bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Political Economy of Agency Work in Italy and Germany
Authors: Benassi Chiara , Dorigatti Lisa
Published: February 2018

This chapter investigates the diverging trajectories in collective bargaining outcomes on agency work in the German and Italian metal sector. It finds that bargaining outcomes have improved in Germany in regard to working conditions, prospects for being hired, and limitations to the use of agency work (2003–15), while they have progressively worsened in Italy (1998–2015). The explanation suggests that in both cases the deregulation of agency work allowed employers to exploit labour divides, preventing worker representatives from forming a united front in order to negotiate effectively. However, the campaign for agency workers by the German metal union shows that divides can be overcome and a united labour movement can successfully regulate precarious work.
Union Campaigns against Precarious Work in the Retail Sector of Estonia, Poland, and Slovenia
Authors: Mrozowicki Adam , Bembič Branko , Kall Kairit , Maciejewska Małgorzata , Stanojević Miroslav
Published: February 2018

This chapter studies trade union responses to the precarization of work in the retail sector in three post-socialist East European countries: Estonia, Poland, and Slovenia. The aim of the chapter is to analyse the influence of sectoral specifics, different institutional factors, and trade unions’ power resources on union approaches towards precarious work, and to explore the potential for new patterns of solidarity. The main thrust of the argument is that unions’ power is crucial for developing and sustaining the industrial relations institutions, which in turn shape constraints and opportunities for trade unions’ actions. However, the strategic choices exerted by trade union leaders also matter. While higher institutional and associational power still enables Slovene unions to regulate the conditions of precarious workers to a certain extent, the institutional weakness of Estonian and Polish unions make them increasingly reliant on their network embeddedness and narrative resources to mobilize against precarization.
Multiple Impurity Scattering
Authors: Morawetz Klaus
Published: February 2018

Furnished with basic ideas about the scattering on a single impurity, the motion of a particle scattered by many randomly distributed impurities is approached. In spite of having a single particle only, this system already belongs to many-body physics as it combines randomising effects of high-angle collisions with mean-field effects due to low-angle collisions. The averaged wave function leads to the Dyson equation. Various approximations are systematically introduced and discussed ranging from Born, averaged T-matrix to coherent potential approximation. The effective medium and the effective mass as wave function renormalisations are discussed and the various approximations are accurately compared.
Systems with Condensates and Pairing
Authors: Morawetz Klaus
Published: February 2018

The Bose–Einstein condensation and appearance of superfluidity and superconductivity are introduced from basic phenomena. A systematic theory based on the asymmetric expansion of chapter 11 is shown to correct the T-matrix from unphysical multiple-scattering events. The resulting generalised Soven scheme provides the Beliaev equations for Boson’s and the Nambu–Gorkov equations for fermions without the usage of anomalous and non-conserving propagators. This systematic theory allows calculating the fluctuations above and below the critical parameters. Gap equations and Bogoliubov–DeGennes equations are derived from this theory. Interacting Bose systems with finite temperatures are discussed with successively better approximations ranging from Bogoliubov and Popov up to corrected T-matrices. For superconductivity, the asymmetric theory leading to the corrected T-matrix allows for establishing the stability of the condensate and decides correctly about the pair-breaking mechanisms in contrast to conventional approaches. The relation between the correlated density from nonlocal kinetic theory and the density of Cooper pairs is shown.
Nonlocal Collision Integral
Authors: Morawetz Klaus
Published: February 2018

The kinetic equation with the nonlocal shifts is presented as the final result on the way to derive the kinetic equation with nonlocal corrections. The exclusive dependence of the nonlocal and non-instant corrections on the scattering phase shift confirms the results from the theory of gases. With the approximation on the level of the Brueckner reaction matrix, the corresponding non-instant and nonlocal scattering integral in parallel with the classical Enskog’s equation, can be treated with Monte-Carlo simulation techniques. Neglecting the shifts, the Landau theory of quasiparticle transport appears. In this sense the presented kinetic theory unifies both approaches. An intrinsic symmetry is found from the optical theorem which allows for representing the collision integral equivalently either in particle-hole symmetric or space-time symmetric form.
Technology Use, Gender, and Impact of Non-Farm Income on Agricultural Investment: An Empirical Analysis of Maize Production in Two Regions of Kenya
Authors: Wambugu Stephen K. , Karugia Joseph T. , Oluoch-Kosura Willis
Published: February 2018

This chapter examines maize productivity, technology use in maize, and the impact of non-farm income (NFI) on agricultural investment in Kenya, giving them a gender dimension. The study first concludes that there are no significant differences in maize yields between male-managed farms and female-managed farms (FMFs) in the study areas, Nyeri and Kakamega. Second, technology use for maize production was lower and significant in some instances for FMFs. Significant differences, especially in the use of hybrid seeds and tractor ploughs, were noted. A third conclusion is that NFI is not used in farm investment. NFI had negative coefficients on adoption and intensity of agricultural input use. Policies that encourage both farm and non-farm income should be instituted given the complementary roles that they play. Any entry barriers for disadvantaged households, especially for the FMFs, to participate in higher-paying non-farm activities need to be overcome.
Agriculture, Diversification, and Gender in Rural Africa: What Lessons Can We Learn?
Authors: Djurfeldt Agnes Andersson , Dzanku Fred Mawunyo , Isinika Aida Cuthbert
Published: February 2018

Smallholder-friendly messages, albeit not always translated into action, returned strongly to the development agenda over a decade ago. Smallholders’ livelihoods encompass social and economic realities outside agriculture, however, providing opportunities as well as challenges for the smallholder model. While smallholders continue to straddle the farm and non-farm sectors, the notion of leaving agriculture altogether appears hyperbolic, given the persistently high share of income generated from agriculture noted in the Afrint dataset. Trends over the past fifteen years can be broadly described as increasing dynamism accompanied by rising polarization. Positive trends include increased farm sizes, rising grain production, crop diversification, and increased commercialization, while negative trends include stagnation of yields, persistent yield gaps, gendered landholding inequalities, gendered agricultural asset inequalities, growing gendered commercialization inequalities, and an emerging gender gap in cash income. Regional nuances in trends reinforce the need for spatial contextualization of linkages between the farm and non-farm sectors.
Quantum Fields
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

This book introduces quantum field theory, together with its most important applications to cosmology and astroparticle physics, in a coherent framework. The path-integral approach is employed right from the start, and the use of Green functions and generating functionals is illustrated first in quantum mechanics and then in scalar field theory. Massless spin one and two fields are discussed on an equal footing, and gravity is presented as a gauge theory in close analogy with the Yang–Mills case. Concepts relevant to modern research such as helicity methods, effective theories, decoupling, or the stability of the electroweak vacuum are introduced. Various applications such as topological defects, dark matter, baryogenesis, processes in external gravitational fields, inflation and black holes help students to bridge the gap between undergraduate courses and the research literature.
Spacetime symmetries
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

This chapter introduces tensor fields, covariant derivatives and the geodesic equation on a (pseudo-) Riemannian manifold. It discusses how symmetries of a general space-time can be found from the Killing equation, and how the existence of Killing vector fields is connected to global conservation laws.
Fermions and the Dirac equation
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

Starting from the spinor representation of the Lorentz group,Weyl spinors and their transformation properties are derived. The Dirac equation and the properties of its solutions are discussed. Graßmann numbers and the gener-ating functional for fermions are introduced. Weyl and Majorana fermions are examined.
Scattering processes
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

The unitarity of the S-matrix is used to derive the optical theorem. The connection between Green functions and scattering amplitudes given by the LSZ reduction formula is derived. The trace and the helicity method are developed and applied to the calculation of QED processes. The emission of soft photons and gravitons is discussed. In an appendix, the connection between S-matrix elements, Feynman amplitudes and decay rates or cross-sections is derived.
GSW model of electroweak interactions
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

The electroweak sector of the SM described by an SUL(2)UY(1) gauge symmetry which is broken spontaneously to Uem(1) is introduced. The generation of boson and fermion masses by the Higgs effect is discussed. The properties of the Higgs sector are examined. The conditions for decoupling and the hierarchy problem are discussed.
Thermal field theory
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

After a review of the calculational approaches, the free energy of scalar particles in thermal equilibrium is calculated. The IR behaviour of mass-less scalar fields is examined, finding that a resummation of IR divergent terms is necessary. In general, particles acquire a temperature-dependent (Debye) mass, while symmetries of the Lagrangian may be hidden at low temperatures. In an appendix, the basics of equilibrium statistical physics is reviewe
Anomalies, instantons and axions
Authors: Kachelriess Michael
Published: February 2018

The axial anomaly is derived both from the non-invariance of the path-integral measure under UA(1) transformations and calculations of specific triangle diagrams. It is demonstrated that the anomalous terms are cancelled in the electroweak sector of the standard model, if the electric charge of all fermions adds up to zero. The CP-odd term F̃μνFμν introduced by the axial anomaly is a gauge-invariant renormalisable interaction which is also generated by instanton transitions between Yang–Mills vacua with different winding numbers. The Peceei–Quinn symmetry is discussed as a possible explanation why this term does not contribute to the QCD action.
War and the Politics of Ethics
Authors: Zehfuss Maja
Published: February 2018

Contemporary Western war is represented as enacting the West’s ability and responsibility to help make the world a better place for others, in particular to protect them from oppression and serious human rights abuses. That is, war has become permissible again, indeed even required, as ethical war. At the same time, however, Western war kills and destroys. This creates a paradox: Western war risks killing those it proposes to protect. This book examines how we have responded to this dilemma and challenges the vision of ethical war itself. That is, it explores how the commitment to ethics shapes the practice of war and indeed how practices come, in turn, to shape what is considered ethical in war. The book closely examines particular practices of warfare, such as targeting, the use of cultural knowledge, and ethics training for soldiers. What emerges is that instead of constraining violence, the commitment to ethics enables and enhances it. The book argues that the production of ethical war relies on an impossible but obscured separation between ethics and politics, that is, a problematic politics of ethics, and reflects on the need to make decisions at the limit of ethics.
‘True Courage’
Authors: Jensen Oskar Cox
Published: February 2018

This chapter follows the story of a single song from its 1798 composition to calls for its revival in 1900, taking in its performance, reception, dissemination, appropriation, and reinvention. A close musical and lyrical reading is tied to those chronological contexts, and informed by the philosophy, politics, and cultural practices of those involved—Dibdin, other singers, audiences, and later interpreters of ‘True Courage’. The process is reciprocal: as a social object, the song itself sheds new light on the mentalities and habits of its day. In pursuing this novel take on the text-based case study, this chapter provides an interdisciplinary model that has as much to offer the traditional historian as the musicologist or literary scholar.
High-Skilled Immigration and Innovation
Authors: Venturini Alessandra , Kalantaryan Sona , Fassio Claudio
Published: February 2018

This chapter provides an extensive review of the existing empirical literature that analyses the impact of (mostly high-skilled) migration on the innovative performances of firms, regions, and countries. The authors discuss the different features of the immigrant labour force, such as education, occupation, age, and internal ethnic diversity, that play a role in the contribution of immigrants to innovation. By categorizing the existing studies on the basis of the definition of innovation and migration that they adopt, as well as on the specific level of analysis chosen (at the firm, regional, or country level), the chapter also engages in an in-depth discussion about the policy implications that can be drawn from the existing evidence. Finally, the chapter outlines some suggestions about the implementation of appropriate immigration policies, able to truly foster innovation in European countries.
An Indian Official’s Trials and Struggles
Authors: Sahni Ruchi Ram
Published: February 2018

In this brief chapter Ruchi Ram Sahni describes his first job after Government College, Lahore, as Assistant Meteorological Reporter to the Government of India, based first in Calcutta where he was trained, and then in Simla. In Calcutta he attended lectures in Chemistry at the Presidency College in order to work towards an MA degree, and made the acquaintance of men such as Ashutosh Mookerjee, who were later to become prominent figures in Bengal. The chapter follows him to Simla, where he worked under the supervision of Mr H.E. Blanford. Sahni records a great regard for the Englishman’s kindness, contrasting it with the general hierarchical attitude of other Englishmen towards Indians. It is these attitudes that create the ‘trials and struggles’ for Indian officials such as Sahni.
Public Life
Authors: Sahni Ruchi Ram
Published: February 2018

This chapter presents brief vignettes of Ruchi Ram Sahni’s growing involvement in public life, starting with his involvement mobilizing public support for Lord Ripon’s Local Self-Government Resolution in 1881; he also helped organize a public meeting in protest at Surendranath Banerjea’s arrest for contempt of court in the so-called ‘Idol Contempt’ case. Sahni describes the early excitement caused by Congress activity in the Punjab and loyalist efforts to counter it. Since he was a Government servant, Sahni did not participate actively in the affairs of the Indian National Congress, but he became a keen sympathizer after a long discussion with the Congress founder, A.O. Hume. He attended many annual Congress sessions as a visitor, including the memorable ‘Bradlaugh Session’ held in Bombay in 1889.
An Indian Official’s Trials and Tribulations
Authors: Sahni Ruchi Ram
Published: February 2018

In this chapter Ruchi Ram Sahni recounts what he calls the most depressing and unpleasant incident of his life. It involved his supersession for the position of Professor-in-Charge of the Chemistry Department at the Government College, Lahore, by a much younger Englishman, fresh from university. The post in question was vacated by an English colleague, a Senior Professor, with whom the author had a difficult relationship involving a dispute about who was to be selected for the post of Examiner in the university examinations. This colleague went on to write a secret report against Sahni, resulting in his supersession despite his vast seniority. Sahni relates the psychological trauma resulting from this experience, and its contribution to strengthen his resolve to leave Lahore for a short period to do research in Europe.
Solving the Skeptical Problem
Authors: DeRose Keith
Published: February 2018

In this chapter the classical form of skeptical argument, based on skeptical hypotheses, is presented. Then a contextualist response to the problem of skepticism, built upon the “Rule of Sensitivity,” is explained, defended, and shown to be superior to other solutions, including other contextualist solutions, Nozick’s solution, and, especially, skeptical solutions. It is argued that the best conclusion we can draw from the skeptic’s argument is that we are not ordinarily mistaken when we claim or ascribe knowledge, despite the best efforts of the “bold skeptic” to show that we are. Rather, the main insights to be rationally drawn from a study of the skeptic’s argument involve the context-sensitivity of attributions of knowledge, and the role that the Rule of Sensitivity plays in changing the epistemic standards that govern these attributions.
Moorean Methodology
Authors: DeRose Keith
Published: February 2018

In this chapter a Moorean approach, on which one seeks to defeat, rather than refute, skepticism, is explained, developed, and defended. The issue of whether skepticism was doomed to inevitable defeat on the methodology in question is explored, and the considerations on which that matter turns, are identified. The power of the AI, the classical skeptical argument from skeptical hypotheses, is defended, focusing mainly on the viability the skeptic’s first premise, that you do not know that you are not a brain in a vat. Finally, the importance of solving the puzzle that this form of skeptical argument confronts us with is vindicated, whether or not the skeptic who wields AI was doomed to defeat.
Microrheology
Authors: Furst Eric M. , Squires Todd M.
Published: February 2018

We present a comprehensive overview of microrheology, emphasizing the underlying theory, practical aspects of its implementation, and current applications to rheological studies in academic and industrial laboratories. Key methods and techniques are examined, including important considerations to be made with respect to the materials most amenable to microrheological characterization and pitfalls to avoid in measurements and analysis. The fundamental principles of all microrheology experiments are presented, including the nature of colloidal probes and their movement in fluids, soft solids, and viscoelastic materials. Microrheology is divided into two general areas, depending on whether the probe is driven into motion by thermal forces (passive), or by an external force (active). We present the theory and practice of passive microrheology, including an in-depth examination of the Generalized Stokes-Einstein Relation (GSER). We carefully treat the assumptions that must be made for these techniques to work, and what happens when the underlying assumptions are violated. Experimental methods covered in detail include particle tracking microrheology, tracer particle microrheology using dynamic light scattering and diffusing wave spectroscopy, and laser tracking microrheology. Second, we discuss the theory and practice of active microrheology, focusing specifically on the potential and limitations of extending microrheology to measurements of non-linear rheological properties, like yielding and shear-thinning. Practical aspects of magnetic and optical tweezer measurements are preseted. Finally, we highlight important applications of microrheology, including measurements of gelation, degradation, high-throughput rheology, protein solution viscosities, and polymer dynamics.
Variation in Genetic Diversity of Phytophthora infestans Populations in Mexico from the Center of Origin Outwards
Authors: Shakya Shankar K. , Larsen Meredith M. , Cuenca-Condoy Mercedes María , Lozoya-Saldaña Héctor , Grünwald Niklaus J.
Published: February 2018

The Toluca valley, located in central Mexico, is thought to be the center of origin of the potato late blight pathogen Phytophthora infestans. We characterized over 500 individuals of P. infestans sampled from populations with a geographical distance of more than 400 km in six regions adjacent to the Toluca valley in three states including Michoacán, Mexico, and Tlaxcala. Our sampling occurred on a predominant east to west gradient and showed significant genetic differentiation. The most western sampling location found in Michoacán was most differentiated from the other populations. Populations from San Gerónimo, Juchitepec, and Tlaxcala clustered together and appeared to be in linkage equilibrium. This work provides a finer understanding of gradients of genetic diversity in populations of P. infestans at the center of origin.
Epidural Neostigmine Versus Fentanyl to Decrease Bupivacaine Use in Patient-controlled Epidural Analgesia during Labor: A Randomized, Double-blind, Controlled Study
Authors: Booth J.L. , Ross V.H. , Nelson K.E. , Harris L. , Eisenach J.C. , Pan P.H.
Published: February 2018

(Anesthesiology. 2017;127(1):50–57)

Epidural infusions for labor analgesia have traditionally consisted of a local anesthetic and an adjuvant opioid, but these epidurally administered opioids can produce undesirable side effects, such as pruritus and decreased fetal heart rate variability.
Clinical Risk Factors Associated With Peripartum Maternal Bacteremia
Authors: Easter S.R. , Molina R.L. , Venkatesh K.K. , Kaimal A. , Tuomala R. , Riley L.E.
Published: February 2018

(Obstet Gynecol. 2017;130(4):710–717)

Maternal sepsis remains an important contributor to severe maternal morbidity. However, consensus guidelines conflict with evidence-based recommendations encouraging early diagnosis and treatment of febrile peripartum women, and there is no gold standard for the diagnosis of sepsis in pregnancy. In the present study, authors identified exposures associated with bacteremia in febrile women in the peripartum period (primary outcome) and examined associations between adverse outcomes and bacteremia. The degree of initial fever as a clinical predictor was also evaluated.
Aspirin Versus Placebo in Pregnancies at High Risk for Preterm Preeclampsia
Authors: Rolnik D.L. , Wright D. , Poon L.C. , O’Gorman N. , Syngelaki A. , de Paco Matallana C. , Akolekar R. , Cicero S. , Janga D. , Singh M. , Molina F.S. , Persico N. , Jani J.C. , Plasencia W. , Papaioannou G. , Tenenbaum-Gavish K. , Meiri H. , Gizurarson S. , Maclagan K. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: February 2018

(N Engl J Med. 2017;377(7):613–622)

Professional associations recommend the prophylactic use of low-dose aspirin (60 to 80 mg d) in pregnant women who are considered to be at high risk for preeclampsia. However, some studies suggest that aspirin started after 16 weeks of gestation does not have a significant benefit, and there remain major challenges in identifying women at high risk for this condition.
Serious Maternal Complications in Relation to Severe Preeclampsia: A Retrospective Cohort Study of the Impact of Hospital Volume
Authors: Ananth C.V. , Lavery J.A. , Friedman A.M. , Wapner R.J. , Wright J.D.
Published: February 2018

(BJOG. 2017;124:1246–1253)

A timely referral of high-risk obstetric patients to large volume delivery hospitals could contribute significantly to reducing obstetrical and neonatal complications. Severe preeclampsia is a major risk factor for maternal mortality and serious obstetrical complications. However, it remains unclear whether an association exists between hospital delivery volume and maternal complications due to severe preeclampsia. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the associations between severe preeclampsia and adverse outcomes based on annualized hospital delivery volume.
A Standardized Approach for Transfusion Medicine Support in Patients With Morbidly Adherent Placenta
Authors: Panigrahi A.K. , Yeaton-Massey A. , Bakhtary S. , Andrews J. , Lyell D.J. , Butwick A.J. , Goodnough L.T.
Published: February 2018

(Anesth Analg. 2017;125(2):603–608)

Morbidly adherent placenta (MAP) is a condition in which chorionic villi of the placenta invade too deeply into the myometrium. It consists of 3 types placenta accreta (PA), placenta increta (PI), and placental percreta (PP)]. Nonseparation of the placenta at delivery due to MAP can lead to massive postpartum hemorrhage and negative maternal outcomes, for example damage to surrounding organs, amniotic fluid embolism, etc. As the incidence of MAP has increased directly with the increasing rate of cesarean deliveries in the United States, the authors of the present study described the experience at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital over a 5-year period (July 1, 2009, to July 1, 2014) caring for patients with MAP under the institution’s multidisciplinary approach (Program in Placental Disorders, established 2009).
Impact of Obesity on Postdural Puncture Headache
Authors: Song J. , Zhang T. , Choy A. , Penaco A. , Joseph V.
Published: February 2018

(Int J Obstet Anesth. 2017;30:5–9)

While previous studies have suggested that obese women suffer fewer postdural puncture headaches (PDPHs) associated with spinal anesthesia, data are lacking regarding the association between body mass index (BMI) and the development of spinal headache after an accidental dural puncture (ADP) with a large gauge epidural needle. This retrospective study was undertaken to determine whether obesity is associated with fewer PDPHs after an ADP during epidural placement for labor analgesia.
Impact of Uterine Balloon Tamponade on the Use of Invasive Procedures in Severe Postpartum Hemorrhage
Authors: Gauchotte E. , De La Torre M. , Perdriolle-Galet E. , Lamy C. , Gauchotte G. , Morel O.
Published: February 2018

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2017;96(7):877–882)

The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of uterine balloon tamponade on the need for surgery or interventional radiology during the management of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), in cases of the failure of uterotonic agents—specifically, sulprostone. The authors retrospectively studied all women treated with sulprostone for PPH in the obstetrics unit of the academic hospital of Lorraine, France for 2 two-year periods: December 2008 to December 2010 without the use of tamponade (period 1), and June 2011 to June 2013 with the use of tamponade (period 2).
Genetic Associations With Gestational Duration and Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Authors: Zhang G. , Feenstra B. , Bacelis J. , Liu X. , Muglia L.M. , Juodakis J. , Miller D.E. , Litterman N. , Jiang P.P. , Russell L. , Hinds D.A. , Hu Y. , Weirauch M.T. , Chen X. , Chavan A.R. , Wagner G.P. , Pavličev M. , Nnamani M.C. , Maziarz J. , Karjalainen M.K. , Rämet M. , Sengpiel V. , Geller F. , Boyd H.A. , Palotie A. , Momany A. , Bedell B. , Ryckman K.K. , Huusko J.M. , Forney C.R. , Kottyan L.C. , Hallman M. , Teramo K. , Nohr E.A. , Davey Smith G. , Melbye M. , Jacobsson B. , Muglia L.J.
Published: February 2018

(N Engl J Med. 2017;377(12):1156–1167)

Preterm birth is the leading cause of death in neonates and children younger than 5 years of age. Its definition, birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation, is a dichotomous trait based on a somewhat arbitrary cutoff of weeks’ gestation, rather than time of birth or a level of fetal maturity. Therefore, in the present study, the authors tested genetic associations with gestational duration (a quantitative trait) and preterm birth (a dichotomous trait), in order to identify robust associations with genetic variants consistent with a role in the timing of birth.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Viral Load Rebound Near Delivery in Previously Suppressed, Combination Antiretroviral Therapy–treated Pregnant Women
Authors: Boucoiran I. , Albert A.Y.K. , Tulloch K. , Wagner E.C. , Pick N. , van Schalkwyk J. , Harrigan P.R. , Money D.
Published: February 2018

(Obstet Gynecol. 2017;130(3):497–501)

The administration of intrapartum intravenous (IV) zidovudine in combination with antenatal and neonatal zidovudine was the first antiretroviral regimen recommended for pregnant women by all guidelines. However, with the advent of antenatal combination antiretroviral therapy (CART), as well as the finding that women with an HIV viral load <1000 copies mL at delivery who receive IV zidovudine may carry an increased risk of vertical transmission compared with controls, guidelines have since changed.
Immediate Compared With On-demand Maternal Full Feeding After Planned Caesarean Delivery: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Tan P.C. , Alzergany M.M. , Adlan A-S , Noor Azmi M.A. , Omar S.Z.
Published: February 2018

(BJOG. 2917;124:123–131)

Feeding regimens postcesarean vary among institutions and across published trials. In addition, there is a lack of existing evidence to justify withholding oral fluids after uncomplicated cesarean sections. In fact, guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the United Kingdom state “women who are recovering well after cesarean section and who do not have complications can eat and drink when they felt hungry or thirsty.” This recent randomized trial was carried out to evaluate outcomes following immediate full feeding compared with “on-demand” feeding after cesarean section. The investigators hypothesized that immediate feeding would lead to more rapid restoration of body functions and quicker postoperative recovery without increasing adverse outcomes, resulting in increased patient satisfaction.
Reduction of Total Labor Length Through the Addition of Parenteral Dextrose Solution in Induction of Labor in Nulliparous: Results of DEXTRONS Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Paré J. , Pasquier J.C. , Lewin A. , Fraser W. , Bureau Y.A.
Published: February 2018

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2017;216(5):508.e1–508.e7)

Nulliparous women undergoing labor induction are particularly susceptible to having very long labors which are associated with negative effects for both mother and child. Since glucose supplementation improves athletic performance during prolonged exercise and labor could be considered a similar activity, it is thought that the addition of glucose during labor might help muscle performance and shorten labor length. Previous studies have had conflicting results as to the usefulness of the addition of carbohydrates to the overall length of labor, with one study showing an increase in cesarean deliveries and another an increase in neonatal hypoglycemia. To add to this research, a double-blind randomized controlled trial was set up to investigate whether the addition of intravenous glucose shortened active labor, had an effect on the rate of cesarean deliveries or affected neonatal health.
Maternal Buprenorphine Treatment and Fetal Neurobehavioral Development
Authors: Jansson L.M. , Velez M. , McConnell K. , Spencer N. , Tuten M. , Jones H.E. , King V.L. , Gandotra N. , Milio L.A. , Voegtline K. , DiPietro J.A.
Published: February 2018

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2017;216(5):529.e1–529.e8)

Opioid usage is increasing among pregnant mothers in the United States, which can lead to neonatal abstinence syndrome in their children. Previous studies have shown less severe neonatal abstinence syndrome in infants whose mothers were treated for opioid use with buprenorphine rather than methadone. This study looked at the effects of buprenorphine on fetal activity and development.
Cesarean in the Second Stage: A Possible Risk Factor for Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Authors: Berghella V. , Gimovsky A.C. , Levine L.D. , Vink J.
Published: February 2018

This brief editorial addressed the findings of Wood et al of an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) in women with a prior cesarean delivery (CD) in the second stage of labor compared with women with a prior spontaneous vaginal delivery, as well as related literature. Wood et al found that prior second-stage CD had an odds ratio of 2.44 (95% confidence interval, 1.91-3.10) for the risk of subsequent SPTB <32 weeks, after adjusting for confounders such as maternal age, smoking, and maternal weight. Even after controlling for route of delivery, Wood et al found no significant association between the length of the second stage (even >3 or >4 h) and subsequent SPTB, results that suggested that CD in the second stage of labor, and not the duration of the second stage, was associated with SPTB.
Case Series of Vital Signs-controlled, Patient-assisted Intravenous Analgesia (VPIA) Using Remifentanil for Labor and Delivery
Authors: Leong W.L. , Sng B.L. , Zhang Q. , Han N.L.R. , Sultana R. , Sia A.T.H.
Published: February 2018

(Anaesthesia. 2017;72(7):845–852)

Intravenous remifentanil patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is an alternative to epidural analgesia for labor pain management. Compared with other systemic opioids, its unique pharmacokinetic properties make it a preferred alternate analgesic. These properties included fast onset, an ultra-short context-sensitive half-life, and rapid redistribution and elimination by the fetus. Remifentanil is known, however, to cause maternal respiratory depression when used for labor analgesia. This leads to maternal oxygen desaturation in a significant proportion of women, although it is generally short-lived. Rarely respiratory arrest has been reported. It is thus strongly recommended that when administering remifentanil PCA, maternal respiratory rate and oxygen saturation be continuously monitored.
The Nursing Dean Role: An Integrative Review
Authors: Bouws Melissa
Published: February 2018

AIM

The aim of this integrative review was to appraise research on the uniqueness of the nursing dean role.

BACKGROUND

Deans of nursing are challenged with multiple expectations of their role, which is unlike that of other deans in academia. Investigation is needed to understand what is entailed in being a dean of nursing.

METHOD

This integrative review explores the role of the nurse dean utilizing a model described by Whittemore and Knafl. Their strategy uses a five-step process of problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data analysis, and presentation.

RESULTS

Nursing deans are expected to excel in areas of education, the health care system, and relationships with the community stakeholders while navigating challenges of limited funding and a nationwide faculty shortage.

CONCLUSION

This integrative literature review was an initial step toward the collective understanding of the nursing dean role.
Does Aerobic Respiration Produce Carbon Dioxide or Hydrogen Ion and Bicarbonate?
Authors: Swenson Erik R.
Published: February 2018

Maintenance of intracellular pH is critical for clinical homeostasis. The metabolism of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids yielding the generation of adenosine triphosphate in the mitochondria is accompanied by the production of acid in the Krebs cycle. Both the nature of this acidosis and the mechanism of its disposal have been argued by two investigators with a long-abiding interest in acid–base physiology. They offer different interpretations and views of the molecular mechanism of this intracellular pH regulation during normal metabolism. Dr. John Severinghaus has posited that hydrogen ion and bicarbonate are the direct end products in the Krebs cycle. In the late 1960s, he showed in brain and brain homogenate experiments that acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, reduces intracellular pH. This led him to conclude that hydrogen ion and bicarbonate are the end products, and the role of intracellular carbonic anhydrase is to rapidly generate diffusible carbon dioxide to minimize acidosis. Dr. Erik Swenson posits that carbon dioxide is a direct end product in the Krebs cycle, a more widely accepted view, and that acetazolamide prevents rapid intracellular bicarbonate formation, which can then codiffuse with carbon dioxide to the cell surface and there be reconverted for exit from the cell. Loss of this “facilitated diffusion of carbon dioxide” leads to intracellular acidosis as the still appreciable uncatalyzed rate of carbon dioxide hydration generates more protons. This review summarizes the available evidence and determines that resolution of this question will require more sophisticated measurements of intracellular pH with faster temporal resolution.
Adolescent Internet Use, Social Integration, and Depressive Symptoms: Analysis from a Longitudinal Cohort Survey
Authors: Strong Carol , Lee Chih-Ting , Chao Lo-Hsin , Lin Chung-Ying , Tsai Meng-Che
Published: February 2018

Objective:

To examine the association between adolescent leisure-time Internet use and social integration in the school context and how this association affects later depressive symptoms among adolescents in Taiwan, using a large nationwide cohort study and the latent growth model (LGM) method.

Methods:

Data of 3795 students followed from the year 2001 to 2006 in the Taiwan Education Panel Survey were analyzed. Leisure-time Internet use was defined by the hours per week spent on (1) online chatting and (2) online games. School social integration and depressive symptoms were self-reported. We first used an unconditional LGM to estimate the baseline (intercept) and growth (slope) of Internet use. Next, another LGM conditioned with school social integration and depression was conducted.

Results:

Approximately 10% of the participants reported engaging in online chatting and/or gaming for more than 20 hours per week. Internet use for online chatting showed an increase over time. School social integration was associated with the baseline amount (coefficient = −0.62, p < 0.001) but not the growth of leisure-time Internet use. The trend of Internet use was positively related to depressive symptoms (coefficient = 0.31, p < 0.05) at Wave 4.

Conclusion:

School social integration was initially associated with decreased leisure-time Internet use among adolescents. The growth of Internet use with time was not explainable by school social integration but had adverse impacts on depression. Reinforcing adolescents' bonding to school may prevent initial leisure-time Internet use. When advising on adolescent Internet use, health care providers should consider their patients' social networks and mental well-being.
Factors That Influence Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Attitudes of Pediatric Nurses in Korea
Authors: Lee In Sook , Kim Kyoung Ja
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

This study aimed to identify knowledge of child abuse, awareness of child abuse reporting, factors that influence attitudes toward mandatory reporting, and professionalism among a sample of pediatric nurses in Korea.

Methods:

One hundred sixteen pediatric nurses working at two university hospitals in Korea took part in the study and completed self-administered questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t tests, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical regression analysis.

Results:

Knowledge of child abuse, awareness of child abuse reporting, and attitudes toward mandatory reporting were low. Regarding nursing professionalism, social perceptions had the lowest mean score and nursing autonomy had the highest mean score. Attitudes toward mandatory reporting significantly correlated with professionalism. In the hierarchical regression model, the influences of nursing autonomy and intentions to report child abuse on attitudes toward mandatory reporting were statistically significant (F = 2.176, p = .013), explaining 32% of the variation in attitudes toward mandatory reporting.

Conclusion:

The results of this study could be used to improve systems and policies addressing child abuse and to further develop reporting procedures for identifying children at risk of abuse, to ensure their protection as a professional responsibility.
Nasal Bridling of Nasoenteric Feeding Tubes
Authors: Kang Kristin A. , Elger Breanna M. , Medina Melissa G. , DiSomma Nerina M. , Esparaz Joseph R. , Aprahamian Charles J. , Pearl Richard H.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

A trend of dislodged nasogastric tubes was noted in children at a high risk for loss of enteral feeding access. There is known morbidity associated with early nasogastric tube dislodgement. Despite nursing and family education regarding the importance of these surgically placed tubes, the optimal method of securing nasogastric tubes is undetermined.

Methods

A nasal bridling program was implemented from February 2015 to February 2017 for pediatric surgical patients less than 1 year old requiring nasoenteric feeding tubes. The pediatric surgical service oversaw education and implementation of the program. Retrospective data collection was performed. Variables included weight and age at the time of tube placement, indications, method of placement, bridle duration, associated complications, unintended dislodgement, and diagnosis outcomes.

Results

Fourteen bridle systems were placed in 12 children with diagnoses including tracheoesophageal fistula, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, congenital heart disease with poor oral skills/feeding, and duodenal atresia and stenosis for 444 patient days. The average duration of bridling was 31.7 days per patient. Of the 14 bridles placed, only one unintended tube removal occurred.

Discussion

Bridling of nasoenteric feeding tubes is a safe and effective method for preventing unintended tube dislodgement, leading to improved patient care in the pediatric surgical population less than 1 year old. On the basis of our institution's results, ongoing continuing education for use and care of nasoenteric feeding tubes is recommended for the pediatric surgical population.
Use of Pocket-Sized Ultrasound Device in the Diagnosis of Shoulder Pathology
Authors: Lau Brian C. , Motamedi Daria , Luke Anthony
Published: February 2018

Objective:

Musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging is increasingly being used for static and dynamic imaging of tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones. New, hand-held, pocket-sized ultrasounds are more portable and affordable. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of pocket-sized ultrasound to diagnose shoulder pathology.

Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Setting:

Tertiary Care Hospital.

Methods:

Ten consecutive patients (mean age 54; range 42-68 years) referred for a shoulder ultrasound for evaluation of shoulder pain were recruited. A diagnostic ultrasound was performed first with a pocket-sized ultrasound machine (VScan; General Electric, Northville, MI) and cine images saved for later review. Next, standard diagnostic ultrasound by a radiology technician specialized in musculoskeletal ultrasound was performed using (LOGIQ; General Electric, Northville, MI) ultrasound. The radiology report from the standard diagnostic ultrasound was used as the gold standard for diagnoses. Two independent evaluators, a musculoskeletal-trained radiologist and a sports-medicine–trained physician with over 8 years of experience with musculoskeletal ultrasound, reviewed the images from the pocket-sized ultrasound.

Results:

Nine of the studies were diagnosed with a pathologic entity during the standard diagnostic ultrasound and 1 was found to be normal. Diagnoses ranged from biceps tendinopathy, calcific tendonitis, and partial-articular–sided rotator cuff tear. Evaluator 1 correctly identified 7/10 diagnoses and evaluator 2 correctly identified 8/10 diagnoses. The evaluators also rated their confidence in diagnosis as 4.2/5 and the image quality as 3.7/4 from the pocket-sized ultrasound.

Discussion:

The findings from this study demonstrate that pocket-sized, hand-held ultrasound machines may be used to identify shoulder pathology.
A Behavioral Physical Activity Intervention to Manage Moderate and Severe Fatigue Among Head and Neck Cancer Patients—Pre-efficacy Study in the National Institutes of Health ORBIT Model
Authors: Wang Hsiao-Lan , McMillan Susan C. , Vijayakumar Nisha , McDonald Sally , Huang Li-Ting , Gwede Clement , Padhya Tapan , Russell Jeffery , Vondruska Karen , Buck Harleah G. , Huang Yangxin , Visovsky Connie
Published: February 2018

Background

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) reduces head and neck cancer (HNC) survival rates and is the most common, severe, and distressing symptom negatively impacting activities of daily living (ADLs) dependence among HNC patients. These patients remain physically inactive after their cancer treatment, although there is consensus that physical activity mitigates CRF in cancer patients.

Objective

A home-based personalized behavioral
p
hysical
a
ctivity intervention with
fit
ness graded
m
otion
e
xergames (PAfitME) was evaluated for its intervention components, intervention delivery mode, and intervention contact time/duration with initial assessment of the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and outcomes.

Methods

This study (N = 8) was a single-group, pre-post design to evaluate a 6-week PAfitME at the end of HNC treatment. Health outcomes were CRF, ADL dependence, and fitness performance. Behavioral outcomes were exergame adherence.

Results

Positive health and behavioral outcomes support the PAfitME protocol including intervention components, intervention delivery mode, and intervention contact times/duration. The PAfitME intervention is feasible and acceptable with promising adherence rates. No adverse events were reported. There was marked improvement in CRF, ADL dependence, cardiorespiratory fitness, balance, muscle strength, and shoulder forward flexion, with large to moderate effect sizes as a result of the PAfitME intervention.

Conclusion

The PAfitME protocol is ready for additional testing in a randomized clinical trial.

Implications for Practice

The PAfitME intervention is a nurse-led nonpharmacological intervention. It can be integrated into home care or telehealth care for HNC patients at the end of their cancer treatment once effectiveness is established.