bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A catalyst-free growth of aluminum-doped ZnO nanorods by thermal evaporation
Authors: Suhaimi Syahida , Sakrani Samsudi , Dorji Tashi , Ismail Abdul Khamim 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The growth of Al:ZnO nanorods on a silicon substrate using a low-temperature thermal evaporation method is reported. The samples were fabricated within a horizontal quartz tube under controlled supply of O2 gas where Zn and Al powders were previously mixed and heated at 700°C. This allows the reactant vapors to deposit onto the substrate placed vertically above the source materials. Both the undoped and doped samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. It was observed that randomly oriented nanowires were formed with varying nanostructures as the dopant concentrations were increased from 0.6 at.% to 11.3 at.% with the appearance of ‘pencil-like’ shape at 2.4 at.%, measuring between 260 to 350 nm and 720 nm in diameter and length, respectively. The HRTEM images revealed nanorods fringes of 0.46 nm wide, an equivalent to the lattice constant of ZnO and correspond to the (0001) fringes with regard to the growth direction. The as-prepared Al:ZnO samples exhibited a strong UV emission band located at approximately 389 nm (E

g
= 3.19 eV) with multiple other low intensity peaks appeared at wavelengths greater than 400 nm contributed by oxygen vacancies. The results showed the importance of Al doping that played an important role on the morphology and optical properties of ZnO nanostructures. This may led to potential nanodevices in sensor and biological applications.
Desiccation resistance reflects patterns of microhabitat choice in a Central-American assemblage of wandering spiders
Authors: Lapinski Witold , Tschapka Marco 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The lowland rainforest of north-eastern Costa Rica harbours an assemblage of large wandering spider species belonging to three habitat subguilds: 1) semi-aquatic, 2) forest-ground dwelling, and 3) vegetation dwelling species. We hypothesized that desiccation resistance should differ among species preferring different microhabitats and the associated microclimate. Desiccation resistance was assessed 1) by measuring water-loss rates of the spiders under relatively dry experimental conditions, and 2) by recording desiccation susceptibility, i.e., the reactions of the spiders to a relatively dry environment. High water-loss rates and desiccation susceptibility of the semi-aquatic and forest-ground dwelling subguilds clearly mirrored the relatively humid microclimate of the understory. Significantly lower water-loss rates and desiccation susceptibility of the vegetation-dwelling species reflected the highly variable, often dry and hot conditions of the rainforest canopy and forest edge habitats. Vegetation-dwelling wandering spiders are therefore physiologically better adapted to dry conditions than the semi-aquatic and forest-ground dwelling species. The results illustrate the significance of physiological characteristics for explaining species-specific habitat use, and in a larger context also for niche partitioning within a community.
Accurate and consistent record-keeping using the antenatal card
Authors: Basu Jayati , Seopela Louisa 
Published: May 2014

The antenatal card is the vehicle of documentation of antenatal care service provision in South Africa and it provides opportunities for practising preventive medicine. The aim was to evaluate the health professional's performance on documenting antenatal cards. Antenatal clinic cards and obstetric files of 413 women, who delivered at the labour ward of Rahima Moosa Hospital (RMH) during a 1-month period in February, 2008 were reviewed retrospectively. All components of antenatal cards were evaluated. Results of primary clinics and RMH were compared. Poor documentation of the most important parameters such as expected date of delivery, symphysio-fundal height measurement, weight, blood pressure, HIV and CD4 count, fetal growth, problem list, place of delivery, were noted. Inadequate documentation of the antenatal cards might result in sub-standard antenatal care particularly in a developing country setting, leading to increased maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. A regular in-service training is necessary.
Barriers to health-seeking practices during pregnancy among adolescents in rural Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Mbiza Christina Ruth , Kazembe Abigail , Simwaka Andrew 
Published: May 2014

Background Very few adolescents in Malawi seek antenatal care on time during pregnancy. The Kroeger model (1993) guided the investigation of factors that hinder adolescents from seeking healthcare advice during pregnancy. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted at three health centers in rural Blantyre involving a convenience sample of 240 respondents. Data were analysed using SPSS version 16.0. Results Individual factors such as low level of education, inability to make decisions with regards to care, inadequate knowledge, and psychological factors such as shyness, fear, stigma and health service factors such as long distance to the facility, a lack of adolescent friendly services, and inaccessible roads were found to be barriers to seeking healthcare. Conclusion Empowering communities and adolescents, establishing and making existing health facilities more adolescent friendly may help adolescents seek healthcare advice in suitable time during pregnancy.
Effective blood glucose management in patients with diabetes recovering from CABG
Authors: Lehwaldt Daniela 
Published: May 2014

Nurses are frequently involved in blood glucose monitoring in patients with diabetes recovering from coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The goal is to prevent and limit serious postoperative complications associated with hyperglycaemia (increased blood glucose levels) including sternal and leg wound infections. To achieve this goal it is paramount that hyperglycaemia is detected as early as possible and treated effectively. Many factors are associated with the development of hyperglycaemia among people with diabetes recovering from CABG. The diabetic state itself, the effects of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and the surgical trauma induced during CABG are all influencing factors. However, hyperglycaemia can also be exacerbated through inconsistent blood glucose control in the immediate postoperative phase. Over the past few years, a large body of evidence has highlighted the advances of intensive blood glucose control on postoperative recovery. Blood glucose management protocols can be used to achieve improved outcomes for diabetic patients recovering from CABG.
The potential role of ivabradine in management of chronic heart failure
Authors: Williams Helen , Curran Rebecca 
Published: May 2014

Ivabradine is currently licensed as an anti-anginal agent in the UK, however there is now interest in its potential role in the treatment of chronic heart failure. Ivabradine is a pure heart-rate lowering agent, slowing heart rate without affecting blood pressure or myocardial contractility. Recent data from the SHIFT study has shown that in selected patients ivabradine can reduce heart failure hospital admissions and heart failure-related deaths, although no overall impact on all-cause or cardiovascular mortality was shown. Patients who may benefit are those with NYHA class II–IV heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction in sinus rhythm with a resting heart rate ≥70 beats per minute, and who are optimized on ACE-inhibitors and beta-blockers, as these drug classes confer a survival benefit which has not been proven with ivabradine This article considers the evidence so far on ivabradine in heart failure. Contraindications and drug interractions are discussed, as well as practical considerations if it is introduced to heart failure management.
The attitudes and views of GPs and physicians to prescribing by heart failure nurse specialists
Authors: Shannon Eve , Spence William 
Published: May 2014

Aims: To describe and explore attitudes and views of general medical practitioners (GPs) and physicians regarding prescribing by heart failure nurse specialists (HFNS). Methods: This qualitative study employed focus group and one-to-one interviewing. Data were collected in one primary health-care centre and one teaching hospital in the west of Scotland, UK. A convenience sample of 10 GPs and 11 physicians was recruited. Findings: GPs and physicians were aware and supportive of HFNS prescribing with both agreeing on its benefits for patient care and other professionals. There was limited awareness of the range of medicines available to the HFNS for prescribing and the associated role preparation. Difference between primary and secondary care data-bases was viewed as a barrier to HFNS prescribing. Conclusions: GPs and physicians viewed HFNS prescribing in a positive way and as a natural progression in role expansion. Their need for education about HFNS prescribing was identified.
Saheli
Authors: Thanki Jo , Nutter Joy 
Published: May 2014

Saheli was a women’s group established as a mechanism to utilise partnerships in order to support each other and to facilitate and promote independence. This was in response to an identified gap in the provision of services for minority ethnic womens groups. Initial evaluation of the group would suggest that such partnerships go beyond individual health care, but can be used to develop strategies and information for health care professionals and to influence purchasers and providers. As part of the on-going project Jo Thanki, the group’s co-ordinator presents an overview of the early history and influence of Saheli on minority ethnic women in Birmingham.
What does social enterprise mean for community nursing?
Authors: Cook Rosemary 
Published: May 2014

The concept of social enterprise has gained currency since the publication of the health white paper Our Health, Our Care, Our Say (Department of Health, 2001). Social enterprise is a way of introducing competition into health-care provision without focusing on extracting maximum profit, since in most cases any profits are reinvested into the enterprise. Rosemary Cook takes a look at the thinking behind social enterprise, its potential role in the NHS and what is could mean for community nursing.
Compensation for psychiatric injury: evolution of a law of nervous shock
Authors: Griffith Richard 
Published: May 2014

District nurses will be well aware that if a person receives an injury because of someone else's negligence they are entitled to compensation for the harm that has been caused. However, where the injury is in the form of psychiatric harm the law has traditionally imposed rules that set out the conditions to be met before a successful claim for damages can be made. Even in today's enlightened society the law still does not always treat a psychiatric injury in the same way as a physical injury. In this article Richard Griffith outlines the development of the law in relation to psychiatric injury—historically called ‘nervous shock’—and considers the current approach to claims for damages where a person suffers psychiatric harm because of another's negligent act.
The role of the district nurse when involved in the coronial process
Authors: Griffith Richard , Tengnah Cassam 
Published: May 2014

The inquisition into the death of Diana, Princess of Wales has highlighted the role of the coroner in the investigation of the cause of death in England and Wales. The coroner provides an important safeguard to an administrative system for the registration of deaths in the United Kingdom that relies heavily on a doctor to confirm the cause of death. Coroners are required to hold an inquest where the person has died a violent or unnatural death, has died suddenly from an unknown cause or has died in custody or at the hands of the police or where an inquest is required by statute. District nurses will encounter death in such circumstances during the course of their duties and the coroner’s court is the most likely court where a district nurse will be called to give evidence. It is essential you know the duties of the coroner and what is expected when giving evidence at an inquest. Following the inquiry into the case of Dr Harold Shipman the government is proposing changes to the coroner’s role that will have an impact on district nurse practice (The Shipman inquiry, 2004). In a series of articles Richard Griffith and Cassam Tengnah review the role of the coroner and consider the impact of reform on district nurse practice.
Gastrostomy site infections: Dealing with a common problem
Authors: Edwards-Jones Valerie , Leahy-Gilmartin Anne 
Published: May 2014

The most popular method of providing appropriate nutrition for large numbers of patients with swallowing difficulties is enteral feeding. However this treatment is not without complications, one of which is localized gastrostomy site infection. This is prevented initially by decolonisation of the oropharyngeal tract with antibiotic prophylaxis prior to insertion, and systemic antibiotics post insertion. Later complications include tracking infection, which is rare but can occur. Hypergranulation of the tissue can occur around the gastrostomy tube and this can become colonised or infected leading to further problems for the patient. A good gastrostomy site care pathway plan is required to maintain a healthy site and appropriate treatment required to minimize the infection risk.
Body fluids part 1: infection control
Authors: Peate Ian 
Published: May 2014

Body fluids are potentially infectious fluids putting patients, visitors and hospital staff at risk of infection. All staff have a duty to ensure that they protect themselves and others by instigating standard infection control precautions. Standard infection control precautions are centred on five key aspects: effective hand washing, personal protective equipment (includes protective clothing), safe handling and disposal of sharp instruments, safe disposal of waste (including linen) and decontamination of equipment. Precautions are required for all body fluids and as such, they should be treated as infectious regardless of the patient's diagnosis. Safety measures are required to be taken whenever there is potential contact between healthcare workers and non-intact skin, mucous membranes, blood or other body fluids. Healthcare assistants and assistant practitioners must develop insight and understanding in order to perform standard infection control precautions effectively. This series will look at different body fluids and starts with this article on infection control - a vital consideration when dealing with body fluids.
Cervical spondylosis part 1: osteoarthritis of the cervical spine
Authors: Swann Julie 
Published: May 2014

Degenerative changes are common within bones and joints, owing to excessive wear and tear, resulting in osteoarthritis. When these symptoms appear in the cervical region of the spinal vertebrae, this degenerative process is termed ‘cervical spondylosis’. A multitude of problems can occur, ranging from mild localized pain and discomfort to a major dysfunction of the nervous system. This article explains cervical spondylosis and outlines the main forms of treatment.
BPS2: nursing care of patients wearing anti-embolic stockings
Authors: Lloyd Jones Menna 
Published: May 2014

The House of Commons Health Committee (2005 ) reported that an estimated 25000 patients a year die in the UK from preventable hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE). Meetoo (2010 ) explains that VTE includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). It is estimated that, in the developed world, 1 in 1000 adults are affected annually, and the financial overhead of this condition amounts to £640 million ( Meetoo, 2010 ). Recognising the incidence of unnecessary death and morbidity, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) (2007) has developed guidelines that make recommendations on assessing and reducing the risk of VTE in patients in hospital. The use of anti-embolic (AE) stockings was one preventative measure recommended. However, it is important to understand that there are contraindications to wearing AE stockings and there are also care needs required by patients wearing AE stockings ( Cock, 2006 ). The aim of this article is to briefly review the content of the guideline for best practice, The Nursing Care of Patients Wearing Anti-Embolic Stockings (published by the All Wales Tissue Viability Nurses Forum (AWTVNF), 2009 ) and also to highlight its relevance in clinical practice.
So you want to be an AP? How you could get there
Authors: Mullen Chris , Banks Sophie 
Published: May 2014

This article is based on a workshop held by the two authors at the annual HCA conference in November 2013. It builds on previously published articles about how someone wanting to become an assistant practitioner (AP) could take steps towards that goal. The article includes the personal story of how one of the speakers became an AP and she openly describes how it changed not only her ‘job title’, but how the learning and development programme impacted on her personally and how it changed her attitude to the importance of continuous learning and developing. An outline of the different ‘routes’ to becoming an AP as it stands today will be provided, with a cautionary note that access to the various options does vary from region to region and from trust to trust and that the ‘routes’ to becoming an AP are still changing and developing.
Competition in a shrinking NHS market
Authors: Leech Darren , Willis Rob , Jones Cassie 
Published: May 2014

The coalition government has set out what it is describing as the most radical set of changes for the NHS since its inception. The White Paper,‘Equity & Excellence: Liberating the NHS’( Department of Health (DoH) 2010 ) includes considerable reforms to organizational structures within the NHS, cutting management costs in some areas by 45% and saving £20 billion by 2014. These headline grabbing elements of the white paper are something likely to preoccupy many of those currently involved in the leadership and management of health services in England. This is unfortunate as the distraction of structural change to organizations has previously been seen as a causal factor of non-delivery, in both public and private sector organisations. This new era for the health service will result in many issues for leaders and managers in the NHS to tackle. For instance, one consideration that prompts debate is that of further enhancing the ethos of competition between healthcare providers and indeed, between commissioners too. While the White Paper reassures the reader that competition will be regulated through an OFGEM/OFCOM like Monitor, it is also explicit that the principle of competition will be further promoted. Of course the notion of enhanced competition between providers of NHS services is not new, as the last government also promoted this concept—for example, through greater ‘choice’ as a mechanism for driving up quality. In the many other sectors of the business world where competition is well established, the general research shows us that as competition increases, ‘business ethics’ and ‘moral leadership’ are likely to be matters of greater concern for the likely leaders and managers of our future NHS.
Distinguishing between seizure types in adult epilepsy: A key role for nursing observations
Authors: Mantri Pamela 
Published: May 2014

Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological condition, with an estimated prevalence of about 0.75% in the developed world. With approximately 40 types of epilepsy seizure now defi ned, in addition to more than 30 epilepsy syndromes and conditions, it is more appropriate to refer to the epilepsies. Epilepsy syndromes and seizure types have different prognoses and require different management strategies. Inaccurate diagnosis may result in suboptimal management. It is therefore essential to identify a person's epilepsy syndrome and seizure type as fully and accurately as possible through careful history-taking using a comprehensive understanding of seizure types and syndromes. There is currently no international consensus on the classifi cation of epilepsy seizures and syndromes. Advances in technological, medical and biological knowledge have rendered the current classifi cation of epileptic seizures published by the International League against Epilepsy (ILAE) in 1981 out of date, but despite ongoing debate, no replacement classifi cation has yet been accepted. A diagnostic scheme published in 2001 by Engel offers clinicians a more up-to-date terminological framework for use in clinical practice. It is important for nurses involved in the diagnosis and ongoing review of patients with epilepsy to understand the new and revised terms and concepts in the context of advances in the understanding of the neuropathophysiology of the epilepsies. Correct diagnosis of a patient's epilepsy is necessary for appropriate management.
A survey of stroke nurses' knowledge of secondary prevention lifestyle issues
Authors: Lawrence Maggie , Kerr Susan , Watson Hazel E , Jackson Jennie , Brownlee Margaret G 
Published: May 2014

Nurses have an important role to play in providing information and advice on lifestyle risk factors for recurrent stroke. However, patients report receiving little or no lifestyle information. Aim: This study aimed to explore stroke nurses' knowledge and practice in relation to the provision of secondary prevention lifestyle information following stroke. Design: Cross-sectional survey methods were used. Participants were members of the Scottish Stroke Nurse Forum (n=97). Methods: A self-completed questionnaire was used to collect the data, with descriptive statistics summarizing the results. Results: Respondents stated that they assessed lifestyle risk factors following stroke; however, they focused on some but not all risk factors. While written and verbal information and advice was provided, knowledge of guidelines and health-related recommendations was limited. Conclusions: Stroke nurses require improved access to continuing professional development with regard to secondary prevention of stroke. They also require easy access to information resources which support evidence-based practice.
Long-term invasive mechanical ventilation for patients with neurological impairments
Authors: Baker Mark , Kakora-Shiner Nicoline 
Published: May 2014

Nursing patients with invasive mechanical ventilation who have neurological impairments requires skill across a range of physical, cognitive, psychosocial and communicative aspects of care. Drawing on the Roper, Logan and Tierney nursing model (1990), which focuses on patients as individuals, suggestions are made for best nursing practice for this patient population based on twelve activities of living, promoting independence with quality of life and essential functions of living. Complications and long-term indications of invasive mechanical ventilation are also discussed and must be understood to guide patient care. The practice suggested in this article is not meant to be exhaustive—it is acknowledged that there may be further methods for delivery of high-quality nursing practice being undertaken in care homes and speciality services across the UK for this patient population. The paucity of literature on this nursing speciality is highlighted and this emphasizes the need to begin a discussion regarding complex neurological conditions and prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation for adults in long-term care settings.