bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sovereign debt management and the globalization of finance: Recasting the City of London’s ‘Big Bang’
Authors: Dutta Sahil Jai
Published: October 2017

This article focuses on the central position of sovereign debt securities in the financial system to challenge existing accounts about the 1986 ‘Big Bang’ deregulation of the City of London’s securities market. The reforms are often cast as an iconic moment of neoliberal deregulation and a key episode in the globalization of financial markets. Such accounts stress that the state played an active role in constructing the reforms and upholding the global market relations they produced, yet they remain unclear about the state’s direct interest in pursuing financial market liberalization. The article contends that domestic concerns over sovereign debt management were central to the state’s pursuit of regulatory change. The Big Bang reforms greatly expanded the size and liquidity of the market for British sovereign debt. This empowered the state, improving its capacity to conduct monetary policy and to raise finance on better terms. In doing so, the article demonstrates the necessity of examining sovereign debt management in order to specify the state’s role in the construction of financial globalization.
Apnea of Prematurity
Authors: Higbee Martin D. , Bosso John A.
Published: October 2017

A typical case of apnea occurring in a premature infant is presented. The pathophysiology of apnea as well as its incidence and etiology are described. Treatment is also discussed, with particular emphasis on the use of theophylline.
The Use of Terbutaline for Premature Labor
Authors: Haller David L.
Published: October 2017

Premature labor and the problems of low birth weight neonates are briefly described. The management of premature labor, with emphasis on the use of the relatively selective β-sympathomimetic, terbutaline, is discussed. While terbutaline can be considered an effective inhibitor of premature labor, certain percautions do exist concerning its prescribing. Maternal and fetal tachycardia are common. There have been some cases of maternal pulmonary edema reported. A protocol for the use of terbutaline in premature laber is included.
Hypoprothrombinemia Associated with Cefamandole
Authors: Rymer William , Greenlaw Cal W.
Published: October 2017

Seven patients developed hypoprothrombinemia during the course of cefamandole therapy. In three cases, overt hemorrhaging resulted. After the administration of vitamin K, bleeding stopped and the prothrombin time returned to normal. A significant contributing factor was poor dietary intake, with a mean of 7.3 days with no oral intake. Prior to the development of hypoprothrombinemia, cefamandole was administered for four to six days with a mean dosage of 88.9 mg/kg/d. It is suggested that hypoprothrombinemia secondary to cefamandole may be a result of its high biliary excretion, which suppresses bacterial vitamin K synthesis in the intestine.
Convulsions Associated with High Cumulative Doses of Metronidazole
Authors: Halloran Thomas J.
Published: October 2017

Metronidazole in high cumulative doses has been associated with convulsions. A case is presented in which this relationship is clear. In all reported cases of metronidazole-associated seizures, the cumulative dose of metronidazole has been high (> 40 g). The cumulative dose rather than the serum level is important in the pathogenesis of this complication.
Neutropenia Associated with Cefotaxime
Authors: Ohsawa Tomoji , Furukawa Fumitaka
Published: October 2017

Neutropenia is rarely associated with cephalosporins. We report a case of neutropenia associated with cefotaxime.

A seven-year-old boy was admitted to the Chidoribashi Hospital with suspected septicemia. Cefotaxime 2 g/d was started. On day 18, neutropenia associated with cefotaxime was suspected. On day 22, the patient was transferred to Fukuoka Children's Hospital because of continuing neutropenia and eosinophilia.

In Fukuoka Children's Hospital, bone marrow puncture revealed severe bone marrow depression. After one month, the patient was discharged. When we considered case reports of granulocytopenia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis associated with cephalosporins, we found two types of leukopenia. One is the granulocytopenic type and the other is the neutropenic type. In diagnosing leukopenia due to cephalosporins, an increased percentage of eosinophils in white-blood-cell analysis is significant.
The Use of Methotrexate in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Letendre Peter W. , DeJong Douglas J. , Miller Donald R.
Published: October 2017

The use of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis is reviewed. Methotrexate, a folic acid antagonist, is sometimes employed in an attempt to symptomatically control patients whose disease does not respond adequately to conventional therapies. Systemic administration of 7.5–15 mg/wk in a “pulse” fashion appears to be effective without precipitating severe adverse effects. However, concern over potentially serious side effects and a lack of well-controlled clinical trials have limited its use to severe, refractory disease. Further studies are needed before its role in rheumatoid arthritis can justifiably be expanded.
Lidocaine-Induced Second-Degree Mobitz Type II Heart Block
Authors: Hilleman Daniel E. , Mohiuddin Syed M. , Destache Christopher J.
Published: October 2017

Lidocaine-induced atrioventricular (AV) conduction disturbances are an ill-defined phenomenon. Electrophysiological studies in both animal and human subjects have shown that therapeutic doses of lidocaine have no significant effect on AV nodal and His-Purkinje conduction time in the presence of intact AV conduction. Sporadic reports of accelerated AV conduction or complete heart block following lidocaine administration have been published. One case of Mobitz type II heart block has been reported in a patient with a prolonged QTc interval (0.61 sec) who was also receiving prenylamine. Electrophysiological studies designed to evaluate lidocaine's effects on AV conduction present conflicting observations. We report a case of Mobitz type II heart block following therapeutic doses of lidocaine in the absence of acute myocardial infarction or concomitant cardioactive drug administration. This case, in conjunction with other reported data, suggests the occurrence of lidocaine-induced AV block to be unpredictable. Although its occurrence may be infrequent, the severity of these reactions warrants careful selection and monitoring of patients who are to receive lidocaine.
The Pharmacologic Management of the Syndrome of Inappropriate Secretion of Antidiuretic Hormone
Authors: Miyagawa Clyde I.
Published: October 2017

There have been numerous treatment modalities reported in the literature concerning the acute and chronic treatment of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). Water restriction remains the mainstay of therapy. However, patient noncompliance for this regimen often makes additional treatment modalities necessary. In the long-term treatment of chronic SIADH, lithium, demeclocycline, loop diuretics, and urea are helpful, regardless of the origin of the SIADH. The use of lithium is not recommended due to the incidence of digestive, cardiac, thyroid, and central nervous system side effects, as well as the demonstrated superiority of demeclocycline. Urea and loop diuretics, although shown to be effective, have not been used clinically to the extent as demeclocycline, and are not free of adverse effects. Phenytoin is limited in its use to the treatment of SIADH secondary to abnormalities of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, and plays no role in the treatment of tumor-induced SIADH. Demeclocycline has been shown to be effective in all types of SIADH. The lack of comparative studies of long-term treatment regimens makes the selection of a regimen of choice difficult. At this point loop diuretics or demeclocycline appear to be the regimens of choice based primarily upon case reports and relatively small comparative study patient populations. Further comparative studies are needed in an attempt to identify the most efficacious regimen with the minimal incidence of adverse effects.
Problem Solving: The Professional Responsibility of Pharmacists
Authors: Rucker T. Donald
Published: October 2017

This paper outlines a method by which pharmacists may invoke external assistance to help minimize patient risk not readily controlled at the treatment level when prescription therapy is authorized. This complex mechanism, the alarm model, identifies potential change agents and suggests intervention options that may be employed to activate an appropriate support system. Possible limitations of the innovative concept are also treated.
Antibiotic Cost-Containment
Authors: Huckleberry Stephen D.
Published: October 2017

A multidisciplinary, professional, and administrative approach to selecting therapeutic agents for formulary inclusion—as it is practiced at the Tuskegee Veterans Administration Medical Center—is described. The process by which members of a Drug Utilization Review Subcommittee evaluate drugs is explained in detail. Numerous factors, such as patient population characteristics, total therapy costs, adverse reactions, indications, dosage, and efficacy are considered. Findings, decisions, and economic cost-savings, specifically with respect to antibiotics, are revealed.
Legal Implications of Diagnosis-Related Groups
Authors: Brooten Kenneth E.
Published: October 2017

The legal ramifications of diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) on the health-care system in general and on pharmacists in particular are undetermined. As pharmacists continue to play an increasing role in therapeutic decisions, their exposure to malpractice suits will continue to rise. Pharmacists' liability in medical malpractice actually began prior to the introduction of DRGs, with the adoption by many states of “generic substitute” laws.

Situations that can lead to judgments against pharmacists are reviewed. The majority rule of joint and several liability is explained. The conclusion that “DRGs are not a legal defense” is underscored by a dramatic presentation of a hypothetical court case.
The Theory and Practice of Retrograde Infusion: Influence of Tube Diameter on Drug Delivery
Authors: Gauger Laura J. , Cary John D.
Published: October 2017

This work identifies a model for the flow dynamics of retrograde drug infusion, thereby helping to clarify the influence of variables on drug dilution in the apparatus and hence drug infusion rate. The study is a 23factorial design that focuses on the influence of tube diameter (0.065 vs. 0.120 inches) in conjunction with changes in injected drug volume (2.0 vs. 5.0 ml) and iv flow rate (2.0 vs. 10.0 ml h−1).

Each of the three variables was shown to exert a statistically significant (p = 0.01) effect on the total volume of fluid necessary to clear a dose from the retrograde apparatus. In all cases studied, smaller diameter tubes, larger injected drug volumes, and slower iv flow rates decreased the total volume fraction (F0.95).

Within the confines of the study, practitioners may use an F0 95value of 1.5 to predict the time at which a patient's retrograde drug infusion is likely to be complete. This, in turn, may be used to facilitate proper timing of blood sampling for therapeutic drug monitoring as well as other pharmacokinetic manipulations.
Safety Evaluation of Ritanserin—An Investigational Serotonin Antagonist
Authors: Barone Joseph A. , Bierman Robert H. , Cornish James W. , Hsuan Alice , Drake Nancy D. , Colaizzi John L.
Published: October 2017

Ritanserin is an investigational serotonin-S2 receptor antagonist with activity in a variety of psychiatric disturbances characterized by dysthymia or anxiety. This investigation evaluates acute safety and tolerability of ritanserin in 12 healthy males. Ritanserin 10 mg, 20 mg, and placebo were administered as single doses in a randomized, double-blind, crossover fashion. Treatment effects on vital signs, laboratory tests, a mood evaluation test, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and reported adverse experiences were monitored. Plasma levels were determined at two hours postdose. Results indicated no clinically relevant effects on vital signs, laboratory tests, ECGs, or mood evaluations. Dose proportionality was demonstrated. The incidence of total adverse effects (primarily somnolence and fatigue) after single-dose administation was 25 percent for placebo, 75 percent for 10 mg, and 81.8 percent for 20 mg. There was a relationship between incidence of adverse effects and dose, but no general correlation between plasma levels and severity of adverse experiences. The results indicate that ritanserin is safe and tolerable following acute administration of 10 mg and 20 mg oral doses.
The Practice of Pharmacy in England
Authors: Cronin Simon
Published: October 2017

The practice of pharmacy in England is described. Community pharmacies have a contract with the Department of Health and Social Security to fill National Health Service prescriptions. A large proportion of the general public obtain their prescriptions free. Funding for the health service comes from taxes and automatic contributions from employers and employees. Aspects of hospital pharmacy practice and salaries are discussed, e.g., a junior pharmacist may expect to earn between $9000 and $12 000. There is very little unit-dose dispensing, and many hospitals are unable to provide 24-hour services. Hospital pharmacies function with fewer pharmacists than their U.S. counterparts, utilizing larger numbers of technicians. Clinical pharmacy practice centers around drug monitoring (ward pharmacy). Pharmocokinetic services are provided in a few places. Master of science degrees in clinical pharmacy are available. However, the future of clinical pharmacy practice in England depends on staffing levels and competition between and acceptance from other health disciplines.
A Review of Alprazolam Withdrawal
Authors: Browne Jerry L. , Hauge Kathy J.
Published: October 2017

A cumulative review of case reports in the literature describing withdrawal reactions secondary to alprazolam is presented. In four of eight reports, the primary withdrawal manifestations were grand mal seizures. One case was characterized by painful myoclonus. In the remaining three cases, the major complications consisted of rebound anxiety with psychotic features. Despite tapering of the daily dosage according to manufacturer guidelines, a withdrawal syndrome was precipitated in three of the cases.

As a result of alprazolam's atypical pharmacodynamic profile, the issue is raised as to whether alprazolam is pharmacologically cross-tolerant with other benzodiazepines.
Suprofen-Induced Acute Renal Failure
Authors: Henann Neil E. , Morales Julian R.
Published: October 2017

A case report of acute flank pain with reversible renal failure in a young adult after taking three doses of suprofen is presented. Blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine values returned to normal from significantly elevated levels on admission.
Cefamandole Distribution in Serum, Adipose Tissue, and Wound Drainage in Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Mann Henry J. , Buchwald Henry
Published: October 2017

Distribution and elimination of cefamandole 2 g iv were studied in 11 morbidly obese patients during a gastric bypass operation and again on the first postoperative day. Serum, subcutaneous adipose tissue, wound drainage, and urine were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography for cefamandole and pharmacokinetic parameters from the intraoperative period were compared to those obtained postoperatively. Total body clearance was significantly greater (p < 0.001) postoperatively (297 ml/min) than intraoperatively (254 ml/min). Volume changes were unpredictable but the elimination rate constant tended to increase postoperatively. Renal clearance and percentage of urinary recovery were significantly increased (p < 0.01) postoperatively. The patients had a mean (± SD) volume of the central compartment of 10.3 (± 2.3) L, volume at steady state of 18.3 (± 3.9) L, and elimination rate constant of 1.67 (± 0.63) h−1. Tissue concentrations of cefamandole were highest during the first hour after drug administration and were < 1 μg/g after 3.5 hours. Mean wound drainage concentrations ranged between 10 and 12 μg/ml during a dosing interval and dropped to 7 μg/ml 12 hours after the last dose. Intraoperative dosing of cefamandole is required to maintain subcutaneous adipose tissue concentrations > 1 μg/g during procedures longer than three hours in morbidly obese patients. A postoperative dose of cefamandole 2 g iv q6h will provide sustained and therapeutic concentrations in the wound drainage of morbidly obese patients.
Difficult but Close Relationships: Children’s Perspectives on Relationships With Their Mothers in the Context of Domestic Violence
Authors: Lapierre Simon , Côté Isabelle , Lambert Amélie , Buetti David , Lavergne Chantal , Damant Dominique , Couturier Vanessa
Published: October 2017

This article reports findings from a participative and qualitative study conducted with children who had experienced domestic violence, focusing on their perspectives on their relationships with their mothers. Three focus groups and 46 individual interviews were conducted with children to gather their experiences. The research findings demonstrate that women’s and children’s victimizations are inextricably linked, and that domestic violence affects mother–child relationships. They also show that, despite the challenges and difficulties, children generally consider their mothers as very significant individuals in their lives, and have close relationships with them. The findings also reveal a dynamic of mutual protectiveness.
Severe liver toxicity in a chronic myeloid leukemia patient probably induced by a drug interaction between imatinib and sertraline
Authors: Osorio Santiago , Escudero-Vilaplana Vicente , Reguilón-Gallego Laura , Gómez-Centurión Ignacio , Díez José Luis , Ferrer-Marín Francisca
Published: October 2017

Our objective is to describe a chronic myeloid leukemia patient with a severe liver toxicity likely due to a drug–drug interaction between imatinib and sertraline. The patient started treatment with sertraline three months after starting imatinib. From the beginning of sertraline treatment, the patient developed vomiting, and five weeks later she developed a severe hepatic failure and was admitted to the hospital. The Naranjo nomogram showed a probable correlation between this adverse effect and the interaction between imatinib and sertraline. This interaction is extremely rare and the mechanism of action is not clear; it could be a mix of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic processes. To our knowledge, this is the first case in medical literature of a severe liver toxicity due to an interaction between imatinib and sertraline. This interaction is also not described in the main secondary data sources, such as Lexicomp® and Micromedex®. However, due to the severity of this event, the hepatic function should be carefully monitored in patients treated with imatinib and sertraline.
Chinese Food and Cancer Healing
Authors: XU Hong , XU Houen
Published: October 2017

In cancer treatment, apart from studying the effectiveness of chemo or radiotherapy in killing cancer cells, studies should examine ways of reducing drug side effects on patients and ways of enhancing the bodies’ immune system at the same time. Our defence system not only includes immune response, there are also detoxifying enzymes, anti-oxidant mechanisms, the ability for DNA damage repair and regulation of the hormone metabolism. Harmful environmental oestrogens that enter the human body can cause an increase of 16-α-hydroxyestrone as a harmful estradiol metabolite, the ratio between 16-α-hydroxyestrone and 2-hydroxyestrone relates to the risk of breast cancer. It is suggested that choosing nutritional products (that decrease the amount of 16-α-hydroxyestrone to regulate the hormone metabolism) can help with prevention of breast cancer. Increasing the ratio of monounsaturated fatty acid omega-3 (Ω-3) benefits health. Unsaturated fatty acid omega-6 (Ω-6) appears to be easily oxidised which can lead to DNA damage and increase the occurrence of cancer. The most important aspect to this approach is to reduce the ratio between saturated fatty acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid Ω-6, which is harmful to health. Olive oil has a high content of Ω-3 that benefits health. Ω-3 fatty acid can also be obtained from some fish, green vegetables and nuts. Linoleic acid is the most important source of Ω-6 fatty acid. Linolenic acid is the most important source of Ω-3 fatty acid. Natural foods e.g., purslane, is rich in Ω-3; the mustard family vegetables can increase the activity of detoxifying enzymes. Chinese Kiwi fruit drink reduces the side effects of the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide, which is also a DNA damaging agent. Soybean, job's tears, garlic, mushroom varieties and tea have anti-cancer effects. Properly used nutritional products may assist treatment and recovery. Good balanced nutrition is essential for cancer healing.
The Role of Spiritual Health Locus of Control in Breast Cancer Information Processing between African American and Caucasian Women
Authors: Leshner Glenn , Cheng I-Huei , Song Hyun Joo , Choi Yoonhyueng , Frisby Cynthia
Published: October 2017

Spirituality seems to be an important cultural factor for African American women when thinking about their health. It is, however, not clear how spiritual health locus of control (SLOC) impacts health-related outcomes in the context of health message processing models, such as the Extended Parallel Process and the Risk Perception Attitude framework. Using a survey of African American and Caucasian women in the context of breast cancer, the role of SLOC and its interactions with perceived efficacy and risk was examined on four health outcomes–-message acceptance, talking about breast cancer, information seeking, and behavioral intentions. For African American women, SLOC had a positive impact for talking about breast cancer through an interaction with risk and efficacy such that women high in both SLOC and perceived efficacy, but low in perceived risk were more likely to talk about breast cancer than when efficacy was low. However, high SLOC exacerbated the negative effects of efficacy on talking about breast cancer regardless of the risk level for Caucasian women. SLOC also had a positive influence on attending to breast cancer information in the media for African American women. SLOC played no role in attending to breast cancer information for Caucasian women. Interestingly, SLOC played no role for African American women on behavioral intentions, however, it worked to decrease behavioral intentions for Caucasian women when risk was high.
No Protection against DSS-induced Colitis by Short-term Pretreatment with Seal or Fish Oils in Rats
Authors: Arslan Gülen , Erichsen Kari , Milde Anne Marita , Helgeland Lars , Bjørkkjær Tormod , Frøyland Livar , Berstad Arnold
Published: October 2017

Background

Omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have modulating effects in several chronic inflammatory conditions. The aim of the present study was to test whether prior short-term dietary supplementation with n-3 (fish or seal oil) or n-6 (soy oil) PUFA rich oils would protect the development of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in rats.

Methods

Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups: no intervention, sham, DSS, seal oil + DSS, fish oil + DSS and soy oil + DSS. Following 7 days of acclimatisation, 1 mL oil (seal, fish or soy) or distilled water (sham) was administered by gavage day 8 to 14. Colitis was induced by 5% DSS in drinking water from day 15 to 21. Rats were sacrificed on day 23. Histological colitis (crypt and inflammation) scores, faecal granulocyte marker protein (GMP) and quantitative fatty acid composition in red blood cells were measured.

Results

Pretreatment with fish or seal oils did not significantly influence DSS induced inflammation. In fact, all the oils tended to exacerbate the inflammation. Soy oil increased the mean crypt score ( P < 0.04), but not the inflammation score or GMP. The ratio of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids (FAs) was 11 to 1 and 10 to 1 in standard diet and in red blood cells of control rats, respectively. Following administration of DSS, the ratio fell in all treatment groups ( P < 0.001). The lowest ratios were seen in the groups receiving DSS + fish or seal oils (around 6 to 1).

Conclusion

Short-term pretreatment with fish or seal oils did not protect against subsequent induction of colitis by DSS in this rat model. Whether the high ratio of n-6 to n-3 FAs in the standard diet concealed effects of n-3 FA supplementation should be further investigated.
Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors from Aerial Parts of Ruta Chalepensis Grown in Jordan
Authors: Shehadeh Mayadah B. , Afifi Fatma U. , Abu-Hamdah Sawsan M.
Published: October 2017

From the aerial parts of Ruta chalepensis L., grown in Jordan, two furanocoumarins (bergapten and chalepensin), one flavonoid glycoside (rutin) as well as several minor compounds have been isolated. The structural elucidation of these compounds was established based on spectral data (UV, IR, MS, 1 H-NMR and 13 C-NMR). In Jordan, R. chalepensis is recommended for the treatment of rheumatism, mental disorders and menstrual problems. Fresh and dried leaves are used as flavoring agent in food and beverages. Antiplatelet activities of the crude methanolic and ethylacetate extracts in addition to the three isolated major compounds were measured by the aggrometric method according to Beretz and Casenave. Optical aggregometer connected to dual channel recorder was used for measuring aggregation. Both, ethylacetate and methanol extracts inhibited ADP- induced platelet aggregation (ADP-IA) of human blood. However, only ethylacetate extract was able to induce 50% inhibition of collagen-induced platelet aggregation (Co-IA) platelet rich plasma. Bergapten was more active against ADP-IA compared to chalepensin while the latter was more active against Co-IA compared to bergapten.
A Belated Submission to the Select Committee on the Future of Public Interest Journalism
Authors: Vine Josie
Published: October 2017

Submissions to this year’s Select Committee on the Future of Public Interest Journalism pointed out that journalism tertiary education—students under the guidance of experienced and well-respected journalism practitioners—is in a position to help revive investigative and civic journalism. As Edith Cowan’s Kayt Davies (2014) pointed out as far back as 2014, public interest journalism practised in tertiary journalism programmes could potentially be funded through bodies such as the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the research grants system. Such revenue sources not only transcend the business model but also exist at a relatively acceptable arm’s length from the government.

However, research—journalism or otherwise—is ineligible for ARC funding without academic research ethics committee approval. Unfortunately, the process of applying for approval from a committee, whose terms of reference are guided by an academy-approved, government-developed document (i.e., the National Statement), is so offensive to journalistic ideology that it renders the whole concept of public interest journalism in the university sector untenable. This essay examines the National Statement and draws similarities between its values and beliefs and professional journalism ideology (as articulated by the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA), the Australian Press Council, the Dart Centre for Journalism and Trauma and the Hunter Institute for Mental Health). It then explores inbuilt flexibilities in the National Statement that offer journalism as a research methodology, a means of maintaining its independence. It then finishes with an updated survey of how journalism programmes around Australia negotiate the conflict between academic research ethics and professional ideology while engaging in practice-based research. In short, this essay explores options for the revival of public interest journalism that are acceptable to both academy and journalism sensibilities.
What’s in a name and why it matters: A historical analysis of the relationship between state authority, vigilantism and penal power in South Africa
Authors: Super Gail
Published: October 2017

This article aims to clarify the relationship between state authority, vigilantism and penal power. I ask how shifting political contexts shape the construction of the ‘vigilante’ and the legitimation (or not) of vigilante violence. Based on a historical analysis of how the terms ‘vigilante’, ‘vigilantism’ and ‘mob justice’ are used in mainstream discourse in South Africa the article tracks the political transformations that took place in the South African state in the late 1970s, the mid-1980s and post-1994. I use the term ‘precarious penality’ to describe penality on the periphery—both geographically, in marginalized poor black townships—and symbolically, to denote spaces where the boundaries between what is ‘state’ and what is not are blurred. Spaces of ‘precarious penality’ pose specific problems for the liberal principles of due process and human rights that are enshrined in the South African Constitution but often distorted in practice.
An integrated model for the performance of piston ring pack in internal combustion engines
Authors: Mahmoud Kamel G , Knaus Oliver , Parikyan Tigran , Offner Guenter , Sklepic Stjepan
Published: October 2017

Piston rings are important components in internal combustion engines. Their primary function is to seal dynamically the gap between moving piston and cylinder liner surface in order to prevent the combustion gases from penetrating into the crankcase. The rings also control the oil leakage from the crankcase to the combustion chamber. The performance of the piston ring pack impacts the engine efficiency, durability and emissions. The recognition of the impact of the ring-pack performance on the engine design resulted in a sustained effort of research and development aimed at understanding the operation of the piston ring pack. Most of the published models developed in this field are two-dimensional assuming that the ring and liner are perfect circles for the purpose of modelling the axial and radial dynamics. Although this approach has proved to be useful, there exist a number of asymmetrical characteristics of the power cylinder system that can be crucial to the ring-pack performance and therefore it is considered to be appropriate. In this work, an integrated methodology that handles the complex ring-pack mechanism is presented. The physics of the ring-pack mechanism covers the three-dimensional piston ring dynamics of asymmetric engine cylinder due to bore distortion, the mixed lubrication at ring running face as well as the ring flanks and the interring gas dynamics. The modelling method is verified in two steps. In the first step, the dynamic behaviour of the three-dimensional ring model is verified against a commercial finite element software by comparing the eigenmodes up to a frequency of about 1 kHz. In the second step, the ring-pack modelling approach using three-dimensional ring models is also verified against a commercial ring dynamics program, which is based on the two-dimensional modelling. It is shown that the three-dimensional ring dynamics modelling method has advantages over the two-dimensional modelling approach as it facilitates studying the influence of the non-uniform twist along its circumference (ring winding), the effect of bore distortion on blow-by, ring friction, friction power losses and wear.
Quality of life in patients with implantable cardioverter–defibrillator: systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: da Silva Katia Regina , Costa Roberto , Rodrigues Clarissa Garcia , Schasechter Andi , Nobre Moacyr Cuce , Passman Rod , Mark Daniel B
Published: October 2017

Background:

Implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) therapy significantly improves the survival of patients who are at high risk for sudden cardiac death. However, it is unclear whether this survival is accompanied by impairment on quality of life (QoL).

Objectives:

This systematic review sought to describe whether ICD therapy, as compared with standard treatment, can have an impact on QoL outcomes.

Methods:

Extensive literature searches were carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS and Cochrane Library. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of ICD versus medical therapy that reported valid and reliable measures of QoL. Included studies were reviewed to determine baseline patient characteristics, mean duration of follow-up, questionnaires used to assess QoL and association between QoL scores and ICD shock therapy.

Results:

Seven studies, enrolling a total of 5,701 patients, were included in this review. The analyzed trials showed conflicting results about the impact of ICD on QoL outcomes. Among the secondary prevention studies, CIDS reported a clear benefit from ICD and AVID showed no difference between ICD and amiodarone groups. Of the primary prevention trials, AMIOVIRT, MADIT II, DEFINITE, and SCD-HeFT found no evidence of impaired QoL in patients with an ICD. Evidence for an association between ICD shocks and QoL was mixed and seemed to depend on the interval between shocks and QoL assessment.

Conclusion:

There was no evidence of impaired QoL in patients with an ICD. However, ICD patients must be educated of all possible risks and benefits, including transitory declines in QoL after ICD shocks.
Putting the steam back into critique?‘Gathering’ for critical–dissensual collaborations in education policy research
Authors: Heimans Stephen , Singh Parlo
Published: October 2017

Bruno Latour famously asked, ‘Why has critique run out of steam?’. In this paper we draw on his ideas to present some resources for ‘gathering’ – for doing education policy research with others – which we term ‘critical–dissensual collaboration’. We believe that our education policy research ‘critique from afar’ may indeed have run out of steam and we make some proposals for doing critical research, but with (a diversity of) others. We offer resources for undertaking critical–dissensual, collaborative education policy research – where, as Law suggested, ‘realities are not secure but instead they have to be practised’. This extends the conceptualisation of enactment that Stephen Ball and colleagues have made; from focusing on ‘how schools do policy’ to how researchers and schools (re)do policy together. This article is part of our attempt to underpin this redoing of policy with a politics of dissensus and to develop alternative resources to those that enable a ‘god’s eye view’, as Haraway proposed, of policy research. In our capacity as critical education policy researchers we have collaborated as policy actors with others in schools, and this article arises from this work. We discuss what we term ‘starter’ concepts as a contribution toward elucidating resources for a dissensual politics of ‘gathering’ in critical collaborations.
(Re)Landscaping early childhood education in East Asia: A neoliberal economic and political imaginary
Authors: Lee I-Fang
Published: October 2017

This article unpacks how neoliberal discourse functions as a dominant but problematic system of reasoning that changes and shifts the ways in which we come to think about early childhood education and care. A post-structuralist lens is deployed to understand the production of fears and hopes under the looming shadows of contemporary education reforms and social policies. Highlighting Taiwan, Hong Kong and Korea as three cases from East Asian cultures, this article seeks to elucidate how a similar neoliberal economic and political imaginary is at work to (re)construct East Asian children as human capital for the alchemy of productive citizens in the 21st century.
Microcirculatory disturbances and cellular changes during progression of hepatic steatosis to liver tumors
Authors: Liebig Marie , Hassanzada Alireza , Kämmerling Malte , Genz Berit , Vollmar Brigitte , Abshagen Kerstin
Published: October 2017

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is closely associated with metabolic syndrome and comprises a pathological spectrum of liver disease ranging from steatosis to steatohepatitis and can progress to fibrosis/cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In 2013, a mouse model was described that mimics non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression from steatohepatitis to tumors in a short time span and with high incidence. As microcirculatory disturbances play a crucial role in liver disease, the suitability of the steatosis-inflammation-tumor model for microcirculatory studies was assessed. Herein, we present a comprehensive view on morphological, microvascular, cellular, and functional aspects of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression in the steatosis-inflammation-tumor model using intravital microscopy, biochemical, and histological techniques. Mice develop steatohepatitis, mild fibrosis, and liver tumors at ages of 6, 12, and 20 weeks, respectively. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression was accompanied by several general aspects of disease severity like increasing liver/body weight index, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score, and hepatocellular apoptosis. Intravital microscopic analysis revealed significant changes in hepatic microcirculation with increasing structural alterations, elevated leukocyte adherence, and impaired nutritive perfusion. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease was further characterized by a lower sinusoidal density with a striking rise at 20 weeks. The characteristic microcirculatory changes make the model a convenient tool for analysis of microcirculation during progression from steatosis to liver tumor.

Impact statement

Significant alterations of microcirculation contribute to progression of NAFLD, a chronic liver disease with increasing medical and socio-economic impact. Characterization of microcirculation in a NAFLD model reflecting all relevant stages of disease progression was still missing. Thus, we evaluated microcirculatory and cellular changes in a steatosis-inflammation-tumor model using in vivo microscopy. Analyses revealed increasing structural alterations, elevated leukocyte-endothelial interaction, and impaired nutritive perfusion. Thus, this model is suitable for further studies investigating therapeutic approaches targeting these progressive microcirculatory disturbances.
Level of Automation Forms a Key Aspect of Autonomy Design
Authors: Endsley Mica R.
Published: October 2017

The concept of different levels of automation (LOAs) has been pervasive in the automation literature since its introduction by Sheridan and Verplanck. LOA taxonomies have been very useful in guiding understanding of how automation affects human cognition and performance, with several practical and theoretical benefits. Over the past several decades a wide body of research has been conducted on the impact of various LOAs on human performance, workload, and situation awareness (SA). LOA has a significant effect on operator SA and level of engagement that helps to ameliorate out-of-the-loop performance problems. Together with other aspects of system design, including adaptive automation, granularity of control, and automation interface design, LOA is a fundamental design characteristic that determines the ability of operators to provide effective oversight and interaction with system autonomy. LOA research provides a solid foundation for guiding the creation of effective human–automation interaction, which is critical for the wide range of autonomous and semiautonomous systems currently being developed across many industries.
Automation Stages & Levels, 20 Years After
Authors: Wickens Christopher
Published: October 2017

In this article I describe the origins of the stages and levels of the automation concept and present the taxonomy, model, and theories underlying this concept. I then show how both simplifications and elaborations of the resulting tradeoff model of degree of automation can address some of Kaber’s concerns about its utility in design.
Teacher Logbooks and Professional Development
Authors: van Meerkerk Edwin
Published: October 2017

The “voice” of the teacher is only seldom heard in research on teaching and learning. This article proposes and evaluates the use of logbooks as a methodological tool in qualitative research on learning processes. This article describes the way solicited logbooks were used in a research project on arts education in elementary schools. Schoolteachers who were trained by arts educators kept a log during their training program. This article describes how the teachers handled the format of the logbook and evaluates the limits and opportunities the logbooks offers for research. The analysis of the data shows that the half open format may pose limits on its use when informants are inclined to “do it right” and stick to the questions in the format. The research also suggest that the way the teachers relate to the subject of their learning process, the arts, influences the way they handle the format of the logbook. The form of the logbook allows for a thorough analysis of the perspectives, roles, and contexts of subjects’ experiences. Over all, it is concluded that logbooks are a good way to capture the personal experiences of teachers, but only when taking into account the different ways in which respondents use the logbook. It is recommended to supplement the data from the logs with other sources such as interviews.
Visiting history, witnessing memory: A study of a Holocaust Exhibition in Paris in 2012
Authors: Gensburger Sarah
Published: October 2017

Over the past 20 years, the number of memorial museums and memory exhibitions has increased exponentially and the commemoration of the Holocaust paved the way for this increase. This evolution has given rise to a significant amount of research. However, two questions remain largely unanswered: how are the protocols of memorial exhibitions planned and constructed in concrete terms? And then how do the visitors to these exhibitions use and appropriate this material? The search for the ‘visitor’s gaze’ which is at the heart of contemporary museum studies has only rarely been extended to memorial museums and exhibitions, even those dealing with Holocaust-related topics. This article aims to address this goal. It is thus situated at the crossroads of memory studies and museum studies. Based on extensive empirical material but within the limits of a case study, it focuses on the exhibition C’étaient des enfants. Déportation et sauvetage des enfants juifs à Paris, which was held at the Hotel de Ville in Paris, in 2012. In so doing, it aims to consider some of the underlying assumptions that often go unexamined in the scholarly work on Holocaust memory exhibitions and highlights the centrality of the witnessing memory mechanism as the main way of appropriating the exhibition.
Current best practice in the management of cystitis and pelvic pain
Authors: Douglas-Moore Jayne Louise , Goddard Jonathan
Published: October 2017

Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a difficult disorder to diagnose and subsequently manage despite having been recognized for more than 200 years according to references in medical literature. There are currently three widely accepted guidelines on BPS: the American Urological Association Guidelines; the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in conjunction with the British Society of Urogynaecologists Guidelines; and the European Association of Urology Guidelines. These guidelines have similarities to each other but also significant differences. This leaves clinicians still confused about this condition and how to appropriately manage the ‘real’ patient. We review the current guidelines and appropriate literature and put forward a clinically usable management strategy.
Rare Case of Duodenal Metastasis From Pulmonary Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Memon Zain , Ferm Samson , Fisher Constantine , Hassam Akil , Luo Jean , Kim Sang Hoon
Published: October 2017

Pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common non–small cell malignancy of the lung. It commonly metastasizes to the adrenal glands, bone, liver, brain, and kidneys. Most occurrences of metastatic squamous cell carcinoma involving the gastrointestinal tract originate from primary lung tumors. Metastasis to the duodenum, however, is exceedingly rare, with very few cases of stomach or duodenal involvement described in the literature. We report the case of a patient with stage IV pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma metastasizing to the duodenum with an uncommon presentation to add to the paucity of literature available regarding this rare finding.
Municipal Council Elections in Oman, 2016
Authors: Kumar Jatin
Published: October 2017

The 2016 Omani Municipal Council election was held in the backdrop of the economic problems facing the Gulf States due to the decline in international oil prices. Hence, the cut in social security and continued concerns over economy were major issues. This was partly responsible for a low turnout, though a free and fair election was an important takeaway. In comparison to the previous municipal council election, more female candidates were elected and joined the council in 2016. Whereas various encouraging developments can be assuaged including the evolution of the electoral process, growing participation of women, and use of new state-of-the-art technology, the pace of democratization remains painfully slow.
“Big data” versus “small data” in social sciences
Authors: Duan Wenjie , Mu Wenlong , Bu He
Published: October 2017

Culture significantly influences human cognition and behavior, which has become a major obstacle in cross-cultural studies. Comparing traditional sampling studies (i.e., small data research) with the novelty of millions of samples studies (i.e., big data research), we suggest that the results of the finely controlled, precisely sampled, and accurately analyzed theory-driven small-data research can be replicated by big data studies. This conclusion has been illustrated by recent studies on structures of character strengths that were conducted in both western and eastern countries. Therefore, big data studies that take into account both emic and etic components will be an important approach to conduct cross-cultural research. It facilitates the construction of theories and measures with cross-cultural consistency. Nevertheless, it should be noted that “small data” and “big data” studies are complementary and should not be treated as substitutes for one another.
Measles virus envelope pseudotyped lentiviral vectors transduce quiescent human HSCs at an efficiency without precedent
Authors: Lévy Camille , Amirache Fouzia , Girard-Gagnepain Anais , Frecha Cecilia , Roman-Rodríguez Francisco J. , Bernadin Ornellie , Costa Caroline , Nègre Didier , Gutierrez-Guerrero Alejandra , Vranckx Lenard S. , Clerc Isabelle , Taylor Naomi , Thielecke Lars , Cornils Kerstin , Bueren Juan A. , Rio Paula , Gijsbers Rik , Cosset François-Loïc , Verhoeyen Els
Published: October 2017

Key Points

H/F-LVs permit very-high-level transduction of human HSCs, even in the complete absence of cytokine stimulation. H/F-LVs outperform VSV-G-LVs for efficient correction of Fanconi anemia patient cells in unfractionated BM.
Accuracy of surface strain measurements from transmission electron microscopy images of nanoparticles
Authors: Madsen Jacob , Liu Pei , Wagner Jakob B. , Hansen Thomas W. , Schiøtz Jakob
Published: October 2017

Strain analysis from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images offers a convenient tool for measuring strain in materials at the atomic scale. In this paper we present a theoretical study of the precision and accuracy of surface strain measurements directly from aberration-corrected HRTEM images. We examine the influence of defocus, crystal tilt and noise, and find that absolute errors of at least 1–2% strain should be expected. The model structures include surface relaxations determined using molecular dynamics, and we show that this is important for correctly evaluating the errors introduced by image aberrations.