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PubMed2005

Linear dichroism in the X-ray absorption spectra of linear n-alkanes.

The nature of the linear dichroism in the near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectra of linear n-alkanes is a matter of long-standing controversy. Linear dichroism in the carbon 1s --> sigma*(C-C) transition has been interpreted within a building block model and a molecular orbital model, leading to two different descriptions for the angular dependence of this feature. When used for measurement of molecular orientation, the application of these two different models will lead to different results. We have explored the linear dichroism in the carbon 1s NEXAFS spectra of single crystals of the linear n-alkane hexacontane (n-C60H122). An analysis of the angular dependence in this spectrum shows that the transition dipole moment associated with the carbon 1s --> sigma*(C-C) transition is oriented along the macromolecular chain axis, contradicting the predictions of the building block model. However, other transitions are observed in the sigma*(C-H) and the sigma*(C-C) bands that are orthogonal to the dominant transitions for each band. We also observe that radiation damage can be manifest in the form of molecular reorientation in highly ordered organic thin films.

Alkanes↗

PubMed2000

A model for analyzing suicide prevention.

This study monitored the evolution of psychologists' (n = 31) conceptions of suicide prevention over the 9-year course of the National Suicide Prevention Project in Finland and assessed the feasibility of the theoretical model for analyzing suicide prevention developed in earlier studies [Upanne, 1999a,b]. The study was formulated as a retrospective self-assessment where participants compared their earlier descriptions of suicide prevention with their current views. The changes in conceptions were analyzed and interpreted using both the model and the explanations given by the subjects themselves. The analysis proved the model to be a useful framework for revealing the essential features of prevention. The results showed that the freely-formulated ideas on prevention were more comprehensive than those evolved in practical work. Compared to the earlier findings, the conceptions among the group had shifted toward emphasizing a curative approach and the significance of individual risk factors. In particular, greater priority was focused on the acute suicide risk phase as a preventive target. Nonetheless, the overall structure of prevention ideology remained comprehensive and multifactorial, stressing multistage influencing. Promotive aims (protective factors) also remained part of the prevention paradigm. Practical working experiences enhanced the psychologists' sense of the difficulties of suicide prevention as well as their criticism and feeling of powerlessness.

Adult↗

PubMed1992

The four faces of eve: a typological analysis of women's personality at midlife.

In an analysis of adult personality structure, types are defined as prototypes rather than as discrete categories. Using inverse factor analyses of archival Q-sort descriptions, 4 type factors were replicated in a cross-validation design. These prototypes are interpreted as Individuated, Traditional, Conflicted, and Assured and are related to Rank's (1945) theoretical analysis of different modes of adjustment. These prototypes capture particular combinations of personality dimensions, such as Ego Resiliency, Ego Control, and the Big Five, and converge with the types identified by Block (1971). Further analyses using 13 clusters of scales from 3 broad-band self-report inventories validated the Q-sort-based interpretations and showed a distinct and theoretically consistent patterning for each of the types.

Adult↗

PubMed1988

Priming effects between two-dimensional shapes.

The role of reference frames in shape perception was examined by investigating priming effects between two-dimensional shapes. Ambiguous shapes and shapes with an unambiguous axis were used, and primes and targets could be orientationally transformed so that for ambiguous shapes, different axes aligned with the vertical. Reliable priming effects were established that were dependent on the structural similarity of primes and targets, the informativeness of the prime, and the interval between the stimuli. Most interestingly, with short interstimulus intervals, differential priming effects were found between ambiguous shapes and unambiguous shapes when an orientational transformation aligned different axes in the ambiguous shape with the vertical. The result was interpreted as demonstrating that priming was determined by the similarity of the frame-based descriptions of primes and targets. The finding occurred irrespective of the informativeness of the prime, suggesting that it reflects obligatory processes in shape perception. Further data showed that under some circumstances prespecifying the orientation of a shape also facilitated its processing; this provided direct evidence that shapes are represented relative to a perceptual reference frame.

Adult↗

PubMed2004

A proposed framework for the description of plant metabolomics experiments and their results.

The study of the metabolite complement of biological samples, known as metabolomics, is creating large amounts of data, and support for handling these data sets is required to facilitate meaningful analyses that will answer biological questions. We present a data model for plant metabolomics known as ArMet (architecture for metabolomics). It encompasses the entire experimental time line from experiment definition and description of biological source material, through sample growth and preparation to the results of chemical analysis. Such formal data descriptions, which specify the full experimental context, enable principled comparison of data sets, allow proper interpretation of experimental results, permit the repetition of experiments and provide a basis for the design of systems for data storage and transmission. The current design and example implementations are freely available (http://www.armet.org/). We seek to advance discussion and community adoption of a standard for metabolomics, which would promote principled collection, storage and transmission of experiment data.

Database Management Systems↗

PubMed1995

Gay men's accounts of unsafe sex.

This paper provides a qualitative analysis of the explanations given by a sample of 78 gay men in England of the most recent occasion on which they engaged in anal intercourse without a condom. Explanations are analysed and interpreted from the sociological perspective of 'accounts': that is, they are not viewed as exact descriptions of the 'real' motives for behaviour but are seen as a powerful resource that can illuminate the knowledge, assumptions and values that inform behaviour. Four distinct types of accounts were identified from the men's descriptions of the circumstances and motivations surrounding their most recent unsafe sexual encounter. These related to: (i) their emotional needs and drives; (ii) the calculus of risk; (iii) issues of trust; and (iv) lapses of control. Each of these types of account is described and the implications of the typology are considered, both for our understanding of the meanings, considerations and constraints surrounding high-risk sexual behaviour and for developing more relevant health education interventions.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2001

A comparison of the new executive functioning domains of the CAMCOG-R with existing tests of executive function in elderly stroke survivors.

AIM: to compare the two new executive function tests of the revised Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG-R), a bedside measure of cognitive function, with existing neuropsychological assessments of executive function in elderly stroke survivors. METHODS: we assessed 83 stroke survivors at 1 and 3 months post-stroke with the new CAMCOG-R, the Weigl colour form sorting test and Raven's coloured progressive matrices. We assessed functional recovery with the Barthel index and depression with the self-report 15-item geriatric depression scale. We used descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, paired t-tests and principal axis factor analyses to interpret the data. RESULTS: the new CAMCOG-R executive functioning tests showed moderate correlation with the Weigl and Raven tests (P<0.01). Improved functional outcome as measured by the Barthel index was significantly associated with higher executive function test scores (P<0.05). Depression was significantly associated with poorer performance on all tasks of executive function (P<0.05). A factor analysis of the scores on all of the neuropsychological tests revealed a single strong factor that accounted for 66% of the variance. The CAMCOG-R and the executive functioning subscales used in this population established sensitivity to change over time. CONCLUSION: although the new executive tests of the CAMCOG-R compared reasonably well with the Weigl and Raven neuropsychological tests, the extra time taken to administer the CAMCOG-R may not be justified. The new CAMCOG-R executive function tests were vulnerable to the effects of depression. Finally, the executive function tests might have provided more of a global measure of cognitive function, raising doubts about their construct validity in our patient population.

Aged↗

PubMed1995

Use of a model to understand prolactin and growth hormone specificities.

A human prolactin (hPRL) model based on a 2.1 A resolution X-ray refinement of porcine growth hormone is reported. Only regions clearly defined in the growth hormone template (the four-helix bundle) or previously assumed to be involved in hPRL-receptor binding (the bundle and the binding site loop) are included. A description of the model construction is provided and the resulting hPRL structure is used to interpret mutation/activity data for the cross-reactivity of human growth hormone (hGH) with the lactogenic receptor and the binding of human and bovine prolactin to the lactogenic receptor. The recognition of hPRL by its receptor unexpectedly appears to resemble more closely the interaction of hGH with the somatogenic receptor than with the lactogenic receptor. Each hGH binds to two receptor molecules, and an essential second messenger mediated by correct formation of the receptor-receptor interface has been proposed. The absence of receptor cross-reactivity for hPRL is linked to key sequence changes in hPRL which could disrupt hPRL-somatogenic receptor binding at the second site. A number of previous experiments have relied on the assumption that bioactivity is mediated by homologous residues at topologically equivalent positions. According to the model, this does not appear to be strictly true at either binding site. Good correlation at equivalent positions may be restricted to residues that are important for maintaining binding site shape as well as providing complementary stabilizing interactions between the hormone and receptor. Experiments are proposed to test our hypotheses.

Algorithms↗

PubMed2004

Development of software for internal dose calculation from bioassay measurements.

Recently developed biokinetic models of ICRP permit increasingly realistic descriptions of the behaviour of radionuclides in the human body. This, however, has made the interpretation of bioassay data extremely difficult. Thus computer programs for implementing these models are in need, but very few are available. The present work describes personal-computer-based software, MONDAL2 (monitoring to dose calculation ver. 2), that enables users to estimate intake activity and the resulting effective doses from bioassay measurements for both workers and members of the public. This software runs on Microsoft Windows 95, 98, Millennium edition, 2000 or XP. If the system is to be fully copied to a hard disk, hard disk space of 23 MB is required. This software is distributed by the National Institute of Radiological Sciences free of charge.

Age Factors↗

PubMed2000

Lessons learned in applying the U.S. EPA proposed cancer guidelines to specific compounds.

An expert panel was convened to evaluate the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's "Proposed Guidelines for Carcinogen Risk Assessment" through their application to data sets for chloroform (CHCl3) and dichloroacetic acid (DCA). The panel also commented on perceived strengths and limitations encountered in applying the guidelines to these specific compounds. This latter aspect of the panel's activities is the focus of this perspective. The panel was very enthusiastic about the evolution of these proposed guidelines, which represent a major step forward from earlier EPA guidance on cancer-risk assessment. These new guidelines provide the latitude to consider diverse scientific data and allow considerable flexibility in dose-response assessments, depending on the chemical's mode of action. They serve as a very useful template for incorporating state-of-the-art science into carcinogen risk assessments. In addition, the new guidelines promote harmonization of methodologies for cancer- and noncancer-risk assessments. While new guidance on the qualitative decisions ensuing from the determination of mode of action is relatively straightforward, the description of the quantitative implementation of various risk-assessment options requires additional development. Specific areas needing clarification include: (1) the decision criteria for judging the adequacy of the weight of evidence for any particular mode of action; (2) the role of mode of action in guiding development of toxicokinetic, biologically based or case-specific models; (3) the manner in which mode of action and other technical considerations provide guidance on margin-of-exposure calculations; (4) the relative roles of the risk manager versus the risk assessor in evaluating the margin of exposure; and (5 ) the influence of mode of action in harmonizing cancer and noncancer risk assessment methodologies. These points are elaborated as recommendations for improvements to any revisions. In general, the incorporation of examples of quantitative assessments for specific chemicals would strengthen the guidelines. Clearly, any revisions should retain the emphasis present in these draft guidelines on flexibility in the use of scientific information with individual compounds, while simultaneously improving the description of the processes by which these mode-of-action data are organized and interpreted.

Animals↗

PubMed1995

Babinski and Babinski sign.

Babinski's sign probably is the best known neurologic eponym, referring to dorsiflexion of the great toe with or without fanning of the other toes and withdrawal of the leg. This follows plantar stimulation in patients with pyramidal tract dysfunction. Although the plantar reflex already had been described, Babinski--a French neurologist of Polish descent and a pupil of Charcot--was the first to differentiate between a normal and pathologic response of the toes and recognize its clinical implication. Despite the continuing controversy over its pathophysiologic interpretation, the clinical utility of Babinski's sign remains unchanged almost 100 years after its description.

Eponyms↗

PubMed1997

Managed care: increased opportunities for acute-care nurse practitioners.

Significant changes in the health-care delivery system during the past few years has resulted in shifts in managed care. Under this system, the fundamental assumptions of health-care delivery have been challenged and are beginning to change: emphasis on health, not illness, primary versus specialty care, hospital-based care to care networks, and revision of medical education patterns. The resulting opportunity for nursing has assisted in the expansion of its care to a practitioner model within the acute-care setting. Through case management and direct acute-care patient management, acute-care nurse practitioners (ACNPs) may ultimately contribute to reductions in hospitalization costs. Literature suggesting actual costs of ACNPs to be high must be measured against their invaluable contributions to increased quality of care. Detailed evaluation programs are needed for more complete analysis. An example of ACNP practice at a large teaching hospital shows varied interpretations of the role.

Hospitals, Teaching↗

PubMed1993

Coronary artery disease in women: the role of diagnostic imaging.

In the United States, coronary artery disease (CAD) kills equal numbers of men and women, and is the leading cause of death in women. Except at the oldest ages, the prevalence of disease is lower in women than in men. This low prevalence decreases the accuracy of all noninvasive testing methods, making the noninvasive diagnosis of CAD in women more difficult. Perhaps because of this increased difficulty in diagnosis and the prognosis of women with angina has been perceived to be "benign," invasive testing has been used less often in women. Since the morbidity and mortality are greater in women compared with men with manifest CAD (i.e., myocardial infarction and coronary artery bypass grafting), an understanding of the strengths and limitations of noninvasive testing in women is critical. Due to the lower prevalence of CAD in women, symptoms of CAD (i.e., chest pain) and noninvasive tests (graded exercise treadmill) are less reliable with lower positive predictive values. Recent studies suggest using imaging techniques to improve the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of noninvasive testing. This article will review the current literature regarding noninvasive diagnosis of CAD in women, including the use of stress echocardiography and thallium imaging in women. Detailed statistical descriptions of study populations are necessary so that study results can be accurately applied and interpreted in the general population.

Coronary Disease↗

PubMed2003

Experiences of pioneer nurse practitioners in establishing advanced practice roles.

PURPOSE: To describe pioneers' experience of establishing the nurse practitioner (NP) role, and their experiences in maintaining and building the NP role in the contemporary practice environment. DESIGN: The study sample included 50 middle-aged women currently practicing in Washington State as licensed advanced practice nurses, who began the NP role during 1965-1979. METHODS: This descriptive study included interviews and focus groups to gather data about the nurses' early experiences. Interpretative methods of grounded theory were used in data collection and analysis. FINDINGS: The central organizing theme, Advancing Autonomy to Make a Difference, was manifested through six broad themes: Breaking Free, Molding the Clay, Encountering Obstacles, Surviving the Proving Ground, Staying Committed, and Building the Eldership. CONCLUSIONS: Autonomy was requisite to practice to one's full potential and maintain commitment over time. The data findings show the evolution of advanced nursing practice in the United States and provide guidance for nurses who are working to establish advanced practice nursing in other countries.

Adaptation, Psychological↗

PubMed1995

Objective analysis versus subjective assessment of vowels pronounced by deaf and normal-hearing children.

Objective whole-spectrum and formant analyses have been performed on all 15 Dutch vowels pronounced in /C1VC2/ words by 24 deaf and 24 normal-hearing children, in order to develop a model of pronunciation quality for evaluating (deaf) speech; the results as obtained for adult males by Bakkum et al. [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 94, 1989-2004 (1993)] have been verified and extended. Spectral representations of the vowels were created by determining the output levels of a bank of 16 filters (90-7200 Hz), with 1/3-oct bandwidths and logarithmic spacing of their center frequencies. Spectral differences agree well with subjective differences in pronunciation quality obtained from magnitude estimation and identification experiments. Spectral differences not related to pronunciation quality judgments arise as a consequence of physiological interspeaker differences and variation in fundamental frequency, but these differences can be compensated for by speaker-normalization and F0-compensation procedures. Using principal components analysis (PCA), the vowel spectra can be described by a limited number of dimensions, without losing much information; a description in a two-dimensional PCA subspace still agrees well with the subjective judgments and it also agrees with a description by the first two formants. The whole-spectrum approach provides a determinate, readily interpretable model of pronunciation quality for evaluating vowels. As a practical advantage, its computational requirements are modest and, in conjunction with PCA, the vowel dynamics can be visualized, which makes the approach suitable for vowel training and diagnostics.

Child↗

PubMed1995

Prospective validation of an acute respiratory distress syndrome predictive score.

We derived an Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Score (ARDS Score) from previously described training set data. To validate its diagnostic accuracy for identifying a complicated course (early death or prolonged intubation) in acute lung injury, 50 patients were prospectively scored using an ARDS Score decision threshold of > or = 2.5 to discriminate between an uncomplicated (successful extubation after < or = 14 d) and complicated course. Predictor factors incorporated in the ARDS Score were collected on Day 4 and Day 7 of ARDS and included PaO2/PAO2 ratio, required positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and chest radiograph progression. The diagnostic accuracy of the ARDS Score for determining a complicated course as well as overall survival was compared with three other available indices. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the ARDS Score and Lung Injury Score (LIS) had the greatest diagnostic accuracy for determining a complicated course, but the Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS Score) (score > or = 14) more accurately identified survival. The LIS components of static respiratory system compliance (Crs) and chest radiograph description did not differ between patient groups. The interobserver concordance of the dynamic chest radiograph interpretation included in the ARDS Score was significant (p < 0.05). We conclude that the previously derived ARDS Score has valid diagnostic accuracy for identifying patients with ARDS who will follow a complicated course.

Acute Disease↗

PubMed1993

Viewing the client's world through drawings.

This article discusses the therapeutic use of drawings, outlines a specific drawing technique, and describes two case illustrations. Emphasis is placed on the healing quality of the drawing experience, a creative process in and of itself. These case illustrations were derived from an interpretive study in which life history and drawing methods were used to gather a holistic description about the experiences of women living with HIV disease. By making drawings depicting their illness, the ten women were offered another way to express and communicate their experiences, revealing rich descriptions that may not have been obtained by interviews alone. The drawings allowed the women to explore feelings that are often difficult to verbalize, offering additional insights about their worldview. For the practitioner, the use of drawings can therefore be a valuable tool to further understand a client, assess needs, and formulate a more inclusive approach to care.

Adult↗

PubMed2001

Imperforate hymen: congenital or acquired from sexual abuse?

Imperforate hymen diagnosed beyond the newborn period may present a dilemma for the physician. Three case studies are reviewed in which children with the diagnoses of imperforate hymen presented for evaluation of suspected sexual abuse. Clear descriptions of genital anatomy documented at well-child visits may be critical to later interpretations of findings encountered during examinations for suspected sexual abuse.

Child↗