioritization of goals in her work as a first‐line nurse manager, through use of an action‐theoretic and confirmatory theory.

Background.  The first‐line nurse manager's pivotal role regarding quality of care and development in relation to on‐going changes in the health care sector is stressed by many researchers and the transition from nurse to manager is described as a demanding challenge for the first‐line nurse manager.

Methods.  The case study described in this paper concerns a first‐line nurse manager in an actual working environment in care of older people. Data collection comprised interviews, observations, a job description and policy documents. A hermeneutic interpretation was used for data analysis.

Results.  The results showed that the first‐line nurse manager had three goals in her goal‐profile, in the following order of priority: (i) a nurse goal that she had strongly accepted and in which she had excellent control, (ii) an administrator goal that she had accepted and in which she had control, (iii) a leadership goal that she had not accepted and in which she did not have control. Both the administrator and leadership goals were based on her job description, but the nurse goal was a personally chosen goal based on her own self‐relation/goal‐fulfilment.

Conclusion.  The first‐line nurse manager's prioritized self‐identity, based on successful realization of goals in her goal‐profile, was decisive in the manifestation of her work.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study contributes to a new understanding of the first‐line nurse manager's self‐identity related to work in terms of goal acceptance and goal control of prioritized goals. This action‐theoretic approach could be a valuable ‘key’ for understanding leadership (or lack of leadership) in clinical practice.
A review of the literature on atrial fibrillation: rate reversion or control?
Authors: Lee Geraldine
Published: December 2006

Aims.  The aim of this paper is to review the current literature describing the aetiology of atrial fibrillation and to examine the evidence for rate reversion and rate control.

Background.  Atrial fibrillation is the most commonly seen arrhythmia within the clinical setting. Treatment depends on severity of symptoms, which are predominantly palpitations and shortness of breath. The primary complications from atrial fibrillation are thrombo‐embolic events (such as a pulmonary embolus or stroke).

Objectives and methods.  A comprehensive literature review on atrial fibrillation, rate reversion and rate control was undertaken to examine the incidence of atrial fibrillation, to review research on management of atrial fibrillation and to determine if rate reversion was superior to rate control in the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Results.  Many studies have been carried out to determine the best treatment for this condition. The choices are currently pharmacological and electrical cardioversion in conjunction with anticoagulant therapy. Drug therapies are not without their problems, especially toxicity and the need for close clinical monitoring. Transaesophageal echocardiography has been used to establish the presence of left atrial thrombi and aims to reduce the anticoagulation time and reduce the risk of thrombo‐embolic events. A randomized comparative study of transaesophageal echocardiography and conventional anticoagulation therapy prior to cardioversion demonstrated statistically significant reduction in haemorrhagic events and a shorter time to cardioversion in those in the transaesophageal echocardiography group compared with the conventional group. For those with persistent atrial fibrillation, surgery is an option with valve repair or replacement carried out in conjunction with a bi‐atrial surgical ablation.

Conclusions.  The management of atrial fibrillation is dependent on many factors and to date there are no proven clinical rationale for rate control or reversion.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Atrial fibrillation requires immediate attention in order to avoid thrombo‐embolic complications and the use of transaesophageal echocardiography and conventional anticoagulation therapy can significantly reduce these complications.
Health promotion model for childhood violence prevention and exposure
Authors: Skybo Theresa , Polivka Barbara
Published: December 2006

Aims and objectives.  To discuss the Health Promotion Model for Violence Prevention and Exposure and intervention strategies for implementation.

Background.  Violence causes physical and psychosocial harm to children. Because little collaboration exists between specialties in the USA, a model that incorporates both a public health and psychosocial approach is needed to assess the risk for exposure to violence and the effects of violence as well as developing prevention strategies. Prevention and intervention includes primary, secondary and tertiary levels that focus on either the community or individual. However, primary and secondary prevention, such as anticipatory guidance and screening, can be implemented by both community and primary care nurses.

Methods.  A review of the literature and on‐line resources focusing on children's exposure to violence provided the basis for discussion of the commonalities and differences between the public health and psychosocial approach to assessing, preventing and intervening with children exposed to violence. This discussion led to the development of the proposed model.

Conclusions.  This model can identify more children at risk for social, physical and psychological harm because of exposure to violence. Implementing prevention or treatment interventions can decrease the impact of violence on children.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This model can be implemented by public health, psychiatric and primary care nurses by incorporating the model into the well‐child exam, school screenings and after‐school programs. Collaboration between specialties will increase referrals for participation in anti‐violence programs or treatment interventions.
A systematic review of topical skin care in aged care facilities
Authors: Hodgkinson Brent , Nay Rhonda , Wilson Jacinda
Published: December 2006

Aim.  This systematic review aimed to evaluate the best available evidence regarding the effectiveness of topical skin care interventions for residents of aged care facilities.

Introduction.  Natural changes to skin, as well as increased predisposition to pressure sores and incontinence, means residents of aged care facilities readily require topical skin care. A range of interventions exist that aim to maintain or improve the integrity of skin of older adults.

Methods.  Pubmed, Embase, Current Contents, CINAHL and The Cochrane Library databases were searched, as well as Health Technology Assessment websites up to April 2003. Systematic reviews and randomized or non‐randomized controlled trials were evaluated for quality and data were independently extracted by two reviewers.

Results.  The effectiveness of topical skin interventions was variable and dependent on the skin condition being treated. Studies examined the effectiveness of washing products on incontinence irritated skin. Disposable bodyworns may prevent deterioration of skin condition better than non‐disposable underpads or bodyworns. Clinisan, a no‐rinse cleanser may reduce the incidence of incontinence associated pressure ulcers when compared with soap and water.

Conclusion.  In general the quality of evidence for interventions to improve or maintain the skin condition in the older person was poor and more research in this area is needed.

Relevance to Clinical Practice.  Skin care is a major issue for nurses working with older people. On the basis of this review no clear recommendations can be made. This lack of strong evidence for nurses to base effective practice decisions is problematic. However, the ‘best’ evidence suggests that disposable bodyworns are a good investment in the fight against skin deterioration. No rinse cleansers are to be preferred over soap and the use of the bag bath appears to be a useful practice to reduce the risk of dry skin (a risk factor for breaches in skin integrity).
Foetal Experience: Lifelong Consequences
Authors: Matthews Stephen G
Published: December 2006

Modification of the foetal environment has lifelong consequences for endocrine function and behaviour. Maternal stress through activation of the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal axis can lead to increased anxiety levels and stress reactivity in offspring. Furthermore, these effects can pass across generations. The race is now on to understand the mechanisms involved and to find ways to prevent or reverse the effects of an ‘adverse’ early environment in human populations.
Mineralocorticoid Pretreatment Enhances Angiontensin II‐Induced Neuronal Excitation But Not Salt Drinking in Male Fischer Rats
Authors: Omouessi S. T. , Falconetti C. , Chapleur M. , Fernette B. , Thornton S. N.
Published: December 2006

Central administration of angiotensin (Ang) II stimulates thirst and sodium intake via the AT‐1 receptor. Mineralocorticoid pretreatment enhances Ang II‐induced drinking of hypertonic salt solutions (i.e. the synergy theory) in Wistar and Sprague‐Dawley rats. Electrophysiological experiments using iontophoretic application of Ang II, and the AT‐1 receptor specific nonpeptide antagonist losartan, have shown excitation of neurones in the preoptic/medial septum region of urethane anaesthetised male Wistar rats. Deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) pretreatment further enhanced this neuronal excitation to Ang II and reduced the responses to losartan. This generated the hypothesis that DOCA‐enhanced Ang II‐induced neuronal excitation was necessary for the enhanced salt intake of synergy theory. We tested this hypothesis in Fischer 344 rats that are known to have a low basal salt appetite and reduced sensitivity for i.c.v. Ang II. We compared the effect of DOCA pretreatment on i.c.v. Ang II‐induced water and 2% NaCl intake in behaving adult male, Fischer rats, as well as preoptic/medial septum region neuronal responses to Ang II and losartan, using a seven‐barrelled micro‐iontophoretic electrode sealed to a recording electrode in urethane anaesthetised, male Fischer rats. Two groups were used: one pretreated with DOCA (0.5 mg/day for 3 days) and the other comprising controls, treated with isotonic saline. Ang II applied iontophoretically increased activity in 31% of the spontaneously active neurones. Following DOCA pretreatment, the responsiveness to Ang II (when applied after aldosterone) was increased. By contrast, in the behaving animals, water and 2% NaCl intake in response to i.c.v. Ang II were not enhanced by DOCA pretreatment. These results do not support the working hypothesis but could be interpreted as evidence for the existence of two separately modulated central Ang II systems: one responding to mineralocorticoids with increased neuronal activity and the other responsible for the Ang II‐induced sodium appetite in conscious rats.
Multilocus genealogies reveal multiple cryptic species and biogeographical complexity in the California turret spiderAntrodiaetus riversi(Mygalomorphae, Antrodiaetidae)
Authors: STARRETT JAMES , HEDIN MARSHAL
Published: December 2006

Antrodiaetus riversi(Araneae, Antrodiaetidae) is a dispersal‐limited, habitat specialized mygalomorph spider species endemic to mesic woodlands of northern and central California. This species occupies a disjunct distribution, with populations in the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges, separated by the inhospitable Central Valley. Previous studies of morphological and allozyme variation have suggested that these populations may constitute cryptic species. We investigated the phylogeography ofA. riversiusing both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences, collected for a comprehensive population sample. These data reveal the presence of at least five species in theA. riversicomplex — these species are deeply diverged, and genealogically exclusive in both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Each of these species is characterized by extreme population subdivision and deep phylogeographical structuring, consistent with minimal gene flow across the dissected Californian landscape. Three species are restricted to the Coast Ranges, one to high altitudes of the central Sierran Nevada, and one species is found in both ranges. These species have allopatric distributions, although species parapatry is hypothesized to occur in several areas. Species diversification appears to have pulsed in the Late Miocene/Early Pliocene, a timing consistent with biogeographical reconstructions for many Californian taxa, and a time of turbulent geological activity in the region.
Genome‐based discovery, structure prediction and functional analysis of cyclic lipopeptide antibiotics in Pseudomonas species
Authors: de Bruijn Irene , de Kock Maarten J. D. , Yang Meng , de Waard Pieter , van Beek Teris A. , Raaijmakers Jos M.
Published: December 2006

Analysis of microbial genome sequences have revealed numerous genes involved in antibiotic biosynthesis. In Pseudomonads, several gene clusters encoding non‐ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) were predicted to be involved in the synthesis of cyclic lipopeptide (CLP) antibiotics. Most of these predictions, however, are untested and the association between genome sequence and biological function of the predicted metabolite is lacking. Here we report the genome‐based identification of previously unknown CLP gene clusters in plant pathogenic Pseudomonas syringae strains B728a and DC3000 and in plant beneficial Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf0‐1 and SBW25. For P. fluorescens SBW25, a model strain in studying bacterial evolution and adaptation, the structure of the CLP with a predicted 9‐amino acid peptide moiety was confirmed by chemical analyses. Mutagenesis confirmed that the three identified NRPS genes are essential for CLP synthesis in strain SBW25. CLP production was shown to play a key role in motility, biofilm formation and in activity of SBW25 against zoospores of Phytophthora infestans. This is the first time that an antimicrobial metabolite is identified from strain SBW25. The results indicate that genome mining may enable the discovery of unknown gene clusters and traits that are highly relevant in the lifestyle of plant beneficial and plant pathogenic bacteria.