bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
‘One‐Man Handled’: Fragmented Power and Political Entrepreneurship in Globalizing Mumbai
Authors: Weinstein Liza 
Published: December 2013

AbstractThis article considers the fractured nature of state power in contemporary Mumbai. Based on a case study of the ongoing Dharavi Redevelopment Project, a 2‐billion US dollar initiative to redevelop Mumbai's most infamous ‘slum’ settlement as a mixed‐use, mixed‐income township, it details the new state strategies emerging to support urban development efforts in India today. Identifying the structural weaknesses that have traditionally hindered development planning in Mumbai, it describes how a private developer, acting as a political entrepreneur, has worked to consolidate the authority and resources necessary to overcome these institutional gaps and structural weaknesses. Situating the analysis in theories of state restructuring, this case sheds light on how the local Indian state is responding to the pressures associated with neoliberal globalization and competitive urbanism. While a growing literature in this area has offered important insights into emerging configurations of power, it remains overly focused on the role of NGOs in these efforts, failing to provide an adequate analysis of alliances between the state and other private actors. This article attempts to address this gap with an in‐depth examination of the political entrepreneur as a site of institutionalized, but ultimately incomplete, power in globalizing Mumbai.
Rapid determination of vertebral fat fraction over a large range of vertebral bodies
Authors: Martin Jarad , Nicholson Geoffrey , Cowin Gary , Ilente Clare , Wong Winnie , Kennedy Dominic 
Published: December 2013

AbstractIntroductionVertebral body fat fraction (FF) has been found to vary between lumbar vertebrae using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). We aim to more quickly assess a larger number of adjacent vertebrae using a single T2‐weighted iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least‐squares estimation (IDEAL) sequence.MethodsFive men had dual‐energy X‐ray absorptometry (DEXA) and 1.5‐T MR scans performed. MRS was performed at L3, and a sagittal IDEAL sequence was also performed, resulting in separate fat‐only and water‐only readings from T10 to S2. For the IDEAL measurements, two independent observers followed a set reading protocol, with five observations each per vertebra. Intra‐ and interobserver variability were assessed as deviations from the mean within and between observers, respectively.ResultsFor FF measurements there was limited intra‐observer variation, with observers being on average within 3.4% of the pooled mean value. Similarly, there was good interobserver agreement, with an average variation of 2.1%. All men showed a reduction in FF of 1.6–7% between L5 and S1. Otherwise, there was a trend of increasing FF moving inferiorly from T10 to S2. This averaged 2.7% per vertebra (range 1.1–3.8%) and may not have been dependent on MRS‐measured FF at the L3 level. There was poor correlation between MRS‐measured FF at L2–4 and bone mineral density measured using DEXA (R2 = 0.06).ConclusionIDEAL measurements are generally reproducible between observers following a set protocol. There appears to be a gradient in FF moving from T10 to S2, with S1 showing a consistent decrease. This variation may better describe overall marrow function than a single‐vertebra reading.
Increased bioavailability of hydrocortisone dissolved in a cream base
Authors: Greive Kerryn A , Barnes Tanya M 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackground/ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare vasoconstrictor activity and, by inference, the clinical anti‐inflammatory effectiveness of hydrocortisone in two different formulations: 1% dissolved hydrocortisone cream and 1% dispersed hydrocortisone cream. Moisturising capacity and safety were also determined.MethodsBoth topical preparations were applied without occlusion on forearms twice daily for 5 days. An assessment of vasoconstriction was performed in a double‐blinded manner pretreatment and then thrice daily for 6 days and once 7 days post‐application, using an objective rating scale. For the dissolved preparation only, moisturising capacity was determined by measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 24 h, and also by the measurement of water content at 0 and 24 h. Safety was assessed by repeat insult patch tests (RIPT).ResultsIn all, 10 volunteers completed the vasoconstrictor and moisturising studies, while 52 completed the RIPT. For 1% dissolved hydrocortisone cream and 1% dispersed hydrocortisone cream, respectively, areas under the blanching curves were 1240 and 295; total scores were 129.0 and 31.5; summed % total possible scores were 161.3 and 39.4; Tm/10 mean values were 3.47 and 1.64. The 1% dissolved hydrocortisone cream was found to be statistically more potent than the 1% dispersed hydrocortisone cream. Furthermore, the 1% dissolved hydrocortisone cream was found to be moisturising compared to no treatment. No adverse events were observed.ConclusionsA cream containing 1% dissolved hydrocortisone exhibits greater vasoconstrictor activity than a cream containing 1% dispersed hydrocortisone.
Defining incidental perineural invasion: the need for a national registry
Authors: Buchanan Lauren , De'Ambrosis Brian , DeAmbrosis Kathryn , Warren Timothy , Huilgol Shyamala , Soyer H Peter , Panizza Benedict 
Published: December 2013

AbstractThis article by the Perineural Invasion (PNI) Registry Group aims to clarify clinical and histopathological ambiguities surrounding PNI in non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). PNI is reportedly present in approximately 2–6% of cases of NMSC and is associated with greater rates of morbidity and mortality. The distinction between clinical PNI and incidental PNI is somewhat unclear, especially in regard to management and prognosis. One important objective of the PNI Registry is to develop a standardised method of classifying perineural invasion. Hence, in this article we propose a definition for PNI and for its sub‐classification. This article also provides a critical analysis of the current literature on the treatment of incidental PNI by evaluating the key cohort studies that have investigated the use of surgery or radiotherapy in the management of incidental PNI. At present, there are no universal clinical guidelines that specify the acceptable treatment of NMSC exhibiting incidental PNI. Consequently, patients often receive surgery with varying wider margins, or radiotherapy despite the limited evidence substantiating such management options. It is evident from the existing literature that current opinion is divided over the benefit of adjuvant radiotherapy. Certain prognostic factors have been proposed, such as the size and depth of tumour invasion, nerve diameter, the presence of multifocal PNI and the type of tumour. The PNI Registry is a web‐based registry that has been developed to assist in attaining further data pertaining to incidental PNI in NMSC. It is envisaged that this information will provide the foundation for identifying and defining best practice in managing incidental PNI.
Predictors of successful external cephalic version in an Australian maternity hospital
Authors: Mowat Alex , Gardener Glenn 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundThere are minimal data involving predictors of success of external cephalic version (ECV) in an Australian healthcare setting.AimsTo determine the predictors of successful ECV as well as the success rate of ECV and the mode of, and presentation at, delivery for women undergoing ECV for breech presentation from 36‐weeks gestation.MethodsA prospective review was carried out on all women who had undergone ECV from 36‐weeks gestation at the Mater Mothers Hospital over an 8‐year period from 2001 to 2008. Data were collected prospectively and were collated in conjunction with database review, chart review and telephonic patient interviews.ResultsA total of 355 women underwent ECV for breech presentation. The overall success rate was 66% (57% for nulliparous, 76% for multiparous). A woman who underwent ECV had a 46% chance of a vaginal birth. If the ECV was successful, she had a 70% chance of vaginal birth. From bivariate analysis, parity, amniotic fluid index (AFI) and estimated fetal weight (EFW) were determined to be possible predictors of success of ECV and were included in the logistic regression modelling. In the regression analysis, multiparity increased the odds of successful ECV by 2.18. For every one unit increase in AFI, the odds of successful ECV increased by 1.18.ConclusionsMultiparity and amniotic fluid volume as assessed by AFI were the significant predictors of immediate success of ECV. Conversely, lower AFI and nulliparity are factors that are likely to reduce the likelihood of successful ECV.
Health and well‐being of urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women at their first antenatal visit: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Maher Clare M. , Spurling‬ Geoffrey K. P. , Askew Deborah A. 
Published: December 2013

The first antenatal visit is a valuable opportunity to influence the health and well‐being of the mother and child during pregnancy, birth and beyond. Our primary‐care‐based cross‐sectional study of urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women found that 81% presented for their first antenatal visit within the first 10 weeks. Consequently, there can be up to 30 weeks in which health professionals can provide lifestyle and parenting education and psychosocial support.
NSAID‐induced urticaria/angioedema does not evolve into chronic urticaria: a 12‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Doña I. , Blanca‐López N. , Torres M. J. , Gómez F. , Fernández J. , Zambonino M. A. , Monteseirín F. J. , Canto G. , Blanca M. , Cornejo‐García J. A. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundNonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequent medicaments involved in drug hypersensitivity reactions, with NSAID‐induced urticaria/angioedema (NIUA) being the most frequent clinical entity. The natural evolution of NIUA has been suggested to lead to chronic urticaria (CU) in an important proportion of patients, such that NIUA may therefore precede CU. Our aim was to verify whether these entities are related by following up a large cohort of patients with NIUA as well as a control group over a long period of time.MethodsThe study comprised three groups: (i) patients with a confirmed history of NIUA (more than two episodes with at least two different NSAIDs or positive drug provocation tests), (ii) patients with more than two episodes of urticaria/angioedema to a single NSAID with good tolerance to a strong COX‐1 inhibitor and/or evidence by in vivo tests supporting specific IgE antibodies to the drug (single NSAID‐induced urticaria/angioedema, SNIUA), and (iii) controls who tolerated NSAIDs. All cases in the three groups were followed up over a period of 12 years.ResultsThere were 190 patients with NIUA (64.6% female; mean age 43.71 ± 15.82 years, 110 with SNIUA, and 152 controls. At the 12‐year evaluation, 12 patients with NIUA (6.15%) had developed CU over a 1‐ to 8‐year period. Similar proportions were seen in SNIUA and controls.ConclusionsNonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs‐induced urticaria/angioedema does not seem to precede the onset of CU over the medium term. Further research including a longer follow‐up is necessary to verify this observation.
Th17 cells and tissue remodeling in atopic and contact dermatitis
Authors: Simon D. , Aeberhard C. , Erdemoglu Y. , Simon H.‐U. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundEczematous skin lesions of atopic dermatitis (AD) as well as allergic and irritant contact dermatitis (ACD, ICD) are characterized by the same typical clinical signs, although due to different causes. In both AD and ACD, the presence of T helper 17 cells which play an important role in host defense, has been reported. Furthermore, IL‐17 is involved in tissue repair and remodeling. This study aimed to investigate IL‐17 expression in acute eczematous skin lesions and correlate it with markers of remodeling in AD, ACD, and ICD.MethodsSkin specimens were taken from positive patch test reactions to aeroallergens, contact allergens, and irritants at days 2, 3, and 4. Inflammatory cells as well as the expression of cytokines and extracellular matrix proteins were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy.ResultsAllergic contact dermatitis and ICD were characterized by IFN‐γ expression, whereas in AD lesions, IL‐13 expression and high numbers of eosinophils were the prominent phenotype. Expression of IL‐17, but also IL‐21 and IL‐22, was observed in all eczema subtypes. The number of IL‐22+ T cells correlated with the number of eosinophils. Markers of remodeling such as MMP‐9, procollagen‐3, and tenascin C were observed in all acute eczematous lesions, while a correlation of IL‐17+ T cell numbers with tenascin C‐expressing cells and MMP‐9+ eosinophils was apparent.ConclusionThe expression of IL‐17 and related cytokines, such as IL‐22, was demonstrated in acute eczematous lesions independent of their pathogenesis. Our results suggest a potential role for IL‐17 in remodeling of the skin.
Enhanced Beam‐Steering‐Based Diagonal Beamforming Algorithm for Binaural Hearing Support Devices
Authors: Lee Jun Chang , Nam Kyoung Won , Cho Kyeongwon , Lee Sangmin , Kim Dongwook , Hong Sung Hwa , Jang Dong Pyo , Kim In Young 
Published: December 2013

AbstractIn order to improve speech intelligibility for hearing‐impaired people in various listening situations, it is necessary to diversify the possible focusing directions of a beamformer. In a previous report, the concept of binaural beam‐steering that can focus a beamformer in diagonal directions was applied to a binaural hearing aid; however, in the previously proposed protocol, the effective frequency range for consistent diagonal beam‐steering was limited to the 200–750 Hz range, which is far narrower than that of normal speech signals (200–4000 Hz). In this study, we proposed a modified binaural diagonal beam‐steering technique that can reduce the focusing‐direction deviations at high input frequencies up to 4000 Hz by introducing a new correction factor to the original protocol that can reduce the differences in gradient between the signal and the noise components at frequencies up to 4000 Hz. In simulation tests, the focusing effect of the proposed algorithm was more consistent than conventional algorithms. The deviations between the target and the focusing directions were reduced 27% in the left device and 6% in the right device with 45° steering at a 4000 Hz input signal, and were reduced 3% in the left device and 25% in the right device with 135° steering. On the basis of the experimental results, we believe that the proposed algorithm has the potential to help hearing‐impaired people in various listening situations.
Use of a Novel Diagonal Pump in an In Vitro Neonatal Pulsatile Extracorporeal Life Support Circuit
Authors: Evenson Alissa , Wang Shigang , Kunselman Allen R. , Ündar Akif 
Published: December 2013

AbstractOne approach with the potential to improve morbidity and mortality rates following extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is the use of pulsatile perfusion. Currently, no ECLS pumps used in the United States can produce pulsatile flow. The objective of this experiment is to evaluate a novel diagonal pump used in Europe to determine whether it provides physiological pulsatility in a neonatal model. The ECLS circuit consisted of a Medos Deltastream DP3 diagonal pump, a Hilite 800LT polymethylpentene diffusion membrane oxygenator, and arterial/venous tubing. A 300‐mL pseudopatient was connected to the circuit using an 8Fr arterial cannula and a 10Fr venous cannula. A clamp maintained constant pressure entering the pseudopatient. Trials (64 total) were conducted in nonpulsatile and pulsatile modes at flow rates of 200 mL/min to 800 mL/min. Flow and pressure data were collected using a custom‐based data acquisition system. The Deltastream DP3 pump was capable of producing an adequate quality of pulsatility. Pulsatile flow produced increased mean arterial pressure, energy equivalent pressure (EEP), and surplus hemodynamic energy (SHE) at all flow rates compared to nonpulsatile flow. Pressure drop across the cannula accounted for the majority of pressure loss in the circuit. The greatest loss of SHE and total hemodynamic energy occurred across the arterial cannula due to its small diameter. The Deltastream DP3 pump produced physiological pulsatile flow without backflow while providing EEP and SHE to our neonatal pseudopatient. Further experiments are necessary to determine the impact of this pulsatile pump in an in vivo model prior to clinical use.
Long‐term results, prognostic factors and cataract surgery after diabetic vitrectomy: a 10‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Ostri Christoffer , Lux Anja , Lund‐Andersen Henrik , la Cour Morten 
Published: December 2013

AbstractPurposeTo report long‐term results, prognostic factors and cataract surgery after diabetic vitrectomy.MethodsRetrospective review of patient files from a large diabetes centre between 1996 and 2010. Surgical history was obtained from the Danish National Patient Register. Follow‐up intervals were 3 months and 1, 3, 5 and 10 years after surgery.ResultsIn total, 167 patients had diabetic vitrectomy indicated for non‐clearing vitreous haemorrhage (47%) and tractional retinal detachment (53%). The proportion of patients with visual acuity ≥0.3 increased from 29% before surgery to 60% after 3 months (p < 0.001, chi‐square test). Median visual acuity increased from 0.06 before surgery to 0.3 after 3 months (p < 0.001, paired signed‐rank test) and 0.4 after 1 year (p = 0.009) before stabilizing. No significant long‐term prognostic factors were identified for non‐clearing vitreous haemorrhage patients. For tractional retinal detachment patients, use of silicone oil was associated with low vision (visual acuity<0.3) after 3 months and 1, 3 and 5 years (all odds ratios >4 and p‐values ≤ 0.03, logistic regression). Of the 134 patients who were phakic after surgery, 43% and 29% were phakic after 5 and 10 years, respectively. Use of silicone oil increased the risk of cataract surgery (p = 0.009, log‐rank test).ConclusionsMost diabetic vitrectomy patients stand to gain visual acuity ≥0.3 after surgery and a stable long‐term visual acuity after 1 year. The only consistent long‐term predictor of low vision after surgery is use of silicone oil for endotamponade. About 2/3 of phakic patients will subsequently have cataract surgery the first 10 years after diabetic vitrectomy.
Alpha‐tryptase gene variation is associated with levels of circulating IgE and lung function in asthma
Authors: Abdelmotelb A. M. , Rose‐Zerilli M. J. , Barton S. J. , Holgate S. T. , Walls A. F. , Holloway J. W. 
Published: December 2013

SummaryBackgroundTryptase, a major secretory product of human mast cells has been implicated as a key mediator of allergic inflammation. Genetic variation in the tryptases is extensive, and α‐tryptase, an allelic variant of the more extensively studied β‐tryptase, is absent in substantial numbers of the general population. The degree to which α‐tryptase expression may be associated with asthma has not been studied. We have investigated the α‐tryptase gene copy number variation and its potential associations with phenotypes of asthma.ObjectivesCaucasian families (n = 341) with at least two asthmatic siblings (n = 1350) were genotyped for the α‐tryptase alleles, using high‐resolution melting assays. Standards for the possible α‐/β‐tryptase ratios were constructed by cloning α‐and β‐tryptase PCR products to generate artificial templates. Association analysis of asthma affection status and related phenotypes [total and allergen‐specific serum IgE, bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine, forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1) and atopy and asthma severity scores] was undertaken using family‐based association tests (FBAT).ResultsFour consistent melting patterns for the α‐tryptase genotype were identified with alleles carrying null, one or two copies of the α‐tryptase allele. Possessing one copy of α‐tryptase was significantly associated with lower serum levels of total and dust mite‐specific IgE levels and higher FEV1 measurements, while two copies were related to higher serum concentrations of total and dust mite‐specific IgE and greater atopy severity scores.Conclusions and Clinical RelevanceAssociations of α‐tryptase copy number with serum IgE levels, atopy scores and bronchial function may reflect roles for tryptases in regulating IgE production and other processes in asthma.
Kant and the Discipline of Reason
Authors: Chance Brian A. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractKant's notion of ‘discipline’ has received considerable attention from scholars of his philosophy of education, but its role in his theoretical philosophy has been largely ignored. This omission is surprising since his discussion of discipline in the firstCritiqueis not only more extensive and expansive in scope than his other discussions but also predates them. The goal of this essay is to provide a comprehensive reading of theDiscipline that emphasizes its systematic importance in the firstCritique. I argue that its goal is to establish a set of rules for the use of pure reason that, if followed, will mitigate and perhaps even eliminate our tendency to make judgments about supersensible objects. SinceKant's justification for these rules relies crucially on claims he has defended in theDoctrine ofElements,Iargue further that, far from being a dispensable part of theCritiqueas commentators have tended to claim, theDiscipline is, in fact, the culmination ofKant's critique of metaphysics.
Australian pharmacists’ uncertainty about homeopathic products in community pharmacy
Authors: Schultz Suzanne J , Hotham Elizabeth D , Evans Allan M 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundCochrane reviews conclude that there is no evidence for the efficacy of homeopathic preparations; however, these medicines are sold in community pharmacies globally, despite significant criticism from other healthcare practitioners. Consumer demand, profit and respect for choice are postulated reasons for this availability.ObjectivesTo explore the factors that influence pharmacists’ preparedness to stock homeopathic products.MethodsA mixed‐methods approach was used; this included two focus groups [metropolitan and rural South Australia (n=13)], telephone interviews (n=18) and a cross‐sectional survey (n=185) of Australian community pharmacists. Factor analysis and non‐parametric tests were used to identify factors that contributed to pharmacists’ attitudes towards homeopathic products. Profitability was analysed using wholesale sales data, including contribution to profit in community pharmacy and views of owner versus employee pharmacists.ResultsSurveyed pharmacists indicated a commitment to being a source of information on medicines and health products. However, this study revealed that many pharmacists lacked knowledge on homeopathic products and were unable to differentiate them from other ‘natural medicines’. The impact of homeopathic products on profitability was regarded as limited. Overall, pharmacists were driven by concerns for consumer health and choice.ConclusionsPharmacists’ education should include skills to enable critical evaluation of health products and ability to explain why homeopathic products have no medicinal justification. The risk to professional credibility of selling these products is strong and most pharmacists do not endorse their value. Removal from pharmacies is unlikely to impact upon financial sustainability. There is a compelling argument for an urgent change to practice in this area.