bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urinary Cell mRNA Profiles Predictive of Human Kidney Allograft Status
Authors: Lubetzky Michelle L. , Salinas Thalia , Schwartz Joseph E. , Suthanthiran Manikkam
Published: April 2021

Immune monitoring of kidney allograft recipients and personalized therapeutics may help reach the aspirational goal of “one transplant for life.” The invasive kidney biopsy procedure, the diagnostic tool of choice, has become safer and the biopsy classification more refined. Nevertheless, biopsy-associated complications, interobserver variability in biopsy specimen scoring, and costs continue to be significant concerns. The dynamics of the immune repertoire make frequent assessments of allograft status necessary, but repeat biopsies of the kidney are neither practical nor safe. To address the existing challenges, we developed urinary cell mRNA profiling and investigated the diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive accuracy of absolute levels of a hypothesis-based panel of mRNAs encoding immunoregulatory proteins. Enabled by our refinements of the PCR assay and by investigating mechanistic hypotheses, our single-center studies identified urinary cell mRNAs associated with T cell–mediated rejection, antibody-mediated rejection, interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, and BK virus nephropathy. In the multicenter National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials in Organ Transplantation-04, we discovered and validated a urinary cell three-gene signature of T-cell CD3 ε chain mRNA, interferon gamma inducible protein 10 (IP-10) mRNA, and 18s ribosomal RNA that is diagnostic of subclinical acute cellular rejection and acute cellular rejection and prognostic of acute cellular rejection and graft function. The trajectory of the signature score remained flat and below the diagnostic threshold for acute cellular rejection in the patients with no rejection biopsy specimens, whereas a sharp rise was observed during the weeks before the biopsy specimen that showed acute cellular rejection. Our RNA sequencing and bioinformatics identified kidney allograft biopsy specimen gene signatures of acute rejection to be enriched in urinary cells matched to acute rejection biopsy specimens. The urinary cellular landscape was more diverse and more enriched for immune cell types compared with kidney allograft biopsy specimens. Urinary cell mRNA profile–guided clinical trials are needed to evaluate their value compared with current standard of care.
Mythical Women and Journey towards destined Roles -Comparison between the Contemporary Characters in the Novels: The thousand Faces of Night and the Vine of Desire
Authors: Madhuri M. Bindu
Published: April 2021

India is a land of culture and tradition. Indian mythology has carved its niche om the world of Mythology. Indian Mythology is rich in scriptures and Vedas. The Hindu mythology has its roots in the religion. The rituals and tradition area part of the Hindu Mythology. The present paper focuses on the Hindu Mythology with special reference to the Panchakanyas from the Vedic Scriptures. These Panchakanyas were revered in the scriptures and their names were chanted during the sermons and rituals as they are believed to be the Pativratas. This paper focus on the mythical figures from the fiction of Sudha Murthy “The Daughter from a wishing tree” these women carved their own destiny. This paper gives a comparative study of the characters ‘ Devi’, from “Thousand Faces Of Night” and ‘Sudha’ from “The vine Of Desire” with that of the mythical characters .These people from the novels carved their own destinies .Along with these mythical women the writer talks about many women and their tales were of importance to mention.
New coronoviral infection (COVID-19) combined with tuberculosis in patients at late stages of HIV infection with immunodeficiency
Authors: Mishina A. V. , Mishin V. Yu. , Ergeshov A. E. , Sobkin A. L. , Sergeeva N. V. , Pilipenko S. V. , Romanov V. V.
Published: April 2021

The study materials of 23 patients with COVID-19, combined with newly diagnosed tuberculosis at the late stages of HIV infection with an average CD4+ cells count not exceeding 30 cells/μl of blood and in the absence of antiretroviral therapy (the main group) and 23 patients with no COVID-19 (the comparison group) and the similar parameters are presented. The presence or absence of COVID-19 is characterized by social maladjustment, drug addiction, concomitant viral hepatitis B or C and COPD, generalized tuberculosis with extrapulmonary damage of various organs and the development of other opportunistic pulmonary infections, similar clinical and radiological manifestations, which can only be differentiated by microbiological and molecular genetic research methods. To prevent exogenous infection of the healthy population with COVID-19, it is imperative to organize an active regular examination of all patients with tuberculosis and HIV infection for COVID-19, especially at the later stages, in the TB care office for HIV-infected people at TB dispensaries.
A Clinical-Statistical Study on COVID-19 Cases in Iraq: A Case Study
Authors:   Alkarkh Health Directorate, Baghdad, Iraq, Raheem Rasha , Kadhom Mohammed ,   Department of Renewable Energy, College of Energy and Environmental Sciences, Alkarkh University of Science, Baghdad, Iraq, Zuheir Alhashimie Enas ,   Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq, Abdul-Jabbar Alrubayee Wathik ,   Alshifaa center, The Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, Albayati Noor ,   Department of Science, College of Basic Education, University of Wasit, Azizia, Wasit, Iraq
Published: April 2021

Background: COVID-19 is a disease that started in Wuhan/China in late 2019 and continued through 2020 worldwide.Scientists worldwide continue to research to find vaccines, treatments, and medication for this disease. Studies also conenue to find the pathogenicity and epidemiology mechanisms.Materials and Methods:In this work, we analyzed cases obtained from Alshifaa center in Baghdad/Iraq for 23/2/2020-31/5/2020 with total instances of 797, positive cases of 393, and death cases of 30.Results: Results showed that the highest infection cases were among people aged between 41-45. Also, it was found that males' number of cases was more than females. In contrast, death cases were significantly higher in males than females.It was notable that the number of cases increased over time; here, it grew from April to May from 92 to 238, respectively.Conclusion: It is worth mentioning that by the beginning of Jun, the number of cases has dramatically increased, and now more than 2K points are recorded daily.Also, death cases had the same behavior.
Describing a COVID-19 Case and Presenting the Proposed Plan to Recovery
Authors:   Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, College of Engineering, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg,VA 24061, United States, Nadhmi Al-Doori Ahmed , S. Ahmed Dina ,   Department of Medical Instrumentation Engineering, Al‐Mansour University College, Baghdad 64021, Iraq
Published: April 2021

The current outbreak of serious respiratory syndrome (aka COVID-19) has resulted from a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). This infectious disease was classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) because it threatens public health and life worldwide. Recently, restrictions in many countries are applied to detect the infected individuals, isolate them, and attempt to find appropriate treatments that can help decrease the disease’s severe symptoms. Regardless of the conducted efforts, the number of reported cases of coronavirus infections is still growing up.
Comprehensive studies of different types of river mouths (on the example of the river mouths in the north-western part of the Black Sea)
Authors: Minkovskaya R.Ya. ,   Marine Hydrophysical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Sevastopol, Russian Federation
Published: April 2021

The development of the concept of sea estuaries as separate geographic objects based on a strategy of interdisciplinary research and about 6 million non-equidistant observation data, subject to nonstationarity of estuarine processes and unstable anthropogenic load, made it possible to propose a universal structural and hydrological typification of estuaries; to establish their maritime boundaries in terms of the minimum values of water salinityas Cv, to regionalize water areas from river to maritime boundaries and, on the this basis, to improve scientific terminology. Modern distribution schemes have been obtained and general patterns have been established for the variability of the main characteristics of the state of estuaries, depending on the variability of the river runoff and the water level of estuarine seasides, and new methods for their calculation, invariant for similar estuaries, are proposed. 54 negative phenomena are included in the catalogue; their interrelationships, causes and consequences are established. The analysis of estuarine processes has been carried out, the patterns of variability of their main characteristics from natural and anthropogenic factors have been determined. The ways of solving the problems of nature management in the estuarine regions of the northwestern part of the Black Sea are proposed. The monograph is intended for oceanographers, hydrologists, hydrochemists, ecologists, workers of environmental protection, monitoring and control organizations, as well as teachers, graduate students and students of relevant specialties.
PENGARUH TURKI TERHADAP SOSIO-BUDAYA DUNIA MELAYU
Authors: Md Yunus Marzudi
Published: April 2021

Turkey is the heir to the Ottoman Islamic Caliphate, extending significant influence on Muslims worldwide. All aspects of the Turkish socio-culture will, directly and indirectly, influence the socio-culture of Muslims. This situation also applies to Muslims in Malaysia, specifically Malays. The influences range from political and administrative to cultural and artistic, and even the way of thinking. Research and analysis conducted towards the writings and historical texts proved that Turkish influence exists in the Malay world. For example, there is a Malay state administration modelled from the Ottoman Caliphate to advance it to synchronise with modern changes in the West. During the 1930s, Turkey’s modernisation drew Malay intellectuals’ attention, spreading the ideas through writing in newspapers and magazines. Developments in Turkey exposed the Malays to various polemics resulting from Kemal’s modernisation and secularisation when he led the Turkish government. For Malays, events in Turkey serve as lessons in their effort to develop their community towards progress in all aspects. Development in Turkey has also attracted various newspapers and magazines like ‘Pengasoh’, ‘Al-Ikhwan’, ‘Malaya’, ‘Majalah Guru’, ‘Al-Hedayah’, ‘Bahtra’ and ‘Saudara’. They celebrated Kemal establishing the Turkish republic and its various modernisation plans. Turkish influence was also pervasive in filmmaking, therefore, proving developments in Turkey influence various aspects of the Malay world. For Malays, events in Turkey serve as lessons and examples towards charting its progress in all aspects. Keywords: Turkey, Malay, Socio-Culture, Culture, Civilisation, Art.
A 12.8 CM DIAMETER: GIANT AORTIC ANEURYSM (GAA) SUCCESSFULLY TREATED BY BENTALL’S PROCEDURE- Case Report
Authors: MATHUR ANIRUDH , Yadava Om , Ahlawat Vikas , Yadav Amita , Kundu Anirban
Published: April 2021

Background: Aortic root aneurysm involves dilatation of sinuses of
Valsalva, sinotubular junction and proximal ascending aorta. It is a
rare complication after aortic valve replacement surgery. Giant aneurysm
is defined as aneurysm of size> 10 cm. Surgical treatment
involves Bentall’s procedure. Case Detail: A 40 year old gentleman with
severe aortic regurgitation and moderate aortic stenosis underwent
aortic valve replacement with a mechanical prosthetic valve of size 25
mm, 13 years ago. At the time of this surgery the ascending aorta was
mildly dilated, measured 3.5 cm in size. Patient came with complaints of
breathlessness on exertion from past two months, NYHA class III.
Echocardiography and CECT revealed giant ascending aortic aneurysm about
12.8 cm in diameter with intimal flap suggestive of dissection.
Prosthetic valve function and other cardiac structures were assessed as
normal. Elective surgery was planned. CPB established via right axillary
artery and right femoral vein. Ascending aortic aneurysm was excised
along with prosthetic mechanical valve. Bentall’s procedure was done
using 27 mm Dacron composite graft. Patient required permanent pacemaker
for complete heart block in post operative period. Thereafter patient
was discharged in stable condition. Conclusion: Aortic aneurysm should
be tackled surgically in order to decrease the morbidity and mortality.
Regular follow up of such patients should be done.
Dual versus single antiplatelet therapy for secondary prevention in ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack: A retrospective cohort study using real-world data
Authors: Rahman Norazida Ab , Law Wan Chung , Zaidi Wan Asyraf Wan , Aziz Zariah Abdul , Sidek Norsima Nazifah , Looi Irene , Lim Ming Tsuey , Pang Sarah Hui Li , Hwong Wen Yea , Sivasampu Sheamini
Published: April 2021

Objective: This study aimed to assess effectiveness and safety outcomes
of antiplatelet therapy for secondary prevention among patients with
ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) in Malaysia.
Method: Patients with a first ischaemic stroke/TIA between 2014 and 2017
were identified from stroke registry and data was linked with other data
sources for information on antiplatelet exposure and outcome events.
Exposure was defined as antiplatelet therapy at discharge from the index
stroke hospitalisation and categorised into single antiplatelet therapy
(SAPT) and dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) groups. Primary outcome was
composite events of stroke, myocardial infarction, and all-cause death
at up to one year after the index stroke in an intention-to-treat
analysis. Results: Of 4434 patients included in the analysis, 6.7% were
treated with DAPT and 93.3% were in SAPT group. During the 1-year
follow-up, composite events occurred in 5.7% of patients in DAPT group
and in 12.3% of SAPT (p<0.001). The rates of individual
events were lower in DAPT group compared to SAPT: recurrent stroke
(3.4% versus 4.8%), myocardial infarction (0.7% versus 1.9%), and
all-cause death (1.7% versus 6.0%). Bleeding occurred in 1.3% of the
DAPT group versus 1.6% of the SAPT. Multivariable-adjusted Cox
regression analysis showed that rates of composite outcome was lower in
the DAPT group compared to SAPT (HR 0.53, 95%CI 0.32, 0.86).
Conclusion: In patients with ischaemic stroke/TIA, treatment with DAPT
following the index stroke was associated with reduced risk of the
composite events of stroke, myocardial infarction, and death. There
appears to be similar risk of bleeding with DAPT versus SAPT.
Thermodynamic assessment of the Fe-Nb-Si system
Authors: Jiang Y. , Li F. , Li S.-R. , Xu K. , Chen L.-L. , Deng X.-Z. , Huang Y.-Y. , Chang K.
Published: April 2021

Nb?Si based alloys have drawn continuously increasing attention due to their excellent high-temperature mechanical properties. The addition of element Fe could improve their poor high-temperature oxidation resistance which largely restricts their application. With the aim to study the effect of Fe addition on the Nb?Si system and to design appropriate alloy composition, the Fe?Nb?Si ternary system was thermodynamically investigated using the CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagrams) approach aided with the formation enthalpies for ternary compounds at 0 K computed via ab initio calculations. A self-consistent thermodynamic description of the Fe?Nb?Si system was obtained in this work. Key isothermal sections and liquidus projection were presented, and the calculation results showed a good agreement with available experimental data.
Comparative design and CFD analysis of 3-D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene nozzle aerator for discharge reduction
Authors: Alphonse Bovas , Basavaraj Rayappa , Koten Hasan , Balasubramanian Ramesh , Umrao Sarwe
Published: April 2021

The flow nozzle aerator, which is the part of the water tap made up of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, can be modified entirely with a new design. The curved and cone-shaped slopes are used to improve the smooth flow at uniform velocity. Simultaneously, discharge is optimum by modified interior design. The smooth laminar delivery of water with optimum pressure, the liquid element at the aerator end becomes smooth. The assembled nozzle aerator solid model has been generated before experimentation. This can promote through the prediction by the modern tool ANSIFLUENT and CFD for finding the flow behavior and its outlet characters. The solid model can be fabricated to prototype for accurate dimensions by using 3-D printing technology. Comparing fluid motion with the time consumption of filling water has been done over these different kinds of aerator and nozzle models, which are fabricated by 3-D printing.
Secukinumab Exhibits Sustained and Stable Response in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis: Results from the SUPREME Study
Authors: Costanzo Antonio , Russo Filomena , Galluzzo Marco , Stingeni Luca , Scuderi Roberta , Zichichi Leonardo , Papini Manuela , Di Costanzo Luisa , Conti Andrea , Burlando Martina , Chiricozzi Andrea , Gaiani Francesca Maria , Mugheddu Cristina , Musumeci Maria Letizia , Gisondi Paolo , Piaserico Stefano , Dapavo Paolo , Venturini Marina , Pagnanelli Gianluca , Amerio Paolo , Potenza Concetta , Peris Ketty , Cantoresi Franca , Trevisini Sara , Loconsole Francesco , Offidani Annamaria , Mercuri Santo Raffaele , Lora Viviana , Prignano Francesca , Bartezaghi Marta , Oliva Giovanni , Aloisi Elisabetta , Orsenigo Roberto
Published: April 2021

Secukinumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody, neutralizes interleukin-17A, a cornerstone cytokine driving the multiple manifestations of psoriasis. This post-hoc analysis of the SUPREME study was performed to determine the sustainability of response to secukinumab in terms of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 90 in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Based on PASI 90 response at week 16, patients were stratified as PASI 90 responders (PASI90R, n = 337) or non-responders (PASI90NR, n = 72). At week 20, 94.2% (n = 295/313) achieved PASI 90/100 response in PASI90R, with response maintained through week 48 (89.6%, n = 189/211). An increased proportion of patients achieved PASI 90/100 response in PASI90NR (week 20: 29.9%, n = 20/67; week 48: 57.1%, n = 20/35). Overall, 64.4% patients achieved absolute PASI score = 0 at week 24 with response sustained to week 48 (66.9%). Secukinumab showed sustained and stable efficacy in maintaining PASI 90 response in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis up to week 48.
The effects of dietary ricinoleic acid from castor oil on the zootechnical traits and haemato-biochemical profile of lactating Kankrej cows
Authors:   Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat, India, Pawar Mahesh M. , Joshi Pratikkumar C. , Gami Yogesh M. , Patil Shrikant S. , Patel Mayank P. , Patel Jasmi G.
Published: April 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of dietary ricinoleic acid from castor oil on the milk yield, composition, fatty acid profile and haemato-biochemical profile in lactating Kankrej cows. Twenty lactating Kankrej cows were assigned to the following groups: control (CON), basal diet without any additive and treatment (RAS), basal diet with 2 g/animal/day of ricinoleic acid from castor oil. Dietary ricinoleic acid had no (P>0.05) effect on dry matter intake and feed efficiency. Milk yield (milk, 4% fat corrected milk and energy corrected milk) were not affected (P>0.05) by the feeding of ricinoleic acid. The milk composition showed no significant differences between the groups. A significantly (P<0.05) higher percentage of C4:0, C6:0 and C8:0 was found in the milk from the RAS group than the CON group. A lower (P<0.05) milk C16:0 percentage was observed in the RAS group as compared to the CON. The percentages of C18:2 and C18:3 were found to be increased in the RAS group. There was a decrease (P = 0.055) in milk saturated fatty acids but an increase in milk unsaturated fatty acids percentage in the RAS as compared to the CON group. The milk polyunsaturated fatty acids were significantly (P<0.05) increased in the RAS group. There was no difference (P>0.05) in haemato-biochemical profile between the CON and RAS groups. It was concluded that supplementation of 2 g/animal/day ricinoleic acid from castor oil had no effect on milk yield, milk composition and haemato-biochemical profile. However, it increased the milk fat percentages of unsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and decreased milk saturated fatty acids, without any adverse effect on the health status of the cows.
The nesting and mating behavior of Andrena patella (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae)
Authors:   Division of Agricultural Entomology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology,  Kashmir, India, Dar Showket A. , Yaqoob Munazah , Tlak Gajger Ivana
Published: April 2021

This study of nesting and associated behavior patterns of Andrena patella was carried out at 27 locations with different landscape categories, from 2013 to 2016. The research areas chosen were generally flat or marshy areas. A total of 15 major nest aggregations were spotted and 120 nests were excavated. This species nests in soil, males emerge earlier than females, and mating occurred on flowers during the foraging season, in the 3rd week of May. The various nest and cell parameters showed low variability in the different years and different sites, but nest cell length, diameter and number varied significantly, as well as depth even at the same site. The nests were multi-cellular, oblique to horizontal, and cell shape was oval. The mating attempts of the pairs and copulatory behavior involved various steps which were completed in a very few seconds. The males appeared first on the flowers, near to the nesting site, and lived shorter than the females. The females started foraging in the 2nd to 3rd weeks of May and laid eggs in the 1st week of June. The adult phenology, egg placement, cell provision and larval feeding are described.
Pathomorphological features and mast cell count in canine visceral hemangiosarcomas
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia, Gudan Kurilj Andrea , Severin Krešimir , Hohšteter Marko , Artuković Branka , Grabarević Željko , Huber Doroteja , Medven Zagradišnik Lidija , Mihoković Buhin Ivana , Šoštarić-Zuckermann Ivan-Conrado
Published: April 2021

Visceral hemangiosarcoma were analyzed at the Department of Veterinary Pathology of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, over a 5-year period. From a total of 52 tumor masses in a total of 31 dogs, histological growth patterns (cavernous, capillary or solid) and the amount of tumor supporting stroma were evaluated. Additionally, sections were stained with toluidine blue for the purpose of mast cell detection and their number was determined in the tumor parenchyma, tumor stroma and edges. The average age of the affected animals was 10 years, males predominated, and the tumors occurred most frequently in cross breeds, German Shepherd dogs and Labrador Retrievers. The highest number of visceral hemangiosarcoma was found in the spleen (27/52). The most common growth pattern of visceral hemangiosarcoma was solely cavernous with a mixture of cavernous and solid patterns in different proportions. Mast cells were found in 44/52 (84.6%) of the visceral hemangiosarcomas. A smaller number of mast cells were found in the tumor parenchyma, and higher number were found in the stroma and tumor edges. The number of mast cells in tumors was not significantly associated with the tumor growth pattern, but there was a positive correlation between MCC - tumor parenchyma and stroma (rs = 0.28, P<0.05), MCC - tumor stroma + edges (rs = 0.74, P<0.05) and MCC - tumor parenchyma and MCC- tumor stroma+edges (rs = 0.30, P<0.05) in all the examined tumors. In splenic tumors, there was only a significant positive correlation between MCC - stroma+edges (rs P = 0.68 P<0.05). These results suggest a higher mast cell count in tumors with more developed stromal components in canine visceral hemangiosarcomas, and certainly indicate the need for further research on their role and the factors they release in the development and progression of hemangiosarcomas.
MiRNA-let-7b decreases proliferation activities and development of follicular cells via targeting MAP3K1 gene
Authors:   Hospital, Medicine College, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, China, Gong Zhuandi , Niu Yuhui , Zhaofang Yuan , Yang Juan , Wei Suocheng
Published: April 2021

To date, it has not yet been determined if the apoptosis of follicular granulosa cells (FGCs) is mediated by miR- let-7b via MAP3K1. In the present study, FGCs were transfected with a miR-let-7b mimic at different doses (0, 40, 60, 80, 100 and 120 μM), and were allocated into the control group (CG), and MIM-1, MIM-2, MIM-3, MIM-4 and MIM-5, respectively. Expression levels of miR-let-7b and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 1 (MAP3K1) mRNAs and proteins were determined using RT-PCR and Western blots. Luciferase report assay was applied to verify the targeting relationship between miR-let-7b and MAP3K1. The results revealed that the proliferation activity of FGCs in the MIM-4 group was significantly lower than that of the CG and MIM-1 groups (P<0.05). The MiR-let-7b mimic obviously reduced expression levels of miR-let-7b of the FGCs. The largest reduction was found in MIM-4. Levels of MAP3K1 mRNAs and proteins in the MIM-3 and MIM-4 groups were lower than that of the CG (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Co-transfection of let-7b mimic significantly inhibited luciferase activity (P<0.05) as compared with the CG. In conclusion, miR-let-7b may obviously depress the cell viability and accelerate apoptosis of ovine FGCs. Higher doses of miR-let-7b mimic (80 μM and 100 μM) could significantly depress expressions of miR-let-7b mRNAs, MAP3K1 mRNAs and protein in ovine FGCs. MiR-let-7b promoted FGCs apoptosis by inhibiting the MAP3K1 gene.
A Systematic Review of Goal Setting Interventions to Improve Sports Performance
Authors: Pop Rareș-Mihai , Grosu Emilia Florina , Zadic Alexandru
Published: April 2021

"ABSTRACT. Introduction. Goal setting theory (Locke & Latham, 1990) was
initially developed for the field of organizational psychology, and since then it
was used as a motivational technique in a variety of areas, including sports
performance. Considering the multiple factors influencing sports performance
and the fact that goal setting has become an increasingly popular subject, we
consider it appropriate to summarize the recent results regarding this topic.
Objective. The purpose of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of the
literature on goal setting interventions to enhance sports performance. Methods.
A comprehensive literature search of Scopus, ScienceDirect, Directory of Open
Access Journals, ERIC, Social Sciences Citation Index, Science Citation Index, and
APA PsycArticles databases was conducted in October 2020 and included journal
articles published since 2000. Results. A total of 1520 results were identified,
of which 27 studies met eligibility criteria and were fully reviewed. Conclusions.
This systematic review highlights that goal setting is an effective behavior
modification procedure that can improve athletes’ performance. Discussions
focus on practical implications and future research directions."
Comparative Study Regarding Motivation in Sports Organizations
Authors: Macra-Oșorhean Maria Daniela , Gavrilă Irina , Radu Paul Ovidiu
Published: April 2021

"ABSTRACT. In sports, the motivation of athletes can be the key to success.
Motivation, as a concept, was offered a wide range of interpretations, many
of which were developed from a managerial perspective that highlights a
better understanding of the mechanisms of motivation of human character.
Objectives. Identifying the reasons for playing basketball by athletes aged 14-
15, but also highlighting the motivational performance factors by comparing
two teams with different competitive results. Methods and means. To carry
out this study, the survey method was used by filling in a questionnaire by the
basketball players of the two sports clubs. The questionnaire includes 24
questions and refers to the causes that athletes find motivating to practice the
game of basketball. Results. The results presented show for each category the
average level of motivation that underlies the engagement in the basketball
game of each team studied. In the “amotivation” category, both teams have a
result of 1, thus eliminating the risk of abandoning the sports activity. Regarding the
""external regulation"", U-BT athletes have a higher score, thus resulting in a higher
extrinsic motivation based on praise or external factors. Both teams scored
high on ""intrinsic motivation"", demonstrating that athletes practice basketball
voluntarily. Conclusions. In conclusion, these variations can be justified due to
the transition age in which the athletes are, the players coming to detach
themselves from the concrete and situate the real in a set of possible
transformations. This study illustrates a motivational portrait of junior teams
engaged in the domestic national championship."
Women Teachers from Pre-University Having a Second Job?
Authors: Hăisan Petronela Lăcrămioara , Monea Dan
Published: April 2021

"ABSTRACT. Introduction: Although there are some areas favored by male
teachers, teaching is considered in the literature and traditionally a female
profession. According to the latest studies in Romania, the percentage of
women pre-university teachers has increased by 4% in recent years.
Objectives: The main variable of interest in this study was to have a second job
among female pre-university teachers in Romania and how this indicator
affects their lives, especially health and leisure. Methodology: Data collection
was performed online using the quality-of-life questionnaire based on the
European Quality of Life Surveys structure. Of the 206 women respondents, 78
said they had a second job. Results: Following the analysis of demographic
data, the average age of teachers included in the current study was 40.5 years.
63% are married, 20% are unmarried and 13% say they are divorced. The
health condition is perceived as good by 50% of our respondents, most of them
being in the age category 20-44 years. Most subjects (74%) stated that they
have a hobby, although, unfortunately, 35% of the respondents did not confirm
the preferred type of hobby. Conclusions: Although they have a second job, the
continuous desire for education is high, certified by the fact that 63% of
respondents take courses. Only 14% practice physical activity, which leads us
to believe that people who have a second job when they have little free time,
prefer activities that do not involve physical effort. Even though they have a
second job, in terms of financial situation, 73% said that their monthly income
is insufficient, and they are dissatisfied with their remuneration."
Respiratory Muscle Training Methods for Improving the Lung Capacity of Professional Vocalists and Wind Instrumentists
Authors: Nicoară Rareș , Monea Dan
Published: April 2021

"ABSTRACT. Introduction. Various muscle groups are involved in pulmonary
ventilation, which play an essential role in maintaining proper breathing, their
development being aimed at improving the physical, psychological and qualitative
performance of the performance of professional singers and blowers in
instruments. Objectives: The objectives of the training of the respiratory muscles
are aimed at improving dyspnea, toning the respiratory muscles, increasing the
efficiency of the respiratory muscles, increasing the volumes of air mobilized,
decreasing the fan labor, controlling and coordinating the respiratory rhythm.
Methods: The study subjects were 9 young musicians, students at the
Conservatory in the singing and wind instruments sections, who performed
workouts with a threshold device (POWERBreathe Inspirational Muscle Training
IMT), five days a week, twice a day, for 6 weeks. Subjects performed spirometry
tests VC, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, VF, FEV6 at each beginning and end of the
meeting, the data collected were processed by interpreting the results of lung
function and flow measurements. Results: The results obtained from the
spirometry tests show us statistically significant differences between the initial
(IT) and the final (IT) test. Thus, at the first sit, with the device adjusted to
max.15% PI/PE (inspiratory – expiratory pressure), the average of the VC values,
FVC, FEV1, VF, FEV6 (5.72 – 5.84l, l/s) increased by 2%, and at the end of the
second session, with the device set to min.40-60% PI/PE, the average lung
function values (5.72 – 6.14l, l/s) increased by 9.8%. Conclusions: This
experiment can demonstrate that the acute effect of training with a breathing
device (threshold) results in a significant increase in the use of flow during singing
and blowing, leading to a sound with a higher acute sound and more activity."
Study of Prothrombotic Markers in COPD
Authors:   Director Professor,  Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India, Daga Mradul K
Published: April 2021

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is chronic inflammatory condition that is known to be a prothrombotic state. Objective: To study the prothrombotic markers and coagulation profile in patients of Stable COPD and during its exacerbation and to compare these parameters in stable phase of disease and during exacerbation. Materials and Method: A cross sectional study in which 30 patients of COPD with exacerbation and 30 patients with stable COPD were recruited. Patients having acquired thrombotic risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, malignancy & sepsis or any immunocompromised condition along with those who were on anticoagulant therapy, statins or antihypertensive medications were excluded from the study. Levels of prothrombotic markers (von Willebrand Factor antigen, D-dimer, fibrogen) and Caogulation profile (Prothrombin time and activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) were estimated in both the groups and repeated after stabilization of exacerbation phase also. There parameters were then statistically analyzed. Observation and Results: A generalized prothrombotic state was observed in exacerbation phase of COPD as compared to stable phase of COPD. Furthermore, all the parameters including fibrinogen, vWF, PT and aPTT showed persistent declining trend from exacerbation towards stabilization. Conclusion: COPD with acute exacerbation is a state of augmented prothrombotic state. On stabilization of acute exacerbation with treatment, coagulation profile came to a level lower than that of patients in stable phase of COPD. In exacerbation phase of COPD vWF values were significantly elevated than in stable phase.
Mucor Mycosis in COVID-19: Case Reports
Authors:   Resident, DNB General Medicine, Dr. Hedgewar Hospital, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, Upadhyay Kavita
Published: April 2021

Coronavirus infections are associated with a wide range of bacterial and fungal co-infections. Use of steroids, monoclonal antibodies and broad spectrum antibiotics along with underlying pathogenesis may alter body homeostasis and exacerbate preexisting fungal disease. We report the cases with COVID-19 infection, which, after the course of the treatment, presented with various forms of mucormycosis infection.
The Impact of Training of Medical Students on COVID-19: Goa Medical College February 2020
Authors:   Post Graduate Student, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Goa Medical College, Goa, India, Naik Akshaya V
Published: April 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infection caused by a newly found strain of coronavirus which is now named as SARS CoV- 2. Since there is no cure yet against this deadly disease, preventive measures remains the mainstay till date. Healthcare workers being the frontline workers in this pandemic need to have adequate knowledge about the disease to tackle and revert this pandemic. Thus the present study aimed to assess the impact of training sessions on knowledge and attitudes towards COVID-19 among undergraduate MBBS students in Goa Medical College. Method: The present study was a descriptive study carried out using the pre-test and post-test questionnaire that was collected during the COVID-19 training held for first year MBBS students of Goa Medical College. EpiData 3.1 was used for entry of the data. The results were analysed using SPSS software version 22. Result: A total of 161 MBBS students participated in the study. It was seen that knowledge regarding various aspects of COVID-19 like the new nomenclature of the novel virus (28%), symptoms (42%), mode of spread (78.9%), and concept of social distancing (50.3%) was poor among the students which improved significantly after the training session. Conclusion: With more and more ongoing researches on COVID-19 worldwide, new updates will get added to its epidemiology with time. Health care workers being the frontline workers need to keep themselves updated with the latest knowledge. Regular training sessions can enlighten the health care providers with the much needed updates which will further help to improve their skills in prevention and management of COVID-19.
Use of unbiased metagenomic and transcriptomic analyses to investigate the association between feline calicivirus and feline chronic gingivostomatitis in domestic cats
Authors: Fried William A. , Soltero-Rivera Maria , Ramesh Akshaya , Lommer Milinda J. , Arzi Boaz , DeRisi Joseph L. , Horst Jeremy A.
Published: April 2021

OBJECTIVE

To identify associations between microbes and host genes in cats with feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS), a debilitating inflammatory oral mucosal disease with no known cause, compared with healthy cats and cats with periodontitis (control cats).

ANIMALS

19 control cats and 23 cats with FCGS.

PROCEDURES

At least 1 caudal oral mucosal swab specimen was obtained from each cat. Each specimen underwent unbiased metatranscriptomic next-generation RNA sequencing (mNGS). Filtered mNGS reads were aligned to all known genetic sequences from all organisms and to the cat transcriptome. The relative abundances of microbial and host gene read alignments were compared between FCGS-affected cats and control cats and between FCGS-affected cats that did and did not clinically respond to primary treatment. Assembled feline calicivirus (FCV) genomes were compared with reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) primers commonly used to identify FCV.

RESULTS

The only microbe strongly associated with FCGS was FCV, which was detected in 21 of 23 FCGS-affected cats but no control cats. Problematic base pair mismatches were identified between the assembled FCV genomes and RT-PCR primers. Puma feline foamy virus was detected in 9 of 13 FCGS-affected cats that were refractory to treatment and 5 healthy cats but was not detected in FCGS-affected cats that responded to tooth extractions. The most differentially expressed genes in FCGS-affected cats were those associated with antiviral activity.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results suggested that FCGS pathogenesis has a viral component. Many FCV strains may yield false-negative results on RT-PCR-based assays. Coinfection of FCGS-affected cats with FCV and puma feline foamy virus may adversely affect response to treatment.
Lower Extremity Artery Disease as a Predictor of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Bitea Cornel Ioan , Maniţiu Ioan , Bălțat Georgiana
Published: April 2021

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is an important determinant of long-term outcome in patients with lower extremity artery disease (LEAD). In this study we evaluated the CAD prevalence among LEAD patients and the association of LEAD lesions location with the CAD presence and severity. 203 patients with LEAD, referred for peripheral and simultaneous coronary angiography, were evaluated. LEAD and CAD were considered angiographically significant for stenosis higher than 50% of arterial lumen. More than two-thirds of LEAD patients had significant CAD, half of them having multi-vessel CAD and a quarter single CAD. Infrapoplitheal arterial lesions seemed to be the strongest predictor of CAD being associated with significant and multi-vessel CAD and also with the presence of left main (LM) lesions. Femoral artery lesions were highly associated with multi-vessel CAD, but there was no association with significant CAD and LM lesions. No association was found between iliac artery lesions and CAD.
Modern Aspects in the Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Breast Cancer in Early Stages
Authors: Moisin Andrei , Tănăsescu Ciprian
Published: April 2021

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and a major public health problem, affecting 2.1 million women each year globally and causing the highest number of cancer-related deaths among women. In 2018, an estimated 627,000 women died from breast cancer (about 15% of all cancer deaths among women). To improve survival, early detection is essential. There are two strategies for early detection of breast cancer: early diagnosis and screening.(1) In Romania, the latest statistics show a higher incidence of breast cancer compared to the European average of 7929 new cases / year with a mortality of 3101 deaths / year.(2)
Recommendations for Sport and Physical Activity after total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vitalis Lorand , Russu Octav , Zuh Sandor , Pop Tudor Sorin
Published: April 2021

Due to the high success of arthroplasty, patients suffering from osteoarthritis have higher expectations regarding the relief of pain, functional recovery and capacity to perform physical and sports activity. The purpose of our article is to present a literature review based on papers published during the last decades, with emphasis on the current recommendations regarding sports after total joint replacement. We conducted a search using PubMed/Medline databases, selecting the scientific articles published between 2005-2020 which discuss the association between physical activity and total hip or knee arthroplasty. The benefits of physical activity in all kinds of joint prostheses outweigh the negative effects; therefore, the recommendation for low-impact sports (hiking, swimming, cycling or golf) at a moderate intensity is considered valid and patients with total hip or knee arthroplasty who preoperatively had a high level of physical activity can return to low-impact sports performed at moderate intensity after 3-6 months.
A Polarized Light Microscopy Study in a Case of Morphea
Authors: Liliana Mocanu , Sorin Deacu , Polimaru Roman , Mariana Aschie
Published: April 2021

We report a case of plaque type of scleroderma with specific clinical features and conventional histopathology, with sclerosis and hipocellularity of fibroblasts and preservation of elastic tissue. We describe polarized light microscopy findings, on conventional stained slides and on picro sirius red stained slides. We appreciate that picro sirius red stain allows a better characterization of collagen fibres composition in papillary and reticular dermis, that is severely disturbed in morphea, with an inverse distribution of collagen fibres type I and III comparative with normal dermis.
The Frequency of Parenchimatous Lesions in Patients with Traumatic Retroperitoneal Hematoma
Authors: Daniel Filip , Vasile Sarbu
Published: April 2021

Objective: The retroperitoneum represent the anatomical region with the highest mortality rates, in which lesions in this region need special relevance. The aim of this study is to find out the frequency of different parenchimatous injuries related to different zones.

Methods: In this retrospective study, all cases who presented to the emergency room and/or admitted to our center with retroperitoneal hematoma (RPH) complicated with parenchimatous lesions from January 2016 to December 2019 were included (4-years data). Data collected included age, hematoma zones, the production mechanisms, mortality, surgical interventions, parenchymatous lesions, complications and biochemical and hematological analysis (e.g. hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Ht), platelets (PLT), leukocytes (Leu), aspartate aminotransferase level (AST), alanine aminotransferase level (ALT) and creatinine (Cr). All RPHs were diagnosed using computed tomography scan.

Results: A total number of 119 RPH cases with parenchimatous lesions were included with a mean age of 45.56±2.52. The most common type of RPH was located in lateral zone (zone II) with 65 cases, followed by pelvic zone (zone III) with 36 cases. The main production mechanism for parenchimatous lesions was by road accident (n=57). The highest prevalence of parenchimatous lesions was seen in both lung and splenic lesions (n=54), followed by liver lesion (n=36) and kidney lesions (n=11), without any statistical significance. The complications showed a statistical significance when 2016 year was compare with 2018 (p=0.013). Regarding the biochemical and hematological analysis, a statistical significance was seen at PLT (when 2016 was compared with 2017, p=0.03 and 2018, p=0.008). Only 67 patients were treated by surgical interventions, and the highest mortality was registered in 2019 (n=11).

Conclusion: There is a lack of evidence in the frequency of different parenchimatous lesions in RPH cases. We conclude on the basis of our study that mandatory exploration of zone II and III haematoma in parenchimatous lesions should be early diagnosed in order to reduce the morbidity and mortality of the patients.
Molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility patterns of dermatophytes isolated from companion animals with clinical symptoms of dermatophytosis
Authors: Katiraee Farzad , Kouchak Kosari Yasaman , Soltani Minoo , Shokri Hojjatollah , Hassan Minooieanhaghighi Mohammad
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Dermatophytosis is a common skin disease in cats and dogs caused by Microsporum and Trichophyton fungi. Species identification and knowledge of their antifungal susceptibility are therapeutically and epidemiologically important. This study assessed the prevalence of feline and canine dermatophytosis in Iran, identified the aetiological agents molecularly and tested their antifungal susceptibility.

Material and Methods

A total of 308 companion animals (134 dogs and 174 cats) with skin lesions were examined from March 2015 to March 2018. Hair and skin samples were examined by microscopy with 20% KOH and cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar with cycloheximide and chloramphenicol. Fungal isolates were confirmed by sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) r-DNA region. The antifungal susceptibility of dermatophytes was tested by broth microdilution assay using standard drugs.

Results

Dermatophytes were found in 130 (42.2%) samples, 62 of them feline and 68 canine. Based on sequencing of all strains, M. canis (78.5%, P<0.05), M. gypseum (10.7%), and T. mentagrophytes (10.7%) were the dermatophytes isolated. The non-dermatophyte species Nannizziopsis vriesii was also isolated from two feline dermatomycosis cases. Dogs and cats younger than one year (61.5%) showed a statistically significantly higher prevalence of infection (P<0.05). Caspofungin produced the lowest geometric mean MIC at 0.0018 μg/mL, followed by ketoconazole, terbinafine, itraconazole, miconazole, griseofulvin, clotrimazole and fluconazole, in a 0.038–1.53 μg/mL range.

Conclusion

This is the first molecular study to identify the causes of pet dermatophytosis in north-western Iran. ITS-PCR was shown to be a useful and reliable method for the identification of closely related species of dermatophytes in clinical and epidemiological settings. The lowest MIC of caspofungin indicated that this drug was the most potent in vitro.