bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Between Spirituality and Legalism
Authors: Kamali Mohammad Hashim
Published: June 2015

This chapter highlights the role that Sufism can play in an otherwise Shari’ah-dominated Islam, where the emphasis on externality and form has tilted the balance between the inner and the outer self of the religion. The gap between Sufism and fiqh has remained, but there are indications of renewed public concern in Muslim societies to bring the letter and the spirit of Shari’ah closer together in such areas, for instance, as financial transactions and the rituals of worship. The chapter also reviews the role of Sufism in Shi’i thought and how Sufism has the potential of developing greater unity between the Shi’i and Sunni branches of Islam.
Financial Imbalance, Extravagance, and Waste (Isrāf, Tabdhīr)
Authors: Kamali Mohammad Hashim
Published: June 2015

This chapter reviews scriptural evidence in the Islamic sources against greed, waste, usury, hoarding, and profiteering. It also expounds the Shari’ah rules pertaining to ownership, financial transactions, and business relations that seek to keep trading and finance in touch with the real economy and the people’s needs. Then follows an examination of the recurrent financial crises, the currency turmoil, the US subprime mortgage, the Eurozone debt crisis, and extensive fraudulent irregularities by some of the world’s leading banks. The chapter advances an argument that the in-built restraints in Islamic banking and finance can contribute to financial stability and health of the world economy.
Moderation in Jihad
Authors: Kamali Mohammad Hashim
Published: June 2015

This chapter looks into the meaning, definition, scriptural evidence, and history of jihad, while drawing attention in the meantime to the widespread misunderstanding of this concept by both the Western media and jihadist radicals. This rather pervasive misinformation on jihad has left the general public ill-informed about the correct meaning of jihad as a perpetual struggle against one’s lower self, egotism, and caprice. The chapter also reviews the rules of war in Shari’ah and their application to jihad, followed by an opinion survey of the Fiqh Academy and leading scholars on terrorism and violence—drawing the conclusion that much of the so-called jihad in our time fails to qualify the proper rules of jihad.
Wasaṭiyyah and Women’s Rights
Authors: Kamali Mohammad Hashim
Published: June 2015

Women’s rights and their entitlement to civil liberties, the right to education, work, property and ownership, as well as participation in public affairs, voting rights, and candidacy and appointment to government positions have, to a large extent, been caught between the two extremist currents of opinion, one overly restrictive and the other exceedingly liberal and Westernized. This chapter reviews and evaluates these contrasting positions in light of the source evidence from the Qur’an and hadith, and a selection of scholarly opinion, both Sunni and Shi’ah, that help to identify instances of departure from the path of moderation, and how to restore it.
Wasaṭiyyah and Globalization
Authors: Kamali Mohammad Hashim
Published: June 2015

This chapter advances a perspective on advantages and disadvantages of globalization, as well as how it is perceived by the weaker economies, and the Muslim world generally. On one hand, globalization has the potential to provide for easier communication; a more effective means of addressing matters such as human rights, public accountability, women’s issues, and dealing with corrupt dictators; and an expansion of trade and foreign investment, which, in turn, often accelerates social mobility and strengthens the middle class. On the other hand, globalization tends to bring about greater disparity between the haves and have-nots, as well as popularizing a consumer culture and placing greater emphasis on materialist possessions that erode traditional values. After delving into both sides of this phenomenon, the chapter discusses the view that the Islamic principle of unity (tawhid) has strong pro-globalization characteristics.
Allo-Semitism and the Performative Uncanny
Authors: Watt Stephen
Published: June 2015

This chapter examines widely seen Jewish characters on the later nineteenth-century American stage: Leah in Augustin Daly’s Leah, the Forsaken, Shylock in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, and Svengali in theatrical adaptations of George Du Maurier’s novel Trilby. It concludes with a discussion of Irish-American star actor James O’Neill’s portrayal of the Count of Monte Cristo, juxtaposing this role with those of Irish historical heroes that rose in popularity as theatrical subjects as the century came to a close. Readings of these plays underscore their ambivalent, even fearful qualities, all of which are inherent to the paradoxes and contradictions defined by the term “allo-Semitism.” So, in the case of Leah, while widely regarded as an exemplar of the long-suffering heroine—and someone who bravely endured anti-Semitic prejudice—her role is nonetheless haunted by prior associations of Jewishness with erotic attraction, emotional excess, and even vampiric power.
The Concept of the Employer
Authors: Prassl Jeremias
Published: June 2015

This work develops a functional concept of the employer in the hope of overcoming the theoretical and practical problems arising from the ascription of responsibility in fragmented employment settings. A first part analyses two conflicting strands in the received concept of the employer, simultaneously identified as a single party to a bilateral contract and defined through the exercise of a range of employer functions. As a result of this tension, full employment law coverage is restricted to a narrow paradigm scenario where a single legal entity exercises all employer functions, and fails to grapple with the rise of complex work arrangements, from temporary agency work to corporate groups and Private Equity investors. The second part illustrates the practical implications of these developments: regulatory obligations are placed on inappropriate entities, and workers may find themselves without recourse to employment law protection. A subsequent chapter compares this situation with German law, where a sophisticated apparatus has been developed to regulate employment in corporate groups. The final part reconceptualizes the employer, defining it as the entity, or combination of entities, exercising functions regulated in a particular domain of employment law. Each of the two strands of the received concept is addressed in turn to demonstrate how this openly multi-functional approach overcomes the rigidities of the current concept without abandoning an underlying unitary definition. As a result, employment law obligations fasten on the entity, or combination of entities, exercising the relevant employer functions, regardless of the formal legal organization of the enterprise in question.
The Fragile Scope of Employment Law Coverage
Authors: Adams-Prassl Jeremias
Published: June 2015

This chapter demonstrates the fragile scope of employment law coverage, beginning with the near-complete inapplicability of protective provisions in the triangular or agency work context. In complex corporate groups and Private Equity-owned companies, on the other hand, it is becoming increasingly difficult to identify the relevant employer for purposes of statutory obligations, such as the consultation and information of employees in collective redundancies or transfers of undertakings (TUPE). In setting out these examples, several previous attempts at addressing the problems under discussion are analysed to demonstrate their potential flaws: instead of addressing the underlying tension in the concept of the employer, judicial, legislative and policy-based responses have historically been limited in their focus on a particular subset of issues. Attempts at partial reform are furthermore difficult insofar as they tend to perpetuate received concepts and thus reinforce the narrow and inconsistent personal scope of employment law.
Childhood Injuries Due to Hay-Hole Falls
Authors: Engbrecht Brett W. , Kulaylat Afif N. , Dias Mark , Kendig James W. , Cilley Robert E.
Published: June 2015

Objective

Children who live, work, and play on farms with barn design that includes hay-holes are at risk for a particular type of fall. This study retrospectively reviews all children admitted to a pediatric trauma center with injuries due to fall through a hay-hole over a 19-year period. This study is the first to specifically describe hay-hole fall injuries.

Methods

A retrospective review from a 19-year period at a rural pediatric trauma center identified 66 patients who sustained injuries from a hay-hole fall. Charts were reviewed for patient demographics, injuries, interventions, and hospital course.

Results

Sixty-six patients sustained injuries from hay-hole falls. Median patient age was 4 years, and median Injury Severity Score was 14. Forty-one percent of patients were admitted to the intensive care unit, and 26% of patients were intubated. Injuries included skull fracture (73%), facial fracture (27%), intracranial hemorrhage (53%), and noncraniofacial injuries (12%). Eighteen percent required a therapeutic intervention. There was 1 fatality (2%).

Conclusions

Hay-hole fall appears to be a distinct injury mechanism, and patients present with different injury patterns than other types of falls. In this study, a high proportion of patients were young, and craniofacial injuries accounted for the majority of injuries. Only a small proportion of patients sustained noncraniofacial injuries. Injury prevention strategies should be targeted to this unique agrarian injury.
Management of Toddler’s Fractures in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Schuh Abigail M. , Whitlock Kathryn B. , Klein Eileen J.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To evaluate current practice in treatment of toddler’s fractures, as well as subsequent healthcare utilization and complications.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of children age 9 months to 3 years with a radiographically evident toddler’s fracture diagnosed at a single academic pediatric emergency department (PED) from January 2008 to December 2012. Data collected included initial form of immobilization (if any), referral to orthopedic clinic, number of repeat radiographs obtained, presence of skin breakdown related to splinting or casting, and presence of other complications.

Results

Seventy-five patients were treated. Most patients were placed in splints or casts in the PED (66.7%) as opposed to controlled ankle motion (CAM) boot (24%) or no immobilization (9.3%). Splinted patients had a longer total duration of immobilization, higher rate of follow-up in orthopedic clinic, and greater number of repeat radiographs obtained than those in the CAM boot or no immobilization groups. Thirteen patients (17.3%) developed skin breakdown during their course of therapy; all of these patients had been placed in a splint or cast in the PED. No difference in PED return rates was observed between groups.

Conclusions

There is wide variation in management of toddler’s fractures within this single tertiary care PED. Given that these fractures are unlikely to displace and that complications of splinting and casting are not insignificant, this study suggests that immobilization may not be necessary for acute management of toddler’s fractures.
Massively parallel quantification of the regulatory effects of noncoding genetic variation in a human cohort
Authors: Vockley Christopher M. , Guo Cong , Majoros William H. , Nodzenski Michael , Scholtens Denise M. , Hayes M. Geoffrey , Lowe William L. , Reddy Timothy E.
Published: June 2015

We report a novel high-throughput method to empirically quantify individual-specific regulatory element activity at the population scale. The approach combines targeted DNA capture with a high-throughput reporter gene expression assay. As demonstration, we measured the activity of more than 100 putative regulatory elements from 95 individuals in a single experiment. In agreement with previous reports, we found that most genetic variants have weak effects on distal regulatory element activity. Because haplotypes are typically maintained within but not between assayed regulatory elements, the approach can be used to identify causal regulatory haplotypes that likely contribute to human phenotypes. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of the method to functionally fine map causal regulatory variants in regions of high linkage disequilibrium identified by expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analyses.
High-accuracy X-ray absorption spectra from mMsolutions of nickel (II) complexes with multiple solutions using transmission XAS
Authors: Chantler Christopher T. , Islam M. Tauhidul , Best Stephen P. , Tantau Lachlan J. , Tran Chanh Q. , Cheah Mun Hon , Payne Andrew T.
Published: June 2015

A new approach is introduced for determining X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) spectra on absolute and relative scales using multiple solutions with different concentrations by the characterization and correction of experimental systematics. This hybrid technique is a development of standard X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) along the lines of the high-accuracy X-ray extended range technique (XERT) but with applicability to solutions, dilute systems and cold cell environments. This methodology has been applied to determining absolute XAS of bis(N-n-propyl-salicylaldiminato) nickel(II) and bis(N-i-propyl-salicylaldiminato) nickel(II) complexes with square planar and tetrahedral structures in 15 mMand 1.5 mMdilute solutions. It is demonstrated that transmission XAS from dilute systems can provide excellent X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and XAFS spectra, and that transmission measurements can provide accurate measurement of subtle differences including coordination geometries. For the first time, (transmission) XAS of the isomers have been determined from low-concentration solutions on an absolute scale with a 1–5% accuracy, and with relative precision of 0.1% to 0.2% in the active XANES and XAFS regions after inclusion of systematic corrections.
Focusing performance of a multilayer Laue lens with layer placement error described by dynamical diffraction theory
Authors: Hu Lingfei , Chang Guangcai , Liu Peng , Zhou Liang
Published: June 2015

The multilayer Laue lens (MLL) is essentially a linear zone plate with large aspect ratio, which can theoretically focus hard X-rays to well below 1 nm with high efficiency when ideal structures are used. However, the focusing performance of a MLL depends heavily on the quality of the layers, especially the layer placement error which always exists in real MLLs. Here, a dynamical modeling approach, based on the coupled wave theory, is proposed to study the focusing performance of a MLL with layer placement error. The result of simulation shows that this method can be applied to various forms of layer placement error.
Crystal structure of alluaudite-type NaMg3(HPO4)2(PO4)
Authors: Ould Saleck Ahmed , Assani Abderrazzak , Saadi Mohamed , Mercier Cyrille , Follet Claudine , El Ammari Lahcen
Published: June 2015

The title compound, sodium trimagnesium bis(hydrogen phosphate) phosphate, was obtained under hydrothermal conditions. In the crystal, two types of [MgO6] octahedra, one with point group symmetry 2, share edges to build chains extending parallel to [10-1]. These chains are linked together by two kinds of phosphate tetrahedra, HPO4and PO4, the latter with point group symmetry 2. The three-dimensional framework delimits two different types of channels extending along [001]. One channel hosts the Na+cations (site symmetry 2) surrounded by eight O atoms, with Na—O bond lengths varying between 2.2974 (13) and 2.922 (2) Å. The OH group of the HPO4tetrahedron points into the other type of channel and exhibits a strong hydrogen bond to an O atom of the PO4tetrahedron on the opposite side.
Crystal structure ofN-[(morpholin-4-yl)(thiophen-2-yl)methyl]benzamide
Authors: Prabhu S. Arun , Suresh M. , Jameel A. Abdul , Padusha M. Syed Ali , Gunasekaran B.
Published: June 2015

In the title compound, C16H18N2O2S, the morpholine ring adopts a chair conformation. The thiophene ring makes a dihedral angle of 63.54 (14)° with the mean plane of the four C atoms [maximum deviation = 0.010 (3) Å] of the morpholine ring. The benzamide ring is disordered, with four C atoms occupying two sets of sites, with a refined occupancy ratio of 0.502 (4):0.498 (4). These two rings are inclined to one another by 85.2 (4)° and to the thiophene ring by 72.7 (3) and 13.0 (3)° for the major and minor components, respectively. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaN—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains along [001].
Crystal structure of ethyl 6-chloromethyl-2-oxo-4-(2,3,4-trimethoxyphenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate
Authors: Suresh M. , Padusha M. Syed Ali , Novina J. Josephine , Vasuki G. , Viswanathan Vijayan , Velmurugan Devadasan
Published: June 2015

In the title compound, C17H21ClN2O6, the dihydropyrimidine ring adopts a flattened envelope conformation, with thesp3-hybridized C atom forming the flap. The dihedral angle between the least-squares planes of the benzene and dihydropyrimidine rings is 88.09 (6)°. An intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond generates anS(6) ring. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviapairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers with anR22(8) ring motif, and the dimers are linkedviafurther pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, formingR22(14) rings and chains of molecules along [111]. Pairs of inversion-related chains are linkedviaweak C—H...π interactions.
A critique of shareholder primacy under UK takeover law and the continued imposition of the Board Neutrality Rule
Authors: Nyombi Chrispas
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the Board Neutrality Rule and the primacy afforded to shareholders during takeovers is justified under common law and policy.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper provides a detailed assessment of the role play by the board neutrality rule and whether this is supported by takeover law and Company law. A review of case law and statutes is provided. The paper is largely analytical.

Findings

– The paper finds little justification for the continued imposition of the Board Neutrality Rule.

Originality/value

– The paper adds to the growing body of research literature which has analysed the role played by the Board Neutrality Rule during takeovers.
Ungrateful predators: capture and the creation of Cofán violence
Authors: Cepek Michael
Published: June 2015

In this article, I explore the history, logic, and practice of capture among the Cofán people of Amazonian Ecuador. Rather than acting as the subjects of capture, Cofán people have primarily been its objects. Centuries of pre‐Conquest, colonial, and postcolonial violence have exposed Cofán communities to repeated seizures by indigenous and non‐indigenous aggressors. Although capture by enemy others is a feared prospect that typically brings disaster, it also serves as the Cofán nation's central means of acquiring violent powers, which are essential to its defence. By investigating the uncertainties of capture as a productive process, I question dominant representations of native Amazonians as wilful participants in a cosmos of generalized predation, and I issue a plea for openness when considering the diversity of the region's peoples.
Mutating Neoliberalism: The Promotion of Italian Investors in Slovakia before and after the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Sellar Christian , Pástor Rudolf
Published: June 2015

In the context of the literature on ‘actually existing neoliberalisms’, this article analyzes the policies and services supporting Italian foreign direct investment (FDI) in Slovakia. It identifies a group of organizations, both Slovak and Italian, which shape and deliver neoliberal pro‐FDI policies. By studying such an ‘investment promotion community’ (IPC) before and after the global financial crisis of 2009, and during Italy's prolonged crisis, this article shows both the persistence and adaptability of neoliberal policies and institutions. In so doing, it highlights some of the transnational flows underpinning the ‘domestication’ of neoliberalism in Slovakia. These findings support recent literature arguing that post‐crisis neoliberalism can be interpreted as a stunted Polanyian double movement, in which the state has improved some of its regulatory functions but without questioning the overarching neoliberal principles. Specifically, it shows that FDI policies and the support of Italian investors rest upon a professional community that has not changed much since the 2009 crisis. This community played a crucial role in embedding neoliberal rationalities in Slovakia and supports the persistence of this ideology in the post‐crisis environment.
Claiming Rights To Mobility Through The Right To Inhabitance: Discursive Articulations from Civic Actors in Montreal
Authors: Van Neste Sophie L. , Sénécal Gilles
Published: June 2015

How do claims for rights to mobility intersect with grievances pertaining to spatial justice in the city? This article addresses the issue by studying the concrete connections made by activists promoting car alternatives in Montreal. The activists' discursive categories point to the centrality of their conditions of inhabitance in their claims for certain rights to mobility. The discourses are analysed in the context of demands for safe spaces to walk and cycle in Montreal, and in the context of opposition to the rebuilding of the Turcot highway interchange. The article discusses internal dynamics of collective action, as well as the external influences and controls on activists contesting automobility to various degrees and with different spatially grounded priorities. The claims for rights to mobility rely on locally articulated priorities for better conditions of inhabitance, yet with a transversal reliance on a shared sense of threat and vulnerability, and on the representations of a community (whether local or multi‐scalar), enabling changes in the physical framing of mobility.
Disparities exist between the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating and the dietary intakes of young children aged two to three years
Authors: Chai Li K , Macdonald‐Wicks Lesley , Hure Alexis J , Burrows Tracy L , Blumfield Michelle L , Smith Roger , Collins Clare E
Published: June 2015

Aim

To compare dietary intakes of young children to the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating (AGHE) and Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs).

Methods

Dietary intakes of 54 children (50% girls) aged two to three years (mean 2.7 years) from the Women and Their Children's Health (WATCH) study were reported by mothers using a validated 120‐item food frequency questionnaire. Daily consumption of AGHE food group servings, macronutrients, and micronutrients were compared to the AGHE and NRVs using t‐test with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

No child achieved all AGHE targets, with the majority consuming less breads/cereals (1.9 vs 4.0 servings/day), vegetables (1.3 vs 2.5), and meat/alternatives (0.7 vs 1.0), all P < 0.0001. Adequate servings were observed for dairy (2.2 vs 1.5) and fruit (1.3 vs 1.0). Macronutrients were within recommended ranges, although 96% exceeded saturated fatty acid recommendations. Children who met selected NRVs consumed more fruit (1.4 vs 1.0; P < 0.0086), dairy (2.2 vs 1.5; P < 0.0001) and discretionary foods (2.6 vs ≤1.0; P < 0.0001) but less breads/cereals (2.0 vs 4.0; P < 0.0001) and vegetables (1.3 vs 2.5; P < 0.0001) servings, compared to the AGHE recommended servings.

Conclusions

Child dietary intakes did not align with AGHE, while adequate nutrient profiles were achieved by various dietary patterns. Future studies involving data from larger, representative samples of children are warranted.
Optimization of Microencapsulation of Fish Oil with Gum Arabic/Casein/Beta‐Cyclodextrin Mixtures by Spray Drying
Authors: Li Junjie , Xiong Shanbai , Wang Fang , Regenstein Joe M. , Liu Ru
Published: June 2015

Fish oil was encapsulated with gum arabic/casein/beta‐cyclodextrin mixtures using spray drying. The processing parameters (solids concentration of the barrier solutions, ratio of oil to barrier materials, emulsifying temperature, and air inlet temperature) were optimized based on emulsion viscosity, emulsion stability, encapsulation efficiency, and yield. A suitable viscosity and high emulsion stability could increase encapsulation efficiency and yield. Encapsulation efficiency and yield were significantly affected by all the 4 parameters. Based on the results of orthogonal experiments, encapsulation efficiency and yield reached a maximum of 79.6% and 55.6%, respectively, at the optimal condition: solids concentration of 35%, ratios of oil to barrier materials of 3:7, emulsifying temperature of 55 °C, and air inlet temperature of 220 °C. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that fish oil microcapsules were nearly spherical with a smooth surface with droplet size ranging from 1 to 10 μm.
Characterization of Volatile Flavor Compounds in Chinese Rice Wine Fermented from Enzymatic Extruded Rice
Authors: Xu Enbo , Long Jie , Wu Zhengzong , Li Hongyan , Wang Fang , Xu Xueming , Jin Zhengyu , Jiao Aiquan
Published: June 2015

Enzymatic extrusion, instead of traditional steam cooking, to treat rice is an efficient and alternative pretreatment for Chinese rice wine fermentation. In order to determine the formation of volatiles in enzymatic extrusion‐processed rice wine (EE), and to confirm its characteristic flavor compounds, headspace solid‐phase micro‐extraction followed by GC–MS was used. A total of 66 volatile compounds were identified in EE. During fermentation, most volatiles generated from enzymatic extruded rice had the similar trends with those from steam‐cooked rice, but the differences in the concentration of volatiles indicated a changed balance of flavors release caused by enzymatic extrusion. Besides, the concentrations and sorts of volatiles in EEs fermented from different rice particle sizes, were not dramatically different. By principal component analysis, EE could be distinctly separated from other traditional Chinese rice wines according to its characteristic volatiles, namely, 2‐heptanol, 1‐octen‐3‐ol, ethyl 4‐hydroxybenzoate, methylpentyl 2‐propenoate, γ‐hexalactone, and 4‐vinylguaiacol.
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Internal Cardioversion with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Device for Atrial Fibrillation in Systolic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Sunman Hamza , Aytemir Kudret , Yorgun Hikmet , Canpolat Uğur , Yalçin Muhammet Ulvi , Maharjan Naresh , Asil Serkan , Şahiner Levent , Kaya Barış , Özer Necla , Oto Ali
Published: June 2015

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) commonly observed in patients with heart failure and cardioversion was often needed to restore the sinus rhythm. Previously, there is no study evaluating usefulness of internal cardioversion with implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) device. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy and long‐term effects of internal cardioversion with ICD devices compared to conventional external cardioversion in patients with AF and heart failure.

Methods

Seventy patients with AF and heart failure who underwent electrical cardioversion were enrolled in the study. Forty patients (mean age 65.36 ± 10.37, 35 male) were assigned to undergo internal cardioversion with approximately 35 J shocks delivered through the ICD electrode. Standard external cardioversion was performed for the remaining patients (30 patients; mean age 66.20 ± 11.89; 24 male) that were similar with regard to baseline, and electrocardiographic characteristics.

Results

Sinus rhythm was restored in 32 of 40 patients (80.0%) assigned to internal cardioversion compared with 25 of 30 patients (83.3%) assigned to external cardioversion (P = 0.725). We did not witness any serious complication during the procedure and hospitalization. On the follow‐up, there was no statistically significant difference in recurrence of AF and incidence of major cardiovascular events between the internal and external cardioversion groups.

Conclusions

Internal cardioversion with ICD device is an effective and safe method to restore sinus rhythm in heart failure patients with AF.
Electrocardiographic P‐Wave Duration, QT Interval, T Peak to End Interval and Tp‐e/QT Ratio in Pregnancy with Respect to Trimesters
Authors: Tanindi Asli , Akgun Nilufer , Pabuccu Emre Goksan , Gursoy Aslı Yarci , Yüce Ebru , Tore Hasan Fehmi , Duvan Candan Iltemir
Published: June 2015

Background

P‐wave duration helps to determine the risk of atrial arrhythmia, especially atrial fibrillation. QT interval, T peak to end interval (Tp‐e), and Tp‐e/QT ratio are electrocardiographic indices related to ventricular repolarization which are used to determine the risk of ventricular arrhythmias. We search for any alterations in electrocardiographic indices of arrhythmia in the pregnancy period with respect to trimesters.

Methods

We enrolled 154 pregnant and 62 nonpregnant, healthy women into this cross‐sectional study. Maximum and minimum P‐wave durations (Pmax, Pmin), and QT intervals (QTmax, QTmin) were measured from 12 leads. QT measurements were corrected using Fridericia (QTc‐Fr) and Bazett's (QTc‐Bz) correction. Tp‐e interval was obtained from the difference between QT interval, and QT peak interval (QTp) measured from the beginning of the QRS until the peak of the T wave. Tp‐e/QT ratio was calculated using these measurements.

Results

Pmax were 93.0 ± 9.1, 93.9 ± 8.9, 97.9 ± 5.6, 99.0 ± 6.1 in nonpregnant women, first, second, third trimesters of pregnancy, respectively (P = 0.001); whereas Pmin values were not significantly different. QTc‐Fr max were 407.4 ± 14.2, 408.5 ± 16.1, 410.1 ± 13.1, 415.1 ± 10.1 (P = 0.007); Tp‐e were 72.7 ± 6.2, 73.2 ± 6.5, 77.2 ± 8.9, 87.2 ± 9.6 (P < 0.001); and Tp‐e/QT were 0.17 (0.14–0.20), 0.17 (0.14–0.20), 0.18 (0.15–0.23), 0.20 (0.16–0.25) in nonpregnant women, first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy respectively (P < 0.001). None of the participants experienced any arrhythmic event.

Conclusions

P‐wave duration is prolonged in the second trimester, and resumes a plateau thereafter. Maximum QTc interval, Tp‐e interval and Tp‐e/QT ratio are increased in the late pregnancy. Although these indices are altered during the course of pregnancy, they all remain in the normal ranges.
Intestinal surgery performed by gynecologists
Authors: Martínez‐Serrano María José , Martínez‐Román Sergio , Pahisa Jaume , Balasch Joan , Carmona Francisco
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Our objective was to compare the feasibility and safety of surgical procedures to treat gynecological pathologies with intestinal involvement performed by skilled gynecological surgeons and by a multidisciplinary team of gynecologists plus colorectal surgeons.

Material and methods

We performed a comparative, observational, prospective study at a tertiary referral center. The population included all women undergoing bowel surgery for gynecological pathologies over a 3‐year period. Cases were analyzed by the specialty of the main surgeon performing the intestinal procedure. The main outcome measures were surgical procedure characteristics and postoperative outcomes and complications.

Results

A total of 65 women were included. Surgery was exclusively performed by a subspecialized gynecologist in 30.8% of the women, and undertaken by a multidisciplinary team (colorectal surgeons and gynecologists) in 69.2%. The main demographic and clinical characteristics were comparable in both groups. Main indications for bowel resection in gynecological surgery were advanced ovarian cancer and deep infiltrating endometriosis. In addition to the standard gynecological surgical procedures, a total of 135 intestinal segments were resected, with sigmoid colon the most frequent intestinal segment resected in both groups (53% in the gynecologist group and in 60% in the multidisciplinary group). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in the distribution and frequency of surgical techniques used, rate of complications, mean hospitalization time or frequency of re‐intervention.

Conclusion

Skilled gynecological surgeons appear to be equally good at handling common intestinal problems as a team of gynecologist and colorectal surgeons.
Effect of Truncating AUC at 12, 24 and 48 hr When Evaluating the Bioequivalence of Drugs with a Long Half‐Life
Authors: Moreno Isabel , Ochoa Dolores , Román Manuel , Cabaleiro Teresa , Abad‐Santos Francisco
Published: June 2015

Bioequivalence studies of drugs with a long half‐life require long periods of time for pharmacokinetic sampling. The latest update of the European guideline allows the area under the curve (AUC) truncated at 72 hr to be used as an alternative to AUC0–t as the primary parameter. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of truncating the AUC at 48, 24 and 12 hr on the acceptance of the bioequivalence criterion as compared with truncation at 72 hr in bioequivalence trials. The effect of truncated AUC on the within‐individual coefficient of variation (CVw) and on the ratio of the formulations was also analysed. Twenty‐eight drugs were selected from bioequivalence trials. Pharmacokinetic data were analysed using WinNonLin 2.0 based on the trapezoidal method. Analysis of variance (anova) was performed to obtain the ratios and 90% confidence intervals for AUC at different time‐points. The degree of agreement of AUC0–72 in relation to AUC0–48 and AUC0–24, according to the Landis and Koch classification, was ‘almost perfect’. Statistically significant differences were observed when the CVw of AUC truncated at 72, 48 and 24 hr was compared with the CVw of AUC0–12. There were no statistically significant differences in the AUC ratio at any time‐point. Compared to AUC0–72, Pearson's correlation coefficient for mean AUC, AUC ratio and AUC CVw was worse for AUC0–12 than AUC0–24 or AUC0–48. These preliminary results could suggest that AUC truncation at 24 or 48 hr is adequate to determine whether two formulations are bioequivalent.
Transcutaneous interferential electrical stimulation for the management of non‐neuropathic underactive bladder in children: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Kajbafzadeh Abdol‐Mohammad , Sharifi‐Rad Lida , Ladi‐Seyedian Seyedeh‐Sanam , Mozafarpour Sarah
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To assess the efficacy of transcutaneous interferential electrical stimulation (IFES) and urotherapy in the management of non‐neuropathic underactive bladder (UAB) in children with voiding dysfunction.

Patients and Methods

In all, 36 children with UAB without neuropathic disease [15 boys, 21 girls; mean (sd) age 8.9 (2.6) years] were enrolled and then randomly allocated to two equal treatment groups comprising IFES and control groups. The control group underwent only standard urotherapy comprising diet, hydration, scheduled voiding, toilet training, and pelvic floor and abdominal muscles relaxation. Children in the IFES group likewise underwent standard urotherapy and also received IFES. Children in both groups underwent a 15‐session treatment programme twice a week. A complete voiding and bowel habit diary was completed by parents before, after treatment, and 1 year later. Bladder ultrasound and uroflowmetry/electromyography were performed before, at the end of treatment course, and at the 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

The mean (sd) number of voiding episodes before treatment was 2.6 (1) and 2.7 (0.76) times/day in the IFES and control groups, respectively, which significantly increased after IFES therapy in IFES group, compared with only standard urotherapy in the control group [6.3 (1.4) vs 4.7 (1.3) times/day, P < 0.002). The mean (sd) bladder capacity before treatment was 424 (123) and 463 (121) mL in the control and IFES groups, respectively, which decreased significantly at 1 year after treatment in the IFES group compared with the controls, at 227 (86) vs 344 (127) mL (P < 0.01). Maximum urine flow increased and voiding time decreased significantly in the IFES group compared with controls at the end of treatment sessions and 1 year later (P < 0.05). All the children had abnormal flow curves at the beginning of the study. The flow curve became normal in 14/18 (77%) of the children in the IFES group and six of 18 (33%) in the control group by the end of follow‐up (P < 0.007). At the end of the treatment course, night‐time wetting was improved in all children who had this symptom before the treatment in the IFES group (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Combining IFES and urotherapy is a safe and effective therapy in the management of children with UAB.
Occupational contact allergy to methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone
Authors: Vauhkala Anna‐Reetta , Pesonen Maria , Suomela Sari , Kuuliala Outi , Suuronen Katri , Aalto‐Korte Kristiina
Published: June 2015

Background

Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)/methylisothiazolinone (MI) and MI are common preservatives in industrial and household products and in cosmetics. Occupational contact allergy to MCI/MI or MI has been reported among painters and paint factory workers in particular.

Objectives

To retrospectively describe patients with occupational contact allergy to MCI/MI and MI at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH).

Methods

Patch test files and clinical records of patients examined at the FIOH between January 2002 and February 2013 were reviewed to identify the patients.

Results

Seventy‐two of 1745 patients showed positive reactions to MCI/MI and/or MI. Of these, 36 were occupational cases, and 31 were diagnosed during the second half of the study period. Hairdressers and beauticians, mechanics and repairmen, and machinists were the most significant occupational groups, followed by painters and paint factory workers, and café and restaurant workers.

Conclusions

We observed a sixfold increase in the number of occupational cases in the second half of the study period as compared with the first half. Liquid soaps and industrial hand cleansers were common sources of exposure to MCI/MI or MI. A total of 33% of the patients used products without any mention of MCI/MI or MI in safety data sheets or product declarations.
Kidney transplantation in patients with severe preoperative hypertension
Authors: Ajaimy Maria , Lubetzky Michelle , Kamal Layla , Gupta Anjali , Dunn Colin , de Boccardo Graciela , Akalin Enver , Kayler Liise
Published: June 2015

Background

Severe systemic hypertension (HTN) is a risk factor for perioperative cardiovascular complications; however, its impact at the time of kidney transplantation (KTX) is not well defined.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of adult kidney‐only transplant recipients between October 2009 and December 2012 was performed to examine outcomes between patients with (n = 111) and without (n = 98) severe preoperative HTN defined as SBP >180 or DBP> 110 mmHg.

Results

Recipients with severe HTN were older (56.7 ± 13.0 vs. 53.5 ± 12.4 yr, p = 0.07) and significantly more likely to receive an expanded criteria donor kidney (32.7% vs. 12.2%, p = 0.02). No patients developed hypertensive crisis, intracranial hemorrhage, or life threatening ventricular arrhythmias within 30 d post‐transplantation; however, three patients with severe HTN had cardiac events: two with demand ischemia and one with decompensate heart failure. Two patients in the control group had decompensated heart failure. There were no differences between the groups in terms of cardiac event (2.7% vs. 2.0%, p = 0.75), one‐yr patient survival (98.2% vs. 98.0%, p = 0.90) or graft survival (90.1% vs. 92.9%, p = 0.48), nadir creatinine >2 mg/dL (4.6% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.62), length of stay>6 d (37.8% vs. 35.7%, p = 0.75), and DGF (52.3% vs. 63.3%, p = 0.11).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that severe preoperative HTN should not be considered an absolute contraindication to kidney transplant in patients who are otherwise clinically stable.
Pathways to good hand function after early brain injury
Authors: Basu Anna P
Published: June 2015

This commentary is on the case report by Fiori et al. on pages 977–980 of this issue.
Milk activates the expression of cytokines via Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Choi Sung Chul , Seo Young Hun , Bae Won‐Jung , Lee Hyo‐Seol , Choi Yeoung‐Chul , Kim Eun‐Cheol
Published: June 2015

Background

Milk is known as a suitable storage medium for avulsed teeth during emergency situations, but its potential toxicity on human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the milk‐induced gene profiles of PDL cells in vitro by microarray analysis after storage in milk. We additionally determined whether milk activates the cytoprotective defense mechanisms via the NF‐E2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) pathway.

Material and Methods

Gene induction in cultured human PDL cells after exposure to milk for 1 and 3 h as compared with non‐treated PDL cells was analyzed by microarray analysis and subsequent RT‐PCR. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Western blot analysis were used to determine whether milk activates the cytoprotective defense mechanisms using the Nrf2 and HO‐1 pathway.

Result

Microarray data analysis identified 868 (1 h per control) and 1782 (3 h per control) differentially expressed genes related to the duration of storage in milk. Exposure to milk for 3 and 1 h resulted in the upregulation of specific inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and MMPs concomitant with downregulation of extracellular matrix‐related genes. Exposure to milk increased the expression of peroxiredoxin‐1, thioredoxin‐1 and heme oxygenase (HO)‐1 and stimulated the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. HO‐1 inhibitor and Nrf2 siRNA blocked the milk‐induced inflammatory response such as production of ROS, expression of cytokines, chemokines, and MMPs.

Conclusion

Within the limit of this study, this study demonstrates that exposure of PDL cells to milk is associated with an upregulated expression of several pro‐inflammatory proteins and key antioxidant proteins via the activation of Nrf2/ARE pathway in PDL cells.
Epiduroscopy of the lumbosacral vertebral canal in the horse: Technique and endoscopic anatomy
Authors: Prange T. , Shrauner B. D. , Blikslager A. T.
Published: June 2015

Reasons for performing study

Back pain is a common cause of gait alterations and poor performance in horses, but the available imaging modalities are frequently insufficient to isolate the underlying pathology. In human patients, epidural endoscopy (epiduroscopy) is successfully used to diagnose and treat challenging cases of lower back pain. Endoscopy of the cervical epidural space has previously been reported in anaesthetised horses.

Objectives

To develop a technique for lumbosacral epiduroscopy in standing horses and to describe the endoscopic anatomy of the lumbosacral epidural space.

Study design

Pilot study to assess the feasibility of lumbosacral epiduroscopy in 5 horse cadavers.

Methods

The cadavers of 5 horses, weighing 457–694 kg (mean, 570 kg), were suspended in an upright position. Vascular dilators of increasing size were inserted between the first 2 moveable vertebrae caudal to the sacrum to create a minimally invasive approach into the epidural space. A flexible videoendoscope was introduced and advanced as far cranially as the length of the endoscope permitted. The lumbosacral epidural space underwent gross necropsy examination following the procedure.

Results

The endoscope was successfully inserted into the epidural space in all horses. Saline injection through the working channel of the endoscope allowed the following anatomical structures to be seen:dura mater, left and right lumbosacral spinal nerves,cauda equina, epidural fat, connective tissue and blood vessels. Using the 60 cm working length of the endoscope, the epidural space could be examined as far cranial as L3–T18, depending on the size of the horse. No gross damage to epidural neurovascular structures was observed on necropsy examination.

Conclusion

Lumbosacral epiduroscopy is technically feasible in standing horses and may become a valuable diagnostic tool in horses with caudal back or limb pain of unknown origin. Studies in live horses will be necessary to evaluate the safety of the procedure.
Uncovering major genomic features of essential genes in Bacteria and a methanogenic Archaea
Authors: Grazziotin Ana Laura , Vidal Newton M. , Venancio Thiago M.
Published: June 2015

Identification of essential genes is critical to understanding the physiology of a species, proposing novel drug targets and uncovering minimal gene sets required for life. Although essential gene sets of several organisms have been determined using large‐scale mutagenesis techniques, systematic studies addressing their conservation, genomic context and functions remain scant. Here we integrate 17 essential gene sets from genome‐wide in vitro screenings and three gene collections required for growth in vivo, encompassing 15 Bacteria and one Archaea. We refine and generalize important theories proposed using Escherichia coli. Essential genes are typically monogenic and more conserved than nonessential genes. Genes required in vivo are less conserved than those essential in vitro, suggesting that more divergent strategies are deployed when the organism is stressed by the host immune system and unstable nutrient availability. We identified essential analogous pathways that would probably be missed by orthology‐based essentiality prediction strategies. For example, Streptococcus sanguinis carries horizontally transferred isoprenoid biosynthesis genes that are widespread in Archaea. Genes specifically essential in Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Burkholderia pseudomallei are reported as potential drug targets. Moreover, essential genes are not only preferentially located in operons, but also occupy the first position therein, supporting the influence of their regulatory regions in driving transcription of whole operons. Finally, these important genomic features are shared between Bacteria and at least one Archaea, suggesting that high order properties of gene essentiality and genome architecture were probably present in the last universal common ancestor or evolved independently in the prokaryotic domains.