bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability, validity and factor structure of the Appraisal of Self‐Care Agency Scale – Revised (ASAS‐R)
Authors: Sousa Valmi D. , Zauszniewski Jaclene A. , Bergquist‐Beringer Sandra , Musil Carol M. , Neese Jane B. , Jaber Ala'a F.
Published: July 2010

Rationale, aims and objectives  Self‐care agency is a fundamental concept in nursing and health care research. Having self‐care agency enhances an individual's health‐promoting behaviours and/or specific capabilities for chronic disease self‐management. The purpose of this study was to continue the development and psychometric testing of the Appraisal of Self‐Care Agency – Revised (ASAS‐R).

Methods  A cross‐sectional methodological design was used to examine the reliability, validity and factor structure of the ASAS‐R among individuals from the general population. The sample consisted of 629 adults who were randomly selected to conduct an exploratory factor analysis (EFA; n = 240) and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; n = 389) of the scale. A demographic questionnaire, the ASAS‐R and the Health‐Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP‐II) were the measures used to collect the data.

Results  The final 15‐item three‐factor ASAS‐R had an overall Cronbach's alpha (α) of 0.89. The three factors extracted, rotated and scored in this study were labelled: having power for self‐care, developing power for self‐care and lacking power for self‐care. All inter‐items and item‐to‐total correlations met recommended criteria of r = 0.30 to r = 0.70, except for one of the items that had an item‐to‐total correlation of 0.71, slightly exceeding the maximum recommended item‐to‐total correlation. The three factors had Cronbach's alphas of 0.86, 0.83 and 0.79, respectively. The three factors together explained 61.7% of the scale items variance. Each item of the scale had a strong factor loading ranging from 0.52 to 0.81. All measures of model fit exceeded the recommended criteria, indicating that the 15‐item ASAS‐R had a very good fit (χ2/d.f. = 1.97, GFI = 0.94, AGFI = 0.92, CFI = 0.96, TLI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.05, RMR = 0.05 and the PCLOSE = 0.48).

Conclusions  The 15‐item three‐factor ASAS‐R is a short, reliable and valid instrument to measure self‐care agency among individuals from the general population, but further psychometric evaluation is needed among individuals with chronic diseases, especially those with diabetes mellitus.
Evidence of dysregulated affect indicated by high alexithymia in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: NIKOLAOU ALEXANDRA , SCHIZA SOFIA E. , CHATZI LEDA , KOUDAS VASSILIS , FOKOS STEFANOS , SOLIDAKI ELENI , BITSIOS PANOS
Published: July 2010

Alexithymia refers to dysregulation of affect characterized by difficulty in identifying and expressing emotions. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by increased medical/psychiatric comorbidity and possibly by affect dysregulation. In the present case‐control study, we examined alexithymia levels with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS‐20) in 23 psychiatrically uncomplicated OSA outpatients and 23 same gender controls one‐to‐one matched for age, education and subjective depressive symptomatology. General health/quality of life was assessed with the Short‐Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36) in the patient group. Hierarchical multivariate regression models were used to evaluate the association of alexithymia with the presence of OSA, and clinical and polysomnographic parameters of this condition. TAS‐20 total and subscale scores were associated positively with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)‐21 and negatively with SF‐36 scores. After adjusting for all confounders, OSA was positively associated with total TAS‐20 score, ‘expressing feelings’ and ‘externally oriented thinking’ subscales. The latter was associated with increased sleepiness and reduced blood oxygenation in the OSA group. Finally, ‘difficulty describing feelings’ and ‘externally oriented thinking’ significantly predicted risk for OSA. Alexithymia is higher in non‐psychiatrically ill patients with OSA compared with carefully matched controls even after adjustment for subjective depressive symptoms and demographic confounders. Total alexithymia is associated with greater subjective depression and poor general health/quality of life, while ‘externally oriented thinking’ is associated with disease severity and together with ‘difficulty describing feelings’ may be vulnerability factors for OSA, although reverse causality cannot be excluded.
Pharmacokinetics of a novel amoxicillin/colistin suspension after intramuscular administration in pigs
Authors: HE J. , TANG S. , LI L. , ZHANG C. , LI X. , XIA X. , XIAO X.
Published: July 2010

He, J., Tang, S., Li, L., Zhang, C., Li, X., Xia, X., Xiao, X. Pharmacokinetics of a novel amoxicillin/colistin suspension after intramuscular administration in pigs. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 34, 42–50.

An amoxicillin (AMO) or colistin (COS) oil suspension was developed and corresponding pharmacokinetics studies were conducted in pigs after i.m. injection. The combination product is a white‐ to cream‐colored oil suspension which is easy to be re‐dispersed. Settling volume ratio, syringeability and flowability of the product is well consistent with the technical standards set by the Ministry of Agriculture of People’s Republic of China. Two studies were conducted to investigate the pharmacokinetics of the combination product in swine. First, the pharmacokinetics of the combination product was compared with those of the same products merely removing either AMO or COS. No significant change in the major pharmacokinetic parameters (Cmax, Tmax, MRT, t1/2λ, AUC and AUMC) was observed when either component was removed from the combination product, indicating that AMO and COS do not interfere with each other in their absorption and distribution in the tissue when used as a combination. Second, the pharmacokinetics of the combination product was compared with that of their respective single products. It was found that the apparent elimination half‐lives (t1/2λ) of AMO and COS in combination product were 6.38 and 8.09 h, which were 2.40 and 2.38 times longer than the single products, respectively. Thus, the novel AMO/COS suspension extended significantly the half‐life of both drugs to maintain a longer drug residence time in pigs when compared to their single products.
Bioavailability of detomidine administered sublingually to horses as an oromucosal gel
Authors: KAUKINEN H. , ASPEGRÉN J. , HYYPPÄ S. , TAMM L. , SALONEN J. S.
Published: July 2010

Kaukinen, H., Aspegrén, J., Hyyppä, S., Tamm, L., Salonen, J. S. Bioavailability of detomidine administered sublingually to horses as an oromucosal gel. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 34, 76–81.

The objective of the study was to determine the absorption, bioavailability and sedative effect of detomidine administered to horses as an oromucosal gel compared to intravenous and intramuscular administration of detomidine injectable solution. The study was open and randomized, with three sequences crossover design. Nine healthy horses were given 40 μg/kg detomidine intravenously, intramuscularly or administered under the tongue with a 7‐day wash‐out period between treatments. Blood samples were collected before and after drug administration for the measurement of detomidine concentrations in serum. The effects of the route of administration on heart rate and rhythm were evaluated and the depth of sedation assessed. Mean (±SD) bioavailability of detomidine was 22% (±5.3%) after sublingual administration and 38.2% (±7.9%) after intramuscular administration. The sedative effects correlated with detomidine concentrations regardless of the route of administration. We conclude that less detomidine is absorbed when given sublingually than when given intramuscularly, because part of it does not reach the circulation. Sublingual administration of detomidine oromucosal gel at 40 μg/kg produces safe sedation in horses. Slow absorption leads to fewer and less pronounced adverse effects than the more rapid absorption after intramuscular injection.
Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in adult goats and its analgesic effect in disbudded kids
Authors: INGVAST‐LARSSON C. , HÖGBERG M. , MENGISTU U. , OLSÉN L. , BONDESSON U. , OLSSON K.
Published: July 2010

Ingvast‐Larsson, C., Högberg, M., Mengistu, U., Olsén, L., Bondesson, U., Olsson, K. Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in adult goats and its analgesic effect in disbudded kids. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 64–69.

The pharmacokinetics and analgesic effect of the nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug meloxicam (0.5 mg/kg) in goats were investigated. In a randomized, cross‐over design the pharmacokinetic parameters were investigated in adult goats (n = 8) after single intravenous and oral administration. The analgesic effect was evaluated in kids using a randomized, placebo controlled and blinded protocol. Kids received meloxicam (n = 6) once daily and their siblings (n = 5) got isotonic NaCl intramuscularly while still anaesthetized after cautery disbudding and injections were repeated on three consecutive days. In the adult goats after intravenous administration the terminal half‐life was 10.9 ± 1.7 h, steady‐state volume of distribution was 0.245 ± 0.06 L/kg, and total body clearance was 17.9 ± 4.3 mL/h/kg. After oral administration bioavailability was 79 ± 19%, Cmax was 736 ± 184 ng/mL, Tmax was 15 ±5 h, although the terminal half‐life was similar to the intravenous value, 11.8 ± 1.7 h. Signs of pain using a visual analogue scale were smaller in kids treated with meloxicam compared with kids treated with placebo on the first day after disbudding, but subsequently no difference in pain was noticeable. Plasma cortisol and glucose concentrations did not differ between the two groups.
Efficacy of heartworm preventatives against ascarids and hookworms in client‐owned dogs: a retrospective case control study
Authors: GATES M. C. , NOLAN T. J.
Published: July 2010

Gates, M.C., Nolan, T.J. Efficacy of heartworm preventatives against ascarids and hookworms in client‐owned dogs: a retrospective case control study.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 116–119.

The efficacy of heartworm preventatives against ascarids and hookworms was assessed in a retrospective analysis of 1329 dogs that received a fecal examination and were surveyed about heartworm preventative use upon presentation to the veterinary teaching hospital at the University of Pennsylvania. To remove confounding due to age, patients under 6 months old were analyzed separately from the remaining population. Although there were no reported cases of ascarids or hookworms in patients under 6 months old receiving monthly heartworm prevention, the prevalence reached 5.2% and 11.7%, respectively, in patients that were not using any products. For patients over 6 months old, there were no apparent associations between parasites and heartworm preventative use. Of the 75.5% of dogs that were administered heartworm preventatives, 16.1% reported seasonal use and 83.9% reported using the products year round. Patients using heartworm preventatives seasonally were no more likely to be harboring nematode parasites than patients using preventatives year round (OR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.19–2.55). Overall efficacy rates were consistent with prior studies on the active ingredients. Heartworm preventative have the greatest value for controlling nematode endoparasites in patients under 6 months old.
Transcription, processing and function of CRISPR cassettes in Escherichia coli
Authors: Pougach Ksenia , Semenova Ekaterina , Bogdanova Ekaterina , Datsenko Kirill A. , Djordjevic Marko , Wanner Barry L. , Severinov Konstantin
Published: July 2010

CRISPR/Cas, bacterial and archaeal systems of interference with foreign genetic elements such as viruses or plasmids, consist of DNA loci called CRISPR cassettes (a set of variable spacers regularly separated by palindromic repeats) and associated cas genes. When a CRISPR spacer sequence exactly matches a sequence in a viral genome, the cell can become resistant to the virus. The CRISPR/Cas systems function through small RNAs originating from longer CRISPR cassette transcripts. While laboratory strains of Escherichia coli contain a functional CRISPR/Cas system (as judged by appearance of phage resistance at conditions of artificial co‐overexpression of Cas genes and a CRISPR cassette engineered to target a λ‐phage), no natural phage resistance due to CRISPR system function was observed in this best‐studied organism and no E. coli CRISPR spacer matches sequences of well‐studied E. coli phages. To better understand the apparently ‘silent’E. coli CRISPR/Cas system, we systematically characterized processed transcripts from CRISPR cassettes. Using an engineered strain with genomically located spacer matching phage λ we show that endogenous levels of CRISPR cassette and cas genes expression allow only weak protection against infection with the phage. However, derepression of the CRISPR/Cas system by disruption of the hns gene leads to high level of protection.
Is primary angioplasty an acceptable alternative to thrombolysis? Quantitative and qualitative study of patient and carer satisfaction
Authors: Sampson Fiona C , O’Cathain Alicia , Goodacre Steve
Published: July 2010

Objective  The National Infarct Angioplasty Project assessed the feasibility of establishing a comprehensive primary angioplasty service. We aimed to compare satisfaction at intervention hospitals offering angioplasty‐based care and control hospitals offering thrombolysis‐based care.

Design  Mixed methods, with postal survey of patients and their carers, supported by semi‐structured interviews.

Setting and participants  Survey of 682 patients and 486 carers, and interviews with 33 patients and carers, in eight English hospitals.

Interventions  Primary angioplasty or thrombolysis.

Main outcome measures  Satisfaction with treatment.

Results  Responses were received from 595/682 patients (87%) and 418/486 carers (86%). Satisfaction with overall care was high at both intervention and control sites (78% vs. 71% patients rated their care as ‘excellent’, P = 0.074). Patient satisfaction was higher at intervention sites for some aspects of care such as speed of treatment (80% vs. 67%‘excellent’, P = 0.001). Convenience of visiting was rated lower at intervention sites by carers (12% vs. 1%‘poor’, P = 0.001). During interviews, carers reported that they accepted the added inconvenience of visiting primary angioplasty sites in the context of this life‐saving treatment. Patient satisfaction with discharge and aftercare was lower in both treatment groups than for other aspects of care.

Conclusions  Reorganization of care to offer a primary angioplasty service was acceptable to patients and their carers. Satisfaction levels were high regardless of the type of care received, with the exception of discharge and aftercare.
Patient perceptions of carrying their own health information: approaches towards responsibility and playing an active role in their own health – implications for a patient‐held health file
Authors: Forsyth Rowena , Maddock Carol A. , Iedema Rick A. M. , Lassere Marissa
Published: July 2010

Objective  To elicit patients’ views on whether they could contribute to improvements in their care by carrying their own health information to clinician encounters; and to consider the implications for the development of a patient‐held health file (PHF).

Background  Increasing rates of chronic disease lead to health care being delivered by multiple care providers often at distributed geographic locations. As a way of increasing the availability of patient information to care providers our project will trial a PHF. Patients carry these files to doctors’ appointments where clinicians record data for other doctors or the patient. Increasing the availability of patient information is anticipated to enhance the safety and quality of care delivery and improve health outcomes.

Study design  Qualitative semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 10 patients. Participants were evenly distributed in terms of gender, aged 60 years or greater and visited at least two specialists and one general practitioner.

Findings  In this exploratory study, patients who were currently active in decision making about their own health already recorded some health information. They were receptive to carrying their information and thought they should take some responsibility for their health. Patients who were more passive in making decisions about their health did not perceive a need to carry their own information and felt that their doctors communicated adequately.

Conclusion  Patient‐held health files provide an opportunity for patients to access their health information. Such files have the potential to improve health outcomes for patients who adopt both active and passive roles in relation to their own health and engaging with their health information.
Critical appraisal guidelines for assessing the quality and impact of user involvement in research
Authors: Wright David , Foster Claire , Amir Ziv , Elliott Jim , Wilson Roger
Published: July 2010

Background  The involvement of service users in the design and conduct of health research has developed significantly in the UK in recent years. Involving service users is now seen as a core component of good research practice for all forms of health research. Given the important role that users have in health research, it is necessary to develop guidelines for their effective involvement. Whilst guidelines are currently being formulated, there remain no criteria with which to assess user involvement in published studies and funding applications.

Objective  This study offers guidelines for appraising the quality and impact of user involvement in published papers and grant applications.

Methods  Appraisal guidelines for user involvement have been developed on the basis of available literature and experiences from studies involving cancer patients and carers in the design and conduct of research.

Findings  Nine appraisal criteria have been developed. Criteria include issues such as ‘Is the rationale for involving users clearly demonstrated?’, ‘Is the level of user involvement appropriate?’, ‘Is the recruitment strategy appropriate?’, and ‘Is the nature of training appropriate?’

Conclusion  Generating and applying guidelines is vital if the impact of user involvement agenda in health research is to be understood.
Training family physicians in shared decision making for the use of antibiotics for acute respiratory infections: a pilot clustered randomized controlled trial
Authors: Légaré France , Labrecque Michel , LeBlanc Annie , Njoya Merlin , Laurier Claudine , Côté Luc , Godin Gaston , Thivierge Robert L. , O’Connor Annette , St‐Jacques Sylvie
Published: July 2010

Background  Experts estimate that the prevalence of antibiotics use exceeds the prevalence of bacterial acute respiratory infections (ARIs).

Objective  To develop, adapt and validate DECISION+ and estimate its impact on the decision of family physicians (FPs) and their patients on whether to use antibiotics for ARIs.

Design  Two‐arm parallel clustered pilot randomized controlled trial.

Setting and participants  Four family medicine groups were randomized to immediate DECISION+ participation (the experimental group) or delayed DECISION+ participation (the control group). Thirty‐three FPs and 459 patients participated.

Intervention  DECISION+ is a multiple‐component, continuing professional development program in shared decision making that addresses the use of antibiotics for ARIs.

Main outcome measures  Throughout the pilot trial, DECISION+ was adapted in response to participant feedback. After the consultation, patients and FPs independently self‐reported the decision (immediate use, delayed use, or no use of antibiotics) and its quality. Agreement between their decisional conflict was assessed. Two weeks later, patients assessed their decisional regret and health status.

Results  Compared to the control group, the experimental group reduced its immediate use of antibiotics (49 vs. 33% absolute difference = 16%; P = 0.08). Decisional conflict agreement was stronger in the experimental group (absolute difference of Pearson’s r = 0.26; P = 0.06). Decisional regret and perceptions of the quality of the decision and of health status in the two groups were similar.

Discussion and conclusions  DECISION+ was developed successfully and appears to reduce the use of antibiotics for ARIs without affecting patients’ outcomes. A larger trial is needed to confirm this observation.
O‐antigen diversity and lateral transfer of the wbe region among Vibrio splendidus isolates
Authors: Wildschutte Hans , Preheim Sarah P. , Hernandez Yasiel , Polz Martin F.
Published: July 2010

The O‐antigen is a highly diverse structure expressed on the outer surface of Gram‐negative bacteria. The products responsible for O‐antigen synthesis are encoded in the wbe region, which exhibits extensive genetic diversity. While heterogeneous O‐antigens are observed within Vibrio species, characterization of these structures has been devoted almost exclusively to pathogens. Here, we investigate O‐antigen diversity among coastal marine Vibrio splendidus‐like isolates. The wbe region was first identified and characterized using the sequenced genomes of strains LGP32, 12B01 and Med222. These regions were genetically diverse, reflective of their expressed O‐antigen. Additional isolates from physically distinct habitats in Plum Island Estuary (MA, USA), including within animal hosts and on suspended particles, were further characterized based on multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) and O‐antigen profiles. Results showed serotype diversity within an ecological setting. Among 48 isolates which were identical in three MLSA genes, 41 showed gpm genetic diversity, a gene closely linked to the wbe locus, and at least 12 expressed different O‐antigen profiles further suggesting wbe genetic diversity. Our results demonstrate O‐antigen hyper‐variability among these environmental strains and suggest that frequent lateral gene transfer generates wbe extensive diversity among V. splendidus and its close relatives.
Identification of the dominant sulfate‐reducing bacterial partner of anaerobic methanotrophs of the ANME‐2 clade
Authors: Schreiber Lars , Holler Thomas , Knittel Katrin , Meyerdierks Anke , Amann Rudolf
Published: July 2010

The anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) with sulfate as terminal electron acceptor is mediated by consortia of methanotrophic archaea (ANME) and sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB). Whereas three clades of ANME have been repeatedly studied with respect to phylogeny, key genes and genomic capabilities, little is known about their sulfate‐reducing partner. In order to identify the partner of anaerobic methanotrophs of the ANME‐2 clade, bacterial 16S rRNA gene libraries were constructed from cultures highly enriched for ANME‐2a and ANME‐2c in consortia with Deltaproteobacteria of the Desulfosarcina/Desulfococcus group (DSS). Phylogenetic analysis of those and publicly available sequences from AOM sites supported the hypothesis by Knittel and colleagues that the DSS partner belongs to the diverse SEEP‐SRB1 cluster. Six subclusters of SEEP‐SRB1, SEEP‐SRB1a to SEEP‐SRB1f, were proposed and specific oligonucleotide probes were designed. Using fluorescence in situ hybridization on samples from six different AOM sites, SEEP‐SRB1a was identified as sulfate‐reducing partner in up to 95% of total ANME‐2 consortia. SEEP‐SRB1a cells exhibited a rod‐shaped, vibrioid, or coccoid morphology and were found to be associated with subgroups ANME‐2a and ANME‐2c. Moreover, SEEP‐SRB1a was also detected in 8% to 23% of ANME‐3 consortia in Haakon Mosby Mud Volcano sediments, previously described to be predominantly associated with SRB of the Desulfobulbus group. SEEP‐SRB1a contributed to only 0.3% to 0.7% of all single cells in almost all samples indicating that these bacteria are highly adapted to a symbiotic relationship with ANME‐2.
GeneFISH – an in situ technique for linking gene presence and cell identity in environmental microorganisms
Authors: Moraru Cristina , Lam Phyllis , Fuchs Bernhard M. , Kuypers Marcel M. M. , Amann Rudolf
Published: July 2010

Our knowledge concerning the metabolic potentials of as yet to be cultured microorganisms has increased tremendously with the advance of sequencing technologies and the consequent discoveries of novel genes. On the other hand, it is often difficult to reliably assign a particular gene to a phylogenetic clade, because these sequences are usually found on genomic fragments that carry no direct marker of cell identity, such as rRNA genes. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to develop geneFISH – a protocol for linking gene presence with cell identity in environmental samples, the signals of which can be visualized at a single cell level. This protocol combines rRNA‐targeted catalysed reporter deposition – fluorescence in situ hybridization and in situ gene detection. To test the protocol, it was applied to seawater samples from the Benguela upwelling system. For gene detection, a polynucleotide probe mix was used, which was designed based on crenarchaeotal amoA clone libraries prepared from each seawater sample. Each probe in the mix was selected to bind to targets with up to 5% mismatches. To determine the hybridization parameters, the Tm of probes, targets and hybrids was estimated based on theoretical calculations and in vitro measurements. It was shown that at least 30%, but potentially the majority of the Crenarchaeota present in these samples harboured the amoA gene and were therefore likely to be catalysing the oxidation of ammonia.
Microbial communities acclimate to recurring changes in soil redox potential status
Authors: DeAngelis Kristen M. , Silver Whendee L. , Thompson Andrew W. , Firestone Mary K.
Published: July 2010

Rapidly fluctuating environmental conditions can significantly stress organisms, particularly when fluctuations cross thresholds of normal physiological tolerance. Redox potential fluctuations are common in humid tropical soils, and microbial community acclimation or avoidance strategies for survival will in turn shape microbial community diversity and biogeochemistry. To assess the extent to which indigenous bacterial and archaeal communities are adapted to changing in redox potential, soils were incubated under static anoxic, static oxic or fluctuating redox potential conditions, and the standing (DNA‐based) and active (RNA‐based) communities and biogeochemistry were determined. Fluctuating redox potential conditions permitted simultaneous CO2 respiration, methanogenesis, N2O production and iron reduction. Exposure to static anaerobic conditions significantly changed community composition, while 4‐day redox potential fluctuations did not. Using RNA : DNA ratios as a measure of activity, 285 taxa were more active under fluctuating than static conditions, compared with three taxa that were more active under static compared with fluctuating conditions. These data suggest an indigenous microbial community adapted to fluctuating redox potential.
Temporal dynamics and genetic diversity of chemotactic‐competent microbial populations in the rhizosphere
Authors: Buchan Alison , Crombie Burnette , Alexandre Gladys M.
Published: July 2010

The contribution of chemotaxis to the competitive colonization of the rhizosphere for the vast majority of the soil community is unknown. We have developed and applied a molecular diagnostic tool, based on a gene encoding the central regulator of bacterial chemotaxis (cheA), to characterize and temporally track specific populations of native microbes with chemotaxis potential that are present in soil exposed to two rhizospheres: wheat and cowpea. The data show that the chemotactic‐competent communities present in the rhizospheres of the two plants are distinct and less diverse than the bulk soil, indicating the development of unique microbial communities. Consistent with the supposition that selection and recruitment of specific soil microbes takes place in the rhizosphere, the dynamics of specific cheA phylotypes provides support for the hypothesis that chemotaxis provides a competitive advantage to some soil microbes. This is the first study to examine and profile the genetic diversity of chemotaxis genes in natural populations. As such, it illustrates our limited understanding of microbial chemotaxis for the majority of soil microbes. It also highlights the value of a culture‐independent approach for examining chemotaxis populations in order to build empirical lines of evidence for its role in structuring of microbial assemblages.
Hepatitis B and C seropositivity among nursing students at a Turkish university
Authors: Irmak Z. , Ekinci B. , Akgul A.F.
Published: July 2010

IRMAK Z., EKINCI B. & AKGUL A.F. (2010) Hepatitis B and C seropositivity among nursing students at a Turkish university. International Nursing Review57, 365–369

Background:  Viral hepatitis infections are major health problems, which are especially prevalent in developing countries. In particular, health care workers are at high risk for contracting viral hepatitis. Therefore, preventive measures to minimize occupational exposure to blood borne pathogens are needed to protect both health care workers and nursing students.

Objectives:  To determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B and C infections and risk factors among nursing students.

Methods:  Venous bloods were obtained from nursing students and were serologically tested using the ELISA method. A questionnaire form was also used to obtain data related to demographic and socio‐economic characteristics of the participants.

Results:  0.7% of the nursing students were serologically positive for HBsAg, 17.0% for Anti‐HBs and 7.5% were positive for Anti‐HBc (IgG). No statistical relationship was determined between all independent variables and the results of serologic tests.
Family planning practice and related factors of married women in Ethiopia
Authors: Ko I.S. , You M.A. , Kim E.S. , Lee T.W. , Kim S. , Kim Y.M. , Nam J.J. , Lee H.K.
Published: July 2010

KO I.S., YOU M.A., KIM E.S., LEE T.W., KIM S., KIM Y.M., NAM J.J., LEE H.K. (2010).Family planning practice and related factors of married women in Ethiopia. International Nursing Review57, 377–382

Background:  The family planning (FP) practice rate of Ethiopian women of reproductive age is lower than in most other sub‐Saharan African countries.

Aim:  To examine the status of FP practice and identify intrapersonal, interpersonal and community factors associated with FP practice among married Ethiopian women in a rural area.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with a convenient sample of 193 married women of reproductive age. A structured questionnaire, which was modified based on the Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey, was used. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with FP practice at three levels: intrapersonal, interpersonal and community.

Results:  Almost 67% of women were currently using at least one FP method and most women obtained FP methods from the public health sector. Short‐term methods such as pills and injections were most commonly used. FP practice was significantly associated with willingness to use long‐term or permanent FP methods in future and spousal discussion about FP.

Conclusions:  Both intrapersonal and interpersonal factors were related to FP practice. Community factors, however, need to be further assessed using various methods to plan a comprehensive and more culturally acceptable community‐based FP program. Caution is needed to generalize the findings because of the convenient sample, but community‐based FP programs emphasizing long‐term or permanent methods and male involvement in FP counseling would be successful strategies to increase FP practice.

Implications for nursing practice:  Nurses and midwives need to be trained to provide knowledge and skills for long‐term or permanent FP methods for service quality.
Nurses' and midwives' knowledge and perceptions of their role in genetic teaching
Authors: Gharaibeh H. , Oweis A. , Hamad K.H.
Published: July 2010

GHARAIBEH H., OWEIS A. & HAMAD K.H. (2010) Nurses' and midwives' knowledge and perceptions of their role in genetic teaching. International Nursing Review

Background:  There is a high incidence of birth defects and genetic disorders in Jordan. The purpose of this study was to explore Jordanian nurses' and midwives' knowledge and perceptions of their role in genetic teaching.

Method:  A descriptive cross‐sectional design with a convenience sample of 200 registered nurses and midwives was used. Nurses and midwives were recruited from three maternal and child health hospitals located in the northern part of Jordan. Eligible participants who met the inclusion criteria were invited to participate in the study. A sociodemographic data form and a questionnaire concerning nurses' and midwives' attitudes and perceptions of their role in genetic teaching were developed for self‐administration.

Results:  Findings indicated that the majority (86 per cent) of nurses and midwives had an inadequate level of knowledge regarding genetic teaching regarding their roles in obtaining family history and pedigrees, and providing genetic information for affected persons or high‐risk families. Furthermore, the findings indicated that nurses and midwives perceived that genetic teaching is the responsibility of other health professionals or the responsibility of genetic services centres rather than their responsibility.

Conclusions:  Nurses and midwives need to be better educated about genetics to effectively assume new roles as genetic educators and counsellors. This study documented how Jordanian nurse educators have to work to generate a new cadre of people who are adequately prepared to deliver such a service and who identify with the need for this service.
The Long Road to Universalism? Recent Developments in the Financing of Long‐term Care in England
Authors: Comas‐Herrera Adelina , Wittenberg Raphael , Pickard Linda
Published: July 2010

Following more than a decade of intense debate, the long‐term care system in England may be on the verge of major change. We argue that the current system can be characterized as a residual system where care is free only to those who cannot afford to pay for themselves, with access heavily targeted to those with the highest levels of needs and with no informal care, and with substantial local variation in access and means‐testing for home care. It is also characterized by a mixed economy of supply of care and a mixed economy of finance. The government Green Paper has proposed a major shift from diverse local systems to a new National Care Service, with a national entitlement to some public support for all those who are assessed as needing it. The government has also recently announced that it will make personal care at home free to those with the highest needs. If implemented, the proposals included in the Green Paper would, at minimum, introduce a ‘quasi‐universal’ system, in which some level of assistance is provided to all those with eligible social care needs.
Sustainability of Comprehensive Universal Long‐term Care Insurance in the Netherlands
Authors: Schut Frederik T. , Van Den Berg Bernard
Published: July 2010

The Netherlands was the first country that introduced a universal mandatory social health insurance scheme for covering a broad range of long‐term care (LTC) services provided in a variety of care settings. Compared with most other OECD countries, both total and public expenditure on LTC is high, particularly since the Dutch population is relatively young. On the other hand, coverage of LTC services is relatively comprehensive. In this article we examine the past experiences, current deficiencies and future prospects of LTC financing in the Netherlands. By rationing of supply and tight budgetary restrictions, the government managed to effectively control the growth of LTC expenditure, but at the expense of growing waiting lists and deteriorating quality of care. Reform plans aim to make the LTC system more efficient and consumer‐directed. We discuss whether the proposed reforms offer a perspective on a sustainable system of comprehensive LTC insurance. This is especially important in view of the ageing of the population and the expected increase in demand for LTC services. We conclude that the success of the reforms heavily depends on the definition of entitlements, the accuracy of needs assessment and the feasibility of determining appropriate client‐based budgets.
Social Insurance for Long‐term Care: An Evaluation of the German Model
Authors: Rothgang Heinz
Published: July 2010

After fifteen years of existence, Germany's long‐term care insurance shows both successes and weaknesses. The latter led to the 2008 reform, which concentrated on quality improvements, care management and careful adjustments of benefits. While attempts to improve quality and care management contain promising elements, new rules for adjustment are disappointing. This is also true for the issue of future financing as the modest increase in the contribution rate, which is part of the reform, only buys time. Thus, the next round of reform is already in the making, marking the scheme as a system of permanent reform. As Germany is one of the most clear‐cut examples of social insurance, the assessment of this scheme and its recent reform also allow us to draw some general lessons for the design of long‐term care social insurance schemes.
Long‐term Care in Central and South‐Eastern Europe: Challenges and Perspectives in Addressing a ‘New’ Social Risk
Authors: Österle August
Published: July 2010

Long‐term care in Central and South‐Eastern Europe (CSEE) has to date been largely neglected in the social policy literature. This article provides an examination of the context and the sources of reform of long‐term care in CSEE, particularly Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia. It focuses on studying developments in the light of the major principles underlying the transition process and discussing key features of current developments in terms of their potential for establishing a new paradigm in long‐term care policies. The article argues that the realization of more comprehensive long‐term care systems has been largely hindered by a failure of governments to set priorities in this sector, by the limitations civil society finds in bringing the issue into a broader public debate and by fears that new welfare schemes will substantially extend public expenditure obligations. The findings show that – similar to the situation in most other European countries – long‐term care is a latecomer in welfare state development in CSEE. But ageing societies, growing care needs and broader socio‐economic developments will also increasingly challenge traditional ways of organizing long‐term care and create pressure to find new welfare approaches.
Devolution, Diversity and Welfare Reform: Long‐term Care in the ‘Latin Rim’
Authors: Costa‐Font Joan
Published: July 2010

Understanding long‐term care (LTC) reform is at the core of the study of European social policy. Particularly important are the effects of regional devolution on the development of LTC services, being one of the few areas only subject to limited welfare retrenchment. One important question is the extent to which a devolved system of welfare governance influences the process of welfare reform as well as the degree of diversity in the provision and financing of LTC. The article draws upon evidence from Italy and Spain, two ‘Latin Rim’ countries, both of which have faced similar demands over the last twenty years for reform of systems with limited entitlement to long‐term care. It argues that when there is a latent demand for reform, welfare devolution does not inhibit reform when fiscal blame‐avoidance opportunities arise at the central government level. Furthermore, we examine the extent to which devolution leads to increasing fragmentation and diversity. The article's findings indicate that by diffusing policy responsibilities, devolution has enhanced LTC reform and reduced pre‐existing welfare fragmentation in Spain. In contrast, the lack of countrywide reform in Italy is explained by the absence of political opportunities for the diffusion of the fiscal blame that has frustrated attempts to reform the existing national cash allowance.
The Performance of European Index Funds and Exchange‐Traded Funds
Authors: Blitz David , Huij Joop , Swinkels Laurens
Published: July 2010

European index funds and exchange‐traded funds underperform their benchmarks by 50 to 150 basis points per annum. The explanatory power of dividend withholding taxes as a determinant of this underperformance is at least on par with fund expenses. Dividend taxes also explain performance differences between funds that track different benchmarks and time variation in fund performance. Our results imply that not only fund expenses, but also dividend taxes can result in a substantial drag on mutual fund performance.
Deportation of Suspected Terrorists with ‘Real Risk’ of Torture: The House of Lords Decision in Abu Qatada1
Authors: Garrod Matthew
Published: July 2010

This note discusses the House of Lords' decision in RB (Algeria) (FC) and another v Secretary of State for the Home Department; OO (Jordan) v Secretary of State for the Home Department that the real risk of third‐party foreign torture evidence does not meet the required standard of unfairness so as to prevent the deportation of suspected terrorists under Article 6 ECHR. It considers three key issues that were raised by this case: Parliament has deliberately restricted the right of appeal from SIAC to the Court of Appeal on questions of fact; the procedure of using closed material by SIAC in the assessment of safety on return is unequivocally permitted by statute; and the conclusions by SIAC that diplomatic assurances contained in Memoranda of Understanding do not give rise to points of law and, therefore, are beyond review by the appellate courts.
Using computerized games to teach face recognition skills to children with autism spectrum disorder: the Let’s Face It! program
Authors: Tanaka James W. , Wolf Julie M. , Klaiman Cheryl , Koenig Kathleen , Cockburn Jeffrey , Herlihy Lauren , Brown Carla , Stahl Sherin , Kaiser Martha D. , Schultz Robert T.
Published: July 2010

Background:  An emerging body of evidence indicates that relative to typically developing children, children with autism are selectively impaired in their ability to recognize facial identity. A critical question is whether face recognition skills can be enhanced through a direct training intervention.

Methods:  In a randomized clinical trial, children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder were pre‐screened with a battery of subtests (the Let’s Face It! Skills battery) examining face and object processing abilities. Participants who were significantly impaired in their face processing abilities were assigned to either a treatment or a waitlist group. Children in the treatment group (N = 42) received 20 hours of face training with the Let’s Face It! (LFI!) computer‐based intervention. The LFI! program is comprised of seven interactive computer games that target the specific face impairments associated with autism, including the recognition of identity across image changes in expression, viewpoint and features, analytic and holistic face processing strategies and attention to information in the eye region. Time 1 and Time 2 performance for the treatment and waitlist groups was assessed with the Let’s Face It! Skills battery.

Results:  The main finding was that relative to the control group (N = 37), children in the face training group demonstrated reliable improvements in their analytic recognition of mouth features and holistic recognition of a face based on its eyes features.

Conclusion:  These results indicate that a relatively short‐term intervention program can produce measurable improvements in the face recognition skills of children with autism. As a treatment for face processing deficits, the Let’s Face It! program has advantages of being cost‐free, adaptable to the specific learning needs of the individual child and suitable for home and school applications.
Computer‐based auditory training (CBAT): benefits for children with language‐ and reading‐related learning difficulties
Authors: LOO JENNY HOOI YIN , BAMIOU DORIS‐EVA , CAMPBELL NICCI , LUXON LINDA M
Published: July 2010

This article reviews the evidence for computer‐based auditory training (CBAT) in children with language, reading, and related learning difficulties, and evaluates the extent it can benefit children with auditory processing disorder (APD). Searches were confined to studies published between 2000 and 2008, and they are rated according to the level of evidence hierarchy proposed by the American Speech–Language Hearing Association (ASHA) in 2004. We identified 16 studies of two commercially available CBAT programs (13 studies of Fast ForWord® (FFW) and three studies of Earobics) and five further outcome studies of other non‐speech and simple speech sounds training, available for children with language, learning, and reading difficulties. The results suggest that, apart from the phonological awareness skills, the FFW and Earobics programs seem to have little effect on the language, spelling, and reading skills of children. Non‐speech and simple speech sounds training may be effective in improving children’s reading skills, but only if it is delivered by an audio‐visual method. There is some initial evidence to suggest that CBAT may be of benefit for children with APD. Further research is necessary, however, to substantiate these preliminary findings.
A preliminary transcranial magnetic stimulation study of cortical inhibition and excitability in high‐functioning autism and Asperger disorder
Authors: ENTICOTT PETER G , RINEHART NICOLE J , TONGE BRUCE J , BRADSHAW JOHN L , FITZGERALD PAUL B
Published: July 2010

Aim  Controversy surrounds the distinction between high‐functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger disorder, but motor abnormalities are associated features of both conditions. This study examined motor cortical inhibition and excitability in HFA and Asperger disorder using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Method  Participants were diagnosed by experienced clinicians strictly according to DSM‐IV criteria. Participants with HFA (nine males, two females; mean age 16y 8mo, SD 4y 5mo) or Asperger disorder (11 males, three females; mean age 19y 1mo, SD 4y 2mo) and neurotypical participants (eight males, three females; mean age 19y 0mo, SD 3y 1mo) were administered a paired‐pulse TMS paradigm intended to assess motor cortical inhibition and excitability. Responses to TMS were recorded by electromyography.

Results  Cortical inhibition was significantly reduced in the HFA group compared with both the Asperger disorder (p<0.001) and neurotypical (p<0.001) groups, suggesting disruption of activity at gamma‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors. There was no group difference in cortical excitability.

Interpretation  Cortical inhibition deficits may underlie motor dysfunction in autism, and perhaps even relate to specific clinical symptoms (e.g. repetitive behaviours). These findings provide novel evidence for a possible neurobiological dissociation between HFA and Asperger disorder based on GABAergic function.