bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing Space Heating Demandon a Regional Level: Evaluation of a Bottom‐Up Model in the Scope of a Case Study
Authors: Froemelt Andreas , Hellweg Stefanie 
Published: June 2016

SummaryThe residential sector constitutes a major energy consumer, particularly on account of its needs for space heating. Offering a high leverage potential, this sector is a suitable starting point for greenhouse gas mitigation policies. By providing predictions of the energy demand of building stocks, bottom‐up building energy models represent a first step toward deriving strategies for abatement of detrimental effects related to housing energy use.This article aims at evaluating the performance of a simplified bottom‐up housing energy model. A global sensitivity analysis was performed to study the model's structure and the impact of individual model parameters. Moreover, an extensive final energy consumption data set allowed for an in‐depth comparison of this model with primary data in the scope of a case study in a Swiss municipality.On an individual building scale, the model fails to accurately simulate the energy demand. Deviations can be attributed to a range of factors, such as variability in occupants’ behavior and problems of representativeness in the underlying statistical database. Nevertheless, such under‐ or overestimations level off on an aggregated scale. In particular, the model reproduces the overall characteristics of the residential building stock's heating demand well. It is therefore well suited as a building stock model and provides a promising basis for an extended assessment of housing energy demands. In future research work, we will apply this model to a larger region in order to study various types of settlements from a life cycle perspective and to derive targeted measures aimed at reducing environmental impacts.
Effects of topical application of B‐Resorcinol and Glycyrrhetinic acid monotherapy and in combination with fractional CO2 laser treatment for benign hand hyperpigmentation treatment
Authors: Grippaudo Francesca Romana , Di Russo Pier Paolo 
Published: June 2016

SummaryBackgroundHand solar lentigines are frequent benign lesions of elderly population, requiring longtime treatments with topical agents or laser to lighten.AimsThe aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of CO2 fractional laser photothermolysis followed by topical application of B‐Resorcinol and Glycyrrhetinic acid vs. only topical B‐Resorcinol and Glycyrrhetinic acid application for hand solar lentigines treatment.MethodsHand solar lentigines of eleven volunteers were divided into two groups: Group A spots received CO2 fractional laser photothermolysis followed by 4 weeks topical application of B‐Resorcinol and Glycyrrhetinic acid, and Group B spots received only 4 weeks topical treatments. All hands were photographed, and hand solar lentigines scanned with dermatoscope at the beginning of the study (T0), 1 month after laser treatment (T1), and at the end of the study (T2) to document spots dimensions and color. A blinded dermatologist evaluated dermoscopic T0 and T2 images. The considered variables were assessed for significance by the nonparametric Mann–Whitney U‐test.ResultsIn all volunteers, investigators and blinded dermatologist's evaluation hand solar lentigines features improved, with no statistical differences in the two groups.ConclusionTopical application of B‐Resorcinol and Glycyrrhetinic acid is effective to lighten hand solar lentigines after 4 weeks of treatment, with or without a previous fractional laser photothermolysis.
Quality survey on efficacy of carboxytherapy for localized lipolysis
Authors: Lee Georgia S. K. 
Published: June 2016

SummaryBackgroundA survey was conducted to ascertain the efficacy of carboxytherapy for localized lipolysis.MethodsPatients on physical, dietary, or drug concurrent therapy were excluded. Paired measurements (initial versus 8th course) between treated (right) and untreated (left) sides were compared for braline, upper arm, abdomen, and thigh.ResultsTen women, age range 23–37 years, were reviewed. Weight and body mass index were unchanged. Significant reductions (P < 0.01) were obtained for braline and abdominal caliper and ultrasound measurements. Mean (SD) decreases in caliper braline and abdomen measurements were 6.9 (5.9) and 4.3 (3.0) mm, respectively. Mean (SD) changes in ultrasound abdominal readings were −6.6 (3.8), −7.4 (3.2), and −6.8 (3.5) mm for upper, lower, and flank, respectively.Limb girth measurements were significant for the thigh (−1.3 [0.8] mm) but not for the upper limb.ConclusionThese results are in agreement with those reported originally and demonstrate that carboxytherapy is locally effective in reduction of subcutaneous fat.
Bridging the gap in sexual healthcare in nursing practice: implementing a sexual healthcare training programme to improve outcomes
Authors: Sung Su‐Ching , Jiang Huey‐Hwa , Chen Ru‐Rong , Chao Jian‐Kang 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a sexual healthcare training programme for clinical nurses, with respect to knowledge, attitudes and self‐efficacy concerning sexual healthcare.BackgroundInadequate sexual healthcare can result in poor treatment and quality of life for patients. Few studies have examined the development of sexual healthcare and related interventions from nurses' perspectives.DesignThe study included two stages involving focus groups and a quasi‐experimental design.MethodsThe first stage consisted of an exploratory, descriptive session to assess nurses' perceptions and educational needs concerning sexual healthcare via two focus groups (N = 16). The second stage involved a quasi‐experimental session to evaluate the training programme, based on the results of the first stage. In total, 117 nurses were recruited from a Taiwanese hospital; the experimental group (n = 59) completed a four‐week (16 hours) training programme, and the control group (n = 58) did not participate in a training programme. Data were collected at four time points over 17 weeks. Longitudinal changes that occurred over time were examined using hierarchical linear models.ResultsThe experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge (β = 0·16, p < 0·01), attitude (β = 0·18, p < 0·05), and self‐efficacy (β = 0·73, p < 0·001) scores. Relative to that of the control group, the experimental group showed significantly greater improvement in knowledge (β = −0·12, p < 0·01) and attitudes regarding sexual healthcare (β = −0·25, p < 0·05), but their improvement in self‐efficacy concerning sexual healthcare was limited (p = 0·179).ConclusionsThe training programme for sexual healthcare could exert positive and beneficial effects on nurses' development of knowledge regarding sexual healthcare and clarify their values and attitudes.Relevance to clinical practiceThe training programme could reduce challenges related to sexual healthcare issues in nursing care.
Nurses' experiences of pain management for people with advanced dementia approaching the end of life: a qualitative study
Authors: De Witt Jansen Bannin , Brazil Kevin , Passmore Peter , Buchanan Hilary , Maxwell Doreen , McIlfactrick Sonja J , Morgan Sharon M , Watson Max , Parsons Carole 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesTo explore hospice, acute care and nursing home nurses' experiences of pain management for people with advanced dementia in the final month of life. To identify the challenges, facilitators and practice areas requiring further support.BackgroundPain management in end‐stage dementia is a fundamental aspect of end‐of‐life care; however, it is unclear what challenges and facilitators nurses experience in practice, whether these differ across care settings, and whether training needs to be tailored to the context of care.DesignA qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews and thematic analysis to examine data.MethodsTwenty‐four registered nurses caring for people dying with advanced dementia were recruited from 10 nursing homes, three hospices and two acute hospitals across a region of the UK. Interviews were conducted between June 2014–September 2015.ResultsThree core themes were identified: challenges administering analgesia, the nurse–physician relationship, and interactive learning and practice development. Patient‐related challenges to pain management were universal across care settings; nurse‐ and organisation‐related barriers differed between settings. A need for interactive learning and practice development, particularly in pharmacology, was identified.ConclusionsAchieving pain management in practice was highly challenging. A number of barriers were identified; however, the manner and extent to which these impacted on nurses differed across hospice, nursing home and acute care settings. Needs‐based training to support and promote practice development in pain management in end‐stage dementia is required.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses considered pain management fundamental to end‐of‐life care provision; however, nurses working in acute care and nursing home settings may be undersupported and under‐resourced to adequately manage pain in people dying with advanced dementia. Nurse‐to‐nurse mentoring and ongoing needs‐assessed interactive case‐based learning could help promote practice development in this area. Nurses require continuing professional development in pharmacology.
From screening to synthesis: using nvivo to enhance transparency in qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Houghton Catherine , Murphy Kathy , Meehan Ben , Thomas James , Brooker Dawn , Casey Dympna 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesTo explore the experiences and perceptions of healthcare staff caring for people with dementia in the acute setting. This article focuses on the methodological process of conducting framework synthesis using nvivo for each stage of the review: screening, data extraction, synthesis and critical appraisal.BackgroundQualitative evidence synthesis brings together many research findings in a meaningful way that can be used to guide practice and policy development. For this purpose, synthesis must be conducted in a comprehensive and rigorous way. There has been previous discussion on how using nvivo can assist in enhancing and illustrate the rigorous processes involved.DesignQualitative framework synthesis.MethodsTwelve documents, or research reports, based on nine studies, were included for synthesis.ConclusionThe benefits of using nvivo are outlined in terms of facilitating teams of researchers to systematically and rigorously synthesise findings. nvivo functions were used to conduct a sensitivity analysis. Some valuable lessons were learned, and these are presented to assist and guide researchers who wish to use similar methods in future.Relevance to clinical practiceUltimately, good qualitative evidence synthesis will provide practitioners and policymakers with significant information that will guide decision‐making on many aspects of clinical practice. The example provided explored how people with dementia are cared for acute settings.
The documentation practice of perioperative nurses: a literature review
Authors: Søndergaard Susanne Friis , Lorentzen Vibeke , Sørensen Erik Elgaard , Frederiksen Kirsten 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectiveTo explore and present the existing knowledge of the documentation practices of perioperative nurses in the operating room.BackgroundStudies demonstrate that the documentation of nursing care provided is important for the continuity of patient care as well as patient safety. Nurses find that documenting their perioperative services is important to the surgical pathway; however, a number of studies indicate that the documentation practices of perioperative nurses are characterised by subjectivity, randomness and poor quality.DesignA literature review with a systematic search of scientific material.MethodThe content of the studies included was analysed using content analysis as suggested by Krippendorff. The materials were acquired by searching electronic databases. The search was performed for the period 1995–2015 and resulted in 12 studies.ResultsThree general themes were found to be important for perioperative nurses’ documentation practices: (1) the documentation tool must be adapted to the clinical practice; (2) nurses document to improve patient safety and protect themselves legally; and (3) traditions and conditions for documentation.ConclusionNurses considered documenting their perioperative practices very important. It was of vital importance that the tool used be adapted to the actual clinical practice and to relevant regulations regarding form and content. Nurses’ subjective perceptions of and opinions on the effect of documentation influenced their documentation practices, which were widely governed by habits and traditions. Nurses document to safeguard patients against errors but also to protect their own legal status. Nurses also use documentation as proof of their nursing and as ‘a window’ to gain recognition for their professional practice.Relevance to clinical practiceOur review demonstrates that a focus on the documentation traditions of perioperative nurses combined with training, structure and improved technical tools may facilitate the documentation and thereby improve patient safety.
Managing parental groups: personal impact of a group leadership course for child healthcare nurses
Authors: Lefèvre Åsa , Lundqvist Pia , Drevenhorn Eva , Hallström Inger 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesTo investigate the experience and personal impact of a group leadership course for child healthcare nurses.BackgroundDuring their child's first year, all parents in Sweden are invited to participate in parental groups within the child health service; however, only 49% choose to participate. Despite extensive experience, child healthcare nurses find managing parental groups challenging and express a need for training in group dynamics and group leadership.DesignThe study was designed as a controlled study with a pretest/post‐test design where the participants form their own control group.MethodsA group leadership course was given to 56 child healthcare nurses and evaluated in a pre‐ and postintervention questionnaire, a course evaluation and an interview with the course leaders.ResultsThe child healthcare nurses felt their group leadership skills were strengthened and the majority (96%) felt that the course had changed their way of leading parental groups. They felt that the group leader role had been clarified and that they had obtained several new tools to use in their groups.Conclusions and relevance to clinical practiceClarifying the role of group leader and adding knowledge about group leadership and dynamics seems to have increased the self‐confidence for child healthcare nurses in group leadership. Improved confidence in group management might motivate the child healthcare nurses to further develop parental groups to attract the parents who currently choose not to participate.
An integrative review of a preoperative nursing care structure
Authors: Turunen Elina , Miettinen Merja , Setälä Leena , Vehviläinen‐Julkunen Katri 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesThe aims of this integrative literature review are to define the role of a preoperative nurse and to describe the main components and hypothetical outcomes of a preoperative nursing care structure before a surgical patient arrives to an elective procedure.BackgroundThe development of medical care has impacted surgical processes, and patients are now spending less time in hospital settings. Patients often enter the hospital on the day of a procedure and are discharged as soon as it is medically safe, creating challenges for nursing care. Preoperative clinics have been opened, and the importance of preoperative nursing care has been widely understood. Previous literature has provided descriptions about the roles, tasks and outcomes of preoperative nurses; however, the terminology is heterogeneous, and the optimal model remains unknown.DesignA systematic procedure for searching, selecting, and evaluating the literature was followed. The data were collected from PubMed and CINAHL between 1 January 2004 and 20 September 2014. In total, 41 articles were included in the study and were analysed by qualitative inductive content analysis.ResultsThe data provided seven main tasks of a preoperative nurse, tools to support preoperative nursing and outcomes of structured preoperative nursing care.ConclusionA preoperative nurse is a specialised coordinator of patient care, and the main purposes of this role are to meet the patient's and the family's needs individually and to prepare them for the scheduled procedure and postoperative recovery. By following the structure of the seven main tasks and using different supportive tools, preoperative nursing can positively impact patient and provider satisfaction, patient safety, quality of care and cost savings.Relevance to clinical practiceA preoperative nursing care structure should be implemented in clinical practice and then evaluated to measure whether the hypothetical outcomes reported in this literature review can be achieved.
Correlates and predictors of missed nursing care in hospitals
Authors: Bragadóttir Helga , Kalisch Beatrice J , Tryggvadóttir Gudný Bergthora 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesTo identify the contribution of hospital, unit, staff characteristics, staffing adequacy and teamwork to missed nursing care in Iceland hospitals.BackgroundA recently identified quality indicator for nursing care and patient safety is missed nursing care defined as any standard, required nursing care omitted or significantly delayed, indicating an error of omission. Former studies point to contributing factors to missed nursing care regarding hospital, unit and staff characteristics, perceptions of staffing adequacy as well as nursing teamwork, displayed in the Missed Nursing Care Model.DesignThis was a quantitative cross‐sectional survey study.MethodsThe samples were all registered nurses and practical nurses (n = 864) working on 27 medical, surgical and intensive care inpatient units in eight hospitals throughout Iceland. Response rate was 69·3%. Data were collected in March–April 2012 using the combined MISSCARE Survey‐Icelandic and the Nursing Teamwork Survey‐Icelandic. Descriptive, correlational and regression statistics were used for data analysis.ResultsMissed nursing care was significantly related to hospital and unit type, participants’ age and role and their perception of adequate staffing and level of teamwork. The multiple regression testing of Model 1 indicated unit type, role, age and staffing adequacy to predict 16% of the variance in missed nursing care. Controlling for unit type, role, age and perceptions of staffing adequacy, the multiple regression testing of Model 2 showed that nursing teamwork predicted an additional 14% of the variance in missed nursing care.ConclusionsThe results shed light on the correlates and predictors of missed nursing care in hospitals. This study gives direction as to the development of strategies for decreasing missed nursing care, including ensuring appropriate staffing levels and enhanced teamwork.Relevance to clinical practiceBy identifying contributing factors to missed nursing care, appropriate interventions can be developed and tested.
The effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Öncü Emine , Zincir Handan 
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectivesThe aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.BackgroundIn patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation has been known to attain improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 seconds, physical activity, and quality of life. However, information about the effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is quite limited.DesignA single‐blind, randomised controlled trial.MethodsData were collected between August 2013–May 2014. Eighty‐two patients who were hospitalised with a diagnosis of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were randomly assigned to a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation group receiving transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation treatment for 20 seance over the acupuncture points with pharmacotherapy or placebo group receiving the same treatment without electrical current output from the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device. Pulmonary functional test, six‐minute walking distance, dyspnoea and fatigue scale, and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire scores were assessed pre‐ and postprogram. The program started at the hospital by the researcher was sustained in the patient's home by the caregiver.ResultsAll patients were able to complete the program, despite the exacerbation. The 20 seance transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation program provided clinically significant improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 seconds 21 ml, 19·51% but when compared with the placebo group, the difference was insignificant (p > 0·05). The six‐minute walking distance increased by 48·10 m more in the placebo group (p < 0·05). There were no significant differences between the two groups' St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, dyspnoea and fatigue score (p > 0·05).ConclusionAdding transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy to pharmacotherapy in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease provided clinical improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 seconds and add benefit in exercise capacity, but no significant effect on the other outcomes measured.Relevance to clinical practiceTranscutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can be used as a non‐invasive complementary therapy due to its beneficial effects on forced expiratory volume in 1 seconds and exercise capacity in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.