Constraints on cosmic strings from the LIGO-Virgo gravitational-wave detectors.

Cosmic strings can give rise to a large variety of interesting astrophysical phenomena. Among them, powerful bursts of gravitational waves (GWs) produced by cusps are a promising observational signature. In this Letter we present a search for GWs from cosmic string cusps in data collected by the LIGO and Virgo gravitational wave detectors between 2005 and 2010, with over 625 days of live time.

How do nurses in specialist palliative care assess and manage breakthrough cancer pain? A multicentre study.

Objective: To gain a better understanding of how registered nurses working in specialist palliative care assess and manage breakthrough cancer pain.

Methods: A mixed-methodology study was undertaken in two stages-this paper reports findings from stage two. Anonymous postal questionnaires, designed based on themes identified in interviews undertaken during stage one, were sent to trained nurses working in ten specialist palliative care services in England.

What are cancer patients' experiences and preferences for the provision of written information in the palliative care setting? A focus group study.

Background: Whilst there is a wide range of literature pertaining to the need for excellent verbal communication within the palliative care setting, there is a paucity of research designed to identify the written informational needs of such patients.

Aim: To identify the experiences and wishes of patients known to a specialist palliative care service in England with regards to written information. We considered both generalizable written information (such as leaflets, books and internet resources) as well as individualized information (for example, copies of letters given to patients).

How do nurses assess and manage breakthrough pain in specialist palliative care inpatient units? A multicentre study.

The aim of this qualitative study was to gain a better understanding of how nurses working on inpatient specialist palliative care units assess and manage breakthrough pain. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with fifteen nurses from five different specialist palliative care units in the UK was undertaken. Themes identified have been broadly categorized into four main areas: defining breakthrough pain, assessing breakthrough pain, managing breakthrough pain, and attitudes/teamwork.

A randomized controlled trial of aromatherapy massage in a hospice setting.

Research suggests that patients with cancer, particularly in the palliative care setting, are increasingly using aromatherapy and massage. There is good evidence that these therapies may be helpful for anxiety reduction for short periods, but few studies have looked at the longer term effects. This study was designed to compare the effects of four-week courses of aromatherapy massage and massage alone on physical and psychological symptoms in patients with advanced cancer.