bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sources and the Legitimate Authority of International Law
Authors: Collins Richard
Published: January 2018

This chapter is concerned with international law’s claim to legitimate authority and the role played by the doctrine of sources in meeting this claim. It argues that the kind of formal assessment of legality inherent in sources doctrine expresses a specific view of the legitimate authority of international law. Here, the chapter tries to defuse two misleading lines of attack: one based on the vagaries of the processes of customary law formation and ascertainment and the other based upon the exhaustiveness of sources doctrine as traditionally conceived. As this chapter shows, both criticisms miss their target by overplaying what is at stake in this view of international law’s legitimate authority. Whilst the chapter therefore defends this ‘doctrinal’ view, it nonetheless shows how a broader theory of the legitimacy of international law will necessarily have to balance content-dependent and content-independent normative evaluation.
Sources and the Subjects of International Law
Authors: de Witte Bruno
Published: January 2018

This chapter observes that the law of international organizations poses challenging questions for the doctrine of sources of international law, which was originally developed for a world in which only States were envisaged as subjects of international law. It addresses some of those questions by focusing on the most ‘advanced’ international organization, the European Union (EU). The chapter is organized in two main parts. The first one emphasizes the separate character of the EU’s system of sources, whereas the second part notes the various ways in which that system continues to rely on the traditional sources of international law, particularly on the treaty instrument. Together, these two parts aim to justify the choice of the words ‘semi-autonomous system of sources’ used in the subtitle of the chapter.
Sources of International Human Rights Law
Authors: Simma Bruno
Published: January 2018

This chapter investigates the structure of the rights and obligations running within human rights treaties as legal instruments designed for the realization of common humanitarian interests. It does so from a legal-positivist point of departure. The chapter first deconstructs the mantra of the so-called ‘objective’ human rights treaty obligations. It then analyses the legal position of the individuals whose rights are consecrated in human rights treaties and identifies these rights as genuine treaty entitlements. This is followed by a concise depiction of the specific legal consequences derived from the characteristics of the treaties, focusing on the hotly debated topic of reservations. The chapter concludes by comparing its views with those expressed in chapter 39 on the topic of sources of international human rights law.
Sources of International Humanitarian Law and International Criminal Law
Authors: Ratner Steven R.
Published: January 2018

This chapter contends that international humanitarian law (IHL) and criminal law (ICL) cast serious doubt on the traditional doctrine and understanding of sources. Article 38 of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Statute inadequately describes key modes for prescribing law in these areas. International courts are particularly important for both areas, perhaps because of their unprincipled approach to the indicia of custom. More fundamentally, IHL and ICL suggest that sources scholarship should see itself not as determining necessary and sufficient methods for the making of law, but rather as a search for relevant inputs that become indicators of law. Under this view, certain processes are more authoritative than others, but all deserve scrutiny. Moreover, a theory of sources must take account of the purpose of understanding sources, which is to promote compliance with rules. IHL and ICL also shed light on the importance of morality and ethics to the law-making process.
4 Governing Law of Sovereign Bonds
Authors: Hayk Kupelyants
Published: January 2018

Chapter 4 examines the law applicable to sovereign domestic bonds in the absence of a choice of law provision. It is commonly believed that the domestic debt is necessarily governed by the law of the sovereign. The chapter challenges that premise by arguing that the law of the creditor should apply instead on the ground that the creditor is the party providing the characteristic performance. The chapter examines the possibility of escaping the governing law in favour of, among others, the law of the sovereign debtor. Lastly, the chapter examines the applicability of mandatory provisions in sovereign debt litigation.
The Concept of Insider Dealing
Authors: Ventoruzzo Marco
Published: January 2018

This chapter turns to the controversial issue of insider dealing. It offers a general background for the analytical discussion of the single provisions of the Market Abuse Regulation, before taking a broad view at the evolution of the phenomenon and the legal discourse surrounding it. To that end, this chapter adopts an historical perspective, and compares and contrasts different regulatory approaches (in the US and Europe, which offer a good template for most existing regulatory models). The economic and ethical basis invoked to support—or criticize—the prohibition of insider trading is then discussed. Finally, this chapter also discusses a few open questions or regulatory challenges that might be relevant in the next few years.
Preventive Geriatrics
Authors: Mehta Ronak , Koroma-Nelson Mariatu , Mackenzie Elizabeth R. , Rakel Birgit
Published: January 2018

The key to longevity among older adults is the incorporation of preventative practices into their daily lives. These includes being up-to-date with recommended preventative screening tests, vaccinations, a balanced nutrition and supplements, physical activities, and limiting exposure or building resiliency to environmental toxins and stress. Another very common major preventable problem in geriatrics is polypharmacy. This chapter in addition to covering in detail common life style based preventative methods covers recommended resources on identifying high-risk medications and drug-drug/drug-herbs/supplements interactions.
Cytomegalovirus
Authors: Schleiss Mark R.
Published: January 2018

Congenital infection with human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common infectious cause of developmental disability in newborns. Congenital CMV is also a leading cause of hearing loss in infants. The overall birth prevalence of congenital CMV is 0.5–1%, varying among different populations. CMV infection may be symptomatic at birth or, more commonly, asymptomatic. Both groups are at risk for sequelae. Antiviral therapy with ganciclovir (or valganciclovir) in infants with symptomatic congenital CMV infection can result in improved neurodevelopmental and hearing outcomes. CMV infections in very low birthweight premature infants, typically acquired via breast milk, can also produce substantial short-term and possibility long-term morbidity. This chapter reviews current concepts regarding the biology of CMV as well as the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcome of congenital and perinatal CMV infections. High-priority areas for future research, including in the arena of newborn screening for congenital CMV, are discussed.
Ebola and Other Filoviruses
Authors: Bebell Lisa M.
Published: January 2018

Congenital and pediatric Ebola virus disease (EVD) and Marburg virus disease (MVD) are severe, even lethal infections. Historically, children have been underrepresented in filovirus disease outbreaks, and evidence-based treatment strategies are lacking. Existing data suggest that case fatalities are highest among children under four years of age, which is partially explained by higher virus concentrations in young children. Prevention and aggressive resuscitation, nutrition, and supportive care are the mainstays of management until filovirus-specific therapies can be developed. Differences in pediatric immune and inflammatory responses may necessitate unique approaches to pediatric vaccination and treatment. There are minimal safety or immunogenicity data in children, a crucial knowledge gap that must be addressed in future trials. Studying pediatric survivors of the 2014–2016 West Africa EVD outbreak will provide much-needed data on long-term outcomes and residual effects of filovirus disease while we await effective filovirus-specific vaccines and therapies.
Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: Kourtis Athena P. , Chandramouli Shruti , Jourdain Gonzague , Bulterys Marc
Published: January 2018

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most common cause of chronic viral hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma in the world. Worldwide, more than 250 million people are chronically infected with HBV, causing nearly 780,000 deaths each year, and mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) accounts for more than one-third of chronic HBV infections. Universal vaccination in neonates is the most effective strategy for eliminating infections worldwide. Maternal antiviral treatment during the antepartum/postpartum period for mothers with high HBV viral loads is effective in preventing HBV MTCT. Full immunization coverage is currently the only way to reach the goal of eradicating HBV infection. Operational research and, in some resource-limited settings, international funding may be essential to bring the vaccine where neonates and infants need it, including remote locations where home births are common. Continued improvements in the coverage and timeliness of HBV vaccination and education of clinicians about its importance are needed.
Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus
Authors: Moriuchi Hiroyuki
Published: January 2018

Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), a human retrovirus that infects an estimated 10–20 million people worldwide, has endemic foci in Japan, West and Central Africa, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Melanesia. Also, it is the etiological agent of a lymphoproliferative malignancy, adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), as well as chronic inflammatory diseases such as HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). HTLV-1 can be transmitted vertically, sexually, or by blood-borne transmission. ATLL occurs in approximately 5% of carriers who are infected during early childhood, and primary prevention is the only strategy likely to reduce this fatal disease. Children born to carrier mothers acquire the virus predominantly from breastfeeding. In endemic areas, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) can be significantly reduced by screening pregnant women for the HTLV-1 antibody, followed by replacing breastfeeding with exclusive formula feeding. Indications for serological screening and recommendations for prevention of perinatal transmission are reviewed in this chapter.
Parvovirus
Authors: Purandare Amol , Jantausch Barbara A.
Published: January 2018

Parvovirus B19 is a common infection in humans that occurs worldwide. Parvovirus B19 is transmitted through exposure to respiratory droplets, blood, and blood products, and through mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) in utero. Intrauterine parvovirus B19 infection is a rare occurrence during pregnancy but can result in significant morbidity and mortality for the fetus, including severe fetal anemia and nonimmune fetal hydrops (NIFH). Intrauterine transfusion can be successful in treating fetal anemia. Neurodevelopmental impairment has been reported in infants with congenital infection who have received intrauterine transfusion (IUT). Future research on the development of antiviral agents for the treatment of parvovirus B19 infection in pregnant women is needed, along with the development of a parvovirus B19 vaccine. Longitudinal studies to evaluate neurodevelopmental outcome of infants with a history of congenital parvovirus B19 infection are needed in order to facilitate the optimal evaluation and management of these infants.
Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Rizzuto Gabrielle A. , Bakardjiev Anna I.
Published: January 2018

Listeria monocytogenes is a intracellular bacterial pathogen that causes serious foodborne illness in humans. Among all infectious diseases caused by gastrointestinal pathogens, listeriosis has the highest mortality rate, likely because of its ability to cross the gastrointestinal barrier and cause sepsis and infection of other organs such as the brain and placenta. Infection of the placenta leads to fetal infection, and otherwise healthy pregnant women have a significantly increased incidence of listeriosis than the general population, likely due to changes in the maternal cell-mediated immune response during pregnancy. Clinical manifestations include miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm labor, and neonatal infection and death. Neonates develop early-onset sepsis or late-onset meningitis. Physicians must evaluate pregnant women and neonates with febrile illnesses for listeriosis, since prompt treatment with antibiotics can cure it. It is important to note that L. monocytogenes is resistant to cephalosporins. Ampicillin is the treatment of choice in patients without penicillin allergy.
The Role of Religious Professionals in Ethical Decision Making in Mental Health
Authors: Kehoe Nancy C.
Published: January 2018

The term religious professional refers to men and women who are recognized by a faith tradition as leaders and teachers within the tradition. In their respective ministries, religious professionals encounter many issues, including ethical dilemmas related to mental health, but their preparation to deal with these issues varies greatly. Ethical guidelines for religious professionals are in most denominations less specific than the ethical guidelines proposed for mental health professionals. Although the guidelines for religious professionals stress the need for competence and ongoing formation, few are very specific in regard to mental health issues. A review of the literature highlights how little attention has been given to this subject. Case studies are presented that illustrate the complexity of the role of the faith leader in ethical dilemmas and suggest the need for more attention to this topic in the formation of religious professionals.
Addiction Psychiatry
Authors: Cook Christopher C. H. , Gilvarry Eilish , Hearn Andrea
Published: January 2018

In addiction psychiatry, spirituality and religion present a set of ethical challenges associated with the various ways in which recovery is linked to particular spiritual and religious programs, such as those offered by the 12-step mutual help groups, related professional rehabilitation programs, and other explicitly religious programs of recovery. In addition, individual patients construct their own narratives of recovery in the light of their personal spiritual/religious beliefs. Potential clashes between the different spiritual/religious perspectives of a recovery program, and patient and professional attitudes need to be managed sensitively and with a patient centered approach The issues arising here are illustrated by way of two case studies.
Psychiatric Education
Authors: Glas Gerrit
Published: January 2018

This chapter addresses the topic of how to teach psychiatric residents to understand and deal with religion and spirituality in an ethically responsible and sensitive way. It focuses on ethical concerns of both trainees (learning the psychiatrist’s role in dealing with patients’ religious/spiritual issues) and educators (finding a proper stance with respect to religious/spiritual issues that emerge in the teaching context). The competence of professionalism as such is addressed, including ethical implications of dealing with patients’ religious/spiritual issues and interference of these issues with one’s own role fulfillment. Being a psychiatrist requires insight into not only the religious/spiritual needs of the patient but also the affective, moral, and spiritual aspects of the professional’s own journey. Sharing the narrative of one’s journey may provide fresh perspectives on how to deal with the tensions and brokenness that are inevitably part of our professional lives.
Aetiology and pathogenesis
Authors: Parkes Joanna E. , Rothwell Simon , Lamb Janine A.
Published: January 2018

The aetiology and pathogenesis of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) is poorly understood; IIM are thought to result from exposure to environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals. Both innate and adaptive immune responses are involved in IIM, and there is increasing evidence that non-inflammatory mechanisms play an important role in disease pathology. Several environmental risk factors, including infectious agents, ultraviolet radiation, cigarette smoking, and exposure to statins, have been implicated. Genetic studies have identified the major histocompatibility complex as the most strongly associated region, while recent large scale genome-wide studies have implicated genes that commonly regulate the adaptive immune response, which overlap with other seropositive autoimmune diseases. Integrating data across these various fields should facilitate refined models of disease pathogenesis.
Muscular dystrophies and other genetic myopathies
Authors: Brady Stefen , Hilton-Jones David
Published: January 2018

Muscular dystrophies are a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous group of progressive muscle diseases. Modern molecular genetic techniques have made it possible to clarify the genetic mutations responsible for most muscular dystrophies. Despite advances in genetics, the importance of the clinical history and physical examination has increased rather than diminished. It is only through correctly identifying the clinical features that the appropriate diagnostic investigations will be performed. Although muscular dystrophies are typically slowly progressive disorders in which muscle atrophy and weakness are the defining characteristics, diagnostic confusion with the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) can occur, and a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy may be considered only after the failure of immunosuppressive treatment for a presumed case of IIM. This chapter reviews the various muscular dystrophies, and discusses how to differentiate between them and the IIM.
Outcome assessment in the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Rider Lisa G. , Miller Frederick W.
Published: January 2018

Due to their rarity, heterogeneity, and multispecialty nature, the myositis syndromes have limited data-driven consensus on appropriate outcome measures. Recently, two international, multispecialty consortia developed new tools and consensus on core set measures of myositis disease activity and damage, as well as response criteria that are now recommended for use as clinical trial endpoints but will also be useful in clinical practice. Magnetic resonance imaging, muscle ultrasound, selected laboratory tests, and immunological biomarkers—including cytokines, chemokines, lymphocyte flow cytometry, and endothelial activation markers—can all be helpful adjuncts to serum muscle enzyme levels in assessing disease activity and damage, but these have not yet been fully validated. Definitions of clinically inactive disease, complete clinical response, and remission have also been proposed but require further validation. These advances should enhance the development of therapies by standardizing our ability to demonstrate their efficacy in treating the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies.
Ireland
Authors: Finn David P. , Fullen Brona M. , McGuire Brian E. , O’Brien Joanne , O’Connor Laserina , Victory Raymond , Wright Shelagh
Published: January 2018

Ireland is a member of the European Pain Federation (EFIC). The national pain society works to support the needs of patients with pain, including those with acute pain, chronic pain, cancer pain, pain in later life, and at the end of life. In this chapter of European Pain Management we describe first the geography and history of the country as it relates to the recent demographics of the population, the prevalence of pain and needs for pain management, the pain workforce and its organization, the system pain specialists work within, and specific issues that have been tackled to improve the delivery of pain care. An example of recent innovation is also described.
Moldova
Authors: Belîi Adrian
Published: January 2018

Moldova is a member of the European Pain Federation (EFIC). The national pain society works to support the needs of patients with pain, including those with acute pain, chronic pain, cancer pain, pain in later life, and at the end of life. In this chapter of European Pain Management we describe first the geography and history of the country as it relates to the recent demographics of the population, the prevalence of pain and needs for pain management, the pain workforce and its organization, the system pain specialists work within, and specific issues that have been tackled to improve the delivery of pain care. An example of recent innovation is also described.
The Netherlands
Authors: Filippini Gertie , Vissers Kris , Reneman Michiel
Published: January 2018

The Netherlands is a member of the European Pain Federation (EFIC). The national pain society works to support the needs of patients with pain, including those with acute pain, chronic pain, cancer pain, pain in later life, and at the end of life. In this chapter of European Pain Management we describe first the geography and history of the country as it relates to the recent demographics of the population, the prevalence of pain and needs for pain management, the pain workforce and its organization, the system pain specialists work within, and specific issues that have been tackled to improve the delivery of pain care. An example of recent innovation is also described.
Specialty pain medicine
Authors: Kopf Andreas
Published: January 2018

There has been persistent growth in the professional pain management specialists, principally in paediatrics, neurology, rehabilitation medicine, as well as anaesthesia. The same growth has been seen in other healthcare professions. In this chapter of European Pain Management we focus on the rise of specialty pain medicine and its implications for education, governance, and professional identity. In many European countries, pain medicine is not an independent specialism, despite the growth in need and the technical and scientific knowledge required. Advances in education and training are also reviewed, and this chapter concludes with a discussion of how to advance the role of pain medicine, and the leadership needed within European countries and across Europe.
Health promotion planning approaches, human behavioural change models, and health promotion theories
Authors: Chan Emily Ying Yang
Published: January 2018

Based on the conceptual building blocks introduced in the previous chapter, this chapter further sketches theoretical approaches and models that can be employed to guide rural health and disaster preparedness education programmes, namely the MAP-IT approach, precede–proceed model, P-Process, Health Belief Model, Transtheoretical (Stages of Change) Model, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Social Cognitive Theory, and complex interventions. These theories and models are intended to conceptualize human thought and behaviour and systematically explain the reasons behind actions such that they can be utilized to set the objectives and content of health intervention projects. Health literacy will also be discussed, with relevant examples for illustrative purposes.
Issues in rural health and key messages for health and disaster risk reduction education programmes
Authors: Chan Emily Ying Yang
Published: January 2018

A healthy community should have a safe and hygienic environment, with access to basic well-being maintaining facilities and services. Key messages for education programmes related to water management, indoor environment, waste management, health promoting behaviour, and disaster health risk reduction are presented in this chapter. It also aims to share some common health communication and education that might be useful to improve bottom-up resilience for health and disaster health risk reduction in rural communities. Examples from the Ethnic Minority Health Project will also be employed to illustrate how bottom-up resilience towards health and disaster risk in these rural communities might be established.
The brain as an organ of the living being
Authors: Fuchs Thomas
Published: January 2018

‘The brain as an organ of the living being’ first presents the brain as the organ of vital regulation, which is connected to the organism through various feedback loops. This constant resonance between brainstem and organism is the basis of a background ‘feeling of being alive’ as the foundation of all conscious experience. Second, the relations of brain, organism, and environment are portrayed by means of the functional cycle of perception and movement. As a consequence of this ecological model, consciousness is regarded as the integral of the functional loops between the organism and the environment. In a third step, the development of capacities is traced back to neuroplasticity and implicit memory. This serves as a basis for the investigation into the higher cognitive functions of the brain, in particular, gestalt perception. The focus lies on the principle of resonance between activated neuronal patterns and configurations of stimuli in the environment.
Prevalence of hormone therapy, factors associated with its use, and knowledge about menopause: a population-based household survey
Authors: Pacello Poliana , Baccaro Luiz F. , Pedro Adriana O. , Costa-Paiva Lucia
Published: January 2018

Objective:

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of hormone therapy (HT), the factors associated with its use, and the importance of knowledge about menopause and HT.

Methods:

A cross-sectional population-based study with 749 Brazilian women aged 45 to 60 years living in the Campinas Metropolitan Region was carried out between September 2012 and June 2013. The dependent variable was current or previous HT use. The independent variables were sociodemographic data, health-related problems, and knowledge about menopause assessed using a score that was obtained with a questionnaire on various aspects of menopause.

Results:

The mean age of the women was 52.5 (±4.4) years. With regard to the menopause status, 16% were premenopausal, 16% were perimenopausal, and 68% were postmenopausal. Among all the women included, 19.5% reported current or previous HT use. In multiple regression analysis, being postmenopausal (prevalence ratio [PR] 2.76; 95% CI, 1.74-4.38), receiving information about menopause from physicians and health service workers (PR 2.73; 95% CI, 1.91-3.89), having bilateral oophorectomy (PR 2.18; 95% CI, 1.49-3.17), experiencing work interruption due to hot flashes (PR 1.44; 95% CI, 1.03-2.01), and having extensive knowledge about menopause (PR 1.12; 95% CI, 1.05-1.19) were associated with a higher prevalence of HT use.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of HT use was 19.5%. Menopause status, information source, surgical menopause, work interruption due to hot flashes, and knowledge about menopause were associated with HT use. Education promoted by healthcare systems can increase HT use in women who have indications for treatment.
Effects of oral conjugated equine estrogens with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate on incident hypertension in the Women's Health Initiative hormone therapy trials
Authors: Swica Yael , Warren Michelle P. , Manson JoAnn E. , Aragaki Aaron K. , Bassuk Shari S. , Shimbo Daichi , Kaunitz Andrew , Rossouw Jacques , Stefanick Marcia L. , Womack Catherine R.
Published: January 2018

Objective:

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of menopausal hormone therapy on incident hypertension in the two Women's Health Initiative hormone therapy trials and in extended postintervention follow-up.

Methods:

A total of 27,347 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79 years were enrolled at 40 US centers. This analysis includes the subsample of 18,015 women who did not report hypertension at baseline and were not taking antihypertensive medication. Women with an intact uterus received conjugated equine estrogens (CEE; 0.625 mg/d) plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA; 2.5 mg/d) (n = 5,994) or placebo (n = 5,679). Women with prior hysterectomy received CEE alone (0.625 mg/d) (n = 3,108) or placebo (n = 3,234). The intervention lasted a median of 5.6 years in the CEE plus MPA trial and 7.2 years in the CEE-alone trial with 13 years of cumulative follow-up until September 30, 2010. The primary outcome for these analyses was self-report of a new diagnosis of hypertension and/or high blood pressure requiring treatment with medication.

Results:

During the CEE and CEE plus MPA intervention phase, the rate of incident hypertension was 18% higher for intervention than for placebo (CEE: hazard ratio [HR], 1.18; 95% CI, 1.09-1.29; CEE plus MPA: HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.09-1.27). This effect dissipated postintervention in both trials (CEE: HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.94-1.20; CEE plus MPA: HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.94-1.10).

Conclusions:

CEE (0.625 mg/d) administered orally, with or without MPA, is associated with an increased risk of hypertension in older postmenopausal women. Whether lower doses, different estrogen formulations, or transdermal route of administration offer lower risks warrant further study.
Sometimes “Improvement” is Not Enough: The Jimmo Settlement
Authors: Powell Suzanne K.
Published: January 2018

The Jimmo Settlement is about the erroneous, but pervasively used, “improvement standard” of the past 30 years. In essence, Medicare beneficiaries were being denied skilled services if they did not have the capacity to improve, or more clinically described as “lack of restoration potential.” The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has a webpage clarifying this misconception and about the Jimmo Settlement; it contains links that shed light on this issue. The link, https://www.cms.gov/Center/Special-Topic/Jimmo-Center.html, is the official CMS webpage about the Jimmo Settlement and has information for the case manager to peruse.
Effect of a Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Noise in a Pediatric Unit
Authors: Soubra Maher , Harb Yara Abou , Hatoum Sara , Yazbeck Nadine , Khoury Mirna , Mansour Elie Bou , Badr Lina Kurdahi
Published: January 2018

Purpose:

Noise levels remain high in clinical settings, which may result in stress and sleep disruption, and can lead to immunosuppression, delayed healing, confusion, disorientation, delusions, and increased length of hospital stay. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to assess effects of a multidisciplinary noise reduction program on a pediatric unit in an acute care hospital in a developing country.

Methods:

A quality improvement project was carried out over 15 months in a pediatric unit. A three-phase study was conducted where the first phase included obtaining patient satisfaction ratings and recording sound levels, the second phase included implementing a noise reduction program and designing a noise detector machine, and the third phase included obtaining patient satisfaction data and recording noise levels over a 1-year period.

Results:

There was a significant decrease in noise of 8 A-weighted decibels when comparing the values before and after implementing the quality improvement project at t = 6.44, p < 0.000. There was no significant difference in patient satisfaction ratings.

Clinical Implications:

Noise in the pediatric unit exceeded recommended guidelines; however, decreasing the levels was possible and sustainable, which can improve the psychological and physiological wellbeing of hospitalized children.
CoNekT: an open-source framework for comparative genomic and transcriptomic network analyses
Authors: Proost Sebastian , Mutwil Marek
Published: January 2018

The recent accumulation of gene expression data in the form of RNA sequencing creates unprecedented opportunities to study gene regulation and function. Furthermore, comparative analysis of the expression data from multiple species can elucidate which functional gene modules are conserved across species, allowing the study of the evolution of these modules. However, performing such comparative analyses on raw data is not feasible for many biologists. Here, we present CoNekT (Co-expression Network Toolkit), an open source, user-friendly web server, that contains user-friendly tools and interactive visualizations for comparative analyses of gene expression data and co-expression networks. These tools allow analysis and cross-species comparison of (i) gene expression profiles; (ii) co-expression networks; (iii) co-expressed clusters involved in specific biological processes; (iv) tissue-specific gene expression; and (v) expression profiles of gene families. To demonstrate these features, we constructed CoNekT-Plants for green alga, seed plants and flowering plants (Picea abies, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii,Vitis vinifera,Arabidopsis thaliana,Oryza sativa,Zea maysandSolanum lycopersicum) and thus provide a web-tool with the broadest available collection of plant phyla. CoNekT-Plants is freely available fromhttp://conekt.plant.tools, while the CoNekT source code and documentation can be found athttps://github.molgen.mpg.de/proost/CoNekT/.
Single-molecule dynamics and genome-wide transcriptomics reveal that NF-κB (p65)-DNA binding times can be decoupled from transcriptional activation
Authors: Callegari Andrea , Sieben Christian , Benke Alexander , Suter David M. , Fierz Beat , Mazza Davide , Manley Suliana
Published: January 2018

Transcription factors (TFs) regulate gene expression in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes by recognizing and binding to specific DNA promoter sequences. In higher eukaryotes, it remains unclear how the duration of TF binding to DNA relates to downstream transcriptional output. Here, we address this question for the transcriptional activator NF-κB (p65), by live-cell single molecule imaging of TF-DNA binding kinetics and genome-wide quantification of p65-mediated transcription. We used mutants of p65, perturbing either the DNA binding domain (DBD) or the protein-protein transactivation domain (TAD). We found that p65-DNA binding time was predominantly determined by its DBD and directly correlated with its transcriptional output as long as the TAD is intact. Surprisingly, mutation or deletion of the TAD did not modify p65-DNA binding stability, suggesting that the p65 TAD generally contributes neither to the assembly of an “enhanceosome,” nor to the active removal of p65 from putative specific binding sites. However, TAD removal did reduce p65-mediated transcriptional activation, indicating that protein-protein interactions act to translate the long-lived p65-DNA binding into productive transcription.

Author Summary

To control transcription of a certain gene or a group of genes, both eukaryotes and prokaryotes express specialized proteins, transcription factors (TFs). During gene activation, TFs bind gene promotor sequences to recruit the transcriptional machinery including DNA polymerase II. TFs are often multi-subunit proteins containing a DNA-binding domain (DBD) as well as a protein-protein interaction interface. It was suggested that the duration of a TF-DNA binding event 1) depends on these two subunits and 2) dictates the outcome, i.e. the amount of mRNA produced from an activated gene. We set out to address these hypotheses using the transcriptional activator NF-κB (p65) as well as a number of mutants affecting different functional subunits. Using a combination of live-cell microscopy and RNA sequencing, we show that p65 DNA-binding time indeed correlates with the transcriptional output, but that this relationship depends on, and hence can be uncoupled by altering, the protein-protein interaction capacity. Our results suggest that, while p65 DNA binding times are dominated by the DBD, a transcriptional output can only be achieved with a functional protein-protein interaction subunit.
Crystal structure of a new molecular salt: 4-aminobenzenaminium 5-carboxypentanoate
Authors: Mishra Risha , Rangan Krishnan , Pallepogu Raghavaiah
Published: January 2018

The asymmetric unit of the title molecular salt (systematic name: 4-aminoanilinium 5-carboxypentanoate), C6H9N2
+·C6H9O4
−, consists of half a 4-aminobenzenaminium cation (4-ABA) and half a 5-carboxypentanoate anion (5-CP); the other half of each ion is generated by inversion symmetry. Protonation of p-phenylenediamine (PPDA) leads to the formation of a 1:1 salt, but scrutiny of the crystal structure reveals that both of the amine groups of PPDA are partially protonated, with a half-occupied H atom. For the 5-CP anion, an H atom is positioned on an inversion center midway between two O atoms of inversion-related 5-CP ions. In the crystal, the 5-CP anions are linked by the O—H...O hydrogen bond to form chains propagating along the [1-10] direction. The chains are linked via N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds involving the 4-ABA cations, forming a three-dimensional supramolecular framework. The title salt was also prepared by mechanochemical synthesis using liquid-assisted grinding (LAG). Its PXRD pattern matches that of the simulated pattern of the crystal structure of the title molecular salt.
Synthesis, X-ray diffraction and Hirshfeld surface analysis of two new hybrid dihydrate compounds: (C6H22N4)[SnCl6]Cl2·2H2O and (C8H24N4)[SnCl6]Cl2·2H2O
Authors: Bouchene Rafika , Lecheheb Zohir , Belhouas Ratiba , Bouacida Sofiane
Published: January 2018

Two new organic–inorganic hybrid compounds, triethylenetetraammonium hexachloridostannate (IV) dichloride dihydrate, (C6H22N4)[SnCl6]Cl2·2H2O, (I), and 1,4-bis(2-ammonioethyl)piperazin-1,4-diium hexachloridostannate (IV) dichloride dihydrate, (C8H24N4)[SnCl6]Cl2·2H2O, (II), have been synthesized from the same starting materials. In each case both the cations and anions are located about inversion centers. Their crystal structures exhibits alternating inorganic and organic stacking sheets in (I) and layers in (II), with Cl− ions and water molecules occupying the space in between. The cohesion of the three-dimensional frameworks are governed by N—H...Cl, N—H...O, C—H...Cl and O—H...Cl hydrogen bonds. Hirshfeld surface analysis of both crystal structures indicates that the H...Cl/Cl...H contacts exert an important influence on the stabilization of the packing.
Structure of triaquatris(1,1,1-trifluoro-4-oxopentan-2-olato)cerium(III) as a possible fluorescent compound
Authors: Koizumi Atsuya , Hasegawa Takuya , Itadani Atsushi , Toda Kenji , Zhu Taoyun , Sato Mineo
Published: January 2018

Luminescence due to the d–f transition of Ce3+ is quite rare in metal–organic complexes where concentrate quenching frequently occurs. One of the possible ways to avoid this is to design an architecture with elongated metal–metal distances. In the structure of the title complex, triaquatris(1,1,1-trifluoro-4-oxopentan-2-olato-κ2
O,O′)cerium(III), [Ce(C5H4F3O2)3(H2O)3], the CeIII complex is linked to neighbouring ones by hydrogen bonding. Within the complex, the CeIII atom is coordinated by nine O atoms from three 1,1,1-trifluoro-4-oxopentan-2-olate (tfa) anions as bidentate ligands and three water molecules as monodentate ligands. Thus, the coordination number of CeIII atom is nine in a monocapped square–antiprismatic polyhedron. The F atoms of all three independent CF3 groups in tfa are disordered over two positions with occupancy ratios of about 0.8:0.2. The intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the ligands involve tfa–water interactions along the [110] and [1-10] directions, generating an overall two-dimensional layered network structure. The presence of the F atoms in the tfa anion is responsible for an increased intermolecular metal–metal distance compared to that in the analogous acetylacetonate (acac) derivatives. Fluorescence from Ce3+ is, however, not observed.
[4-tert-Butyl-2,6-bis(diphenylmethyl)phenolato-κO]diethyl(tetrahydrofuran-κO)aluminium
Authors: Minyaev Mikhail E. , Nifant'ev Ilya E. , Churakov Andrei V. , Shlyahtin Andrei V.
Published: January 2018

The title compound, {Al[O-2,6-(Ph2CH)2-4-
t
BuC6H2]Et2(THF)} or [Al(C2H5)2(C36H33O)(C4H8O)], was formed in the reaction between 4-tert-butyl-2,6-bis(diphenylmethyl)phenol and triethylaluminum in the presence of THF (THF is tetrahydrofuran) and recrystallized from hexane. The structure has monoclinic (P21/n) symmetry with a single Al atom in the asymmetric unit. The terminal C atom of one ethyl substituent is nearly equally disordered over two positions. The complex possesses catalytic activity in the ring-opening polymerization of ∊-caprolactone.
The face of contagion: consumer response to service failure depiction in online reviews
Authors: Fox Alexa K. , Deitz George D. , Royne Marla B. , Fox Joseph D.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Online consumer reviews (OCRs) have emerged as a particularly important type of user-generated information about a brand because of their widespread adoption and influence on consumer decision-making. Much of the existing OCR research focuses on quantifiable OCR features such as star ratings and volume. More research that examines the influence of review elements, aside from numeric ratings, such as the verbatim text, particularly in services contexts is needed. The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of service failures on consumer arousal and emotions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present three behavioral experiments that manipulate service failure and linguistic elements of OCRs by using galvanic skin response, survey measures and automated facial expression analysis.

Findings

Negative OCRs lead to the greatest levels of arousal when consumers read OCRs. Service failure severity impacts anger, and referential cohesion, an observable property of text that helps a reader better understand ideas in the text, negatively moderates the relationship between service failure severity and anger.

Originality/value

The authors are among the first to empirically test the effect of emotional contagion in a user-generated content context, demonstrating that it can occur when consumers read such content, even if they did not experience the events being described. The research uses a self-report and physiological measures to assess consumer perceptions, arousal and emotions related to service failures, increasing the robustness of the literature. These findings contribute to the marketing literature on OCRs in service failures, physiological measures of consumers’ emotions, the negativity bias and emotional contagion in a user-generated content context.
Does e-HRM improve labour productivity? A study of commercial bank workplaces in Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Naveed , Ahmad Mansoor , M.C. Allen Matthew , Raziq Muhammad Mustafa
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Drawing on data from a unique, large-scale survey, the purpose of this paper is to examine the links between e-HRM and perceived labour productivity both directly and through the mediating role of HR service quality amongst commercial-bank workplaces in Pakistan, many of which have introduced e-HRM.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use partial least squares structural equation modelling to examine the direct links between e-HRM and productivity as well as the mediated links between e-HRM, perceived HR service quality and productivity.

Findings

The authors show that e-HRM practices have a statistically significant, positive effect on managers’ perceptions of labour productivity. The authors also reveal that e-HRM practices influence the quality of HR service, and that the quality of HR services fully mediates the relationship between e-HRM practices and managers’ perceptions of labour productivity.

Practical implications

The results highlight the importance of designing and implementing e-HRM systems so that they support organisation workflow and enable workers to carry out a range of HR and non-HR activities more efficiently. In particular, this study suggests that managers should focus on how e-HRM impacts on HR service quality in a holistic way, as this is the “route” via which e-HRM can improve labour productivity.

Originality/value

Existing research has demonstrated a link between e-HRM and the quality of HR services; however, these studies downplay the potential impact of e-HRM on labour productivity, a key organisational outcome and one that e-HRM aims to improve. This study contributes to the HRM literature by identifying how e-HRM can improve labour productivity by enhancing the perceived HR service quality. This study, therefore, provides the basis for future theory developments in this area.
High-involvement innovation: views from frontline service workers and managers
Authors: Smith Marisa Kay
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the experience of call centre employees who have been involved in high-involvement innovation (HII) activities to understand what frontline and managerial employees think of these involvement activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study approach is utilised, drawing on evidence from seven UK call centres. Various sources of data are examined, i.e. interviews, observation, call listening and documentary.

Findings

From the analysis of the testimonies, it is found that job design, the mechanisms and practices as well as other people’s perceptions of involvement influence the experience of frontline and managerial employees. The findings highlight that HII has the potential to intensify jobs (both frontline and managerial employees) when the quantity of ideas submitted becomes a component of the employee performance appraisal system.

Research limitations/implications

This research has shown that the heightened targets used in many of the cases have reduced the ability of employees to be involved in any innovation activities. What is not clear from the findings is that if performance measures can be used in a more participative way with employees so that they can have less time pressure allowing them to become more involved in innovation activities. Thus, an interesting direction for future research would be to consider the effects of performance measurement systems in the role they play in facilitating HII activities.

Practical implications

The findings show that HII has the potential to enrich frontline employees’ jobs, making them feel more valued and giving them some variety and challenge in their job. Therefore, practitioners should approach employee involvement in the innovation process as something potentially fruitful and not just wasted time away from the phones.

Originality/value

This research is important as it explores what effects these involvement initiatives have on the employees and managers involved in them. This is valuable since there is no real consensus across human resource management, labour process and critical management fields resulting in a limited conceptualisation of the relationship between management practices, employee experiences and the outcomes. This research makes a contribution through the elaboration of current theory to understand the complexities and subtleties that exist between the high involvement management practices and the experience of workers and their managers.