bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in training activity post COVID-19 infection in recreational runners and cyclists
Authors: Emeran Aminah , Lambert Estelle , Paruk Tasneem , Bosch Andrew
Published: September 2022

Background: Anecdotal evidence suggests that athletes struggle to return to exercise post COVID-19 infection. However, studies evaluating the effect of COVID-19 on athletes’ exercise activity are limited.
Objectives: The objectives of this study were: (i) to describe the perceptions of recreational runners and cyclists recovering from COVID-19 on their training activity and general wellbeing, (ii) to compare device-measured training data in runners and cyclists pre- and post COVID-19, with noninfected controls that had a training interruption.
Methods: Participants who were recruited via social media completed an online questionnaire (n=61), including demographic, health and COVID-19 descriptive data. In a sub-sample, device-measured training data (heart rate, time, distance and speed, n=27) were obtained from GPS devices for four weeks before infection and on resumption of training. Similar data were collected for the control group (n=9) whose training had been interrupted but by factors excluding COVID-19.
Results: Most participants experienced a mild to moderate illness (91%) that was associated with a training interruption time of two-four weeks. Decreases in heart rate, relative exercise intensity, speed, time and distance were observed during the first week of returning to training for both groups, followed by an increase from Week two onwards.
Discussion: Results failed to support a ‘COVID-19 effect’ on exercise activity as reductions in training variables occurred in both the COVID-19 and control groups. A possible explanation for the reductions observed is a deliberate gradual return to training by athletes post-COVID-19.
Conclusion: More research is needed using device-measured training data prior to and post COVID-19 infection to better understand the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on the exercise activity of athletes.
LEGAL PLURALISM IN SOUTH AFRICA: THE RESILIENCE OF TRANSKEI’S SEPARATE LEGAL STATUS IN THE FIELD OF CRIMINAL LAW
Authors: DS Koyana
Published: September 2022

The Transkei Penal Code was enacted by the parliament of the Cape of Good Hope as Act 24 of 1886. It was part of the mechanisms devised for governance of the area between the Kei River in the west and the Mtamvuma river on the Natal border, and to which the name Transkei was given. It was drawn up by lawyers trained in English law and it therefore watered down the influence of Roman-Dutch law in the Transkei region of South Africa.The code exerted enormous influence on South African law itself. As a result the judges of the Supreme Court of South Africa (as it then was) in numerous cases heard in different parts of South Africa, repeatedly said that the South African law on a point in issue was as laid down in the Transkei Penal Code. The power of the Penal Code continued to be evident in Appellate Division decisions as recently as 1988. When Transkei became independent (in 1976) she revised the code and passed the Transkei Penal Code Act 9 of 1983. More than ten years after the reincorporation of Transkei into the new South Africa this Code remains of full force and effect. In 2004 an effort by the National Directorate of Public Prosecutions to have criminal charges in Transkei framed under the common law and no longer under the Code, was thwarted by the Transkei High Court which ruled that only an Act of Parliament could alter the position.
SHAREHOLDERS’ INTERESTS VERSUS SOCIAL DEMANDS: INCONGRUOUS AGENDAS
Authors: Siyabonga Shandu
Published: September 2022

In this note the chasm between shareholder and stakeholder interests in the running of the corporation in an emerging economy in general, and the third world country in particular, is considered. A study of two corporate governance models is undertaken with the intention to demonstrate that inclusive corporate governance which does not relegate stakeholder interests to the periphery is more efficient under the Two-Tier Board than the Anglo-Saxon model which is followed in South Africa. The reality of an entrenched corporate governance model which is supported in the South African Companies Act 61 of 1973 (the Anglo-Saxon model) is appreciated; hence it is argued that it is unlikely that South Africa might, in future, change to the Two-Tier board. The answer to the international revolution of realising societal expectations lies either in the King Report on Corporate Governance in South Africa (2002) (hereinafter King II) or modified corporate mindset, or both. It is also argued that the proposals in the Policy document of theDepartment of Trade and Industry (DTI) (South Africa Company Law for the 21st Century: Guidelines for Corporate Law Reform, May 2004, GN 1183 GG 26493 23-06-2004 May 2004, also available at http://www.dti.gov.za/ccrdlawreview/companylaw.htm) for optional representation of stakeholders on boards and the proposed inclusion of the statement recognising stakeholder interests in the Companies Act constitute a good start to changing the corporate mindset towards being stakeholder-sensitive. It is argued that the focus of King II on the triple-bottom line approach is negated by its ambivalence on enforcement and the status of stakeholdersin the South African corporation. The article then concludes that in a country which emerged from a history of entrenched overt racism, a significant recognition of stakeholder interests is critical to the socio-economic need for transformation to create a stable civil society. Globalisation has given rise to remarkable increase in the power of the global corporation. Events in the corporate sector can have negative repercussions not only for the shareholders of that particular corporation but also for society at large, either in that particular country or internationally. The emergence of powerful multinational corporations has led to a demise of state authority. The spate of corporate failures, however, has precipitated a move towards strengthening corporate governance rules to ensure thatcompanies are well governed. Indeed it has been opined that companies contribute enormously to the economic and social wellbeing of our societies (Worthington “Corporate Governance: Remedying and Ratifying Directors Breaches” October 2000 (116) LQR 638).
INTERCEPTION OF ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS IN THE WORKPLACE
Authors: Vivienne Lawack-Davids  , Adriaan van der Walt
Published: September 2022

The need to intercept and monitor communications arose in the context of security legislation. However, the use of e-mail and the Internet in the workplace has raised concerns about the privacy of employees’ e-mail and web browsing activities. On the one hand, despite the fact that the employer’s resources are being used, employees still have an expectation that there is some measure of privacy pertaining to their communications. On the other hand, information and communications technology in the workplace raises questions about the supervision of its use. The Regulation of Interception of Communications and the Provision of Communication-related Information Act (70 of 2002 – “the RIC Act”) has recently been enacted. The effect of this Act on interception of e-mail in theworkplace has been the subject of a media flurry and differences of opinion amongst information technology (IT) lawyers. Owing to uncertainties flowing from this Act, it has yet to come into operation.The aim of this note is to provide a cursory overview of the effect of the RIC Act on interception of e-mail in the workplace, to highlight the issues raised by the Act and to make recommendations on how some of these obstacles can be overcome.
ANOTHER VIEW ON HIV/AIDS TESTING AT THE WORKPLACE PFG Building Glass (Pty) Ltd v Chemical Engineering Pulp Paper Wood & Allied Workers Union (2003) 24 ILJ 974 (LC)
Authors: Tamara Cohen
Published: September 2022

In the third of a trilogy of cases (the first two being Joy Mining Machinery (A division of Harnischfeger (SA) (Pty) (Ltd) v NUMSA (2002) 23 ILJ 391 (LC) and Irvin and Johnson Ltd v Trawler and Line Fishing Union (2003) 24 ILJ 565 (LC)) interpreting the boundaries of section 7(2) of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 (hereinafter referred to as “EEA”), the Labour Court in PFG Building Glass (Pty) Ltd v Chemical Engineering Pulp Paper Wood & Allied Workers Union ((2003) 24 ILJ 974 (LC)) (hereinafter referred to as “PFG Building Glass (Pty) Ltd v CEPPWAWU) has yet again approached the issue of HIV/Aids testing at the workplace from a different perspective.In this case the applicant sought a declarator pronouncing that authorisation for the anonymous and voluntary testing of employees for HIV/Aids at the workplace was unnecessary, as such testing does not fall within the scope of section 7(2) of the EEA. Section 7(2) of the EEA expressly prohibits the testing of an employee to establish HIV/Aids status, unless such testing is “determined to be justifiable by the labour court …” A similar order was sought and granted in the earlier decision of Rogers AJ in Irvin and Johnson Ltd v Trawler and Line Fishing Union (supra) on different grounds. Unlike Rogers AJ in Irvin and Johnson Ltd v Trawler and Line Fishing Union (supra), Pillay J in PFG Building Glass (Pty) Ltd v CEPPWAWU (supra) chose to interpret this provision on the grounds identified by section 3 of the EEA, being “compliance with the Constitution, so as to give effect to its purpose, taking into account any relevant code of good practice … and compliance with international law obligations …”
DOI test v1
Authors: Frolov Vladimir
Published: September 2022

test
The Effect of System Quality, Information Quality and Service Quality on User Satisfaction of E-Learning System
Authors: Achmadi Achmadi , Siregar Amelia Oktrivina
Published: September 2022

The study aims at analyzing and explain the influence of system quality, information quality, service quality to user satisfaction e-learning system in the Master of Accounting. Total population of this study were 451 students with a total sample of 82. The sampling technique using proportional random sampling. The analytical method used GSCA (Generalized Structured Component Analysis). The results showed that the system quality, information quality, and service quality significantly influence user satisfaction e-learning system. The better the perception of the quality system, the quality of information, and the quality of service it will further increase user satisfaction.
Radiological determination of fossa cranii posterior morphometry in Chiari malformation type I
Authors: VURALLI Duygu , OKSÜZLER Mahmut
Published: September 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the morphological changes in Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI) of Chiari Malformation Type-1 (CMI) patients by performing morphometric measurements of fossa cranii posterior (FCP) and cranium.

Materials and Methods: Our study is retrospective and included a control group of 32 (16 females, 16 males) and 12 patients (6 males, 6 females) with CMI between the ages of 21 and 47 years. Measurements were made on T2-weighted cranial MR images of the patient with CMI and the control group.

Results: Maximum cranial length, maximum cranial height, sagittal diameter of foramen magnum, cranium base length, supraocciput, clivus length, anterior-posterior diameter of fossa cranii posterior, occipital cord length, cerebellum height, amount of herniation in CMI were found 164.13±10.67mm, 134.60±10.71mm, 36.89±5.28mm, 108.5±7.9mm, 38.5±3.7 mm, 36.7±7.1mm, 84.9±8.8mm, 79.7±11.5mm, 53.3±4.2mm, 7.8±4.9mm respectively.

Conclusion: In our study, the measurements of the CMI and the control group were compared and a decrease in the length of the supraocciput, the length of the clivus and the length of the occipital cord has been found and an increase in the length of the cranial base and the sagittal diameter of the foramen magnum has been found in CMI patients. As a result of the data obtained in our study, FCP morphometry of patients with CMI can contribute to patient follow-up and surgery.
The mediating role of structural capital in the relationship between human capital and performance in the public administrations of Mexico and Peru
Authors: Pedraza Melo Norma Angélica , De la Gala Velásquez Bernardo
Published: September 2022

Intellectual capital refers to the set of intangible assets that create competitiveness in public and private organizations and has a strategically significant role concerning resources, capacities and organizational performance. However, the academic output on intellectual capital in public administration is limited. The present study was conducted in public organizations in Tamaulipas, Mexico, and Arequipa, Peru; both countries are developing economies. The aim was to analyze the effects of human and structural capital on performance in public administration. A total of 502 questionnaires were administered to public employees in the two countries, using the neural networks technique and structural equation modeling. We found that human capital positively impacted organizational performance, and this relationship was mediated by structural capital. Thus, we recommend implementing structural and human capital management practices, given their role in enhancing the performance in public organizations.
As determinantes do desempenho econômico-financeiro das PME: o papel do capital estrangeiro
Authors: Pacheco Luis , Pedrinho Bruno
Published: September 2022

As pequenas e médias empresas (PME) são uma importante componente da estrutura empresarial portuguesa. Devido às suas características intrínsecas, estas tornam-se um alvo atrativo de investimento por parte de forças extranacionais, o que tem consequências a nível económico-financeiro, mais especificamente ao nível da rendibilidade. É amplo o debate acerca da influência do capital estrangeiro, com autores a defender a sua importância e outros a sua não significância em termos de rendibilidade. O objetivo geral deste estudo é verificar qual o impacto do capital estrangeiro na rendibilidade das PME. Através da análise de dados para 5.667 PME portuguesas, dos mais diversos setores de atividade e para o período de 2014 a 2018, é empregue uma regressão de dados em painel, mais especificamente o modelo de efeitos aleatórios. Para além da amostra completa, são igualmente realizadas regressões com a amostra segmentada entre micro, pequenas e médias empresas e empresas pertencentes à indústria transformadora ou ao comércio por grosso. Os resultados evidenciam que a origem externa do capital não exerce qualquer influência significativa na rendibilidade daquelas empresas.
The Effects of Counterproductive Workplace Behaviors on Academic LIS Professionals’ Health and Well-Being
Authors: Fic Christy , Albro Maggie
Published: September 2022

Objective – This study seeks to investigate the degree of counterproductive workplace behaviors (CWB) experienced by library and information science (LIS) professionals and how these behaviors contribute to physical, mental, and chronic health outcomes. While health outcomes may be present independent of CWB, this study seeks to explore the relationship between the two to provide context to the growing incidence of burnout among academic LIS professionals.
Methods – This quantitative study analyzed 327 responses to a survey about colleague behavior and health sent to LIS professionals through library community electronic mailing lists. The survey contained demographic questions, questions about CWB, questions about health experiences, and questions about the perceived relationship between work and health. Counterproductive workplace behaviors were rated on a seven-point Likert scale. A behavior score was calculated by adding the Likert values of the 12 behavior questions. This score was used when comparisons about CWB were compared by demographics and health responses. Statistical analysis of survey results was performed using RStudio.
Results – The mean total behavior score was 39. 107 respondents’ total behavior scores fell in the low range, 202 in the moderate range, and 18 in the high range. There was no significant relationship found between demographic factors and behavior score. A negative relationship was observed between duration of employment in an academic library and presence of mental health issues (F(5, 310) = 10.114, p = 5.5e-09). A similar relationship was observed between duration of employment in the respondents’ current library and presence of mental health issues (F(5, 311) = 9.748, p = 1.15e-08). Level of CWB experienced was found to have a relationship with the perceived ability to maintain good mental (F(2, 324) = 36.34, p = 5.75e-15), physical (F(2, 324) = 23.82, p = 2.24e-10), and chronic health (F(2, 323) = 13.04, p = 3.57e-06). Generally speaking, lower levels of CWB were associated with fewer challenges maintaining health.
Conclusion – Low to moderate levels of CWB are common in academic libraries. These behavior levels are associated with an increase in health challenges. LIS professionals perceive work as being a factor that contributes to having trouble maintaining good mental and physical health and toward successfully managing chronic health conditions. Further study is needed to determine the degree to which experiencing CWB in the workplace affects health. Further study is also needed to determine if certain behaviors impact health outcomes more than others.
Practices of entrepreneurship women’s in the region: Generational aspect
Authors:   Saratov State University, Semenova Julia A. , Mohnatkina Kseniya V. ,   Saratov State University
Published: September 2022

The article presents the results of the authors qualitative sociological study of the age specifics of the key components of women’s entrepreneurial activity. The focus of research interest is based on the identification and analysis of the key factors of female entrepreneurial activity in terms of age in relation to Saratov region. The authors used the method of analytical induction (“method of typical cases”). The initial data were the transcripts of in-depth interviews with female residents of Saratov, aged from 30 to 70, having experience in doing business., The age characteristics of women’s entrepreneurial activity based on the analysis of qualitative research materials are characterized by using the example of women entrepreneurs in Saratov region. The motives of women’s entrepreneurial activity come down to the material factor to a greater extent. In the middle age group, freedom in decision-making, self-development, and the ability to help relatives were more often recorded. In the older age group, more emphasis was placed on forced entrepreneurship (professional burnout, low income, the opportunity to provide children with a better future). The social, legal, and economic conditions for women’s entrepreneurial activities in the region were analyzed.
The process of conversion in the context of Orthodox religiosity
Authors:   Saratov State University, Ufimceva Ekaterina I.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this article is a meaningful correlation of different methodological approaches to the analysis of the process of religious conversion from the point of view of Orthodox confessional interpretative specifics. The semantic field of the analysis includes important elements of the structure of conversion to Orthodoxy: the participants (subjects, agents) of conversion, motives of conversion, conversion practices, effects (results) of conversion, sub-effects of conversion, criteria (signs) of conversion. The convert, the social environment of the convert and the Orthodox preacher are considered as participants (subjects) of the appeal. The motives of the appeal are described: overcoming a difficult life situation, salvation from social disasters, getting out of a crisis psychological state. The emotional component of the conversion process is considered. The problem of multidirection, diversity and intensity of social influence on the treatment process is discussed. The subjects of conversion to Orthodoxy are described: participation in the church sacrament of baptism, repentance, free self-determination of a person to religious faith, participation in the church sacrament of confession, acquisition of religious faith. Special attention is paid to the analysis of conceptual provisions on the social factors of conversion to Orthodoxy. Among the main social factors of conversion to Orthodoxy, the following are considered: the religious and moral nature of the social environment, the degree of emotional and volitional influence of the social environment on the convert, the degree of consolidation of the social environment in the process of moral and religious influence on the convert. The parameters of conversion to Orthodoxy as a process are analyzed: awareness of conversion, speed of conversion, multiplicity, reversibility, depth of conversion. It is emphasized that the identified and substantiated parameters of conversion to Orthodoxy are of scientific interest from the point of view of their verification in sociological empirical studies.
The essence and content of the state youth policy in the field of patriotic education of youth (On the example of the Saratov region)
Authors:   Saratov State University, Nikiforov Gleb Ya.
Published: September 2022

The article analyzes the essential characteristics of the directions of implementation of patriotic education in the field of state youth policy in Russian Federation. The problem of the disadvantages of this activity is studied. It is concluded that despite the efforts made and the work done, the current state of the formation of patriotism of Russian youth is characterized as a problematic one due to the ongoing transformation of the values and norms among the younger generation, the inconsistency of the work of the authorities, educational institutions and the media. To improve the existing situation, the support of the state, public and educational institutions is still required. The formation of the correct and healthy patriotic feeling should begin from childhood, then be strengthened through the country’s education system.
The main institutions and practices of formation and development of memory policy in the Saratov region
Authors:   Saratov State University, Semenova Vera G. , Pupochkin Dmitriy A. ,   Saratov State University
Published: September 2022

In the presented article, the authors understand the policy of memory as a state policy aimed at interpreting historical events within the current political context. The education system, mass media, state authorities, as well as various public organizations are singled out as the main institutions of memory policy formation in modern Russia. The authors pay special attention to the practices of restoring images of the heroic past in the public consciousness of Russians, as well as symbols, rituals, “memory points” and “places of memory” in the Saratov region.
Assessment of Russian historical events in the pre-election programs of political parties in the elections to the State Duma of the 8th convocation
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Zhichkin Valeriy V.
Published: September 2022

The author examines the mention, evaluation, and interpretation of historical events and personalities in the programs of political parties that put forward lists of their candidates for elections to the State Duma of the Russian Federation of the 8th convocation. As a result of the study, the author came to the conclusion that radical assessments of historical events, both positive and negative, are found only in isolated cases, which indicates the broad ideological boundaries of most parties. The experience of the Soviet period in the context of social policy and industry is positively assessed by the majority of parties, while the decisions of the authorities of the period of the 90s of the last century are assessed strictly negatively. The study showed that the ideological basis of the party will not in all cases correspond to the assessment of historical events given in the party’s election program.
Evaluation of Occupational Exposure to Noise and Its Effect on Hearing Loss of Workers in a Cement Factory in Northern Iran
Authors: Mehri Hamidreza , Sepahi Zoeram Faeze , Vojdani Mohammad , Esmaeil zade Kavaki Morteza
Published: September 2022

Background and: Industrial noise affects the health of workers and can disrupt the daily communication of workers. The aim of this study is to evaluate occupational exposure and investigate the hearing loss of workers in the two sections of cement mill and material mill of a cement factory in north of Iran. Methods: This was a descriptive study conducted on 52 persons in 2020. At first, the sound measurement was performed with the Casella CEL 450 device in A-weighting network at workers' workplaces based on area-based method. Then, by referring to the medical records and demographic information, the amount of hearing loss in the frequencies of 250-8000 Hz was evaluated. Finally, the results were analyzed using SPSS software version 19. Results: Independent samples T-test showed that the average sound pressure level in the cement mill section (85.50 dBA) is higher than the material mill section (74.38 dBA) (P-value = 0.01). The highest rate of hearing loss was observed at frequencies of 4000 and 8000 Hz. The hearing loss rate was 10 decibels for both ears in the material mill section. No significant difference was observed in the amount of hearing loss in the right and left ears of employees. Conclusion: Noise pollution and hearing loss is common among employees of cement industry. To prevent hearing loss, it is necessary to evaluate and monitor the noise pressure level. Furthermore, engineering measures in the field, using personal protective equipment, as well as adequate training of employees should be conducted.
The Effect of Kinesio Tape and Exercise on Maximum Key Pinch Endurance on Assembly Workers
Authors: Fadaei Farzane , Ordudari Zahra , Habibi Ehsanollah
Published: September 2022

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal pain is generally caused by poor physical conditions and repetitive movement. The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of kinesio tape and exercise on maximum key pinch endurance and pain reduction regarding the assembly workers.
Method: This clinical trial study was conducted on 40 female workers employed in the assembly part of an electrical company. The subjects were categorized into three groups: exercise-taping, exercise and control, and performing an 8-week rehabilitation plan twice a week. To assess the upper limb disability and key pinch endurance before and after the intervention, authors used DASH questionnaire and pinch gauge, respectively. Data were evaluated with SPSS 20 and one-way ANOVA, Chi-Square and paired t-test tests. In this study, pinch gauge was used to measure pinch strength. Studies show that pinch gauge has high calibration accuracy and precision.
 Results: The results of this study demonstrated a decrease in upper limb disability in the two groups of exercise and taping-exercise compared to the control group. Chi-square test indicated a statistically significant difference between the history of hand pain in the three groups. Moreover, paired t-test showed that the two hand's key pinch endurance was significantly increased in the two intervention groups compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Using a kinesio tape can be effective in reducing pain and physical damage in hands. Therefore, at least 2 or 3 exercise sessions can be done per week during working hours.
Early Diagnosis of Schizophrenia and Secondary Diagnose of Cerebral autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Modaresi Farzaneh , Eslamzadeh Mahboubeh , Karimi Aliasghar , Ansari Amir
Published: September 2022

Background & Objective: Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is a rare disease with a prevalence estimation of, 5 per, 100,000 individuals. Besides, it can highly be misdiagnosed with other psychiatric disorders.
Case Presentation: We report a case of CADASIL in a 32-year-old Asian female presenting with schizophrenia symptoms such as auditory hallucination ،loosening of associations، persecutory delusions، referential delusions، decreased function, and complex hepatic hallucinations that the patient had said sometimes someone has intercourse with me since 2 years ago. After brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and gene checking, she showed up with NOTCH3 gene, besides Brain Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the presence of CADASIL. Supportive treatments have been done and two years of following up showed a significant increase in patient life quality
Conclusion: This case report demonstrates the challenges of CADASIL diagnosis in a patient with schizophrenia symptoms. The diagnosis should be considered in patients with schizophrenia symptoms. Hence, there is a need for timely diagnosis and management of this disorder.
Effects of Buprenorphine on Liver Enzymes in Patients without a History of Liver Disease
Authors: Rezaei Maryam , Yousefizadeh Shahnaz
Published: September 2022

Background & Objective: Buprenorphine (BUP), a synthetic opioid, treats pain and opioid use syndrome. The potential of BUP to cause liver toxicity has not been fully evaluated. The present literature review was designed to investigate the impact of BUP treatment on liver function in patients without a previous history of liver diseases.
Materials & Methods: A literature review was implemented within databases of Scopus, PubMed, ISI, and Cochran until February 2022. Studies published in English were included in this study. Retrieved citations were screened and data were extracted by at least two independent reviewers.
Results: Of the 1853 studies screened citations, 14 research reports were eligible. Overall, among the randomized controlled trial, four studies reported hepatotoxicity in patients who had a history of hepatitis C or hepatitis B seroconversion under BUP treatment.
Conclusion: No strong evidence was found for hepatotoxicity of BUP in this study. Elevation in the liver enzyme levels in some patients may be related to other factors such as infectious diseases, illicit drugs, alcohol consumption, environmental pollutants, and chronic diseases. More experimental and clinical studies should be conducted to address this question.
Effects of Magnesium-Vitamin E Co-supplementation on Glucose Metabolism, Oxidative Stress, and Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women with Gestational Diabetes: A Double-blind Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Hosseini Shima , Rahimi Maryam , Farmoudeh Ali , Fallah Amoli Amirali , Beheshti Monfared Niloufar
Published: September 2022

Background & Objective: Dietary antioxidants may play a protective role in the pathophysiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of magnesium-vitamin E co-supplementation on glycemic control and pregnancy outcomes in women with GDM.
Materials & Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted among GDM pregnant women at 24-28 weeks of gestation. The study did not include mothers who needed medication to control their blood glucose levels or had a history of DM. The subjects were randomly divided into two 30-member groups, one of which received magnesium (250 mg), and vitamin E (400 mg) daily, while the other was given a placebo. Blood samples were taken at the study baseline and six weeks after the intervention to quantify oxidative stress biomarkers, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and fasting plasma insulin (FPI). Additionally, the effect of supplementation was assessed on neonatal outcomes. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20 (SPSS, Chicago, IL).
Results: A significant decrease was observed in the FPG and FPI of the supplementation group (p<0.05). However, FPI elevated by progressing pregnancy in the placebo group (p=1.99×10-4). The homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) revealed that supplementation was associated with improved insulin sensitivity (p=3.38×10-13). In addition, total antioxidant capacity increased to 5.66 ± 0.86% in the treatment group. Finally, no significant difference was found between the groups regarding neonatal outcomes.
Conclusion: The results represented that magnesium-vitamin E co-supplementation significantly reduced oxidative biomarkers and improved glycemic control in GDM.
Overcoming Drug Resistance in Breast Cancer Using Quercetin Nanodrugs
Authors: Sorayabin Mobarhan Fatemeh , Teimouri Maryam , Pooladi Mehdi
Published: September 2022

Background & Objective: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Treatment methods for this disease have been with poor results. In recent years, more attention has been paid to stem cells due to their cytotoxic properties. According to previous results, the effect of nanoquercetin on breast cancer cells in this study was used concomitantly with doxorubicin, which is a chemotherapy drug and in some patients has therapeutic resistance.
Materials & Methods: The above study was performed on MCF7 and BT474 human breast cancer cells. Quercetin was synthesized, then different concentrations of 10, 20, 40, 80 and 160 of quercetin and 1, 2.5, 5 and 10 μg/ml of doxorubicin were prepared and two cell lines were treated for 24 h. MTT test was used to determine cell viability and flow cytometry test was used to determine the extent of apoptosis in both cell lines.
Results: The results showed that MCF7 and BT474 cells that were affected by quercetin and doxorubicin, increasing the concentration of quercetin and doxorubicin decreased the survival of both cell lines within 24 h. The LC50 concentration was calculated for both cells treated with nanoquercetin 40 μg/ml and for doxorubicin (0.1 mg/mL). The results also showed that in both cell lines, an increase in cellular apoptosis occurred after incubation with quercetin and then incubation with doxorubicin.
Conclusion: Comparison of doxorubicin (DOX), quercetin (QU) and quercetin and doxorubicin (QU-DOX) groups with controls shows that with the presence of quercetin-doxorubicin, it had a greater inhibitory effect on cancer cells.
Analyzing the Quality of Dialysis Machines Input Water in Hospitals of Kashan City, in 2019
Authors: Mehraban Navaz Kohan Samaneh , Mostafaii Gholam Reza , Akbari Hosein , Miranzadeh Mohammad Bagher
Published: September 2022

Introduction: According to high volumes of water used in hemodialysis, quality of water entering the dialysis machine is very important. The current study aims to analyze microbial and chemical quality of water used for hemodialysis in hospitals of Kashan city in 2019.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on 54 water samples used in dialysis machines in hospitals of Kashan city during 3 months of the fall season in 2019. Microbial tests of the samples were done, and also heavy metals were assessed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Statistical tests, sample t-test, and ANOVA were used to compare the mean results with standards.
Results: Based on the results, the mean concentrations of magnesium (Mg) (2.7 ± 2.22 mg/L), sulfate (13.09 ± 21.06 mg/L), sodium (Na) (17.27 ± 24.47 mg/L), and potassium (K) (0.09 ± 0.17 mg/L) in all samples were based on the standard levels. However, the mean concentrations of nitrate (3.22 ± 1.21 mg/L), aluminum (Al) (0.26 ± 0.16 mg/L), silver (Ag) (0.52 ± 0.85 mg/L), lead (Pb) (0.08 ± 0.13 mg/L), and zinc (Zn) (0.91 ± 0.71 mg/L) were above standard levels in all the samples. Thallium (Tl) ion was reported to be zero. Moreover, heterotrophic bacteria were not observed in any of the samples.
Conclusion: Given the high concentration of chemicals and heavy metals in dialysis machines water input, it is necessary to plan for periodic monitoring of water treatment systems and heavy metals and regular replacement of reverse osmosis filters.
Effect of cryoprotectant type and equilibrium temperature on cryopreservation of
alpaca sperm (Vicugna pacos)
Authors:   IVITA, Marangani Facultad de
            Medicina Veterinaria, UNMSM, Lima, Perú., Garcia Wilber , Macedo Veronica , Mendoza Elizabeth , Catacora Nubia , Malaga Julio
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of glycerol (GL), dimethyl
sulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethylformamide (DMF) at temperatures of 5 °C and 16 °C of
equilibrium on sperm quality, after cryopreservation. 6 males were used in the semen
collection, motility parameters were evaluated with the CASA system, viability,
acrosomal integrity and mitochondrial activity by flow cytometry in fresh and thawed
semen. We collected 30 ejaculates of which 10 were discarded for not fulfilling (volume
≥ 1 ml and total motility ≥ 60 %), the 20 ejaculates were mesclo in a tube to form pool
carrying out the assessment of the initial quality of fresh semen, obtaining a total
motility (MT) 61,6 ± 3,4%, progressive motility (MP) 51,7 ± 3,7%, viability 78,1 ± 9.1%,
mitochondrial activity (MA) 77,4 ± 7,7 and acrosomal integrity 88,9 ± 11,5%. After
cryopreservation no equilibrium temperature effect was observed, independently of
cryoprotectant in the parameters of seminal quality. Cryoprotective effect (P≤ 0.05) was
observed, presenting superior values in the sperm conserved in GL with respect to the
rest of cryoprotectants, with significant differences (P ≤ 0,05) in MT, MP, viability
and AM and without significant differences in acrosomal integrity. The equilibrium
temperature of 16 °C was effective for cryopreservation of alpaca sperm. In addition,
the 5% GL preserved better the functional characteristics of sperm compared to 7% (DMF
and DMSO).
is it possible to improve fertility with prolonged proestrus protocols?
physiological bases, results and new perspectives
Authors:   Instituto de Reproducción Animal
            Uruguay, Fundación IRAUy, Montevideo, Uruguay, Menchaca Alejo , Núñez-Olivera R , García-Pintos C , Fabini F , de la Mata J , Huguenine E , Bó Gabriel
Published: September 2022

The objective of this work was to carry out a bibliographic search of all the
programs with prolonged proestrus in the fertility of bovine cattle dedicated to meat
production. The use of artificial insemination at fixed time (IATF) in cattle has not
stopped growing in the countries of the region during the last 20 years, demonstrating
that it is a technology that is here to stay. Its adoption curve is in a stage of
maturity, having first been adopted by the most innovative and today it is already used
by more pragmatic or conservative producers. Therefore, in this review we will emphasize
the protocols that we have worked the most in recent years and with which high pregnancy
rates have been achieved.
Is the Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratıo a Useful Tool for Predicting Sentinel Lymph Node Metastasıs in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Therapy?
Authors: CULCU Serdar , HABERAL Elifcan , TAMAM Selim , YUKSEL Cemil , AKSEL Bulent , DOĞAN Lütfi
Published: September 2022

Aim: Breast cancer is one of the cancers with the highest morbidity and mortality in women. Surgical excision of axillary lymph nodes facilitates staging and provides regional control in those with axillary metastases. Although SLNB is routinely performed in the management of patients with cN0 disease who underwent primary surgery, it is controversial when to perform SLNB in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In our study, we evaluated the success of the platelet/lymphocyte ratio before and after neoadjuvant therapy in predicting sentinel lymph node metastases in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy. Materials-Methods: Patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced breast cancer in our clinic were evaluated. Among these patients, patients with histopathologically proven axilla metastases but no pathological lymph nodes in clinical examination and imaging methods after neoadjuvant therapy were evaluated. Results: An average of 3.81 lymph node excisions were performed for sentinel lymph node sampling. We studied the PLR cut-off value with Roc-curve analysis. We found the cut-off value of 138.88 with a standard error of 0.061 (p=0.001). Patients with high PLR are more likely to have sentinel lymph node metastases than patients with low PLR (OR= 1.013, 95%Cl: 1.005-1.021, p=0.002). We also found a significant positive correlation between PLR and the number of metastatic sentinel lymph nodes (p=0.005). Each unit increase in PLR can cause an increase of 0.004 units in the number of metastatic sentinel lymph nodes. Conclusion: In patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, PLR plays an important role in predicting sentinel lymph node metastasis as a practical, simple, and inexpensive hematological indicator and may facilitate the selection of an appropriate treatment plan before surgery. Keywords: Sentinel lymph node, Breast cancer, inflammatory parameters
An Association of Predicted/Unpredicted Difficult Intubation with Fibreoptic Bronchoscopic Intubation
Authors: ERSOY Zeynep , CANBAY Özgür
Published: September 2022

Aim: Inadequate preoperative airway assessment is one of the most common causes of failed airway management and intubation. Fibreoptic bronchoscopic intubation (FBI) is an effective technique for creating airway access in patients with expected and unexpected difficult airways. The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of predicted difficult airway (DA) in patients intubated due to DA with FBI. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of one hundred and forty-three ASA I-V patients aged 0-80 years diagnosed with DA who underwent flexible FBI from January 2006 to December 2011. Age, weight, sex, concomitant syndromes, whether difficult intubation (DI) occurred after trauma, whether FBI was applied via nasal or oral ways, size of tube, whether FBI was successful or not and relationships of these parameters were analysed. Results: The study involved 143 patients, 38 (22.2%) in the pediatric group and 105 patients (77.8%) in the adult group. Of the patients, 64 (47.4%) were female and 71 (52.6%) were male. 42 patients underwent DI for syndromes with craniofacial abnormalities. As a result of preoperative anaesthetic assessment, DI could be predicted in 74 patients (51.7%) by history, physical examination and Mallampati scoring, while unexpected DI occurred in 69 (48.3%) of patients. The proportion of predicted DA was much higher in children compared to adults. Conclusion: It is not easy to check all predictors of DI in a pre-anaesthetic examination and the predictors are not accurate. Unexpected DI is not a rare occurrence in the operating room (OR). Despite a thorough pre-operative assessment, anaesthetists may not be able to predict what they will encounter during surgery and therefore should always be prepared for any challenge. Keywords: Preoperative assessment, predicted difficult intubation, fiberoptik bronchoscopic intubation, syndromes with craniofacial abnormalities
In-hospital mortality of atrial fibrillation-associated acute ischemic stroke in the intensive care unit
Authors: Kim Do Yeon , Kang Jihoon , Jeong Han-Gil , Park Chan-Young , Kim Jun Yup , Kim Beom Joon , Han Moon-Ku , Bae Hee-Joon , Kim Baik Kyun ,   on behalf of Clinical Research Collaboration for Stroke in Korea (CRCS-K) Investigators
Published: September 2022

Background: Although atrial fibrillation (AF)-associated acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is on the rise, is devastating, and life-threatening, there is limited data on the clinical course and in-hospital mortality of patients treated in the intensive care unit (ICU). This study aimed to describe the clinical course and factors associated with in-hospital mortality in AF-associated AIS patients admitted to the ICU.Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of a prospective nationwide multicenter cohort including non-valvular AF-AIS patients receiving ICU care admitted to 14 stroke centers in South Korea from 2017 to 2020. In-hospital outcomes, including in-hospital mortality and neurological deterioration (ND) have been described.Result: Amongst 2,487 AF-associated AIS patients, 259 (10.4%) were treated in the ICU. In-hospital mortality and ND occurred in 8.5% and 17.0% of the patients, respectively. Higher rates of initial National Institute for Health Stroke Scale scores, symptomatic steno-occlusive lesions, and CHA2DS2-VASc (Congestive Heart Failure, Hypertension, Age ≥75 [Doubled], Diabetes Mellitus, Prior Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack [Doubled], Vascular Disease, Age 65–74, Female) scores were found in those with in-hospital mortality. The CHA2DS2-VASc score after admission increased the risk of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–2.18) were associated with in-hospital mortality. Antithrombotic use within 48 hours was related to decreased in-hospital mortality (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.10–0.67).Conclusion: ICU care in AF-associated AIS is common, and the establishment of optimal treatment strategies in the ICU may be needed.
Prediction of Body Weight from Linear Body Measurements in Kashmiri (Kashir) Goat
Authors: Rather Mubashir Ali , Bashir Imran , Shanaz Syed , alam Safeer , Shah Ruksana , Hamdani Amreen , Ahanger Shokat , Mir Shabir A.
Published: September 2022

Background: Kashmiri (Kashir) goat is nondescript and highly variable, medium sized, goat genetic resource of Kashmir. The goat possessing excellent survivability and is distributed in Kashmir valley. In Jammu and Kashmir, Gujjars and Bakerwals have adopted the sheep and goat rearing as their primary occupation. Body weights at different ages of life cycle of animals are important traits owing to their direct relation with farmers income.
Methods: Data on body weight and body measurements viz ear length (EL), body length (BL), body height at wither (BH), chest girth (CG) and tail length (TL) of 162 adult Kasmiri (Kashir) nondescript goats, irrespective of gender, were collected from Febuary 2019 to January 2020 to estimate the body weight from body measurements. The data were subjected to standard statistical analysis using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation was worked out to observe association among traits under study. The linear regression was utilized to predict body weight from linear body measurements.
Result: The average body weight (BW), ear length (EL), body length (BL), body height at wither (BH), chest girth (CG) and tail length (TL) of 36.94±0.99 kg, 13.13±0.36 cm, 55.48±0.43 cm, 65.93±0.62 cm, 69.61±0.73 cm and 12.94±0.15 cm, respectively were observed for Kashmiri goat in the present study. The body weight was having positive and significant correlations with BL, HW, CG and TL. The correlation of body weight with EL and TL was low. Similarly the correlation of body weight with HW was moderate whereas with BL and CG was significantly high indicating these two traits can define body weight of animal more accurately. Based on R2 (coefficient of determination) criteria, the best regression model for predicting body weight of Kashmiri goat was obtained by using combination of BL (body length) and CG (chest girth) with R2 (coefficient of determination) of 0.795. Prediction equation with R2 value of 0.806 was obtained when all traits were included in regression model where as prediction equation with R2 value of 0.589 was obtained when only chest girth was used as independent variable.