bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of a Novel Resistant‐Starch and Its Effects on Postprandial Plasma‐Glucose and Insulin Responses
Authors: Hasjim Jovin , Lee Sun‐Ok , Hendrich Suzanne , Setiawan Stephen , Ai Yongfeng , Jane Jay‐lin
Published: July 2010

Objectives of this study were to understand the physicochemical properties of a novel resistant starch (RS) made by complexing high‐amylose maize starch VII (HA7) with palmitic acid (PA), and its effects on reducing postprandial plasma‐glucose and insulin responses. The HA7 starch was heat‐treated and debranched using isoamylase (ISO) to enhance the starch‐lipid complex formation. The RS content of the HA7 starch debranched with ISO and complexed with PA (HA7+ISO+PA) was 52.7% determined using AOAC Method 991.43 for dietary fiber, which was greater than that of the HA7 control (35.4%). The increase in the RS content of the HA7+ISO+PA sample was attributed to the formation of retrograded debranched‐starch and starch‐lipid complex. The postprandial plasma‐glucose and insulin responses of 20 male human‐subjects after ingesting bread made from 60% (dry basis) HA7+ISO+PA were reduced to 55 and 43%, respectively, when compared with those after ingesting control white bread (as 100%) containing the same amount of total carbohydrates. The results suggested that the HA7+ISO+PA can be used for the interventions of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, including diabetes and obesity.
Quantification of ovarian follicles in bluefin tuna Thunnus thynnus by two stereological methods
Authors: Aragón L. , Aranda G. , Santos A. , Medina A.
Published: July 2010

The numbers of different types of ovarian follicles (developing, degenerating and postovulatory follicles) were estimated in bluefin tuna Thunnus thynnus using two stereological procedures: the model‐based method of Weibel & Gomez, which has become a tool of broad application in the quantification of oocytes in fishes, and the assumption‐free ‘disector’ (sic) method of Sterio. The estimates of developing follicles (follicles containing lipid‐stage, vitellogenic and migratory‐nucleus oocytes) made by the model‐based method tended to be lower than those obtained with the disector, though significant differences were not observed except for vitellogenic follicles. Counts of atretic follicles by the model‐based method were higher than those made using the disector, the differences being remarkable between both techniques, particularly in the case of β‐atresia, where the statistical analysis indicated significantly unequal estimations with the two methods. In contrast, the amount of postovulatory follicles estimated by the disector, which would stand for the realized batch fecundity, was somewhat larger than that calculated with the model‐based method.
Gonadal development in a giant threatened reef fish, the humphead wrasse Cheilinus undulatus, and its relationship to international trade
Authors: Sadovy de Mitcheson Y. , Liu M. , Suharti S.
Published: July 2010

An opportunity arose to obtain humphead wrasse Cheilinus undulatus specimens between 2006 and 2009 from Indonesia, the major source and exporting country of this species, making study on its early gonad development possible for the first time. Protogynous hermaphroditism, previously proposed for this species, was confirmed in this study. Based on histological examination of 178 specimens, mainly <500 mm total length (LT) and ranging from 208 to 1290 mm LT (119·1 g to 43·0 kg whole body mass), the minimum body sizes for female and male sexual maturation were determined to be 650 and 845 mm LT, respectively. Primary male development through juvenile sexual differentiation was not detected. A unique blind pouch, with a possible sperm storage function and associated with the testis, was reported for the first time in the Labridae. In Hong Kong retail markets, the global trading centre for this valuable species, live C. undulatus on sale for food were dominated by body sizes <500 mm LT between 1995 and 2009, reflecting an international trade largely focused on juveniles. In consideration of these findings, and given the threatened status of this species, management for C. undulatus capture and trade nationally and internationally are discussed with recommendations for ensuring sufficient spawning biomass in exploited populations and for sustainable trade.
Characterization of the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)+ cell population in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Kimura Osamu , Takahashi Takeshi , Ishii Naoto , Inoue Yuki , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Kogure Takayuki , Fukushima Koji , Shiina Masaaki , Yamagiwa Yoko , Kondo Yasuteru , Inoue Jun , Kakazu Eiji , Iwasaki Takao , Kawagishi Naoki , Shimosegawa Tooru , Sugamura Kazuo
Published: July 2010

Accumulating evidence suggests that cancer stem cells (CSC) play an important role in tumorigenicity. Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is one of the markers that identifies tumor cells with high tumorigenicity. The expression of EpCAM in liver progenitor cells prompted us to investigate whether CSC could be identified in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines. The sorted EpCAM+ subpopulation from HCC cell lines showed a greater colony formation rate than the sorted EpCAM− subpopulation from the same cell lines, although cell proliferation was comparable between the two subpopulations. The in vivo evaluation of tumorigenicity, using supra‐immunodeficient NOD/scid/γcnull (NOG) mice, revealed that a smaller number of EpCAM+ cells (minimum 100) than EpCAM− cells was necessary for tumor formation. The bifurcated differentiation of EpCAM+ cell clones into both EpCAM+ and EpCAM− cells was obvious both in vitro and in vivo, but EpCAM− clones sustained their phenotype. These clonal analyses suggested that EpCAM+ cells may contain a multipotent cell population. Interestingly, the introduction of exogenous EpCAM into EpCAM+ clones, but not into EpCAM− clones, markedly enhanced their tumor‐forming ability, even though both transfectants expressed a similar level of EpCAM. Therefore, the difference in the tumor‐forming ability between EpCAM+ and EpCAM− cells is probably due to the intrinsic biological differences between them. Collectively, our results suggest that the EpCAM+ population is biologically quite different from the EpCAM− population in HCC cell lines, and preferentially contains a highly tumorigenic cell population with the characteristics of CSC. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Obesity impairs general health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL) in premenopausal women to a greater extent than polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Álvarez‐Blasco Francisco , Luque‐Ramírez Manuel , Escobar‐Morreale Héctor F.
Published: July 2010

Objective  Obesity is frequently associated with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and both conditions may impact on the health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL) of affected patients. We aimed to estimate the relative impact of obesity and PCOS on the general HR‐QoL of premenopausal women.

Design  Case–control study.

Patients  Consecutive overweight and obese premenopausal women seeking advice for weight loss, of whom 32 were diagnosed with PCOS and 72 had no evidence of androgen excess and were considered controls.

Measurements  Spanish versions of the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36) questionnaire and the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) were self‐administered by the women.

Results  Patients with PCOS and controls had similar body mass index, yet controls were older. General HR‐QoL mean scores were similar in both groups, yet patients with PCOS scored worse in the role‐emotional item of SF‐36, and controls scored worse in the pain item of NHP. Increasing grades of obesity, on the contrary, were associated with worse scores in the NHP, and SF‐36 items related to general and physical aspects of HR‐QoL. When compared with the standards established for the Spanish general population, both patients with PCOS and controls frequently presented with abnormal scores, yet only increasing grades of obesity were associated with more frequent abnormal scoring.

Conclusions  Obesity impaired general HR‐QoL to a greater extent than PCOS in overweight and obese premenopausal women.
Adaptive change in protective coloration in adult striated shieldbugs Graphosoma lineatum (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae): test of detectability of two colour forms by avian predators
Authors: JOHANSEN ALEKSANDRA I. , EXNEROVÁ ALICE , HOTOVÁ SVÁDOVÁ KATEŘINA , ŠTYS PAVEL , GAMBERALE‐STILLE GABRIELLA , TULLBERG BIRGITTA S.
Published: July 2010

1. Protective coloration in insects may be aposematic or cryptic, and some species change defensive strategy between instars. In Sweden, the adult striated shieldbugs Graphosoma lineatum (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) undergo a seasonal colour change from pale brown and black striation in the pre‐hibernating adults, to red and black striation in the same post‐hibernating individuals. To the human eye the pre‐hibernating adults appear cryptic against the withered late summer vegetation, whereas the red and black post‐hibernating adults appear aposematic. This suggests a possibility of a functional colour change. However, what is cryptic to the human eye is not necessarily cryptic to a potential predator.

2. Therefore we tested the effect of coloration in adult G. lineatum on their detectability for avian predators. Great tits (Parus major) were trained to eat sunflower seeds hidden inside the emptied exoskeletons of pale or red G. lineatum. Then the detection time for both colour forms was measured in a dry vegetation environment.

3. The birds required a longer time to find the pale form of G. lineatum than the red one. The pale form appears more cryptic on withered late summer vegetation than the red form, not only to the human eye but also to avian predators. The result supports the idea that the adult individuals of G. lineatum undergo a functional change from a cryptic protective coloration to an aposematic one.
Polycythemia vera‐associated pruritus and its management
Authors: Saini Kamal S. , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: July 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (9): 828–834

Background  Pruritus is a defining feature of polycythemia vera (PV) and is seen in approximately 40% of patients. In most cases, the pruritus is characteristically triggered by contact with water (aquagenic) at any temperature.

Materials and methods  A detailed MEDLINE search for all English language articles related to PV, PV‐associated pruritus and aquagenic pruritus that were published from 1965 till date was carried out.

Results  Many different treatment options have been tried over the past several decades, including antihistamines, antidepressants, interferon alpha, phlebotomy, phototherapy, iron supplements and myelosuppressive medications, all demonstrating mixed results. Recently, agents that target JAK2 and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) have shown impressive clinical benefit.

Conclusion  PV‐associated pruritus is a major cause of morbidity amongst patients with PV. Antidepressant medications interfering with serotonin uptake are somewhat efficacious. Cytoreductive therapy is reserved for refractory cases. Targeted therapy with JAK2 and mTOR inhibitors offers renewed hope.
Fate of airborne metal pollution in soils as related to agricultural management: 2. Assessing the role of biological activity in micro‐scale Zn and Pb distributions in A, B and C horizons
Authors: Fernandez C. , Labanowski J. , Jongmans T. , Bermond A. , Cambier P. , Lamy I. , Van Oort F.
Published: July 2010

This work assesses relationships between characteristic aggregate microstructures related to biological activity in soils under different long‐term land use and the distribution and extractability of metal pollutants. We selected two neighbouring soils contaminated with comparable metal loads by past atmospheric deposition. Currently, these soils contain similar stocks, but different distributions of zinc (Zn) and lead (Pb) concentrations with depth. One century of continuous land use as permanent pasture (PP) and conventional arable (CA) land, has led to the development of two soils with different macro‐ and micro‐morphological characteristics. We studied distributions of organic matter, characteristic micro‐structures and earthworm‐worked soil by optical microscopy in thin sections from A, B and C horizons. Concentrations and amounts of total and EDTA‐extractable Zn and Pb were determined on bulk samples from soil horizons and on size‐fractions obtained by physical fractionation in water. Large amounts of Zn and Pb were found in 2–20‐µm fractions, ascribed to stable organo‐mineral micro‐aggregates influenced by root and microbial activity, present in both soils. Unimodal distribution patterns of Zn, Pb and organic C in size‐fractions were found in horizons of the CA soil. In contrast, bimodal patterns were observed in the PP soil, because large amounts of Zn and Pb were also demonstrated in stable larger micro‐aggregates (50–100‐µm fractions). Such differing distribution patterns characterized all those horizons markedly influenced by earthworm activity. Larger earthworm activity coincided with larger metal EDTA‐extractability, particularly of Pb. Hence, land use‐related biological activity leads to specific soil microstructures affecting metal distribution and extractability, both in surface and subsurface horizons.
Ribosomal protein L4 positively regulates activity of a c‐myb proto‐oncogene product
Authors: Egoh Ayako , Nosuke Kanesashi Shin , Kanei‐Ishii Chie , Nomura Teruaki , Ishii Shunsuke
Published: July 2010

The c‐myb proto‐oncogene product (c‐Myb) induces transcription of a group of target genes involved in the G1/S transition and in anti‐apoptosis. The level of c‐Myb is negatively regulated by the Wnt signal, but it remains obscure how c‐Myb activity is positively regulated. We have found that ribosomal protein L4 (RPL4) binds to the DNA‐binding domain of c‐Myb. Co‐immunoprecipitation experiments also indicated that RPL4 interacts with c‐Myb. When c‐Myb was overexpressed in CV‐1 cells, significant amounts of RPL4 moved to the nucleoplasm from the nucleolus. RPL4 stimulated the c‐Myb‐dependent expression of a c‐myc‐luciferase reporter construct. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicated that RPL4 binds to the 5′‐regulatory region of the c‐myc gene via c‐Myb. Serum starvation and 2‐deoxyglucose treatment of NIH3T3 cells induced the movement of RPL4 from the nucleoplasm to the nucleolus. Furthermore, c‐myc mRNA levels were reduced by either serum starvation or 2‐deoxyglucose treatment, and the degree of reduction in the c‐myc mRNA level was correlated with the RPL4 level. These results suggest that growth factor and nutritional signals positively regulate c‐Myb activity via its interaction with RPL4. Thus, RPL4 plays an important role in c‐myc expression by interacting with c‐Myb in response to growth factor and nutritional signals.
Targeted mutagenesis in the sea urchin embryo using zinc‐finger nucleases
Authors: Ochiai Hiroshi , Fujita Kazumasa , Suzuki Ken‐ichi , Nishikawa Masatoshi , Shibata Tatsuo , Sakamoto Naoaki , Yamamoto Takashi
Published: July 2010

We showed that engineered zinc‐finger nucleases (ZFNs), which consist of a zinc‐finger DNA‐binding array and a nuclease domain of the restriction enzyme FokI, can introduce mutations at a specific genomic site in the sea urchin embryo. Using bacterial one‐hybrid screening with zinc‐finger randomized libraries and a single‐strand annealing assay in cultured cells, ZFNs targeting the sea urchin Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus homologue of HesC (HpHesC) were efficiently selected. Consistent with the phenotype observed in embryos injected with an antisense morpholino oligonucleotide against HpHesC, an increase in the primary mesenchyme cell population was observed in embryos injected with a pair of HpHesC ZFN mRNAs. In addition, sequence analysis of the mutations showed that deletions and insertions occurred at the HpHesC target site in the embryos injected with the HpHesC ZFN mRNAs. These results suggest that targeted gene disruption using ZFNs is feasible for the sea urchin embryo.
A comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of different voxel resolutions used to detect simulated small internal resorption cavities
Authors: Kamburoğlu K. , Kursun S.
Published: July 2010

Kamburoğlu K, Kursun S. A comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of different voxel resolutions used to detect simulated small internal resorption cavities. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 798–807, 2010.

Aim  To assess ex vivo the use of two different cone‐beam computerized tomography (CBCT) units at different voxel resolutions for the detection of simulated small internal resorption cavities.

Methodology  A total of 60 single‐rooted mandibular incisors and canines were split mesiodistally along the coronal plane into labial and lingual sections. Artificial internal root resorption was simulated by drilling with a 0.5‐mm‐diameter round bur to its full depth at either the cervical or apical portion of the labial wall. In total, 60 cavities were created (30 cervical and 30 apical), and 60 locations (30 cervical and 30 apical) were left without cavities. The sections were rejoined and placed in dry human mandibles in groups of 6 and imaged using two different CBCT units at different resolutions to obtain five image sets as follows: Iluma, ultra‐resolution (0.1 mm3); Iluma, high‐resolution (0.2 mm3); Iluma, low‐resolution (0.3 mm3); 3D Accuitomo 170, 6 × 6 cm FOV (0.125 mm3); 3D Accuitomo 170, 8 × 8 cm FOV (0.160 mm3). Each image set was viewed by two observers and evaluated using a 5‐point scale for detection of internal resorption cavities. Kappa coefficients were calculated to assess intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement. Az values were calculated and compared, with a significance level of α = 0.05.

Results  Kappa values were fair‐to‐moderate for the low‐resolution Iluma images and good to excellent for all other image sets. Both intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement values were higher for the Accuitomo images than for the Iluma images. The highest Az values were obtained with the Accuitomo 0.125 mm3 images and the lowest with the Iluma 0.3 mm3 images. The Az values for the Accuitomo and Iluma ultra‐ and high‐resolution images were higher than those of the low‐resolution Iluma images. No differences (P > 0.05) for internal resorption detection were found between the Az values of the Accuitomo 0.125 mm3, Accuitomo 0.160 mm3, ultra‐resolution Iluma and high‐resolution Iluma images.

Conclusion  Ultra‐and high‐resolution Iluma and Accuitomo 0.125 and 0.160 mm3 CBCT images performed similarly and better than low‐resolution Iluma images in the detection of simulated internal resorption ex vivo.
The effect of apical preparation size on irrigant flow in root canals evaluated using an unsteady Computational Fluid Dynamics model
Authors: Boutsioukis C. , Gogos C. , Verhaagen B. , Versluis M. , Kastrinakis E. , Van Der Sluis L.W.M.
Published: July 2010

Boutsioukis C, Gogos C, Verhaagen B, Versluis M, Kastrinakis E, van der Sluis LWM. The effect of apical preparation size on irrigant flow in root canals evaluated using an unsteady Computational Fluid Dynamics model. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 874–881, 2010.

Aim  To evaluate the effect of apical preparation size on irrigant flow inside a root canal during final irrigation with a syringe and two different needles types, using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model.

Methodology  A validated CFD model was used to simulate the irrigant flow from either a side‐vented or a flat 30G needle positioned inside root canals having sizes of 25, 35, 45 and 55, all with a .06 taper, at 3 mm short of working length (WL). Velocity, pressure and shear stress in the root canal were evaluated.

Results  Different preparation sizes resulted in minor differences in the flow pattern in the apical root canal. Major differences were observed between the two needle types. The side‐vented needle could not achieve irrigant replacement to the WL even in a size 55, .06 taper root canal. Significant irrigant replacement was evident almost to the WL in size 35, 45 and 55, .06 taper root canals with the flat needle. The maximum shear stress decreased as the preparation size increased. The flat needle developed higher mean pressure at the apical foramen. Both needles led to a similar gradual decrease in apical pressure as the preparation size increased.

Conclusions  Apical preparation size affected irrigant replacement, the shear stress on the canal wall and the pressure at the apical foramen. Root canal enlargement to sizes larger than 25 appeared to improve the performance of syringe irrigation. Adequate space between the needle and the canal wall should be ensured to allow for an effective reverse flow of the irrigant towards the canal orifice.
Clinical guideline for nurse‐led early extubation after coronary artery bypass: an evaluation
Authors: Hawkes Claire , Foxcroft David R. , Yerrell Paul
Published: July 2010

hawkes c., foxcroft d.r. & yerrell p.
(2010) Clinical guideline for nurse‐led early extubation after coronary artery bypass: an evaluation. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 2038–2049.

Aim.  This paper is a report of an investigation of the development, implementation and outcomes of a clinical guideline for nurse‐led early extubation of adult coronary artery bypass graft patients.

Background.  Healthcare knowledge translation and utilization is an emerging but under‐developed research area. The complex context for guideline development and use is methodologically challenging for robust and rigorous evaluation. This study contributes one such evaluation.

Methods.  This was a mixed methods evaluation, with a dominant quantitative study with a secondary qualitative study in a single UK cardiac surgery centre. An interrupted time series study (N = 567 elective coronary artery bypass graft patients) with concurrent within person controls was used to measure the impact of the guideline on the primary outcome: time to extubation. Semi‐structured interviews with 11 clinical staff, informed by applied practitioner ethnography, explored the process of guideline development and implementation. The data were collected between January 2001 and January 2003.

Results.  There was no change in the interrupted time series study primary outcome as a consequence of the guideline implementation. The qualitative study identified three themes: context, process and tensions highlighting that the guideline did not require clinicians to change their practice, although it may have helped maintain practice through its educative role.

Conclusion.  Further investigation and development of appropriate methods to capture the dynamism in healthcare contexts and its impact on guideline implementation seems warranted. Multi‐site mixed methods investigations and programmes of research exploring knowledge translation and utilization initiatives, such as guideline implementation, are needed.
Understanding major depressive disorder among middle‐aged African American men
Authors: Bryant‐Bedell Keneshia , Waite Roberta
Published: July 2010

bryant‐bedell k. & waite r. (2010) Understanding major depressive disorder among middle‐aged African American men. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 2050–2060.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study of how a cohort of African American men recognized and expressed symptoms of depression, and how depression affected their lives.

Background.  Major depressive disorder has had global financial consequences in the form of healthcare visits, lost work hours, and disruption of family lives. Early recognition of depression and engagement of depressed individuals to promote management and treatment of this disorder is crucial in controlling its impact. African American men are often not included in research exploring factors that limit their engagement in mental health care.

Method.  A descriptive qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews was conducted in 2008 with ten African American men between the ages of 40 and 59 years. All participants self‐reported a history of depression.

Findings.  Three central themes were identified: life events, the funk, and the breakdown. Life events were identified as stressors which led the men to experience what they described as the funk, which was later identified as depression. Due to lack of resolution of the funk, a breakdown was experienced. Over time study participants became informed about their condition, and their responses to managing depression varied depending on individual and contextual factors.

Conclusion.  It is important to approach depression diagnoses from a broad perspective rather than as a limited list of symptoms. Healthcare providers would benefit from taking into account cultural factors, gender and age, examining them carefully in relation to the development of depressive symptoms.
HIV disclosure among HIV positive individuals: a concept analysis
Authors: Eustace Rosemary W. , Ilagan Perla R.
Published: July 2010

eustace r.w. & ilagan p.r. (2010) HIV disclosure among HIV positive individuals: a concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 2094–2103.

Aim.  This paper is a report of an analysis of the concept of HIV disclosure.

Background.  There is a growing interest among healthcare providers and researchers in HIV disclosure as an effective HIV prevention and early disease management initiative. However, the concept still remains unclear. Conceptual clarity is important for providing an expanded theoretical definition and understanding of attributes of HIV disclosure. This information is useful in constructing better HIV disclosure measures in HIV/AIDS nursing practice and research.

Data sources.  A computer search of the following databases was conducted to capture the meaning and processes of HIV disclosure among HIV‐positive individuals: PubMed, CINAHL and PSYCINFO. Only English language journals were used. Publication dates of the literature review ranged from 1999 to 2009. The following key words were used: HIV disclosure, self‐disclosure, disclosure and serostatus disclosure.

Methods.  The Walker and Avant (2005) concept analysis model (Strategies for Theory Construction in Nursing, Pearson Prentice Hall, River, NJ, 2005) was used to guide the analysis process, which was completed in 2009.

Results.  The concept analysis revealed that HIV disclosure is a complex process characterized by the following attributes: experiencing an event, communicating something, timing, and contextual environment, protecting someone, relationship status and improving something or being therapeutic. In addition, the process of HIV disclosure varies across time.

Conclusion.  The proposed HIV disclosure attributes provide nursing scholars and researchers with new directions on how to reframe research questions, develop measurement tools to reflect better the diversity and fluidity of the process of HIV disclosure among HIV‐positive individuals. Policy implications include the need to develop approaches that protect individual and public rights.
Ginger compress therapy for adults with osteoarthritis
Authors: Therkleson Tessa
Published: July 2010

therkleson t. (2010) Ginger compress therapy for adults with osteoarthritis. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(10), 2225–2233.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explicate the phenomenon of ginger compresses for people with osteoarthritis.

Background.  Osteoarthritis is claimed to be the leading cause of musculoskeletal pain and disability in Western society. Management ideally combines non‐pharmacological strategies, including complementary therapies and pain‐relieving medication. Ginger has been applied externally for over a thousand years in China to manage arthritis symptoms.

Method.  Husserlian phenomenological methodology was used and the data were collected in 2007. Ten purposively selected adults who had suffered osteoarthritis for at least a year kept daily diaries and made drawings, and follow‐up interviews and telephone conversations were conducted.

Findings.  Seven themes were identified in the data: (1) Meditative‐like stillness and relaxation of thoughts; (2) Constant penetrating warmth throughout the body; (3) Positive change in outlook; (4) Increased energy and interest in the world; (5) Deeply relaxed state that progressed to a gradual shift in pain and increased interest in others; (6) Increased suppleness within the body and (7) More comfortable, flexible joint mobility. The essential experience of ginger compresses exposed the unique qualities of heat, stimulation, anti‐inflammation and analgesia.

Conclusion.  Nurses could consider this therapy as part of a holistic treatment for people with osteoarthritis symptoms. Controlled research is needed with larger numbers of older people to explore further the effects of the ginger compress therapy.
Human papilloma virus vaccination: perceptions of young Korean women
Authors: Kang Hee Sun , Shin Hyunsook , Hyun Myung‐Sun , Kim Mi Ja
Published: July 2010

kang h.s., shin h., hyun m.‐s. & kim m.j. (2010) Human papilloma virus vaccination: perceptions of young Korean women. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 1946–1952.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a descriptive study of young Korean women’s perceptions of use of the human papilloma virus vaccine.

Background.  In Korea, cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers in women, and the rate of human papilloma virus infection is increasing. A national media campaign has recently begun to promote human papilloma virus vaccination. However, research addressing the acceptability of this vaccine to women in Korea has been limited.

Method.  Twenty‐five Korean women, 21–30 years of age, participated in seven focus groups. The data were collected in 2007.

Findings.  Participants were concerned about the potential harmful effects of the human papilloma virus vaccine, a possible increase in unsafe sexual behaviours, and the high cost of the vaccine, which is not covered by health insurance. They suggested group vaccination at‐cost or free of charge. They discussed ambivalence about the vaccination, the need for more information about the vaccine, and questions about its effectiveness. Most preferred to wait until more people have been vaccinated.

Conclusion.  There is a need for more aggressive dissemination of information about the safety and efficacy of the human papilloma virus vaccine. More reasonable cost, insurance coverage, or free vaccination using a group approach might increase young Korean women’s acceptance and use of the human papilloma virus vaccine.
Clinical learning environment, supervision and nurse teacher evaluation scale: psychometric evaluation of the Swedish version
Authors: Johansson Unn‐Britt , Kaila Päivi , Ahlner‐Elmqvist Marianne , Leksell Janeth , Isoaho Hannu , Saarikoski Mikko
Published: July 2010

johansson u.‐b., kaila p., ahlner‐elmqvist m., leksell j., isoaho h. & saarikoski m. (2010) Clinical learning environment, supervision and nurse teacher evaluation scale: psychometric evaluation of the Swedish version. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 2085–2093.

Aim.  This article is a report of the development and psychometric testing of the Swedish version of the Clinical Learning Environment, Supervision and Nurse Teacher evaluation scale.

Background.  To achieve quality assurance, collaboration between the healthcare and nursing systems is a pre‐requisite. Therefore, it is important to develop a tool that can measure the quality of clinical education. The Clinical Learning Environment, Supervision and Nurse Teacher evaluation scale is a previously validated instrument, currently used in several universities across Europe. The instrument has been suggested for use as part of quality assessment and evaluation of nursing education.

Methods.  The scale was translated into Swedish from the English version. Data were collected between March 2008 and May 2009 among nursing students from three university colleges, with 324 students completing the questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis was performed on the 34‐item scale to determine construct validity and Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure the internal consistency.

Results.  The five sub‐dimensions identified in the original scale were replicated in the exploratory factor analysis. The five factors had explanation percentages of 60·2%, which is deemed sufficient. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the total scale was 0·95, and varied between 0·96 and 0·75 within the five sub‐dimensions.

Conclusion.  The Swedish version of Clinical Learning Environment, Supervision and Nurse Teacher evaluation scale has satisfactory psychometric properties and could be a useful quality instrument in nursing education. However, further investigation is required to develop and evaluate the questionnaire.
Maternal distress: a concept analysis
Authors: Emmanuel Elizabeth , St John Winsome
Published: July 2010

emmanuel e. & st john w. (2010) Maternal distress: concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 2104–2115.

Aim.  This paper is a report of an analysis of the concept of maternal distress.

Background.  Although not well‐developed, the concept of maternal distress has offered an important viewpoint in nursing and midwifery practice since the mid‐1990s. Traditionally, understanding of maternal distress has been based on the medical model and dysfunction. The concept of maternal distress needs development so that it describes responses ranging from normal stress responses to those indicating mental health problem/s.

Data sources.  The SCOPUS, CINAHL and Medline databases were searched for the period from 1995 to 2009 using the keywords ‘psychological distress’, ‘emotional distress’ and ‘maternal distress’.

Review methods.  Steps from Rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis guided the conduct of this concept analysis.

Results.  Four attributes of maternal distress were identified as responses to the transition to motherhood, with the level of each response occurring along a continuum: stress, adapting, functioning and control, and connecting. Antecedents to maternal distress include becoming a mother, role changes, body changes and functioning, increased demands and challenges, losses and gains, birth experiences, and changes to relationships and social context. The consequences of maternal distress are compromised mental health status, maternal role development, quality of life, ability to function, quality of relationships and social engagement. The extent of the impact depends on the level of maternal distress.

Conclusion.  Clearer interpretation of maternal distress offers a comprehensive approach to understanding maternal emotional health during the transition to motherhood. Acknowledging women’s experiences and providing more appropriate support could alleviate some of the struggles and hardships experienced by mothers.
Incontinence in women prisoners: an exploration of the issues
Authors: Drennan Vari , Goodman Claire , Norton Christine , Wells Amanda
Published: July 2010

drennan v., goodman c., norton c. & wells a. (2010) Incontinence in women prisoners: an exploration of the issues. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 1953–1967.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study exploring the extent and management of bladder and bowel problems in order to inform the provision and practice of prison nursing services and health care services in women’s prisons.

Background.  Nurses and general practitioners provide primary care services inside prisons in the United Kingdom. While high levels of mental health and addiction problems in women prisoners are recognized, there has been less focus on physical problems. Incontinence symptoms are perceived as shameful and stigmatizing, and frequently help is not sought from healthcare professionals. Guidance for assessing prisoner health does not refer to bladder and bowel symptoms.

Methods.  Women prisoners in a large, closed prison in the United Kingdom were surveyed in 2005 using an anonymous self‐completed questionnaire. Women resident in the detoxification unit and the hospital unit, absent from their unit at the time of questionnaire distribution or deemed vulnerable by prison health staff were excluded.

Results.  Questionnaires were offered to 283 women and 246 agreed to take it. Of those taken, 148 (60%) were returned. Twenty‐four per cent indicated that they disclosed information about bladder and bowel problems in the survey not previously disclosed to anyone else. Forty‐three per cent reported urinary symptoms. Five per cent reported nocturnal enuresis. The majority of women with symptoms reported using sanitary pads and toilet paper for containment of leakage.

Conclusion.  Prison nurses and nurse practitioners involved in reception into prison assessments should ask direct but sensitive questions about women’s bladder and bowel symptoms.
Anticipatory grieving among parents living with a child with cancer
Authors: Al‐Gamal Ekhlas , Long Tony
Published: July 2010

al‐gamal e. & long t. (2010) Anticipatory grieving among parents living with a child with cancer. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(9), 1980–1990.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a comparative study of anticipatory grief of parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer and those whose children were diagnosed 6–12 months earlier.

Background.  Public perceptions of cancer as a fatal illness persist despite improved prognosis for children. Parents may experience feelings of despair, hopelessness, and worthlessness – the most common psychological expressions of anticipatory grief. With a focus on developing more effective therapeutic intervention, healthcare professionals have developed greater interest in the concept of anticipatory grief.

Method.  One hundred and forty parents, divided between ‘newly diagnosed’ and ‘6–12 months after diagnosis’ groups, were recruited in 2006 from two hospitals representative of the healthcare sector in Jordan. Structured interviews were conducted to assess anticipatory grief, using the Marwit and Meuser Caregiver Inventory: Childhood Cancer. Analysis was performed using t‐tests.

Results.  Fewer than half of the parents in both groups reported being at peace with themselves and their situation in life. Parents of newly diagnosed children reported more severe anticipatory grief responses than those in the second group. No statistically significant differences were found in responses between mothers and fathers.

Conclusion.  Healthcare professionals should encourage parents to discuss negative feelings related to their child’s illness and potential outcome. Hospital policies need to include the provision and promotion of support group services for parents, and nurses should encourage parents to exploit such services.
Distance‐responsive natural enemies strongly influence seedling establishment patterns of multiple species in an Amazonian rain forest
Authors: Swamy Varun , Terborgh John W.
Published: July 2010

1. In a faunally intact lowland Amazonian rain forest stand, we conducted a long‐term multi‐species experiment aimed at determining the primary mechanistic basis of seedling establishment patterns. We deployed a total of 1050 experimental seedlings, representing 11 common tree species in mixed compositions and at fixed, highly elevated densities in shaded understorey sites, representing extremes of distance from large conspecific trees. We used mesh exclosures to isolate the effects of distinct classes of natural enemies, and monitored survival for up to 45 months.

2. Final seedling survival of all species pooled represented a 40% increase at sites located far from (‘F’ sites) versus close to (‘N’ sites) large conspecific trees, and median seedling lifetime was 75% longer. These differences between N and F sites were significant for all species pooled, and for five out of 11 (survivorship) and four out of nine (lifetime) individual species examined. Survival analysis based on multiple censuses revealed that a ‘distance effect’ persisted and intensified over time, with the onset of significant distance‐related differential mortality differing amongst species.

3. The use of mesh exclosures (<2 mm mesh size) and a factorial experimental design revealed that host‐specific organisms <2 mm in size and/or below‐ground soil‐borne organisms are more strongly distance‐responsive and depress seedling establishment primarily in the vicinity of large conspecific adults whereas above‐ground organisms >2 mm in size appear to have a negative impact on seedling establishment at all distances.

4. No evidence was found for the effect of intra‐cohort resource competition on seedling establishment even though initial density of experimental seedlings at all sites was elevated toc.25 times the mean natural density of the mixed‐species seedling layer in this forest.

5. Synthesis. Our study provides strong, multi‐species support for the influence of host‐specific distance‐responsive natural enemies on seedling establishment, and suggests that negative density‐dependent patterns of tree recruitment in tropical rain forests are at least partly produced at early life stages as an outcome of processes described by the classic Janzen–Connell model.
Regulation of Thyroid Hormone‐, Oestrogen‐ and Androgen‐Related Genes by Triiodothyronine in the Brain of Silurana tropicalis
Authors: Duarte‐Guterman Paula , Trudeau Vance L .
Published: July 2010

Amphibian metamorphosis is an excellent example of hormone‐dependent control of development. Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate almost all aspects of metamorphosis, including brain development and larval neuroendocrine function. Sex steroids are also important for early brain function, although little is known about interactions between the two hormonal systems. In the present study, we established brain developmental profiles for thyroid hormone receptors (tralpha and trbeta), deiodinases (dio1, dio2 and dio3), aromatase (cyp19) mRNA and activity, oestrogen receptors (eralpha and erbeta), androgen receptor (ar) and 5α‐reductases (srd5alpha1 and srd5alpha2) mRNA during Silurana (Xenopus) tropicalis metamorphosis. Real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed that all of the genes were expressed in the brain and for most of the genes expression increased during development, with the exception of dio2, srd5alpha1 and srd5alpha2. The ability of premetamorphic tadpoles to respond to exogenous THs was used to investigate the regulation of TH‐ and sex steroid‐related genes in the brain during development. Exposure of premetamorphic tadpoles to triiodothyronine (T3; 0, 0.5, 5 and 50 nm) for 48 h resulted in concentration‐dependent increases in trbeta, dio2, dio3, eralpha and erbeta. Expression of srd5alpha2 showed large increases (six‐ to 7.5‐fold) for all three concentrations of T3. No changes were detected in dio1, ar and cyp19 transcript levels; however, cyp19 activity increased significantly at 50 nm T3. The results obtained suggest that expression of TH‐related genes and er during development could be regulated by rising levels of THs, as previously documented in Lithobates (Rana) pipiens. The positive regulation of srd5alpha by T3 in the brain suggests that endogenous TH levels help maintain or control the rate at which srd5alpha mRNA levels decrease as metamorphosis progresses. Finally, we have identified sex steroid‐related genes that are responsive to T3, providing additional evidence of crosstalk between THs and sex steroids in the tadpole brain.
Orexin‐B‐saporin lesions in the lateral hypothalamus enhance photic masking of rapid eye movement sleep in the albino rat
Authors: OCAMPO‐GARCÉS ADRIÁN , IBÁÑEZ FRANCISCO , PERDOMO GUETÓN , TORREALBA FERNANDO
Published: July 2010

The 24‐h distribution of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is known to be deeply reshaped among albino rats with neurotoxic lesions in the lateral hypothalamus (LH) or among rodent models of human narcolepsy–cataplexy, with selective damage of orexinergic neurones. We explored the hypothesis that this phenomenon is explained by an enhancement of REM sleep photic masking, as a consequence of damage in the LH. Orexin‐B‐saporin neurotoxic lesions were induced in the LH of male Sprague–Dawley rats. LH‐lesioned and control rats were sleep‐recorded successively under 12 : 12 light/dark (LD) and skeleton photoperiod. Compared to controls, lesioned rats exhibited 50% less and 82% more REM sleep during rest and active phases, respectively, under the 12 : 12 LD schedule. After transference to a skeleton photoperiod, lesioned rats exhibited an 88% increase in REM sleep during the rest phase, recovering the characteristic rest phase preference of REM sleep observed among control rats. The increase in rest phase REM sleep during the skeleton photoperiod was correlated positively with the magnitude of the LH lesion. Our results suggest that changes in the temporal organization of sleep–wake states observed among rats with neurotoxic lesions in the lateral hypothalamus and rodent models of narcolepsy–cataplexy may be explained by the enhancement of photic masking.
Antibodies from sheep immunized against Haemonchus contortus with H‐gal‐GP inhibit the haemoglobinase activity of this protease complex
Authors: EKOJA S. E. , SMITH W. D.
Published: July 2010

Highly protective intestinal cell membrane antigens have been prepared from Haemonchus contortus, an important blood feeding nematode which parasitizes sheep and goats. One such antigen, H‐gal‐GP, is a glycoprotein complex containing predominantly digestive proteases. This study showed that H‐gal‐GP readily digested ovine haemoglobin and albumin, the two most abundant proteins in the parasite’s blood meal. It was found that adding protective antibodies from H‐gal‐GP immunized sheep to the H‐gal‐GP catalysed haemoglobin digestion reaction, reduced the rate by 70–90% at pH 5·0. This reduction was only 30% when nonprotective IgG from sheep immunized with denatured H‐gal‐GP was added and IgG from worm‐free sheep had no effect. These results support the theory that the mechanism of protection in sheep vaccinated with H‐gal‐GP is by specific antibodies impairing the parasites ability to digest its blood meal.
Malasseziadermatitis in dogs in Brazil: diagnosis, evaluation of clinical signs and molecular identification
Authors: Machado Mauro L.S. , Ferreiro Laerte , Ferreira Rafael R. , Corbellini Luis G. , Deville Manjula , Berthelemy Madeleine , Guillot Jacques
Published: July 2010

Skin carriage and quantification ofMalasseziayeasts were evaluated in 180 healthy dogs (group 1) and 117 dogs with clinical signs (pruritus, erythema, lichenification/seborrhoea, excoriations and alopecia) that could be related toMalasseziadermatitis (group 2) in Brazil. The lesions in the group 2 dogs were evaluated using CADESI‐03 scores. Samples were collected from five different anatomical areas. Direct examination was performed using the tape strip technique, and results were expressed as the mean number of yeasts per ×1000 microscopic field per dog. For mycological culture, a single piece of sterilized carpet was applied to the same areas sampled for cytology, and transferred onto Dixon’s modified medium. Yeast populations were expressed as mean colony forming units (CFU)/plate.Malasseziaisolates were characterized by polymerase chain reaction–restriction endonuclease analysis of the large subunit (LSU) of ribosomal RNA gene. The probability of culturingMalasseziafrom dogs with skin lesions was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than from healthy dogs. There was a linear trend between CADESI‐03 score and mean CFU/plate. Group 2 dogs with positive cultures had higher CADESI‐03 scores than those with negative cultures (P < 0.05). Almost all isolates were identified asMalassezia pachydermatis. Only one isolate (group 2) was identified asMalassezia furfur. These data suggest that dogs with skin disorders harbouringMalasseziayeasts in quantities higher than 120 mean CFU/plate should be considered as havingMalasseziadermatitis. The presence ofMalasseziaappears to exacerbate clinical lesions in dogs.