bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Prescriber Compliance with Established Heart Failure Guidelines at a Major Medical Center
Authors: Weant Kyle A , Smith Kelly M. , Lewis Daniel A.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Treatment guidelines for systolic heart failure (HF), therapy for which largely relies on the combination of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) agents and beta-blockers, focus on decreasing morbidity and mortality, and increasing quality of life. The objective of this study is to assess prescriber compliance with these guidelines in designing patient medication regimens prior to hospital admission, at discharge, and at readmission if within 30 days at a 473-bed tertiary university hospital.

Methods

Of 162 patients with a primary diagnosis of HF, 62 were selected for a retrospective data collection utilizing a random number table. Ten with an ejection fraction greater than or equal to 50% were excluded. Regimens were classified as suboptimal (absence of RAAS agent or beta-blocker), optimal, or optimal at target doses.

Results

Prior to admission (N = 52), 81% were prescribed diuretics, 54% were prescribed beta-blockers (8% target dose), and 50% were prescribed RAAS agents (11% target dose). Overall, 36% were optimal regimens; 2% were optimal and at optimal doses. Upon discharge, these values were 58% and 2%, respectively. Discharge medications included diuretics (92%), beta-blockers (79%; 10% target dose), and RAAS agents (75%; 11% target dose). Of the nine (17%) readmitted within 30 days, 67% were receiving suboptimal therapy; none were at target doses.

Conclusions

Optimal HF regimens were less common upon admission (36%) and improved upon discharge (58%). Most patients readmitted within 30 days of discharge were receiving suboptimal therapy. Clinical pharmacists are in a position to provide continuing prescriber education regarding proven HF therapies and target titration end points, both in ambulatory and acute care arenas.
Really Simple Syndication: The Future of Content Delivery to Your PDA?
Authors: Fox Brent I. , Felkey Bill G.
Published: December 2017

PDAs are often initially adopted as reference tools for housing clinical and administrative information. As user comfort and expertise with the PDA increases, advanced functions are often explored. This installment focuses on an existing technology (RSS) that is emerging as a new tool for keeping up-to-date. We explore the potential for RSS and how it can be incorporated into your daily PDA use.
Adverse Drug Event Surveillance and Drug Withdrawals in the US from 1969 to 2002; One Hospital's ADR Summary Report for a Single Month (June 2005) – Preventable ADRs?; Mirtazapine-Induced Arthralgia and Coagulopathy; Cognitive Impairment with Aromatase Inhibitors?; TTP Associated with Quetiapine; Amiodarone and the Thyroid; NSAIDs and Acute Urinary Retention; Risks of Oral Anticoagulants Increase Sharply with Advanced Age
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Cisplatin and Continuous Infusion Fluorouracil (CF) for Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Kem Ravie , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: December 2017

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy heightens the requirement that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column will review various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy. It will also serve as a review of various agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Terazosin, Doxazosin: Ureteral Stones
Authors: Generali Joyce , Cada Dennis J.
Published: December 2017

Off-Label Drug Uses

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label DrugFacts, a quarterly publication available from Facts and Comparisons. Off-Label DrugFacts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific FDA-unapproved drug uses. This new guide to the literature will enable the health care professional/clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and to determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. The most relevant data are provided in tabular form so that the reader can easily identify the scope of information available. A summary of the data—including background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations—precedes each table of published studies. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information prior to patient care decisions. Direct questions or comments on “Off-Label Drug Uses” to hospital pharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Maximizing Pharmacodynamics with High-Dose Levofloxacin
Authors: Wargo Kurt A. , Wargo Nichole A. , Eiland Edward H.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To review published literature of levofloxacin 750 mg for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), nosocomial-acquired pneumonia (NAP), and skin and skin-structure infections (SSSI) focusing on microbiology, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic parameters.

Data Sources

MEDLINE was searched for clinical trials and review articles (1966 to September 2004). Also included were data from the manufacturer. Search terms utilized were levofloxacin, pneumonia, skin infections, adverse effects, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and resistance.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

All articles and product labeling regarding levofloxacin for the treatment of CAP, NAP, and SSSI were included for review.

Data Synthesis

Compared with the other currently marketed fluoroquinolones, levofloxacin demonstrates similar in vitro activity to a number of commonly identified microorganisms. Levofloxacin 750 mg has shown equivalency to various non-fluoroquinolone regimens for the treatment of NAP and SSSI. Furthermore, a short, 5-day course of levofloxacin 750 mg was similar in efficacy to a longer, 10-day course of levofloxacin 500 mg for the treatment of CAP. Adverse events associated with levofloxacin therapy are dose independent; therefore, the adverse effects seen with high-dose levofloxacin are comparable to lower doses.

Conclusions

The levofloxacin 750 mg dosage formulation is a logical option when evaluating the antimicrobial armamentarium commonly utilized for the empiric treatment of CAP, NAP, and SSSI. Pharmacodynamic parameters are optimized and resistance is minimized when high-dose, short-course therapy is implemented.
Prussian Blue for Treatment of Thallium Overdose in the US
Authors: Miller Michael A. , Patel Manish M. , Coon Troy
Published: December 2017

Thallium is a metal that throughout the past century has been found useful in a wide variety of ways. Thallium has been used medicinally to treat ringworm (tinea), as a rodenticide, and is found naturally in many varieties of rock. Thallium poisoning in the US has become uncommon, as its household uses have vanished. Thallium is still used in certain commercial and research areas such as nuclear medicine studies and gamma radiation detection equipment; it is also being researched for development of high-temperature superconducting materials for applications such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic energy storage. Therefore, thallium is still available in certain workplaces, and poisonings in the US still occur. Prussian blue (Radiogardase), a useful antidote for treating thallium poisoning, was FDA approved in 2003 but is still difficult to obtain for pharmaceutical use in the US. Furthermore, methods for obtaining prussian blue are not well known to physicians, pharmacists, and poison center personnel. We describe successful treatment of a thallium overdose with prussian blue that was rapidly obtained from within the US and further discuss methods for obtaining prussian blue in the US.
The Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Formulary
Authors: Teagarden J. Russell
Published: December 2017

Managed care pharmacists are involved formally with the interface between the delivery and financing of health care; their work thus entails an accountability for both elements. Interpreted broadly, managed care pharmacists are pharmacists working within the sphere of a health care system, health care purchaser, health insurer, managed care organization, or benefit administration agency. Patients, the pharmacy profession, and society are best served by this broad interpretation, because the interdependency of financing and delivery is inextricably linked to the achievement of good health outcomes. This continuing feature will explore contemporary issues facing managed care pharmacists.
Clofarabine; Paclitaxel (protein-bound)
Authors: Murak Elizabeth M. , Waddell J. Aubrey , Solimando Dominic A.
Published: December 2017

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy heightens the requirement that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column will review various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy. It will also serve as a review of various agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.

The opinions or assertions contained herein are the private views of the author and are not to be construed as official or reflecting the views of the US Department of the Army or the Department of Defense.
Tigecycline
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: December 2017

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent to you in print and CD ROM forms and are available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of your facility. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The October 2005 monograph topics are ramelteon, lidocaine/tetracaine patch, dapsone gel, altrasentan, and deferasirox. The DUE is on ramelteon.
Improving Patient Safety – One Standard at a Time
Authors: May Sondra K.
Published: December 2017

Learning from the experiences of others is one of our most effective tools for improving patient safety. This column will inform readers about how various health care organizations have effectively implemented the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations’ (JCAHO) Medication Management Standards. Practical information on what worked and how organizations have been surveyed regarding the Medication Management Standards will be provided along with updates on standard revisions and recommendations being established by JCAHO.
Pathological Gambling Associated with Drug Therapy?: Blood Dyscrasias Associated with Thiazolidinediones: Olanzapine Can Cause Metabolic Problems if Used in Mentally Healthy Patients: Flecainide-Induced Neuropathy: Acute Psychosis with an OTC Cold Medicine: Topiramate-Induced Psychosis: SIADH – Caused by SSRI or Nicotine?: Fentanyl Patch Advisory
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Combination Drug Therapy: A Strategy for Aggressive Lipid Modification
Authors: Backes James M. , Howard Patricia A.
Published: December 2017

This continuing feature will update readers on recent developments in cardiovascular pharmacotherapy. Cardiovascular disease remains the number one killer in the US, and more clinical outcome trials have been conducted in cardiology than in any other field of medicine. Given this rapidly expanding knowledge base, pharmacists can have a significant impact on prevention and treatment — if they keep current with developments in drug therapy.
Fluorouracil, Doxorubicin, and Mitomycin (FAM) Regimen for Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Adejuwon Adesola F. , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: December 2017

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy heightens the requirement that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column will review various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy. It will also serve as a review of various agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Factors Related to Microalbuminuria in Nondiabetic Elderly Males with Normal Renal Function
Authors: Frenzel Jeanne E. , Koo Ji M. , Lo Tze Shien , Kaul Rajeev , Chadha Amandeep
Published: December 2017

Two hundred and three adult males were evaluated for the presence of microalbuminuria. Out of 203 patients, 123 (61%) tested negative for microalbuminuria and 80 (39%) tested positive. Patients were further evaluated for age, body mass index, cigarette smoking, blood pressure, serum lipid levels, renal function, cardiovascular events, and use of antihypertensive and antihyperlipidemic medications. This study shows that age greater than 70 years, creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min, and systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg are all significant risk factors for microalbuminuria.
Standardized Vasoactive Medications: A Unified System for Every Patient, Everywhere
Authors: Niemi Kristin , Geary Siobhan , Larrabee Mark , Brown Kevin R.
Published: December 2017

Providing medications used in emergency cardiovascular care (ECC) in an efficient and consistent manner is a cornerstone for achieving excellent patient care and safety. For neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients who move through different specialty areas in a tertiary hospital, it is essential to have a standardized protocol for these medications that can be followed regardless of location or practitioner. Our institution developed a protocol for intravenous push (IVP) and continuous infusion (CI) medications based on the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) guidelines. This protocol incorporates these guidelines into a single reference sheet (Emergency Drug Sheet) based on the patient's weight using a computer software program. The program provides the option for either pediatric (weight-based) or adult (weight-based and standard dose) dosing. The CI section uses a limited number of concentrations, which meets the JCAHO mandate. Commercially available products are used, when possible, in response to USP <797>. It also serves as the standard protocol for vasoactive medications in all patient care settings in conjunction with programmable infusion pump technology. The software program is easy to use; the Emergency Drug Sheet is easy to read; and the program is available everywhere in the hospital. The standard CI protocol used with the Emergency Drug Sheet reduces unclear orders, standardizes drug preparation, and decreases the time to medication delivery. It could serve as a model for community hospitals, as well as tertiary facilities.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA: New Dosage Forms and Indications: Agents Pending FDA Approval: Significant Labeling Changes
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: December 2017

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, indications, dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information; however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Vision Side Effects with Erectile Dysfunction Agents: Paradoxical Bronchoconstriction with Albuterol: Thalidomide-Associated Thrombocytopenia: Can Antibiotic Treatment of Acne Cause Upper Respiratory Infections?: Cell Phone Causes Interference with Infusion Pump: Headaches Associated with Oral Contraceptives: Cardiotoxicity with Cancer Chemotherapy: Atypical Antipsychotic Agents and Parkinsonism
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Fluorouracil, Doxorubicin, and Methotrexate (FAMTX) Regimen for Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Waddell J. Aubrey , Solimando Dominic A.
Published: December 2017

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy increases the requirement that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column will review various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy. It will also serve as a review of various agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Pharmacist-Managed Anemia Program in an Outpatient Hemodialysis Population
Authors: Walton Ted , Holloway Katherine P. , Knauss Michael D.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Epoetin alpha is the standard of care for anemia treatment in stage 5 chronic kidney disease patients. A pharmacist-managed anemia program was developed to allow initiation and adjustment of epoetin and iron therapy. The goal of this study was to describe the pharmacist-managed anemia program in an outpatient hemodialysis clinic and evaluate the program by comparing the results to the US averages.

Methods

Dosing was completed by a clinical pharmacist using a psysician-approved protocol. Data were collected from May 2002 to June 2004.

Results

Two hundred seventy-eight patients and 1,379 patient monitoring-months were evaluated. The study population was 68.2% male, 86.3% African-American, and had an average age of 46 ± 13 years. The most common causes of renal disease were hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The average initial hemoglobin was 9.5 g/dL and was 11.8 gm/dL at 6 months. Iron parameters show an initial average ferritin of 280.9 ± 326.4 ng/mL with an iron saturation of 21 ± 7.9%. These parameters improved to a ferritin of 431 ± 232.1 ng/mL and iron saturation of 33 ± 8% at 6 months. Eighty percent of patients had a hemoglobin greater than 11 gm/dL compared to the US average of 75%. The average epoetin dose in this group was 121 units/kg/wk (9,300 units) compared to the US average of 229 units/kg/wk (16,000 units). The reduced epoetin doses used in this program resulted in an annual cost avoidance of $3,000 per patient.

Conclusions

Pharmacist management of anemia can provide cost-effective care in the chronic kidney disease population.
Automation of the Medication History Process: A Case Report
Authors: Weeks Greg , Stanley Lisa , Vinson Michael C.
Published: December 2017

Upon admission, medication history is an integral part of the medication reconciliation process; however, it is difficult to obtain one that is accurate and complete. A patient's reliability as historian, in addition to time constraints often placed upon the health care provider are factors that can reduce the accuracy and completeness of a medication history. A system is described that provides medication reconciliation including medication fill and refill information from third-party payers and pharmacy-benefit managers (PBM). Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, Alabama is the initial site deploying the system. Information about the patient's prescription medications is retrieved upon admission and presented to history takers and prescribers, in electronic and/or paper format, as admission orders are being written. Data retrieval and presentation are automatic, and the information is seamlessly integrated into the entire medication reconciliation progression, from admission, through patient transfers, and the discharge process.

Analyzing and amending hospital systems and procedures is a complex and time consuming process. However, when patient care and safety can be significantly and directly impacted, it becomes apparent that the institution must allocate personnel and resources to foster the initiative. Thomas Hospital, a 150 bed acute care facility, in Fairhope, Alabama reviewed its admission, transfer, and discharge procedures with a focus on improving the medication reconciliation process. This commitment resulted in a redesign of the system that included automated retrieval of the patient's medication history.
Insulin Detemir
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: December 2017

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent to you in print and CD ROM forms and are available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of your facility. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The December 2005 monograph topics are nelarabine, drospirenone/estradiol, rufinamide, lenalid omide, and recombinant human parthyroid hormone I-84. The DUE is on isosorbide dinatrate/hydralazine HCl.
Using Nitrogen Balance in Clinical Practice
Authors: Dickerson Roland N.
Published: December 2017

Nutrition Support Pharmacist features issues pertinent to the practice of clinical pharmacy in the area of nutritional support. The column is edited by Dr. Roland Dickerson, Associate Professor of Pharmacy University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Memphis, TN.
A master institution of world society? Digital communications networks and the changing dynamics of transnational contention
Authors: Lemke Tobias , Habegger Michael W
Published: December 2017

In English School theory, the putative change from an international society of states to a world society of individuals is usually associated with the diffusion of a benign form of cosmopolitanism and the normative agenda of solidarism. Consequently, the notion that world society might enable alternative expressions of transnational politics, independent from international society, remains underdeveloped. Drawing on the literature of contentious politics and social movements, this article challenges orthodox accounts and suggests that the global proliferation of digitally mediated linkages between individuals and nonstate actors constitutes a fundamental challenge to traditional dynamics of interstate communication in the form of the diplomatic system. This provides an opportunity to reconceptualize world society as an alternative site of politics distinct from mainstream international society and generative of its own logic of communication, mobilization, and action. The 2011 events in Egypt and the ongoing digital presence of the so-called Islamic State are used to demonstrate how massive increases in global interaction capacity are transforming the pathways for political contention and collective mobilization worldwide.
Regulatory Forum Opinion Piece*: Effective Brain Trimming for Regulatory-type Nonclinical Toxicity Studies
Authors: Bolon Brad
Published: December 2017

Regulatory guidances for nonclinical toxicity testing require brain evaluation but do not require a specific analytical strategy. The Society of Toxicologic Pathology (STP) has produced “best practice” recommendations for brain sampling and processing in general toxicity (GT) studies in adult rodents and nonrodents as well as developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) studies in rodents. This article explains acceptable brain trimming strategies as described in these 2 STP documents. Figures in the DNT and GT “best practices” illustrate coronal brain trimming at specific levels as defined by discrete external and internal anatomic landmarks. However, the text of both “best practice” papers states that institutions may choose different brain trimming levels or other planes (e.g., a longitudinal orientation) as long as key structures are sampled and trimming is consistent among individuals across the study. The STP-recommended number of brain levels to evaluate (7 or 8 coronal sections for GT and DNT studies, respectively) may need to be increased if neurotoxicity is considered possible or likely based on in-life clinical findings or other risk factors (chemical structure, known mode of action, etc.).
Parenting goal pursuit is linked to emotional well-being, relationship quality, and responsiveness
Authors: Le Bonnie M. , Impett Emily A.
Published: December 2017

The aim of the current research was to identify the goals underlying parental care and how they are linked to parents’ sense of emotional well-being, relationship quality, and responsiveness to their child’s needs. We examined the link between parenting goals and outcomes through surveying parents cross-sectionally (Studies 1 to 3), in a 10-day daily experience study (Study 4), and by conducting an internal meta-analysis of all four studies ( N total = 1,906). In Studies 1 and 2, parents were found to pursue four unique goals as captured by a new scale called the Parenting Goals Scale (PGS). The PGS measures the four goals of child love and security, child development, parent image, and child acceptance. In Study 3, each of the four goals was found to be meaningfully related to, while also being distinct from, other individual differences in parenting styles, other-focused orientations, self-focused orientations, and attachment styles. In a 10-day daily experience study (Study 4) as well as an internal meta-analysis across all four studies, each goal was found to be uniquely related to parents’ emotional well-being, relationship quality with their child, and feelings of responsiveness to their child’s needs. Daily and chronic pursuit of child love and security goals predicted greater emotional well-being, relationship quality, and responsiveness. In contrast, daily and chronic pursuit of parent image goals predicted poorer emotional well-being, relationship quality, and responsiveness, especially at the chronic level. Child development goals predicted poorer emotional well-being and relationship quality, especially at the chronic level. And finally, child acceptance goals predicted more positive emotions in daily life only. These associations largely held after controlling for parents’ reports of children’s mood and care difficulty. The current findings contribute to a growing body of research focused on understanding the joys and frustrations of parenting.
Tell EL-Amarna, 2006–7
Authors: Kemp Barry
Published: December 2017

This report on the 2006–7 seasons at Tell el-Amarna summarises continued work on the Stone Village, the South Tombs Cemetery, the house of Ranefer, and the desert GPS survey. A new survey was undertaken of the Christian remains in the tomb of Panehsy (no.6), and repair work continued on the North Palace and Small Aten Temple. Post-excavation work focussed on the study of pottery from the Middle Egypt survey, leather fragments from excavations in various parts of Tell el-Amarna, charcoal from the Stone Village excavations, human bones, pottery, and plant remains from the South Tombs Cemetery, fragments of Boundary Stela S, carved stone fragments from Kom el-Nana, and pottery and plant remains from domestic structures (grid 12), including the house of Ranefer. Experiments were also undertaken with the aim of investigating ancient bronze and faience manufacture.
The Geophysical Survey of North Saqqara, 2001–7
Authors: Mathieson Ian , Dittmer Jon
Published: December 2017

This preliminary report on the 2001–7 seasons of the Museums of Glasgow survey and excavation at North Saqqara outlines the methods employed in the geophysical survey and discusses some of the archaeological implications of the resulting maps of the necropolis.
The Good Shepherd Antef (Stela BM EA 1628)*
Authors: Franke Detlef
Published: December 2017

Translation and interpretation of the autobiographical self-presentation of the Overseer of a Troop of Herdsmen of Small Cattle Antef on stela British Museum EA 1628. Various criteria for dating are examined, and it is suggested that the stela was produced in the Theban area during the reign of Amenemhat I.
Work and Compensation in Ancient Egypt
Authors: Warburton David A.
Published: December 2017

A discussion of the two documents confirming the sale of shabtis provides the platform for a discussion of various aspects of the Egyptian economy, beginning with the faïence makers who sell their objects. The specific intention is to isolate the value of labour in Egyptian society, which requires touching on the fundamental structure of the economy. Whereas the shabti documents serve to illustrate the importance of the market, the titles do not demonstrate control or administration. This allows the quality of labour to emerge as an independent entity with a value of its own.
The Evil Stepmother and the Rights of a Second Wife
Authors: Eyre Christopher J.
Published: December 2017

Marriage in pharaonic Egypt was characterised by the customary commitment of property to the children. Only with the birth of children could the implied contract of marriage take full economic effect. However, this commitment of resources to the offspring of a first marriage meant that the economic and social status of a second wife, and the prospects of her offspring, were necessarily inferior. The customary nature of this commitment of resources in marriage — subsistence to the wife, and inheritance to the children — also means that the practical and legal distinction between a marriage settlement and a will is blurred.
Ernest Sibree: a forgotten pioneer and his milieu
Authors: Dodson Aidan
Published: December 2017

An account of what is known of the life and career of Ernest Sibree, who taught Ancient Egyptian at University College Bristol and Bristol University between 1896 and 1927, a period during which a remarkable concentration of expertise in oriental languages was to be found at that then-fledgling institution.
An Early Dynastic rock inscription at el-Hosh
Authors: Regulski Ilona
Published: December 2017

In March 2006, the Netherlands-Flemish Institute in Cairo started a preliminary survey at the site of el-Hosh, including recording and photography of the pharaonic rock inscriptions. The inscription presented here is believed to date to the end of the First Dynasty, and hence would be the oldest attestation of hieroglyphic writing in the area.
A snake-legged Dionysos from Egypt, and other divine snakes
Authors: Bailey Donald M.
Published: December 2017

A recent acquisition of the Department of Greek and Roman Antiquities of the British Museum is a marble stele showing the apotheosis or epiphany of an anguipede Dionysos, accompanied by a child-god.I
Before and After Avatar Exposure
Authors: Ridgway Jessica L.
Published: December 2017

Loker et. al. initiated a call for research investigating how third dimension (3-D) affects one’s perceptions of their own body by raising the following questions: Will the ability to see ourselves in 3-D increase body acceptance of normal variations and counteract the popular media images of what constitutes a beautiful body? Or will 3-D views increase dissatisfaction with our real bodies? In response, the researcher guided by self-discrepancy theory, investigated the unique experience of viewing one’s body in 3-D on participants’ self-reported levels of body satisfaction, mood, and appearance management. Results indicated that viewing one’s avatar in 3-D magnifies individuals’ actual–ideal (AI) self-discrepancies regardless of gender. The researcher observed decreased body satisfaction and mood when the magnitude of participants’ AI discrepancies increased. Both men and women indicated wanting to engage in greater appearance management behaviors postavatar viewing compared to baseline reports. The theoretical and applied implications are discussed.
Design and synthesis of high heat-resistant, soluble, and hydrophobic fluorinated polyimides containing pyridine and trifluoromethylthiophenyl units
Authors: Huang Xiaohua , Li Hua , Liu Chanjuan , Wei Chun
Published: December 2017

In this study, a novel diamine monomer, 4-(4-trifluoromethylthiophenyl)-2,6-bis(4-aminophenyl)pyridine (FTPAP) was synthesized through two-step reaction from 4-trifluoromethylthiobenzaldehyde and 4-nitroacetophenone as raw materials, and then the structure of FTPAP was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectrometry. A series of fluorinated polyimides were prepared from FTPAP with five commercial dianhydrides, namely, pyromellitic dianhydride, biphenyl tetracarboxylic dianhydride, oxydiphtahalic anhydride, benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, and 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene) diphthalic anhydride. The structure and performance of the fluorinated polymers were fully characterized by FTIR, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The inherent viscosity of polymers ranged from 0.41 to 1.45 dL g−1. These polymers displayed good solubility in polar aprotic solvents, such as N, N-dimethylformamide, N, N-dimethylacetamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, at room temperature or on heating. Furthermore, they exhibited outstanding thermal stability with glass transition temperatures beyond 305°C, and the temperature of 10% weight loss was in the range of 514–573°C with more than 56% residue at 800°C under nitrogen. Moreover, they showed high optical transparency with the cutoff wavelengths in the range of 385–457 nm and excellent hydrophobic property with contact angle in the range of 82.8–97.6°. In addition, the results of WAXD indicated that all of the polymers presented amorphous structure.
Brake force sharing to improve lateral stability while regenerative braking in a turn
Authors: Nanda Kumar CS , Subramanian Shankar C
Published: December 2017

In electric and hybrid vehicles, regenerative braking is applied only at the driven wheels by the electric drive, whereas the non-driven wheels are not subjected to brake force during the pure regenerative braking mode. The application of pure regenerative brake may affect the vehicle’s lateral stability during a turn. The impact could be more severe when the pure regenerative brake is applied at the turn on the rear wheels (for a rear wheel drive vehicle) over a low friction road surface. As part of a solution to reduce this impact, a brake force sharing (BFS) strategy between regenerative and friction brake has been proposed in this paper, which improves the brake force distribution between front and rear wheels to ensure a stable turn. The vehicle model and the BFS strategy were developed, and the IPG Car Maker® software was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. The simulation results on BFS strategy have been corroborated using experimental data collected from a test vehicle. Further, a closed loop control structure was developed for implementing the proposed BFS strategy in electric and hybrid vehicles.
Agenda Setting through Social Media: The Importance of Incidental News Exposure and Social Filtering in the Digital Era
Authors: Feezell Jessica T.
Published: December 2017

Conventional models of agenda setting hold that mainstream media influence the public agenda by leading audience attention, and perceived importance, to certain issues. However, increased selectivity and audience fragmentation in today’s digital media environment threaten the traditional agenda-setting power of the mass media. An important development to consider in light of this change is the growing use of social media for entertainment and information. This study investigates whether mainstream media can influence the public agenda when channeled through social media. By leveraging an original, longitudinal experiment, I test whether being exposed to political information through Facebook yields an agenda-setting effect by raising participants’ perceived importance of certain policy issues. Findings show that participants exposed to political information on Facebook exhibit increased levels of issue salience consistent with the issues shared compared with participants who were not shown political information; these effects are strongest among those with low political interest.
A Plasma Cell Myeloma With Post-Therapy Anaplastic Morphology, Osteomyelosclerosis, and Strong Pan-Cytokeratin (AE1/AE3) Expression: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Bharani Vani , Sharma Prashant , Bal Amanjit , Prakash Gaurav
Published: December 2017

Reactive and neoplastic plasma cells can display considerable morphological anaplasia as well as variable immunoreactivity for epithelial markers including epithelial membrane antigen, pan-cytokeratin (panCK) and high-molecular-weight cytokeratin, potentially creating diagnostic dilemmas. We describe the case of a 51-year-old male, previously treated for IgGλ plasma cell myeloma, whose bone marrow biopsy showed focal replacement by sheets of pleomorphic malignant cells and grade 3 myelofibrosis, raising the morphological possibility of a carcinomatous infiltration. First-line immunohistochemistry revealed strong panCK as well as CD138 positivity. However, subsequent MUM-1 and CD38 stains were also positive, clinching the diagnosis of relapsed plasma cell myeloma with anaplastic morphology and aberrant strong cytokeratin expression. The case warns of the perils of using limited immunohistochemical panels in poorly differentiated metastatic neoplasms and the importance of providing a complete clinical background to the reporting pathologist.
Experiences with unregulated respite care among family caregivers of children dependent on respiratory technologies
Authors: Keilty Krista , Nicholas David , Selkirk Enid
Published: December 2017

Increasingly, children with respiratory conditions who are dependent on medical technology (e.g. ventilators and tracheostomies) are cared for at home by family caregivers who are at risk for significant health, financial and social burdens. In many jurisdictions, access to quality respite is varied and often the availability of regulated (nursing) providers is insufficient. Rather than go without, some families have secured alternative and unregulated providers to supplement formal home care systems. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of family caregivers of children dependent on respiratory technologies who have used unregulated providers for in-home respite care. Through an interpretative description approach, data was gathered from 20 semi-structured parent interviews and analysed using constant comparative analysis. Four themes emerged from the data, which were conceptualized as both opportunities and tensions that parents experienced with both unregulated and regulated home care providers: finding the right fit for the child and family; trusting the provider is everything; using unregulated providers offers unique advantages; and accepting that regulated and unregulated care present challenges. Findings signal that unregulated providers play a pivotal role in supporting parents of children who are dependent on respiratory technologies. Implications for practice, policy and future research initiatives are discussed.
Artikel
Authors: Lehti Martti , Kivivuori Janne
Published: December 2017

■ Aims

The article examines the links between alcohol consumption, drinking habits and the high homicide rates in Finland today from the point of view of the structure of homicides and the social status of the people involved in them. The Finnish situation is compared with that in the other Nordic Countries, especially with Sweden.

■ Methods

The links between alcohol and homicidal crime are examined from the point of view of three main factors: the relative and absolute numbers of intoxicated offenders and victims, and regular substance abusers among offenders, and the patterns of victim-offender relationships. By combining the information, a general picture is formed of the significance and absolute levels of alcohol-connected homicides and what kinds of population groups are responsible for these crimes in each of the Nordic Countries.

■ Results

Although the Finnish annual homicide rate is triple that of other Nordic Countries, the social background and structure of homicidal crime are very similar in Finland, Sweden and Norway. In all the three Nordic Countries the crimes are committed mainly by alcoholic, unemployed men living on the fringe of society. It also seems that the difference in the crime level between Finland and its Scandinavian neighbours is mainly caused by the alcohol-related violence of this group; the volume of other types of homicide is more or less the same.

■ Conclusion

Alcohol may seem to explain the higher Finnish homicide rates compared to other Nordic Countries, however, the comparative levels of alcohol consumption and violent crime are very similar in Finland, Sweden and Norway. Consequently, it is unlikely that the differences in the homicide rates would be caused directly by the differences in the general drinking cultures. Instead of looking for general cultural behaviour models to explain the higher rate of homicide, one should ask why middle-aged alcoholics appear in larger numbers in Finland than in other Nordic countries, and why they behave more violently.
Artikel
Authors: Mounteney Jane , Leirvåg Siv-Elin
Published: December 2017

■ Aim

In 2002 the Bergen Clinics Foundation established ‘Føre Var’, a city-wide ‘early warning’ system geared towards the identification, monitoring and reporting of drug and alcohol trends in the city of Bergen, Norway, on a six-monthly basis. The primary goal for the system was the dissemination of earlier, more reliable information on new and emerging trends to enable timely and more effective interventions by policy makers and practitioners in the drug and alcohol field.

■ Methods

The Føre Var system triangulates and cross-references a wide range of statistical and quantitative data, including drug seizures data, treatment figures, alcohol sales and a school survey, with information from a number of ‘leading edge' or sensitive data sources, including Internet sites, youth and local media, cultural mapping and key informants. Data is collected from sources every six months, analysed for identifiable patterns and trends, and then disseminated widely.

■ Results & Conclusion

This paper details the system's developmental stages and methodologies, in addition to summarizing results from the first three Føre Var reports. Finally, the strengths and weaknesses of the model, its replicability as well as the potential advantages of a city-level network are discussed.
Artikel
Authors: Mustonen Heli , Mäkelä Pia , Huhtanen Petri , Metso Leena , Raitasalo Kirsimarja
Published: December 2017

■ Aims

In 2004, quotas on travelers' imports of alcoholic beverages from other EU member states for personal use were abolished, Estonia became a member of the EU and taxes on alcohol were decreased by 33 per cent on average. These changes resulted in a 10 per cent increase in alcohol consumption. This study set out to explore which population groups accounted for this increase and what happened to self-reported alcohol-related harm.

■ Data

The data used in the article consists of a panel study where the same individuals completed a postal questionnaire before and after the changes. The questionnaire was mailed in autumn 2003 to a random sample of 4 000 Finnish persons aged 15–69 (response rate 60%) and in autumn 2004 to 1 786 persons who had completed the questionnaire in 2003 and who also agreed to participate in the follow-up (response rate 76%).

■ Results, Discussion & Conclusion

A central thread in the results is that the respondents themselves reported no increase either in their own consumption or in alcohol-related harm from 2003 to 2004, although this was expected on the basis of the increase observed in sales statistics. One possible explanation for the contradiction between the statistical evidence and our respondents' self-reports is that the price cuts have led to an increase in consumption mainly among existing heavy consumers who were not covered in the questionnaire. This hypothesis is supported by reports from the treatment sector and by police records on intoxicated persons taken into custody. Another possible explanation is selective non-response, i.e. that heavier drinkers have dropped out more often than others. The non-response analyses indicated that part of the results that conflicted with our expectations was due to selective non-response. The results of our study do not warrant the conclusion that there will be no adverse consequences in terms of alcohol-related harm from the changes implemented in 2004. If consumption increases most of all among heavy consumers, that will lead to a greater increase in serious alcohol-related harm than would a growth of consumption among moderate drinkers. If consumption levels settle at a higher level, it is possible that harms will increase in the mainstream population as well.