Effects of safe handling education on cognition, compliance and stress handling of antineoplastic drugs in clinical nurses.

To evaluate the effects of safe-handling education on the cognition, practice and stress handling of antineoplastic drugs in clinical nurses. This study uses a quasi-experimental, non-equivalent control group pre-test and post-test design. The experimental and control groups had 30 nurses each, who handled antineoplastic drugs from three institutions. This study examines the safe handling of antineoplastic drugs six times, for two hours each over two weeks. To verify the homogeneity of the experimental and control groups and the effectiveness of safe-handling education about antineoplastic drugs, a chi-square test and independent samples t-test were performed. The results were statistically significant in both groups (cognition [t = 6.84, p < 0.001], practice [t = 5.86, p < 0.001], and the stress of handling antineoplastic drugs [t = 5.15, p < 0.001]). Education on ways to safely handle antineoplastic drugs improves cognition, practice and stress handling of these drugs; moreover, proper education minimizes exposure.

Development and Evaluation of Empowering Education Program for Maternal Fetal Intensive Care Unit (MFICU) Nurses.

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to develop an empowering education program for Maternal-Fetal Intensive Care Unit (MFICU) nurses who provide intensive care to high-risk mother and fetus at hospitals, to test effects of the education program on nursing care confidence and nursing knowledge, and to examine program satisfaction. METHODS: This study comprised of 2 phases: program development and evaluation. First, we have followed a process of program development to develop and refine an empowering education program for MFICU nurses through collaborative works among clinical obstetrics and gynecology doctors and nurses and academic nursing professors. Second, the empowering education program was provided to 49 nurses and evaluated from July 5 to 6, 2019. Levels of MFICU nursing care confidence and knowledge were measured. RESULTS: The empowering education program included 18 hours of lectures, discussion, and Q & A, which continued for 2 days. This program significantly improved high-risk maternal-fetal nursing care confidence and knowledge of nurses. The program was well met with nurses' education need and goals, and found to be highly satisfactory. CONCLUSION: The empowering education program was observed to be effective in terms of improve nursing care confidence and knowledge of nurses in MFICU. It is proposed that this program should be open regularly for nurses to obtain and improve their clinical knowledge, confidence, and competency. Further study is needed to develop and run 2-levels of education such as basic and advanced levels based on nurses' clinical background and competency.

Research Trend of Women's Health in Korean Nursing Journals (2010~2015).

PURPOSE: To explore trends of women's health in nursing research by analyzing articles on women aged 13 years or older that were published in Korean Journal for Women Health Nursing from 2010 to 2015. METHODS: Seven focus areas were identified and modified to reflect integrative conceptual models of women's health: maternity care, menstrual concerns, health problems in women, gender influences on health risks, social influences on women's health, women and health care policy, and sexual health and violence against women. A total of 383 studies were analyzed according to these seven focus areas. RESULTS: Health problems in women, maternity care, and societal influences on women's health were the most widely studied topics in Korean women's health. There was increased attention to societal influences on women's health and gender influences on health risk. However, these areas are still limited in nursing research. Only 1% of these studies were in area of women's health policy. CONCLUSION: More studies in area of sexual health and violence against women are needed. Studies in area of women and health care policy are also needed to improve women's health in Korea.

The Effects of Kangaroo Care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit on the Physiological Functions of Preterm Infants, Maternal-Infant Attachment, and Maternal Stress.

UNLABELLED: This study was conducted to identify the effects of kangaroo care on the physiological functions of preterm infants, maternal-infant attachment, and maternal stress. DESIGN AND METHODS: For this study, a quasi-experiment design was used with a nonequivalent control group, and a pre- and post-test. Data were collected from preterm infants with corrected gestational ages of ≥33weeks who were hospitalized between May and October 2011. Twenty infants were assigned to the experimental group and 20 to the control group. As an intervention, kangaroo care was provided in 30-min sessions conducted thrice a week for a total of 10 times. The collected data were analyzed by using the t test, repeated-measures ANOVA, and the ANCOVA test. RESULTS: After kangaroo care, the respiration rate significantly differed between the two groups (F=5.701, p=.020). The experimental group had higher maternal-infant attachment scores (F=25.881, p<.001) and lower maternal stress scores (F=47.320, p<.001) than the control group after the test. In other words, kangaroo care showed significantly positive effects on stabilizing infant physiological functions such as respiration rate, increasing maternal-infant attachment, and reducing maternal stress. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that kangaroo care can be used to promote emotional bonding and support between mothers and their babies, and to stabilize the physiological functions of premature babies. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Kangaroo care may be one of the most effective nursing interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit for the care of preterm infants and their mothers.

Obesity, Body Image, Depression, and Weight-control Behaviour Among Female University Students in Korea.

BACKGROUND: Obesity has become epidemic worldwide and 31.0% of Korean adults are obese. Obesity is the main cause of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiac disease, and cancer. The purpose of the study was to examine obesity, body image, depression, and weight-control behaviour among Korean female university students and investigate the differences in body image, depression, and weight-control behaviour with respect to obesity. METHODS: This study examined obesity, body image, depression, and weight control in 700 female university students from 4 universities in South Korea. To evaluate obesity, both objective obesity (body mass index [BMI]) and subjective obesity (subjectively perceived) were measured. RESULTS: There was a significant difference between objective and subjective obesity (χ(2) = 231.280, P < 0.001). In addition, the objective obesity group had the lowest body image score (F = 19.867, P < 0.001) and difference in weight-control behaviour (F = 3.145, P = 0.045). Further, the subjective obesity group had the lowest body image score (F = 58.281, P < 0.001). The results revealed a statistically significant difference in body image and weight-control behaviour with respect to objective obesity. CONCLUSION: Objective and subjective obesity was negatively associated with body image, and no relationships between objective or subjective obesity and depression.

Analysis of Reports on Observational Studies Published in the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing based on the STROBE Guideline.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality of reports on observational studies published in the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing (KJWHN). METHODS: Forty-six studies using cross-sectional designs published in KJWHN from January 2011 to June 2013 were selected for analysis. Selected articles were reviewed and evaluated by three reviewers using the 22 items of the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement. As some of 22 items had more than one check point, further broken down, 34 checklist items were used for analysis. RESULTS: Overall, the reviewed studies provided sufficient descriptions for many STROBE items. Seven of the 34 items were found to be not applicable, and 15 of the remaining 27 items (55.5%) were evaluated as 'sufficient' in reporting. Only one study included a flow diagram illustrating participation and this lack of flow diagram was the weakest area of reporting in this review. CONCLUSION: Clearer reporting of cross-sectional studies can be attained by attention to vulnerable areas of reporting, such as including a flow diagram of participants, descriptions of sources of bias and reason for non-participation, and describing limitations of the study. Issues regarding the application of STROBE statement items should be actively discussed in order to aid future revision and clarification of items included in STROBE statement.

The effect of music-movement therapy on physical and psychological states of stroke patients.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effects of combined music-movement therapy on physical and psychological functioning of hospitalised stroke patients. BACKGROUND: Few studies have focused on music-movement therapy's effects on physical and psychological functioning of stroke patients. DESIGN: A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-tests was used. METHODS: A convenience sample was used: patients hospitalised for stroke and within two weeks of the onset of stroke were randomised to either an experimental group (received music-movement therapy in their wheelchairs for 60 minutes three times per week for 8 weeks) or control group (received only routine treatment). The effect of music-movement therapy was assessed in terms of physical outcomes (range of motion, muscle strength and activities of daily living) and psychological outcomes (mood states, depression), measured in both groups pre- and post-test. RESULTS: The experimental group had significantly increased shoulder flexion and elbow joint flexion in physical function and improved mood state in psychological function, compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Early rehabilitation of hospitalised stroke patients within two weeks of the onset of stroke was effective by using music-movement therapy. It improved their mood state and increased shoulder flexion and elbow joint flexion. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: The findings of this study suggest that rehabilitation for stroke patients should begin as early as possible, even during their hospitalisation. Nursing practice should incorporate the concept of combining music and movements to improve stroke patients' physical and psychological states starting from the acute phase.

Gender Differences in Awareness of Preconception Care and Pregnancy.

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to identify awareness levels in regard to preconception care and gender differences targeting single undergraduate students in their 20s. METHODS: The study participants were 867 single undergraduate students aged 20~29 (523 women, 344 men). This was a descriptive research, in which awareness levels of preconception care and pregnancy were identified the through questionnaire surveys. RESULTS: Gender differences in the awareness of reproductive care before conception were found. Generally, women's awareness of issues related to preconception care and pregnancy was higher than that of men. Women recognized risk factors in pregnancy (chi2=22.85, p<.001) and positive behaviors (chi2=10.91, p = .012) better than men. Women's awareness of preconception care was significantly higher than that of men (t=8.37, p<.001). The awareness levels of the students who completed a reproduction related class (t=3.16, p = .002) and the students who knew about folic acid (t=-10.78, p<.001) in preconception care were statistically significantly higher. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the ways to educate and alert students to major risk factors before pregnancy and other reproductive care content before conception is to provide education both single women and single men.

The Quality of Reporting of Intervention Studies in the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing (KJWHN): Based on the TREND Guidelines.

PURPOSE: This study was done to evaluate quality of reports of non-randomized controlled quasi-experimental study articles published in the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing (KJWHN). METHODS: A search was done for experimental studies assessing intervention effects among all articles published in the KJWHNfrom 2008 to 2013. Original articles were reviewed and analyzed according to the 22 checklist items of the guidelines for Transparent Reporting for Evaluations with Non-randomized Designs (TREND). RESULTS: Thirty-five articles on experimental studies were identified. The evaluation of the quality of reporting in these experimental studies found that there was a wide variety in the level of satisfying the TREND checklist. In particular, according to TREND topics, low levels of reporting quality were found for "title & abstract (only for information on how units were allocated to the intervention)", "outcomes in methods", "assignment in methods", "blinding in methods", "recruitment in results", "baseline data in results", "interpretation in discussion (especially intervention mechanism and success or barriers), "generalizability in discussion". CONCLUSION: Results indicate that adherence to TREND guidelines varied in experimental studies published in the KJWHN suggesting the recommendation that for higher levels of complete reporting, TREND guidelines be used in reports on experimental studies.

Analysis on Reports of Qualitative Researches Published in Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing.

PURPOSE: This research was aimed to analyze the reports of qualitative researches published in Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing (KJWHN). METHODS: Twenty qualitative researches using in-depth interviews or focus groups published in KJWHN during from 2002 to 2011 were selected for analysis. Selected reports were analyzed by consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ), which were a reporting guideline for qualitative researches, and consisted of thirty two items and three domains, i.e., (1) research team and reflexivity, (2) study design, and (3) data analysis and reporting. RESULTS: Personal characteristics related to credentials, gender and interviewer's bias or assumption were less reported than other items in the 1st domain. In the 2nd domain, descriptions such as a presence of non-participants, pilot test for interview guide development, and transcript return to participants were less reported than other items. In the 3rd domain, items related to number of data coder, participants checking of the finding, and clarity of minor themes were less reported than other items. CONCLUSION: It could be concluded that COREQ is a useful guideline for reporting of qualitative studies. From these results, we suggest that full items of COREQ should be considered and described when researchers report qualitative research.

Anti-Arthritic and Analgesic Effect of NDI10218, a Standardized Extract of Terminalia chebula, on Arthritis and Pain Model.

The fruit of Terminalia chebula Retzius has been used as a panacea in India and Southeast Asia but its biological activities have not been fully elucidated. Here we report anti-arthritic and analgesic effect of NDI10218, a standardized ethanol extract of Terminalia chebula, on collagen-induced arthritis and acetic acid-induced writhing model, respectively. Arthritis was induced in DBA/1J mice by immunizing bovine type II collagen and mice were treated with NDI10218 daily for 5 weeks after the onset of the disease. NDI10218 reduced the arthritis index and blocked the synovial hyperplasia in a dose-dependent manner. The serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1ß were significantly reduced in mice treated with NDI10218. Production of the inflammatory IL-17, but not immunosuppressive IL-10, was also inhibited in splenocytes isolated from NDI10218-treated arthritis mice. Administration of NDI10218 markedly decreased the number of T cell subpopulations in the regional lymph nodes of the arthritis mice. Finally, NDI10218 reduced the number of abdominal contractions in acetic acid-induced writhing model, suggesting an analgesic effect of this extract. Taken together, these results suggest that NDI10218 can be a new therapeutic candidate for the treatment of rheuma-toid arthritis.

Analysis on Reports of Statistical Testing for Mean Differences in Articles in the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing.

PURPOSE: This study was done to evaluate the accuracy and adequacy of research studies reporting statistical testing for mean differences in studies of the Korean Journal of Women Health. METHODS: Among articles published in the journal from 2007 to 2009, 75 studies using t-test, chi2-test, and ANOVA were identified. The studies were evaluated using structured analysis format for adequacy of research title, accuracy of statistical methods and presentation styles, and errors in reported statistical outcomes. RESULTS: In this study, the research titles generally reflected the purpose of research and study designs. Thus the research titles were quite comprehensive. Also, there was compatibility between the research purpose and research design. Most important though, many errors were identified in the tables of results of the statistical analysis in articles published from 2004 to 2006. CONCLUSION: Over six years, 2004 to 2009, accuracy and adequacy of research studies has improved in many aspects. In order to enhance the completeness of the published papers and to be an internationally recognized nursing journal, close attention of the researchers, reviewers and editors is necessary to avoid errors and present adequate and accurate research.

Analysis of the Correlation and Regression Analysis Studies from the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing over the Past Three Years (2007~2009).

PURPOSE: This study investigated the statistical methods and the results had reported correlation/regression analysis in the studies of Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing (KJWHN). METHODS: We reviewed 45 studies using correlation/regression analysis for the suitability of the statistical methods and the research purposes, the criteria for analysis of figures, tables and charts had published in the KJWHN from vol 13 (1) in 2007 to vol 15 (4) in 2009. RESULTS: Forty three studies were fitted to their statistical methodology and their research purposes. Eleven studies considered the minimum sample size. Fourteen regression studies used multiple regression and 12 studies used forward method for variable entry. Only one study among the 17 regression studies accomplished scatter plots and residuals examination. Sixteen studies in correlation studies and six studies in regression studies showed some errors in either the title, variables, category of figures, tables and charts. In the regression study, all reported R2 and beta values except one. CONCLUSION: It was found that there were still statistical errors or articulation errors in the statistical analysis. All reviewers need to be reviewed more closely for detecting errors not only during reviewing process of the manuscript but also periodic publication for the quality of this academic journal.

Analysis of Published Papers by Keywords and Research Methods in the Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing (2007~2009).

PURPOSE: This study s aim was to analyze literature using the identified key words of published literature within the Korean Journal of Womens Health Nursing from 2007~2009. The study explored the major subjects and research methodology used and evaluated the quality of this Journal articles. METHODS: Survey design using a structured analysis format was used for consistent evaluation of research subjects, type of research, research methodology, data analysis, along with comparing intervention research, theoretical framework, ethical consideration, and the implications. The frequency of the use of each keyword was classified by 8 domains. RESULTS: Ninety eight papers were analyzed altogether. Most of the subjects in these papers were women with 86.7% being quantitative research. In these studies, 76.5% used convenience sampling; 70.6% used a survey design whereas 23.5% used experimental design. Health related concepts (n=159) was mentioned the most among the 8 domains. The key words frequently used were women, depression, knowledge, quality of life, attitude, elderly, anxiety and stress in descending order. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that most papers in this Journal during this time period addressed recent women's health issues. Also it showed this Journal and its literature has reached the indexing for Medline.

Cyathuscavins A, B, and C, new free radical scavengers with DNA protection activity from the Basidiomycete Cyathus stercoreus.

Three new polyketides, cyathuscavins A (1), B (2), and C (3) were isolated from the mycelium culture of Cyathus stercoreus. The structures of the compounds were elucidated on the basis of NMR and mass spectroscopic data. Antioxidant activities of the compounds were evaluated by the scavenging ability against ABTS(+), DPPH, and superoxide anion radicals. Cyathuscavins A-C showed significant antioxidant activity comparable to those of reference antioxidants, BHA and Trolox. Cyathuscavins A-C protected supercoiled plasmid DNA from Fe(2+)/H(2)O(2)-induced breakage.

Identification of chemical structure and free radical scavenging activity of diphlorethohydroxycarmalol isolated from a brown alga, Ishige okamurae.

To obtain a natural antioxidant from a marine biomass, this study investigated the antioxidative activity of methanolic extracts from the marine brown alga, Ishige okamurae collected off Jeju Island. A potent free radical scavenging activity was detected in the ethyl acetate fraction containing polyphenolic compounds, and the potent antioxidant elucidated as a kind of phlorotannin, diphlorethohydroxycarmalol, by NMR and mass spectroscopic data. The free radical scavenging activities of the diphlorethohydroxycarmalol were investigated in relation to 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), alkyl, and hydroxyl radicals using an electron spin resonance (ESR) system. The diphlorethohydroxycarmalol was found to scavenge DPPH (IC50=3.41 microM) and alkyl (IC50=4.92 microM) radicals more effectively than the commercial antioxidant, ascorbic acid. Therefore, these results present diphlorethohydroxycarmalol as a new phlorotannin with a potent antioxidative activity that could be useful in cosmetics, foods, and pharmaceuticals.

Stages of change: Korean women's attitudes and barriers toward mammography screening.

The positive and negative aspects of breast cancer screening were measured to gain insight into the barriers that prevent Korean women from participating in mammography screening. Breast cancer screening behaviors, attitudes, and barriers were identified from a convenience sample of 328 Korean women recruited in Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Jeju, South Korea. Pros, cons, and decisional balance constructs of the transtheoretical model of behavior change were used to identify stages of change in attitude related to mammography screening. There were significant differences in pros (F = 5.175, p = .001) and cons (F = 3.357, p = .012) across the five stages of change for mammography. Participants indicated that the major barriers to mammography screening were, in order of frequency, the belief that an absence of symptoms meant there was no need for a breast examination, the high cost of breast cancer screening, lack of time, lack of information, embarrassment, fear about x-rays and test results, reliance on breast self-examination (BSE), and discomfort or pain. The benefits of breast cancer screening should be emphasized among Korean women.

Cyathusals A, B, and C, antioxidants from the fermented mushroom Cyathus stercoreus.

Three new polyketide-type antioxidative compounds, cyathusals A (1), B (2), and C (3), and the known pulvinatal (4) were obtained from the fermented mushroom Cyathus stercoreus. The structures of the compounds were characterized on the basis of NMR and mass spectroscopic data. Cyathusals A, B, and C and pulvinatal showed free radical scavenging activities on the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical with EC50 values of 41.6, 46.0, 26.6, and 28.6 microM, respectively, and on the 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) cation radical with EC50 values of 7.9, 11.1, 9.1, and 8.4 microM, respectively.

Effects of acupressure on dysmenorrhea and skin temperature changes in college students: a non-randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative therapies may be adopted as nursing interventions to alleviate dysmenorrhea and improve productivity, creativity, work performance, and quality of life. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of San Yin Jiao (SP6) acupressure as a non-pharmacologic nursing intervention for dysmenorrhea and identify its effects on temperature changes in two related acupoints as an explanatory mechanism of chi circulation. DESIGN: A non-equivalent control group pre and post-test design was employed to verify the effects of SP6 acupressure on skin temperature and dysmenorrhea. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Young college women with primary dysmenorrhea were recruited from classrooms at two universities in Korea and 58 eligible participants were allotted to either a SP6 acupressure group or placebo group that received light touch on the SP6 acupoint. METHODS: The experimental group received acupressure treatment within the first 8h of menstruation, and severity of dysmenorrhea and skin temperature changes in the Zhongwan (CV2) and Qugu (CV12) acupoints were assessed prior to and 30 min, 1, 2, and 3h following treatment. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in severity of dysmenorrhea between the two groups immediately after (F=18.50, p=0.000) and for up to 2h (F=8.04, p=0.032) post treatment. Skin temperature was significantly elevated at 30 min after acupressure at the suprapubic CV2 acupoint in the experimental group compared to the control group. Temperature elevation was also noted at the epigastric CV12 acupoint post treatment but group differences were not significant, indicating that SP6 acupressure relieves dysmenorrhea primarily by temperature elevation in the CV2 pathway. CONCLUSIONS: Acupressure to the SP6 meridian can be an effective non-invasive nursing intervention for alleviation of primary dysmenorrhea, with effects lasting 2h post treatment.