bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public access to private land in Scotland
Authors: Miller David Carey
Published: May 2017

This article attempts to understand the radical reform of Scottish land law in its provision for a general right of public access to private land introduced in 2003 as part of land reform legislation, an important aspect of the initial agenda of the Scottish Parliament revived in 1999. The right is to recreational access for a limited period and the right to cross land. Access can be taken only on foot or by horse or bicycle.

 

As a starting point clarification of the misunderstood pre-reform position is attempted. The essential point is that Scots common law does not give civil damages for a simple act of trespass (as English law does) but only a right to obtain removal of the trespasser. Under the reforms the longstanding Scottish position of landowners allowing walkers access to the hills and mountains becomes a legal right.

 

A critical aspect of the new right is that it is one of responsible access; provided a landowner co-operates with the spirit and system of the Act access can be denied on the basis that it is not being exercised responsibly. But the onus is on the landowner to show that the exercise of the right is not responsible.

 

Although the right applies to all land a general exception protects the privacy of a domestic dwelling. Early case law suggests that the scope of this limit depends upon particular circumstances although reasonable 'garden ground' is likely to be protected. There are various particular limits such as school land.

 

Compliance with the protection of property under the European Convention on Human Rights is discussed. The article emphasises the latitude, open to nations, for limitations to the right of ownership in land in the public interest. The extent of the Scottish access inroad illustrates this. This leads to the conclusion that 'land governance' – the subject of the Potchefstroom Conference at which the paper was initially presented – largely remains a matter for domestic law; the lex situs concept is alive and well.
The Road Accident Fund and serious injuries: the narrative test.
Authors: Slabbert Magda , Edeling Herman J
Published: May 2017

The Road Accident Fund Amendment Act 19 of 2005 came into effect on 1 August 2008. This Act limits the Road Accident Fund’s liability for compensation in respect of claims for non-pecuniary loss to instances where a “serious injury” has been sustained. A medical practitioner has to determine whether or not the claimant has suffered a serious injury by undertaking an assessment prescribed in the Regulations to the Act. The practitioner has to complete a RAF 4 report. In doing so the practitioner must assess the injury in terms of the American Medical Association’s Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (6th ed). If the injury is considered to have resulted in less than 30 per cent of the whole person impairment the medical practitioner should apply the narrative test. The article focuses on the narrative test but also discusses reasons why the regulations do not fulfil the requirements of the Act; reasons why the Guides is not adequate to the task; the impact of the circumstances of an injured person on disability; problems with the existing wording of the narrative test; shortcomings on the RAf 4 form; the administrative process as well as the appeal tribunals.
18S V4 tag sequencing PCR amplification and library prep (Illumina) v1
Authors: Mesrop Lisa , Sarah Hu not provided
Published: May 2017

Protocol for PCR amplification ofextracted cDNA or DNA and downstream library preparation for MiSeq sequencing. See other related protocols for extraction of RNA and/or DNA from environmental samples This protocol is specific to 18S rRNA gene tag sequencing targeting to V4 hypervariable region. We use V4 primers with Illumina adapters that then anneal to the P5 & P7 Illumina-specific indices. This barcoding step allows us to multiplex many samples for MiSeq sequencing. The V4 region is ~400bp, so we typically do MiSeq 250x250bp PE sequencing.
RNA (and optional DNA) extraction from environmental samples (filters) v2
Authors: Hu Sarah
Published: May 2017

This protocol describes the extraction process of RNA and/or DNA from marine environmental samples. Samples are assumed to be collected via filtering sample seawater onto filters. Filters are then flash frozen in the first lysis buffer. The protocol describes the steps used to lyse and separate material from filters and use the lysate for RNA and/or DNA extraction using Qiagen extraction kits (e.g. https://www.qiagen.com/us/shop/Sample-Technologies/Combined-Sample-Technologies/). Using this protocol, RNA and DNA has beenused for molecular analyses such as tag sequencing (16S or 18S), (meta)genomic, or (meta)transcriptomic applications See other Caron lab protocols that detail field work sampling and downstream PCR amplification/libray prep for microbial eukaryotic-specific tag sequencing (18S rRNA gene). List of materials needed before starting is inGuidelines.
THE ISSUE OF LEGITIMACY OF THE LATVIAN POLITICAL SYSTEM
Authors: Ozolzīle Gunārs
Published: May 2017

A democratic political system can be sustainable and stable only if it has society’s support that is based on legitimacy. So far, the attention of Latvian researchers has mostly been devoted to the so-called “ratings” of separate political institutions and politicians, but no attempt has been undertaken to investigate the political system as a whole through the prism of legitimacy. The aim of the present article is to explore whether there is a sufficient resource of legitimacy of the Latvian political system in order to provide stability and efficiency of the regime. The empirical basis of the research mostly consists of the results of the sociological research conducted in Latvia during the past six years (2011–2016). The data analysis of the present research is based on David Easton and Pippa Norris’ conceptual approach to the study of legitimacy of political systems. One of the conclusions that can be made is that the political system of Latvia is characterised by insufficient diffuse support, which then indicates that the political system experiences the problem of legitimacy. As there is a divided society in Latvia, both communities lack a shared national identity, which could connect the society. In addition, it can be stated that around half of the society is not satisfied with the functioning of the political regime. The analysis performed in the article allows concluding that the trust in political institutions is extremely low and the assessment of the political authority performance is highly negative.
POSSIBILITIES OF ATTENTION IMPROVEMENT FOR ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Trubina Irena
Published: May 2017

Attention is the ability to focus selectively on a selected stimulus, sustaining that focus and shifting it at will. Attention is important to learning and other cognitive processes. Learning is most efficient when a person is paying attention. Adolescence is a critical transition period, during which fundamental changes prepare the adolescent for becoming an adult. The neurobiology of adolescent behaviour have emerged, promoting the central role of reward and motivation, coupled with cognitive immaturities. It was concluded that maturation and experience are significant in the allocation of attention problems and errors during everyday tasks. The aim was to explore adolescents' attention and to compare two methods of focus for improvement. 24 teenagers take a part in this experiment (16 girls, 8 boys). The teenagers were 12-16 (average age 14, 3).Three groups were created (two groups with different methods and control group). The activities lasted 3 months. The first group of respondents (EGA) practiced the author’s developed methods of playing music in vocal ensemble twice a week, while the other group of respondents (EGB) practiced with computerized equipment CogniPlus. Attention indicators were analysed using the Vienna Test System (SCHUHFRIED) - COG and WAFF tests. Both tests measured various aspects of attention. It was concluded that the EGA group response time statistically significantly improved compared to baseline - 2.28 sec. vs. 1.92 sec. (P = 0.039), but the EGB and CG groups showed no statistically significant differences. In turn, WAFF test, which has to assess to auditory attention reaction time, EGA group has found no statistically significant differences - 0.74 sec. vs. 0.46 sec. (P = 0.002), while EGB are seen only a tendency to improvement in the reaction rate. The results show that although both methods contribute to improvements in attention, however, playing music, influenced by attention statistically significantly. It is planned to continue the study by increasing the number of respondents, as well as the test of attention scores.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FINANCING MODELS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Pranevičienė Birutė , Pūraitė Aurelija , Vasiliauskienė Violeta , Simanavičienė Žaneta
Published: May 2017

The paper aims to present a comparative analysis of financing models of higher education in Europe. Higher education institutions can function properly and ensure the quality of research and studies when there is sufficient funding. Higher education institutions in Europe face a demanding financial situation in which traditional models of funding have been transformed and continue to change gradually. The paper consists of two parts. In the first part the trends in financing higher education in Europe are presented and evaluated. An analysis of the legal regulation and deficiencies of this field are presented. The second part of the paper is devoted to the description of state financing methods of higher education. The main methods of the distribution of the state financing among the institutions of higher education are discussed and the advantages and disadvantages of those methods are evaluated, as well as the experience of other countries in financing higher education. The problematic aspects of the state regulation of financing higher education are analysed by using the methods of document analysis, critical-analytical methods, analysis of scientific literature, historic analysis, systematic analysis, method of the source-content analysis, comparative method.
COMPETITIVENESS OF THE LUZNAVA MANOR
Authors: Dembovska Iveta , Litavniece Lienīte , Silicka Inese
Published: May 2017

Customers become increasingly demanding due to globalization processes. This fact affects competitors to fight for better tourism products. The need for innovations in the market that can attract tourists increases and creates the competitive advantage. The most important elements that can form and develop the competitive advantage by using different skills are efficiency, quality, innovation, and satisfaction of customers' expectations. The paper is the result of the RTA scientific grant "Feasibility study of tourism product development for the Luznava Manor" programme. The aim of the paper is to explore and analyse the theoretical aspects of the competitive advantage and to identify innovations for improving the competitiveness of the Luznava Manor. The most important elements of the competitive advantage in the tourism industry have been studied, information on foods used at the beginning of the 20th century and recipes characteristic of Latvia in the period of time when the Kierbedz family lived in the Luznava Manor have been researched and summarized. It has been offered to supplement the soup assortment at the Luznava Manor with a cold salty soup ‘batvin’ or ‘holodnik’ of the authentic recipe and name, as well as a plan of communication measures to increase competitiveness has been proposed.

Monographic, logical construction, scientific induction and deduction methods and a structured interview have been applied.
Knowledge, attitude, beliefs and use of over the counter drug products among medical undergraduates
Authors: Rani Mamta , Gupta M. C.
Published: May 2017

Background: Over the counter (OTC) drug products are available without prescription and considered safe, effective, affordable and easily accessible. Among medical students use of OTCs and even prescription drugs available as OTCs is increasing day by day. The objective of the study was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitude and beliefs about OTCs, their use, safety and regulatory issues of OTCs among medical undergraduates.Methods: A questionnaire-based study was conducted and 151 medical students participated in this study. A preformed and validated questionnaire consisting of 2 parts was used. Part 1 consisted of general information regarding OTCs and Part 2 consisted information about knowledge, attitude, beliefs and use of OTCs. Data were analyzed and the results were expressed as percentages.Results: 100% participating students were aware about OTCs. 70% used them a lot because of availability and belief on safety. Chemist was a good source of advice over minor medical problems according to 38% of students. Information to be read on drug label was known to 62.5% of them. Affordability and accessibility (84%) was the main reason for OTCs use. Common medications bought without prescription were antibiotics, antihistaminics (100%) and cough syrups (90%). Headache and fever (100%), acidity (91%) were common indications for OTC use. Common OTCs stored at home were painkiller, antacids and skin care products.Conclusions: All students though were aware of OTCs but had little knowledge of regulation and usage. Many prescription drugs were also available as OTCs. Medical students need to be educated and trained about OTCs and the related issues.
A critical evaluation of information in drug promotional brochures for validity as per WHO criteria
Authors: Singh Navyug R. , Randhawa Gurpreet K. , Kashyap Resham , Kaur Gobindnoor
Published: May 2017

Background: Promotion of drugs through publication of promotional literature is a standard practice of pharmaceutical companies. This study is aimed at critically analyzing the drug promotional brochures.Methods: Observational study was conducted in Department of Pharmacology, Government Medical College Amritsar according to WHO guidelines. 100 brochures of different pharmaceutical companies were collected at random from various OPDs of a tertiary care hospital.Results: Only 14 % of total brochures demonstrated overall adherence to WHO guidelines. Safety information was lacking in 88%. Irrelevant pictures were found in 66% brochures while relevant illustrated information was included in only 23 % of brochures. Out of total illustrations found relevant (n=44), 45.5% did not quote any reference, and results didn’t match with original study in 11.4%.Conclusions: Our study points towards big lacuna in drug promotional brochures, an important source of drug information. Low percentage of adherence to the guidelines in the study reflects commercial interest of pharmaceutical companies and lack of will to correctly disseminate the drug related information.
Resveratrol chemoprotective effect and COX 2 down regulation in tumor suppression in DMBA induced breast cancer in female Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Suresh Aneena , Rana Rajat , C. Keerthana
Published: May 2017

Background: Aim of the study was to assess the Chemo protective role of Resveratrol in 7,12‑Dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) induced breast cancer in Female Sprague Dawley rats and its possible role in down regulation of COX 2, an enzyme known to be expressed in breast cancer tissues.Methods: A total of 40 female Sprague dawley rats (total 4 groups, n = 10 per group) 6 weeks old, group 1 on pulverized rodent diet, group 2 DMBA with diet, group 3 DMBA and diet with Resveratrol 100mcg, group 4 DMBA and diet with Resveratrol 200mcg. After 120 days experiment was terminated and tumors were analyzed for multiplicity, incidence and histology. Cox 2 expression was analyzed by Western blot analysis. Values were statistically tested using one way variance and Tukey’s comparison test.Results: Body weight and tumor volume was similar, there was remarkable high latency period for tumor onset and reduction in tumor multiplicity andincidence in resveratrol treated groups. Tumor incidence was 42.27±10.17 for Group 2, 21.91±5.87 for Group 3, 13.73±3.98 for group 4. Tumor multiplicity was reported as 0.8909±0.30 for group 2, 0.1036±0.04 for group 3, 0.04545±0.02 for group 4. Histopathological analysis revealed ductal carcinoma in group 2, minor tissue necrosis in group 3 and fibroadenoma in group 4.Conclusions: Resveratrol has chemoprevention action against DMBA induced breast cancer and suppresses COX 2 expression in breast carcinoma.
Prevalence of overactive bladder symptoms and urinary incontinence in a tertiary care hospital in Egypt
Authors: Bahloul Mustafa , Abbas Ahmed M. , Abo-Elhagag Mervat A. , Elsnosy Elwani , Youssef Alaa-eldein A.
Published: May 2017

Background: The current study aims to estimate the prevalence of Overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary incontinence (UI) among women attending Assiut Woman's Health Hospital. Additionally, to explore the impact of UI and OAB on The Quality of Life (QOL) of women.Methods: A population-based survey included participants aged 18 years and older selected from Assiut Woman's Health Hospital and received The Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Questionnaire (BFLUTSQ). OAB was defined in to two versions using the international continence society (ICS) definition of 2002 as either urgency sometimes or more alone (OAB1) or urgency sometimes or more with frequency more than eight times per day and /or nocturia once or more per night (OAB2). Incontinence and other LUTS were positive if answer scores ≥2 to BFLUTSQ question for incontinence and other LUTS.Results: The total prevalence of OAB was 39.0% (351 women). The prevalence of OAB dry and OAB wet was 26% (234 women) and 13% (117 women), respectively, which suggested that 66.7% suffer from OAB dry and 33.3% suffer from OAB wet. The prevalence of dry OAB is significantly higher than wet OAB. The overall prevalence of UI was 22.2% (201 women). The prevalence of stress UI, urge UI and mixed UI was 5.7%, 5.1% and 11.4%, respectively.Conclusions: OAB symptoms and UI are highly prevalent. Furthermore, both of them have severe effects on daily and sexual life as well as being related to psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria in early pregnancy: an analysis
Authors: P. MuthuPrabha , S. Ramalakshmi
Published: May 2017

Background: Asymptomatic bacteriuria is defined as greater than 100,000 organisms in the urine of a person who lacks symptoms. The objective of present study was to find out the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) in women attending the antenatal OPD in a tertiary care centre and to study the effect of screening and treatment on maternal and fetal outcome.Methods: The study was conducted at OG Department, Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital over a period of ten months from March 2014 to Dec. 2014. Antenatal women at 12-16 weeks were screened by collecting clean catch midstream urine samples and doing routine urine analysis, culture/sensitivity and colony count. Treatment was given to all bacteriaurics with oral cephalexin and for persistent cases with Inj. gentamycin. Repeat culture was done at second and third trimesters.Results: In this study, the incidence of ASB was found to be 10.8%. It was more common among primi gravida (13.98%) and the incidence was found to be high in low socio economic groups (12.4%). In present study E. coli was 88.88%, Klebsiella 7.4% and Staphylococcus aureus 3.7%. Anemia was found in 37.04% of bacteriurics, preeclampsia in 7.4%, preterm delivery in 14.82% and low birth weight in 18.5% of bacteriurics.Conclusions: Treatment of ASB during pregnancy at the first antenatal visit decreases the incidence of preeclampsia, premature delivery, low-birth weight and perinatal mortality.
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous bolus versus intravenous infusion of iron sucrose in pregnant women with severe iron deficiency anemia
Authors: Verma Urvashi , Singh Saroj , Singh Shikha , Pathak Anu , Yadav Poonam , Benazeer .
Published: May 2017

Background: Objective of present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous bolus iron sucrose for iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy during second and third trimester women presenting at S.N. medical college, Agra.Methods: It was a prospective controlled trial and study was carried out in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, S.N. medical college, Agra in the year 2014-2016. 100Pregnant women with proved iron deficiency anemia having hemoglobin between 4-9gm/dl was included in this study. Total Iron deficit was calculated by standard formula. Target haemoglobin was 11gm/dl. Iron sucrose was administered by intravenous bolus and intravenous infusion techniques. Hemoglobin was repeated at 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 8 weeks after the last dose of intravenous iron sucroseResults: In Group A (bolus group n=50) 22 women had gestational age >24-28weeks and 20 women gestational age >18-24 weeks, with Mean gestational age of 24.36±3.78 weeks. In Group B (infusion group n=50) most of the patients 24 (48%) had gestational age >24-28 weeks, 18 (36%) had gestational age >18-24 weeks, with Mean gestational age of 24.94±3.51 weeks. Target hemoglobin was achieved in group A in all 50 (100%) cases and in group B in 49 (98%) cases. There were no allergic reactions.Conclusions: This study showed a significant improvement in the hemoglobin of the patients after receiving intravenous bolus and intravenous infusion of iron sucrose. Patients achieved the target hemoglobin of 11gm/dl. Both therapies are safe, effective and faster acting for the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy. The bolus push technique is more convenient to women and care provider, less time consuming as well as cost effective.
Learning curve of laparoscopic hysterectomy in a zonal hospital setting: a retrospective analysis of 102 cases operated by a single surgeon
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Kapur Krishan , Bhat P. Mohan , Karkhanis Nikhil
Published: May 2017

Background: The aim of this study was to analyse the learning curve and clinical efficacy of the art of laparoscopic hysterectomy in a zonal hospital setting.Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 102 women who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy (LAVH/ TLH) by a single surgeon after post-graduation for benign uterine pathology in a zonal hospital setting. They were divided into two groups of first 50 cases (Group I) and next 52 cases (Group II). The primary outcome was the learning curve of the operating gynaecologist in terms of reduction in duration of surgery, reduced perioperative complications, increasing percentage of TLHs with time.Results: 102 women underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy for the benign uterine pathology successfully. Surgical outcomes of laparoscopic hysterectomy in terms of mean operative time was 135 mins (Group I) vs 93 mins (Group II), estimated blood loss 255 ml (Group I) vs 140 ml (Group II), hospital stay 05 days (Group I) vs 03 days (Group II), duration of postoperative analgesia 07 days (Group I) vs 05 days (Group II). As the surgical experience increased, patients with bigger uterine size (>10-week size) were taken up for hysterectomy, percentage of TLH increased in Group II as compared to Group I (42.31% vs 18%), with decreasing complications and shorter recovery time.Conclusions: Laparoscopic hysterectomy (LAVH/ TLH) has a short learning curve and it's a feasible and beneficial surgical modality for treating benign uterine pathology even in a zonal hospital setting (low resource setting).
Assessment of thyroid and prolactin levels among the women with abnormal uterine bleeding
Authors: John Jovita Deepthy , Damodaran Vimala , Radhakrishnan Shankar
Published: May 2017

Background: Thyroid disorders are 10 times more common in women than men.1 Menstrual disturbances usually accompany clinical alterations in thyroid function and every clinician would have encountered altered menstrual pattern among women suffering from either hypo or hyper thyroidism. A high serum prolactin level can distrurb the follicular maturation and corpus luteum function, and leads to inhibition of normal pulsatile secretion of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone in hypothalamus resulting in anovulation. The aim of the study was to assess the thyroid and the prolactin levels among the women with abnormal uterine bleeding and to evaluate the association between them by comparing with normal females.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted for a period of one year between Jan 2016 and December 2016 in our institution at the gynaecology OPD. Patients in the age group of 15 to 45 with the complaints of abnormal uterine bleeding and with the ultrasound findings showing normal uterus and ovary were included in the study. Hundred age and sex matched controls without any complaints of abnormal uterine bleeding in the age group of 15 – 45 years were also included in the study. Free T3, Free T4, TSH and prolactin estimation was done by chemiluminescent immunoassay for both the patients and the controls.Results: The mean TSH levels among the cases were much higher than that of the controls and the difference in the levels found to be statistically significant. Similarly, hyperprolactinemia was found in 18 cases when compared to 2 cases in controls and the mean prolactin levels were higher in cases. The serum prolactin levels and the serum TSH levels showed a perfect positive correlation which indicates that as the TSH level increases prolactin levels also increases with the R value >0.5.Conclusions: Early detection of hypothyroidism in such subjects saves the patient from recurrent curettage and at times hysterectomy. The ﬁnancial implications of screening for prolactin/thyroid hormone abnormalities will have to be evaluated before a general recommendation can be made.
Role of thyroid dysfunction and thyroid autoimmunity in infertile women: study done in 450 bedded maternity hospital of Delhi, India
Authors: Gupta Jyotsana , Bansal Charu Lata , Ajmani Sangita Nangia , Ajmani Ajay Kumar
Published: May 2017

Background: the aim was to study the prevalence of abnormal thyroid function and thyroid autoimmunity in infertile women and in general population (control group) and to correlate the thyroid dysfunction with presence of anti-thyroid antibodies. It was a case control study. The study was carried out at Department of obstetrics and gynaecology, Kasturba Hospital, Delhi. Population of the study was fifty infertile women in whom other causes of infertility are excluded and fifty fertile women attending out- patient department with other complaints.Methods: All the women enrolled in the study were non pregnant, clinically euthyroid (with no signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders and no documented abnormal thyroid function test) and no known autoimmune disorder. Detailed history and a thorough general physical examination, including thyroid examination was done. Haemogram, blood group, fasting and post prandial blood sugar, VDRL, transabdominal ultrasound, TSH, free T3, free T4, and antithyroid per-oxidase antibody assay was done using the ELISA technique.Results: The mean age of the study group was found 28.38±2.45 years, 22% had abnormal thyroid function, 20% had antithyroid antibodies positive and the mean TSH of the study group was 4.61±1.72µIU/ml. The mean age of the control group was found to be 29.10±2.01 years, 12% had abnormal thyroid function, 10% had antithyroid antibodies positive and the mean TSH of the control group was 3.89±1.56µIU/ml.Conclusions: Thyroid dysfunction and anti-thyroid antibodies were more prevalent in patients with infertility. A statistically significant correlation was established between thyroid autoimmunity and thyroid dysfunction in infertile women in the study.
Rupture uterus: a prospective observational study of 25 consecutive cases in a tertiary referral centre in South India
Authors: Desai Rashmi S , Kamat Amitha V
Published: May 2017

Background: Uterine rupture in pregnancy is a rare though catastrophic complication with a high incidence of foetal and maternal morbidity. It appeared to be on the decline in recent times, prompting us to analyse the clinical picture now. The objective of the study was to study the risk factors, clinical profile and consequences of uterine rupture on maternal and perinatal outcome.Methods: A prospective observational study of 25 consecutive cases of uterine rupture was carried out between July 2013 and October 2015. All the cases of rupture uterus either referred or diagnosed after admission were included. Detailed demographic data, past and present obstetric events, time taken to reach the referral centre, the reasons for any delay, mode of presentation, type of rupture, management and maternal and foetal outcomes were analysed.Results: The incidence of rupture was 1 in 915 deliveries. Seventy-two per cent of them were referred cases. Average time to reach from referral centre was 4.3 hours, the common reasons for delay being patient factors (33%), transport problems (38%) and delayed referrals (22%). Previous caesarean section was the most common predisposing factor (56%). Sixty-four per cent of the ruptures were diagnosed clinically. Eighty-four per cent of the ruptures were complete. Sub-total hysterectomy was carried out in 14 (56%) patients. Internal iliac artery ligation (20%) and bladder repair (8%) were sometimes required. All women required blood transfusion.  Perinatal mortality was seen in 76%. There was no maternal mortality.Conclusions: Uterine rupture is a cause of severe acute maternal morbidity and very high perinatal mortality.  Delay in referral and diagnosis can lead to significant maternal morbidity and hysterectomy.
A study of complications in case of unicornuate uterus with rudimentary horn
Authors: Kamal Samarina , Roy Priyankur
Published: May 2017

Background: To analyse gynecological and reproductive morbidities associated with unicornuate uterus with noncommunicating rudimentary horn.Methods: This is a retrospective study of 20 cases of unicornuate uterus with noncommunicating rudimentary horn found on laparotomy in a duration of 5 years (Oct 2011-Oct 2016).Results: Out of 20 patients, two teenagers presented with dysmenorrhoea and pain abdomen and had haematometra in the noncommunicating rudimentary horn which was excised. Eight had pregnancy in the noncommunicating rudimentary horn of which all presented after rupture and five were admitted in a state of shock. Ten patients had pregnancy in the hemiuterus with complications inherent to the condition.Conclusions: Unicornuate uterus with noncommunicating rudimentary horn is associated with poorest outcomes among all uterine anomalies and a high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose this condition and thus to save the woman from catastrophic complications.
Fetal Triploidy Syndrome: a case report from Global Reference Laboratory, Mumbai, India
Authors: Pande Shailesh , Choubal Nitin , Parulekar Ashish , Pais Anurita , Chheda Pratiksha , Salunkhe Yogita , Matkar Sunmeet
Published: May 2017

Triploidy is a complete extra set of chromosomes. In the current case report, we present the case of a 29-year-old pregnant female who was referred to Department of Genetics, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd, Mumbai. Real-time sonography of the gravid uterus was done using a 3C RS multi-frequency probe. Placenta was observed to be posterior. The findings were suggestive of a single viable foetus with an average gestational age of 14.6 weeks at 14-15 weeks of pregnancy and only mild placental thickening at 17-18 weeks of pregnancy was detected on Ultrasound at the time of Amniocentesis. The fetal chromosomal study on amniotic fluid by Fluoroscence insitu hybridization (FISH) revealed trisomy status for chromosome 13, 18, 21, X and Y in 100% of the cells analysed and the fetal karyotype revealed a presence of extra set of chromosomes (69) in all the analysed cells. Parental blood karyotype was done for checking cytogenetic abnormality or variations. FISH studies with POC specimen revealed Trisomy status for chromosomes 13, 18, 21 and presence of extra Sex chromosome (XXY) in all cells analysed.
Amniotic band syndrome: a rare entity to be encountered
Authors: Sinha Sushma , Malik Surya
Published: May 2017

Amniotic band syndrome(ABS) is a disruption sequence with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from partial amputations to major craniofacial and limb body wall defects. The commonest abnormalities usually involve the limbs and can range from simple constriction rings to complete amputation occurring at various levels. This case report is about a new born female baby who was normally delivered and she presented with complete absence of metacarpals and phalanges of the left hand. All the other limbs were normal. This case report throws a light on the different diagnostic modalities which can be used to diagnose amniotic band syndrome. Therapy of ABS is mostly surgical, with an individual approach to every single case. Interdisciplinary consulting and work is very often needed.
Splenic Gestation: A rare case report
Authors: Patil Narendra Ramrao , Birare Shivaji Dadarao , Dale Apurva Ravindra , Mahule Sanjay Khemlal
Published: May 2017

Abdominal ectopic pregnancy accounts for only 1.3% of all ectopic pregnancies and occurs when a fertilised ovum implants in an extra pelvic peritoneal location. Splenic pregnancy is one of the least common form of abdominal ectopic pregnancy. Early diagnosis is essential as delay in treatment carries significant potential for morbidity and mortality. We present a case of 22-year-old female with 6 weeks amenorrhoea and acute abdomen. Patient underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy with suspicion of ?splenic hemangioma  ?ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Splenectomy was performed. Final diagnosis was confirmed on histopathology showing chorionic villi invading the splenic parenchyma.
Evaluation of efficacy of laparoscopy in patients with chronic abdominal pain
Authors: Prasad Sanjay , Jain Suraj , Prakash Advait , Gautam Ajeet , Gadodia Mohan , Gupta Anand , Somani Kiran
Published: May 2017

Background: Chronic abdominal pain is a major cause of surgical dilemma. Patients with chronic abdominal pain usually undergo a battery of investigations without yielding much in diagnosis. The pain in such patients therefore becomes chronic and perpetual source of discomfort. This study was under taken to assess the efficacy of performing diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in patients with chronic abdominal pain for longer than 3 weeks or more.Methods: This prospective study was performed at a tertiary care level hospital. All patients undergoing laparoscopy for chronic abdominal pain were included in the study from December 2013 to June 2015. The patient’s demographic data, duration of pain, diagnostic studies, intra-operative findings during laparoscopy, interventions performed and follow-up were recorded and evaluated.Results: A total of 50 patients, 22 females and 28 males, between age range of 10 years to 60 years underwent diagnostic laparoscopy for the evaluation and treatment of chronic abdominal pain. The average duration with pain was 10.38 weeks (range 4-32 weeks). Findings included abdomen chronic appendicitis in 15 patients, abdominal tuberculosis in 11 patients, ovarian cyst five patients, sub acute intestinal obstruction in five patients and liver abscess four patients. Meckel’s diverticulum, ectopic pregnancy, pelvic abscess, appendicular lump, Psoas abscess and typhilitis were noted in one patient each. Various procedures in accordance with pathology were performed. 92% of patients had pain relief at the time of follow up.Conclusions: Diagnostic laparoscopy is a better, cost-effective, and efficient method of establishing the diagnosis in patients with chronic abdominal pain.
Laparoscopic and open repair of perforated peptic ulcer
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Abdel Monem , Turkeyev Backeet , Al Alkatary Mohammad Mahmood
Published: May 2017

Background: The study included patients diagnosed as perforated peptic ulcer. Outcomes are assessed by mortality and morbidity rate, operation time and hospital length of stay.Methods: On the period from January 2013 to December 2014 a total of 71 patients were operated in both facilities: 37 patients in Dubai hospital and 34 in Mafraq Hospital. Open repair with omental patch done in 34 patients (47.9%) and laparoscopically in 37 patients (52.1%). No cases of laparoscopy converted to laparotomy.Results: The data demonstrates homogeneous results for the outcome variables of morbidity and complications, while operation time and hospital length of stay differ significantly. Statistical significance could not be reached for any of these variables, although odd ratios were consistently in favour of the laparoscopic repair. Similarly, the laparoscopic approach resulted in a lower rate of minor complications (10% vs. 23%). Total lengths of stay post open repair made of 4.2±1.2 days, after laparoscopic repair 3.6±0.9 days. At the same time there were observed longer operating times for laparoscopic repair of PPU which constituted 62±10.6 minutes whereas open repair took only 45±12.9 minutes. Peritoneal lavage has been a factor of prolonged duration of laparoscopic surgery.Conclusions: Laparoscopic repair of a perforated peptic ulcer is an amenable and feasible technique within the hands of experienced laparoscopic surgeon. Current evidence does not clearly demonstrate the advantages of laparoscopic versus open repair. Growing interest in the laparoscopic approach may encourage the design of additional randomized trials to analyze its efficacy compared with the open approach.
Full mouth rehabilitation using fixed partial denture & cast partial denture with attachments and conventional lower denture - A case report
Authors: Anne Gopinadh , Kadiyala H Krishna Kishore , Dev J Ravi Rakesh , Badisa Mohan Krishna
Published: May 2017

A prosthesis delivered should cater to the needs of the patient and also meet the biological, mechanical, and esthetic considerations. Care should be taken in the formulation of treatment plan that the planned prosthesis fulfills the requirements of the patient and the dentist. Among the various methods of oral rehabilitation precision attachments are viable alternative to join fixed (FDP) and cast partial dentures (CPD) and thereby avoiding cumbersome procedures. The advantages of attachment retained CPD are the improvements in esthetics which eliminates the clasp assembly and biomechanics. This article describes the treatment sequence and technique for the use of attachments in therapy of combining FDP/CPD of patient reported with dislodged cantilever fixed prosthesis.
O estado democrático de direito e a força-de-lei (sem lei): uma análise das propostas de emenda à constituição que visam a redução da maioridade penal no Brasil
Authors: Vicente Laila Maria Domith
Published: May 2017

O presente artigo se propõe a pensar, a partir do referencial teórico de Michel Foucault, o Estado Democrático de Direito em sua formação no Brasil. Para isso teremos como instrumento de análise o discurso legislativo que visa a redução da maioridade penal a partir das Propostas de Emenda à Constituição (PECs) em trâmite na Câmara dos Deputados. A proposta do artigo é analisar como a formação estatal contemporânea no Brasil, em suas práticas, abre possibilidades para relações de poder autoritárias, excludentes e violentas que se fazem como um espaço de anomia e força-de-lei (sem lei) que, por fim, suspendem os direitos e garantias constitucionais para determinadas pessoas e grupos sociais. Assim, ao longo do artigo, e entremeados às análises, serão transcritos trechos dos textos das PECs que têm por objeto a redução da maioridade penal reforçando as análises teóricas realizadas.
Prohexadione calcium controls shoot growth of pear trees
Authors: Pasa Mateus Silveira , Fachinello José Carlos , Da Rosa Júnior Horacy Fagundes , De Franceschi Émerson , Herter Flávio Giberto , Da Silva Carina Pereira , De Souza André Luiz Kulkamp
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of prohexadione calcium (PCa) on vegetative growth and production of ‘Carrick’, ‘Packham’s’ and ‘William’s’ pear. The trial was performed at the experimental field of the Federal University of Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil (31º 52’ 00" S; 52º 21’ 24" W), during the growing seasons of 2011 and 2012. Treatments were applied to single-tree replications in a randomized complete block design with four replications as follows: Control (unsprayed), PCa (PCa - 750 g ha-1 i.a.). The application was split in four (187,5g ha-1 a.i. each) and three timings (250g ha-1 a.i. each) in the 2011 and 2012 growing seasons, respectively. The assessed parameters were: shoot length, trunk cross sectional area (TCSA) increment, number of nodes, internode length, pruning weight, number of fruits, average fruit weight, production per tree and return bloom. It was possible to conclude that application of PCa at 750 g. ha-1 a.i satisfactorily controls shoot growth through the reduction of internode length of ‘Carrick’, ‘Packham’s’ and ‘William’s’ pears. Besides, it was observed that return bloom is not negatively affected by PCa. So, this plant growth regulator is a potential management tool to reduce shoot growth and the need for pruning in pear orchards.
ANÁLISE DO COMPORTAMENTO E SUSTENTABILIDADE: REVISÃO DOS ARTIGOS PUBLICADOS NO BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL ISSUES DE 2005 A 2016
Authors: Dal Ben Rodrigo , Camargo Julio , De Melo Camila Muchon , Figueiras Guilherme Bracarense
Published: May 2017

Analistas do comportamento têm investigado práticas sustentáveis desde a década de 1970. Não obstante, as pesquisas da área são limitadas em relação à abrangência dos alvos de pesquisa/intervenção, à manutenção a longo prazo de comportamentos pró-ambientais, e à sua disseminação para um público amplo. A presente pesquisa buscou identificar os principais alvos de intervenção/análise e a principal contribuição dos artigos publicados entre 2005 e 2016 no periódico Behavior and Social Issues. Os artigos foram identificados por meio dos descritores: sustentabilidade, sustentável, aquecimento global, mudança climática, comportamento pró-ambiental, proteção ambiental, conservação ambiental, reciclagem, e uso de energia. Dos 13 artigos analisados, nove investigaram, teoricamente, novas unidades de análise/intervenção, a relação entre processos psicológicos e sustentabilidade, e os efeitos de consequências imediatas e atrasadas em escolhas sustentáveis. Quatro artigos investigaram empiricamente o efeito de variáveis antecedentes, consequentes, e regras no aumento da reciclagem, na redução do consumo de energia, na transmissão de práticas sustentáveis em uma micro sociedade laboratorial, e na adaptação de um estabelecimento comercial. A presente revisão fornece um panorama da área e tem o potencial de guiar pesquisadores, estudantes, e audiências interessadas na busca por variáveis e estratégias relevantes para a promoção de práticas pró-ambientais.Palavras-chave: sustentabilidade, comportamento pró-ambiental, análise do comportamento
Exploring the benefits of CSI on the growth of emerging SMEs in Namibia: Evidences from Lock and Keys
Authors: Geoffrey Nambira , Maria Indongo
Published: May 2017

This paper investigates how CSI implementation leads to business growth among the emerging SMEs. The study focuses mainly on the roles of the management in implementing CSI, the CSI benefits, as well as the challenges of implementing CSI. This study is grounded on instrumental and political theories. It attempted a combination of methods of analysis namely content and textual analysis in analysing the qualitative data. In order to get a broader understanding CSI, qualitative method was used. A holistic sample technique was used to drawn 15 respondents from the population of employees of Key and Lock. The sample comprised of 4 managers and 11 employees. The respondents were interviewed using structured interview questions. The findings show that managers were the most important drivers of CSI implementation and their influences were essential in boosting CSI activities. Furthermore, CSI provided potential benefits to the company such as high profits, enhanced corporate image, improved employee morale, stabilising the customer loyalty, attract employees and increase company reputation. It was found that emerging SMEs can embrace CSI portfolios as part of social responsibility within the scope of their finances. Furthermore, Lock and Key fulfil the social responsibility by caring for the environment through clearing of the disposed metals from the environment and sell goods and services at affordable price. This act tally with bottom of the economy pyramid theory. The study recommended that CSI should be strategies and be used as a mechanism of boosting company growth. CSI acts as a shield to the SMEs and create competitive advantage. The emerging SMEs need to opt for CSI portfolios that do not require intense capital investment. This will enable them to offer philanthropic services to community at an affordable price. The biggest challenges in implementing CSI were lack of finance, overall perception and the understanding of CSI among the employees and poor knowledge of CSI.
Monotonic Correlation Diagnostics of share price volatility for Shariah-compliant Islamic Bank: A New Insight of Islamic Financial Engineering
Authors: Abu Bakar Nashirah , Rosbi Sofian
Published: May 2017

The objective of this paper is to analyze the relationship between volatility rates and return rates for a share price of Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (BIMB) from the year 2010 until 2016. The maximum volatility rate is 3.96 in July 2011, while the minimum volatility rate is 0.46 in April 2014. Next, the nonparametric analysis calculated the monotonic relationship between volatility rates and return rate for a share price of BIMB. From the analysis, the significant value is 0.000. Hence, the result rejects the null hypothesis for a Spearman correlation analysis. The numerical result shows there is a monotonic association between volatility rate and return rate for a share price of BIMB. The Spearman correlation coefficient, rs in this analysis is 0.403 indicated that there is a moderate positive correlation between volatility rate and return rate for BIMB share price.
The Values of Virtual Brand Community Engagement of Facebook Brand Page
Authors: Jing Zhang , Sotheara Heang ,   College of Public Administration, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China
Published: May 2017

Findings from both virtual brand community (VBC) behaviors provided a good reference, which informs a strategic direction to boost brand performance. The results examined different motives, which were likely to promote VBC participation, and were extended to the degree of VBC engagement. Both passive and active engagement results varied across community types, yet they both created significant brand loyalty and satisfaction providing theoretical and managerial implication into branding literature. The findings from this study offered interesting attention toward the two adopted online engagement behaviors. Passive participation is partially contributed to providing marketing managers a general overview about the nature of lurkers, while active participants have the potential power to convert passive members into the active ones.