bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overcoming the Challenges of Epilepsy in Nepal- From Grassroots to Advanced level
Authors: Hari Gajuryal Sharad , Maharjan Shreejana , Iida Koji , Pant Basant
Published: May 2021

Epilepsy is considered to be one of the common neurological disease with a high public health concern in recent years. The burden of epilepsy is also high affecting the patients and their care givers physically, mentally as well as socio economically. This burden seems very high in low- and middle –income countries with high rate of treatment gap resulting in higher number of morbidity and mortality. There are various challenges in low-middle income countries to overcome the treatment gap. Sustained and coordinated action prioritizing epilepsy from the rural setting to the advance setting can help in tackling the challenges. This article focuses on the challenges of epilepsy treatment in low-middle income country like Nepal and discusses the ways forward to overcome it.
Inaugural Message from Editor-in-Chief
Authors: Shrestha Resha
Published: May 2021

N/A
“Uma Rua de Tanger,” de Pedro Américo - representações do Oriente islâmico no Brasil Oitocentista
Authors: Dazzi Camila
Published: May 2021

Haréns com odaliscas de pele acetinada, serpentes encantadas por flautas e paisagens desérticas adornadas por mesquitas foram representações comuns na arte europeia do século XIX. Todavia, são raras as telas que representam o Oriente islâmico feitas por artistas brasileiros ou estrangeiro que tiveram atuação significativa no Brasil no final do século XIX Foi justamente o desejo de discutir essa quase ausência de representações do chamado "mundo árabe-islâmico" na arte brasileira que nos motivou a escrever o presente texto.
Coeficiente de aserrío en la transformación de madera proveniente de Pinus oocarpa Schiede, en seis aserraderos de Nueva Segovia y Estelí, Nicaragua
Authors: Pérez-Flores Danilo , Castro-Marín Guillermo
Published: May 2021

En Nicaragua los estudios sobre la eficiencia de los aserríos son pocos, a pesar de ser la principal industria de transformación del país. El presente estudio se realizó en seis aserraderos localizados en los departamentos de Nueva Segovia y Estelí y tuvo por objetivos determinar el coeficiente de aserrío de la madera en rollo por procesada por aserrío y categoría diamétrica y elaborar ecuaciones que permitieron estimar el volumen de madera serrada a partir del volumen de madera en rollo y el diámetro menor de la troza. En cada aserradero se tomó una muestra aleatoria de 15 trozas de la especie de Pinus oocarpa Schiede, para un total de 90 trozas. A cada una de las trozas se le midieron las dimensiones de los diámetros extremos y su longitud para dterminar el volumen en rollo utilizando la fórmula de Smalian, posteriormente se procesaron para obtener madera común (tablas, reglas y alfajillas) a estos productos se midieron sus dimensiones largo, ancho y grosor a fin de determinar el volumen de madera aserrada. Para determinar el coeficiente de aserrío se dividió el volumen de madera en rollo entre el volumen de madera aserrada de cada una de las 90 trozas. El coeficiente de aserrío promedio obtenido en las seis industrias fue de 70.26 %. Un análisis de varianza determinó que existen diferencias significativas entre los seis aserraderos, registrándose rendimientos entre 80 a 64 %. Un análisis de correlación determinó que existe una asociación positiva entre el diámetro menor de las trozas y el coeficiente de aserrío. Es decir que a medida que aumenta el diámetro de la troza hay un mayor coeficiente de aserrío. La ecuación para la estimación del volumen aserrado a partir del volumen de rollo de la troza es Y = - 0.0524 + 0.8827X y la ecuación para predecir el volumen aserrado a partir del diámetro menor es Y = -0.31 + 2.1197X. El coeficiente de aserrío para las seis empresas estudiadas es 70.26%, equivalentes a equivalente a 301.27 pt/m³ para aserríos portátiles con ancho de corte de 3mm y trozas cilíndricas y de buena calidad.
Avaliação dos crimes ambientais e das estratégias interventivas da promotoria de meio ambiente da regional Recôncavo Sul Baiano
Authors: Santos Aline Passos , Da Silva Elizabete Rodrigues , De Carvalho Sérgio Roberto Lemos
Published: May 2021

Crimes ambientais são agressões cometidas ao meio ambiente e se configuram como atos ilícitos, devendo contra estes serem aplicadas as sanções ambientais, seja através da responsabilização penal ou cível, de forma a garantir às gerações futuras o meio ambiente ecologicamente equilibrado. Para isso, são necessárias estratégias compreendidas como ações implicadas na conservação e equilíbrio da biodiversidade, avaliando a eficácia dos recursos aplicados, visando ao alcance da preservação do meio ambiente. Nesse sentido, a ciência do Direito tenta acompanhar a evolução social, estabelecendo limites, normas jurídicas e buscando equilibrar a ordem social. Este estudo tem por objetivo geral avaliar as estratégias interventivas utilizadas na fiscalização e redução dos crimes ambientais da Promotoria de Meio Ambiente da Regional do Recôncavo Sul Baiano, obedecendo a um critério geográfico ambiental estabelecido pelo Ministério Público do Estado da Bahia, e enquanto objetivos específicos: elencar os crimes ambientais quanto ao(s) tipo(s) e penalidade(s) aplicadas nos anos de 2016 e 2017; verificar as medidas relativas aos crimes ambientais adotadas pelo Ministério Público e classificá-las; averiguar a efetividade e eficácia das medidas adotadas pelo Ministério Públicas relativas aos crimes ambientais. Quanto aos procedimentos metodológicos, trata-se de pesquisa documental, descritiva e exploratória, cuja principal finalidade foi o delineamento dos registros de crimes ambientais e estratégias da Promotoria Regional de Meio Ambiente do Recôncavo Sul, com o isolamento de variáveis, tais como tipos de crimes, características dos infratores, bem ambiental violado, destinação do bem, entre outras e a utilização da técnica de aplicação de formulário. Foram analisados 374 procedimentos instaurados nos anos de 2016 e 2017, obtendo enquanto resultados na Promotoria Regional de Meio Ambiente do Recôncavo Sul maior incidência de crimes contra a fauna praticados por pessoas físicas, do gênero masculino, jovens, com ocupações que indicam baixa escolaridade. No que se refere às estratégias adotadas pela Promotoria Regional de Meio Ambiente, pôde-se perceber a realização de fiscalização constante, apesar de muitas limitações existentes. Desse modo, a análise relacionada com a legislação ambiental pode demonstrar a contemporaneidade do tema e das questões a ele relacionadas, além da tentativa de associar a ciência social à técnica jurídica, e, assim, verificar a aplicabilidade e eficácia do texto normativo, de forma a contemplar questões ambientais.
Finding the Sweet Spot: The Intersection of Technology, Pedagogy, and Mathematics in Preservice Training
Authors: Martin Barbara , Stapf Karlee , Kanturek Tessa
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this research was to look critically at successful technology integration in teacher preparation programs. Researchers used the Technology, Pedagogy and Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework developed by Mishra and Koehler (2006) to provide a lens that quantitatively and qualitatively examines student knowledge. Data was collected for three years to see if the development of TPACK had increased in pre-service teachers. Results from the study found that the pre-service teachers developed pedagogical knowledge more than any other constructs, followed by content knowledge, and finally technological knowledge. This knowledge can help us learn how to instruct future teachers more seamlessly in methods for integrating technology into the K-12 classroom, without compromising the content or pedagogy. These three areas (TK, CK, and PK) can be developed independently, but in order for TPACK to truly evolve and successful learning to happen in the classroom, having overlap between these separate content knowledge constructs is imperative.
Design and development of the home healthcare worker observation tool
Authors: Bien Elizabeth Ann , Davis Kermit G. , Small Tamara F. , Reutman Susan , Gillespie Gordon L.
Published: May 2021

Background: The rapidly growing number of home healthcare workers (HHCW) are exposed to unique occupational hazards within each patient home. This article describes the development of an observation tool to document occupational hazards HHCWs encounter.Methods: Tool development followed three steps: determining content domain, content validity, and inter-rater agreement.Results: Expert feedback guided the revision of content domain to 636 items. Scale level content validity index (S-CVI) was 0.90. Inter-rater agreement tests resulted in percent agreement and accuracy mean of 89.5% and frequency variables resulted in standard deviations from 0 to 8.62.Conclusions: The observation tool encompasses the diverse range of occupational hazards HHCWs encounter; inter-rater percent agreement and overall accuracy scores were acceptable. Future pilot testing of this tool among broader raters and populations is recommended to characterize its usability, internal consistency, and reliability to assess HHCW occupational hazards.
Trend and Economic Implications of Implant Selection in the Treatment of Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures: A Review of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Database From 2007 to 2017
Authors: Smith Lauren , Albersheim Melissa , Blaschke Breanna L. , Parikh Harsh R. , Solfelt David A. , Van Heest Ann E. , Cunningham Brian P.
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

Intertrochanteric (IT) fractures are estimated to burden the healthcare system six billion dollars annually. Previous studies have documented a trend of early-career orthopaedic surgeons favoring intramedullary nails (IMNs) for these fractures, despite multiple randomized controlled trials demonstrating no evidence for improved patient outcomes when compared with sliding hip screws (SHSs). The purpose of this study was to report the trend of implant utilization for IT fracture fixation from 2007 to 2017.

Methods:

The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) Part II (oral) database was used to identify IT fractures (International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, code 820.21 or 820.31, and 10th revision, code S72.14) over a 10-year period (2007 to 2017). The cases were categorized by IMN or SHS fixation by surgeon-reported Current Procedural Terminology codes. Utilization of the devices was analyzed according to year, and the implants were compared for outcomes, complications, and cost.

Results:

As of 2017, 92.4% of IT fractures were being fixed through IMN, representing a 49.1% increase in the number of IMN devices used during the course of this study. SHS had significantly lower medical complication rate (21.3%) and readmittance rate (4.0%) compared with the IMN (medical complication: 26.9%; P < 0.01) (readmittance rate: 5.4%; P = 0.02). SHS also had significantly lower rates of anemia (5.2%) and patient expiration (4.8%) compared with IMN (anemia: 10.2%; P < 0.01) (patient expiration: 6.1%; P = 0.01). Overall surgical complication rates, reoperative rates, and anesthetic complications did not differ between constructs. A cost differential of $671,812 was found from the 2007-projected distribution, which rose to $3,911,211.00 across the entire 11-year duration of the study for the population.

Discussion:

Early-career orthopaedic surgeons continue to use a more expensive implant for IT fractures despite limited evidence for improved outcomes.

Level of evidence:

Level III; Retrospective Cohort Study
Comparison of Patient Demographics and Patient-Related Risk Factors for Infections After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty for Acetabular Fractures
Authors: Ciminero Matthew L. , Golub Ivan J. , Mannino Angelo , Vakharia Rushabh M. , Cannada Lisa K. , Kang Kevin K.
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

In the proper age group, there is evidence that total hip arthroplasty (THA) has superior outcomes for the treatment of acetabular fractures compared with open reduction and internal fixation. Studies comparing patient demographics and identifying risk factors for either surgical site infections (SSIs) or periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to (1) compare baseline demographics of patients who did and did not develop infections and (2) identify risk factors associated with developing either SSIs or PJIs.

Methods:

A retrospective study from 2005 to 2014 was done using a nationwide claims database. The inclusion criteria consisted of patients sustaining an acetabular fracture and treated with THA who developed either SSIs or PJIs within 90 days or 2 years, respectively, whereas patients not developing infections served as control subjects. The final study yielded 13,059 patients within the study (n = 988) and control cohort (n = 12,071). Baseline demographics were compared. A multivariate regression model calculated the odds ratio (OR) associated with development of infections. P value less than 0.002 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The study demonstrated significant differences among the cohorts regarding baseline demographics. The greatest risk factors for SSIs within 90 days were morbid obesity (OR: 1.84, P < 0.0001), pathologic weight loss (OR: 1.64, P < 0.0001), and iron deficiency anemia (OR: 1.59, P = 0.001). An increased risk of PJIs was associated with iron deficiency anemia (OR: 1.97, P < 0.0001), pathologic weight loss (OR: 1.72, P < 0.0001), and morbid obesity (OR: 1.70, P = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

This study found notable differences between baseline demographics of the cohorts and a myriad of risk factors associated with developing infections after THA for acetabular fractures. This study provides insight into orthopaedic surgeons and other healthcare professionals on the need of properly educating these high-risk patients of the potential consequences which they may encounter after their procedure.

Level of evidence:

Level III
Obesity in Older Adults Indonesia: The Role of Healthy Behaviour Factors and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Sudikno Sudikno , Sulistyowati Ning , Nainggolan Olwin , Tjandrarini Dwi Hapsari
Published: May 2021

Obesity in older adults has been a health problem in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to determine the problem of obesity in the older adults group according to behavioral factors and metabolic syndrome. This study used a cross-sectional design. The number of samples analyzed was 5120 people, all of which were older adults aged 60 years and over. The prevalence of obesity in older adults was 17.6 percent. The results of the advanced analysis also showed a correlation between the variables gender, age, region, education, smoking behavior, and levels of LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus with the incidence of obesity in the older adults.
Happy Schools: Perspectives and Matters of Organization-Pedagogy in School’s Building and Development
Authors: Giản Phạm Minh , Bảo Đặng Quốc , Tâm Tăng Thái Thụy Ngân , Tặc Phạm Văn
Published: May 2021

Building “happy schools” has been one of the key concerns by many countries in recent years with an aim to create a friendly, safe, and happy teaching and learning environment so that teachers and students can have more motivation in improving their teaching and learning achievements, thus bringing forth more happiness to the involved individuals and organizations. The article introduces the concept of a “happy school”, outlined the perspectives on building happy schools by the world and Vietnamese political, cultural leaders, educational researchers as well as organizations so that they can be applied in the process of educational innovation. Thereby, the authors identify the key elements and criteria for such a “happy school” model, clarify the roles of the schools’ headmasters as well as summarize a set of ten messages for a happy school to prepare under the current situation of school innovation.
Overexpression of Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) PaRAP2.1 Promotes Fatty Acid Accumulation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ma Weihong , Zang Xiaoping , Liu Yuanzheng , Wang Lixia , Wang Jiashui , Li Yanxia , Ge Yu
Published: May 2021

Fatty acids in avocado fruit (Persea americana Mill.) are vital composition affecting flavour and nutritive value. Hence, horticulturalists are interested in illustrating the functions of transcription factors on fatty acid accumulation in avocado fruit. In the present study, the APETALA2/ethylene-responsive transcription factor gene, PaRAP2.1, was cloned from avocado mesocarp, and the subcellular localization demonstrated that PaRAP2.1 was located in the cytoplasm and nucleus. The PaRAP2.1 was introduced into Arabidopsis thaliana by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Furthermore, PaRAP2.1 were functionally verified its effect on fatty acid biosynthesis. Histological analyses of lipid droplets displayed that the striking difference in the lipid droplets in the mature seeds between PaRAP2.1-overexpressing transgenic and wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana lines were revealed based on confocal microscopy images. Subsequently, fatty acid analyses of PaRAP2.1-overexpressing Arabidopsis thaliana lines displayed the significantly higher contents of fatty acids than those in the wild-type plants. Meanwhile, expression amount of ten genes involving in fatty acid biosynthesis dramatically up-regulated in the mature seeds of PaRAP2.1-overexpressing lines than those of wild-type plants. These results provide a theoretical basis for future research in regard to the function of PaRAP2.1 on fatty acid biosynthesis.
Response of the Yam Variety Krengle (Dioscorea rotundata) to Organo-mineral Fertilisation at Bouaké in Central of Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Dibi Evrard Brice K. , Kouame N’Guessan , N’Goran Emmanuel K. , Kouakou Michel A. , Kouame Jean Marie Y. , Essis Brice Sidoine , N’zue Boni
Published: May 2021

The decline in yam productivity due to the lack of arable land and impoverished soils forces farmers to use fertiliser. The fertilisers used are mineral, organic or organo-mineral. A study of these fertilisers has been carried out to propose to the farmers a dose or combination that can improve their yield. Thirteen (13) fertilisers obtained from the combination of mineral fertiliser (NPK 15-15-15) and composted cow or poultry manure were tested on the yam variety Krengle in a 3 replicate randomized complete block design. The experiment was conducted over two (2) campaigns at Bouake in Central of Côte d’Ivoire. The results show that high dose mineral fertilisation (NPK 15-15-15, 300 kg/ha) negatively influenced the growth and yield parameters of the yam variety Krengle. High doses of organic fertilisers (Cow manure (CM) 20 t/ha and poultry manure (PM) 20 t/ha) have a positive effect on vegetative growth. While the medium-high doses of organic fertiliser (CM 15 t/ha and PM 15 t/ha) gave better tuber yield (13.5 t/ha) and allowed an increase in tuber yield from 17 to 18%. Organo-mineral fertilisation combining a small dose of organic fertiliser (5 t/ha) with a medium dose of mineral fertiliser (200 kg/ha) gave also fairly good yield (13.3 and 14.42 t/ha) with an increase of 15 to 25%. Thus, 200 kg/ha of NPK 15-15-15 associated with 5 t/ha of poultry or cow manure can be recommended for the cultivation of the yam variety Krengle at Bouake.
Effect of in vitro Produced Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Inoculum on Anaerobic Direct Seeded and Transplanted Paddy
Authors: Haifaa M. D. Iffah , Moses Christopher
Published: May 2021

It is widely accepted that the symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a key role in sustainable production systems in rice cultivation and they readily form a symbiotic relationship with these fungi. Four species consortium of AMF, Funneliformis mosseae, Rhizophagus intraradices, Clariodeoglomus etunicatum and Glomus aggregatum, produced through in vitro production system and formulated with organic biostimulants viz. humic acids and sea weed extract were tested in this experiment, both for direct seeded and transplanted paddy, under anaerobic cultivation system. AMF inoculated fields produced significantly higher yield than non-inoculated field. AMF inoculants formulated with a blend of humic acids and seaweed extract produced significantly higher grain yield than the inoculants formulated with humic acids alone, in both the cultivation systems. Effect of AMF inoculation was highly pronounced in transplanted paddy than direct seeded paddy, resulted in highest grain yield, highest grain weight, better grain filling rate and highest tiller production. It can be concluded that AMF inoculants can be potentially used for rice cultivation under anaerobic water management system, both for direct seeded and transplanted paddy and the nature of biostimulants used in the formulation also play a key role in the efficacy of AMF inoculants. Our findings contribute to the growing global consensus that mycorrhizal inoculants could play a role in sustainable rice production systems of the future, when used appropriately.
Effects of Enhanced-Efficiency Nitrogen Fertilizers on Soil Microbial Biomass and Respiration in Tropical Soil Under Upland Rice Cultivation
Authors: Oliveira Vinícius Almeida , Brasil Eliana Paula Fernandes , Teixeira Welldy Gonçalves , Santos Felipe Corrêa Veloso dos , Silva Atila Reis da
Published: May 2021

While over-use of N fertilizers can suppress microbial biomass, application of urease inhibitors is known to be a potential way to rebuilt microbial diversity and improve soil functions. However, the hypothesis of this study is that the application of N fertilizers regardless of the source would increase soil microbial biomass and reduce soil respiration. A two-year field experiment was conducted to assess the effects of enhanced-efficiency N sources on soil microbial biomass, and soil respiration. The experiment was set up in a randomized block design in a 3 × 4 + 1 factorial scheme, with four replicates. Treatments comprised three sources (conventional uncoated urea, NBPT (N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide)-treated urea, and polymer-coated urea) and four rates (30, 60, 90 and 120 kg ha-1) of N, in addition to a control treatment (no fertilizer application). Microbial biomass C (MBC) and microbial biomass N (MBN), and soil respiration (C-CO2 and qCO2) were determined in upland rice rhizosphere in each crop season. Responses of soil microbial properties to N fertilization were dependent on the N rates, but no significant effect of the N sources was observed. All measured parameters, except MBC in the first season and C-CO2 in the second season, were increased with increasing N rates. However, the application of N higher than 60 kg ha-1 suppressed soil microbial biomass, as well as soil respiration.  Therefore, the lack of response by added urease inhibitors to the N sources indicate that optimizing N rates for upland rice production is a far more effective option for improving soil microbial community than using enhanced-efficiency N sources.
Effect of Biochar Treated Sewage Sludge on the Yield and Uptake of Copper and Zinc in Chinese Cabbage (Brassica rapa)
Authors: Chalwe Hendrix , Muwowo Mildred , Chabala Lydia Mumbi
Published: May 2021

One of the potential uses of treated sewage sludge is its application as a soil conditioner in agricultural fields. A factorial experiment was conducted to compare the main effects of biochar and sewage sludge and the interaction effect between biochar and sewage sludge on the plant uptake of copper and zinc and vegetable yield. The experiment was done in a green house and Chinese cabbage was used as the test crop. The experiment consisted of two factors namely, biochar and sewage sludge, each of which was applied to the soil at four levels. The copper and zinc concentration were determined in the laboratory based on Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. A two-way analysis of variance test was performed, and the Tukey’s HSD test was used to separate statistically significant treatment means at 5% level of significance. Results showed a significant interaction effect between biochar and sewage sludge (p = 0.012) on the level of copper concentration in plant tissue. It was observed that sewage sludge had a significant effect on zinc concentration (p < 0.001) in the plant tissue while biochar did not show any significant effect. Further, results showed significant increase in dry matter yield of Chinese cabbage with increasing levels of biochar applied (p < 0.001). This study demonstrates that biochar-treated sewage sludge has potential for use as a soil conditioner in vegetable production. However, it is recommended that care should be taken to avoid overuse by utilizing evaluated and treated sludge for soil amendment.
Goodness-of-Fit of Reference Evapotranspiration to Gamma Probability Distribution
Authors: Assis Janilson Pinheiro de , Sousa Roberto Pequeno de , Lima Isaac Reinaldo Pinheiro de , Linhares Paulo César Ferreira , Martins Walter Rodrigues , Cardoso Eudes de Almeida , Pereira Joaquim Odilon , Sousa Robson Pequeno de , Medeiros Aline Carla de , Cunha Lauvia Moesia Morais , Santos Mateus de Freitas Almeida dos , Dantas Geovanna Alícia , Silva Ruth Mainá Penha da , Veras Mario Leno Martins , Silva Kessiane Amaral da , Pereira Mônica Valéria Barros
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to estimate, using the Penman-Monteith method, the probabilities of reference evapotranspiration (ET0) in millimeters, as well as their accumulated values for ten days (decendial), in Mossoró, northeast Brazil. The Meteorological Station of the Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA) provided the daily records of evapotranspiration. The construction of tables based on the approximation of the variable to the Gamma distribution allows the use of data without transformations. The probabilities were estimated with the Gamma distribution at confidence levels of 1% to 95% over the 1970-2007 data period. The results of the chi-square and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests at 10% probability (p ≥ 0.10) demonstrated the adequacy of the table construction process, providing essential support in the planning of agricultural activities in the region to obtain the maximum benefit from evapotranspiration data. The Gamma probability distribution best described the ET0 for scaling irrigation systems in the county. The maximum daily ET0 for irrigation projects in the Mossoró region is 10 mm, and the cumulative 10-day ET0 averages 80 mm.
The Role of Jordanian Agricultural Policies in Climate Change Responding Affecting Agricultural Production
Authors: Tarawneh Radi A.
Published: May 2021

A study was conducted in Jordan to evaluate the role of Jordanian agricultural policies on agricultural production under the effect of climate change. A scientific questionnaire was distributed to 100 samples of Jordanian citizens who had direct contact with the effect of agricultural policies and they can touch the effect of climate change and agricultural policies on the agricultural production, data selected from farmers, agricultural rural communities, agricultural sector decision makers, and agricultural researchers were selected randomly from different areas in Jordan. The results show that Jordanian are aware of the climate change effect on the agricultural sector and agricultural production, they believe that the most effective ways to face the negative effect of climate change on agricultural production by implementing agricultural regulations and policies which try to develop the Jordan agricultural sector under the effect of climate change. On other hand, results show a significant effect of agricultural policies to adapt and face the climatic changes in Jordan.
Influence of increased CO2 concentration in the atmosphere on the process of thermal radiation absorption
Authors: Kubicki Jan , Kopczyński Krzysztof , Młyńczak Jarosław
Published: May 2021

The paper presents the problem of the influence of the increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere on the increase in the absorption of thermal radiation. Attention was paid to the differences in the results of calculations in the works of different authors. A simple measurement method has been worked out by means of which, using infrared radiation from the Moon, the possibility of saturation of the process of absorption of thermal radiation for CO2 in the atmosphere has been confirmed. Next, a proposal was presented to conduct further experimental works enabling improvement and verification of computer climate models.
Keywords: radiation processes, Schwarzschild equation, greenhouse gases, thermal radiation absorption.
Legal and Ethical Aspects of Pain Management
Authors: Jukić Marko , Puljak Livia
Published: May 2021

In this manuscript we presented legal and ethical aspects of pain management. Pain is a global public health problem because the burden of acute and chronic pain is considerable and is continuously increasing. It has been postulated that pain management is a fundamental human right, and that health systems are obliged to ensure universal access to pain management services. The suggestion that pain management is a right was fuelled by ample evidence about inadequate treatment of pain. Undertreatment and underprescribing in the context of pain can potentially have serious legal consequences, including charges about negligence, elder abuse, manslaughter and euthanasia. Multiple international declarations by professional societies have outlined pain management as a core ethical duty in medicine. Therefore, healthcare professionals need to be aware of multiple facets of pain-related ethics, including appraisal of patient’s decision-making capacity. The worldwide opioid crisis also calls for careful consideration of specific ethical issues. Finally, healthcare workers need to be aware of the the risks associated with promoting pain management as a human right because patients and their caretakers can mistakenly perceive that they have right to total analgesia.

Conclusion. Patients do have the right to pain management, but patient rights have limits, which may interfere with other competing rights, and also rights of their physicians. Treatment of pain must be medically, ethically and economically justified. Healthcare workers have an obligation to continuously improve their knowledge about pain management, including medical, legal and ethical aspects of pain.
Complete Response of Metastatic Melanoma to Second Line Chemotherapy with Paclitaxel and Carboplatin - Case Report
Authors: Tomić Krešimir , Tica Sedlar Ivana , Berić Jozić Gordana , Marijanović Inga , Lukić Blanka , Miletić Dragana , Puljić Ćuk Ana
Published: May 2021

Objective. We present a patient with metastatic melanoma who had a complete response to second line chemotherapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin.

Case report. Metastatic melanoma is an aggressive cancer with poor prognosis and 10 year survival less than 10%. We present a patient with metastatic melanoma who had a complete response to second line chemotherapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin.

Conclusion. Second line chemotherapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin in the treatment of metastatic melanoma may yield effective results.
Implementation and Outcomes of a Molecular Tumor Board at Herbert-Herman Cancer Center, Sparrow Hospital
Authors: Trivedi Harsha , Acharya Devansh , Chamarthy Ushasree , Meunier Joseph , Ali-Ahmad Hussein , Hamdan Muhammad , Herman James , Srkalovic Gordan
Published: May 2021

Objective. This paper describes our experience and outcomes from 54 cases presented to the (Molecular tumor board) MTB.

Methods. 54 Cases presented between July 2017 and April 2018 were included in this analysis. These patients had different types of cancers that had either failed standard therapy or were expected to fail and physicians were looking for future options for anticipated progression. Patients who had obvious mutations and were candidates for Targeted Agent and Profiling Utilization Registry or Molecular Analysis for Treatment Choice clinical trials were not included. Oncologists presented the cases virtually and Foundation Medicine scientific and clinical team discussed the molecular pathways to find targeted options or trials. Tumor board attendees included oncologists, nurses, pharmacists, mid-level providers, residents and staff of the Cancer Center.

Results. Amongst the 54 cases presented 81% had one or more potentially actionable alteration. 12 (22%) patients received genomically matched therapy as per MTB recommendations. Additional 13 (24%) patients have options available when they progress. Out of 12 patients who got treatment six are alive at the time of this analysis. Genomically matched therapy or Clinical Trials option were offered to the 46% of patients based on the MTB discussion.

Conclusion. More widespread use of molecular diagnostics, better physician education and multidisciplinary collaboration between the staff involved in diagnosis and treatment, as well as third party payers are necessary for consensus on treatment and care of oncology patients.
TNS1- ALK Fusion in a Recurrent, Metastatic Uterine Mesenchymal Tumor Originally Diagnosed as Leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Lee Jessica , Singh Arun , Ali Siraj M. , Lin Douglas I. , Klempner Samuel J.
Published: May 2021

Objective. We report a female patient diagnosed with a leiomyosarcoma and who harbored a druggable target as identified by comprehensive genomic profiling in the course of clinical care.

Case Report. The patient progressed five years after curative intent surgery and adjuvant treatment. After failure of multiple lines of chemotherapy,she was enrolled in a trial of an ALK inhibitor based on comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) identifying an TNS1-ALK fusion.

Conclusion. In this case, identification of the ALK kinase fusion permitted enrollment in a matched mechanism driven clinical trial after exhausting standard of care treatment options. CGP raises the possibility of uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor as an alternative diagnosisto leiomyosarcoma, highlighting the complementary role of CGP beyond immunohistochemical analyses.
Dr. Anna Bayerová: The First Official Female Doctor in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Fuchs Brigitte , Tahirović Husref
Published: May 2021

This biographical note details Anna Bayerová’s (1853–1924) activities as the first female Austro-Hungarian health officer in 1878 to1918 occupied Bosnia and Herzegovina (BH). Anna Bayerová is known as a heroine of Czech feminism and the ‘first Czech female physician’, though she only practised in the Czech lands from 1913 to 1916. In 1891, Bayerová was enrolled as the first Austro-Hungarian female health officer and assigned to treat Muslim women in the district of Tuzla, Bosnia. She pursued this mission for the first three months of 1892, had herself transferred to Sarajevo in the summer, and soon thereafter quitted the service. Her biographers point to a series of political and personal motivations to abandon her mission in Bosnia, which, from the viewpoint of Czech feminists, included fulfilling her professional duties in an exemplary way. She spent most of her professional life as a physician in Switzerland and did not request Austrian recognition of her medical degree until 1913. Bayerová died in Prague in 1924.

Conclusion. Bayerová, partly for political reasons and partly due to her panic-fuelled fear of catching tuberculosis, quitted her role as the first Austro-Hungarian female health officer in BH soon after her arrival in 1892.
Quantitative Analysis of CCL5 and ep300 in Periapical Inflammatory Lesions
Authors: Hadziabdic Naida , Kurtovic-Kozaric Amina , Frkatovic Azra , Smajlovic Samira , Letra Ariadne
Published: May 2021

Objectives. In silico bioinformatical analysis suggested that the expression of two genes, CCL5 (C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 5) and ep300 (Histone acetyltransferase p300), could be used as potential new biomarkers in differentiation between periapical granulomas and radicular cysts. Thus, we hypothesized that gene expression of CCL5 and ep300 in periapical lesions would classify the lesions as either granuloma or cyst.

Materials. Patient samples (n=122) included 46 periapical granulomas, 38 radicular cysts and 38 healthy gingival samples as controls. Real-time PCR analysis of CCL5 and ep300 transcripts was compared to SDHA (Succinate dehydrogenase complex, subunit A) as the reference. Clinical parameters (e.g., intensity of inflammation and lesion size) were measured and correlated with CCL5 and ep300 expression. ROC (Receiver operating characteristic) and logistic regression analyses were used to establish the diagnostic character of ΔCt values.

Results. Granulomas and radicular cysts had significantly higher expression of CCL5 and ep300 compared to controls (P<0.05). However, no differences were observed when comparing granulomas and radicular cysts. ROC analyses showed that CCL5 and ep300 have good diagnostic accuracy, but low accuracy for distinguishing between the lesions.

Conclusions. This study confirmed that expression of CCL5 and ep300 is relevant for the pathogenesis of periapical inflammatory lesions but cannot be used as a distinctive marker between these lesions.
Screening for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Kuharić Marin , Zibar Lada
Published: May 2021

Objectives. To determine the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome risk in patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD) using Levine questionnaire for assessment of carpal tunnel syndrome - related symptoms severity and patients’ functional status and to examine the relation of the determined risk with the participants’ demographic, anthropometric and laboratory data.

Participants and Methods. This crosssectional study included 78 chronic HD patients at Department for Nephrology in University Hospital Osijek. All participants filled out the Levine questionnaire to examine the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome - related symptoms and their functional state. The participants’ demographic, anthropometric and laboratory data were taken from the medical records and statistically analyzed by SPSS for Windows (version 16.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, SAD).

Results. Risk for carpal tunnel syndrome was found in 38.5% of the participants. No significant differences between patients with and without the risk were found in sex distribution, underlying kidney disease or vascular access. Patients at risk were older (P=0.044) and had higher body mass index (BMI), (t-test, P=0.019). Participants’ age, BMI and predialytic serum urea concentration were independent predictors for carpal tunnel syndrome risk (P=0.033).

Conclusion. The prevalence of risk for carpal tunnel syndrome among patients on chronic HD was found in more than one third of patients. Older age, higher BMI and higher predialytic serum urea concentration bear a higher risk. Electromyoneurography is thus often indicated in this population to confirm the diagnosis for consecutive surgical treatment.
The Incidence of Smoking Habits and the Degree of Nicotine Dependence in Education Workers
Authors: Karakaš Sead , Paklarčić Mateja , Kukić Ermina
Published: May 2021

Objective. The aim of this research was to establish the incidence of smoking habits and the level of nicotine dependence in education workers in the Central Bosnia Canton (CBC).

Materials and Methods. The research was conducted in the 2017/2018 school year. It covered education workers in all elementary (N=53) and high schools (N=23), in the area of the CBC. A total of 857 subjects were included. For the purpose of this research a special questionnaire was designed that included information on smoking, how long people had smoked, age and gender, smoking habits, and a modified Fagerstrom test for assessment of nicotine dependence. Results. In relation to smoking status, the subjects were divided into two categories: 646 (75.38%) non-smokers and 211 (24.62%) of those who declared themselves to be active smokers. All subjects were considered in relation to four age groups. The average age of the subjects was 42.14 years, and the average age of the subjects who were smokers was 43.61 years. Of the total number of smokers (n=211), the number of those who believed that the consumption of cigarettes by staff members encourages pupils to smoke was 76 (36.01%). The largest number of subjects (746, 87%) believed that during their time in school or the school yard, pupils are in a situation where they are able to see educational workers smoking. The degree of nicotine dependence in education workers in the CBC was mostly mild (53.55%, N=113) and then moderate (44.54%, N=94) and severe (1.89%, N=4).

Conclusion. There is a significant number of smokers (24.62%) amongst education workers in schools in the CBC. The level of nicotine dependence in education workers is most often mild (53.55%) then moderate (44.54%) and severe (1.89%).
A Case of Early FAP Diagnosis with Extraintestinal Manifestations on the Face
Authors: Thomaidis Vasilios , Seretis Konstantinos , Tsoucalas Gregory , Razos Konstantinos , Vasilopoulos Anastasios , Efenti Gioultzan Memet , Fiska Aliki
Published: May 2021

Objective. Gardner’s syndrome is a variant of familial adenomatous polyposis, characterized by gastrointestinal polyps, multiple osteomas, and skin and soft tissue lesions. Diagnosis by means of an understanding of its various symptoms is of great importance.

Case report. This report presents the case of a 32-year-old man with obvious asymmetry and disfigurement on his face, due to multiple osteomas and soft tissue lesions. These clinical signs prompted us to further investigation, leading to the diagnosis of a case of Gardner’s syndrome, with asymptomatic polyposis of the colon. Polyps have virtually an almost 100% risk of undergoing malignant transformation.

Conclusion. Early diagnosis and treatment of this pathological entity are crucial, while the presence of osteomas should alert us to this diagnosis.
A Case of with an Incidental Penetrating Foreign Body in Lumbar 2 Vertebra
Authors: Turkis Omer Furkan , Ünal Volkan Murat
Published: May 2021

No abstract available.
The Experiences of Patients with Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease: Challenges, Expectations, and Accomplishments
Authors: İbrahimoğlu Özlem , Mersin Sevinc , Akyol Eda
Published: May 2021

Objectives. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a safe and effective alternative treatment of some movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Although DBS is an effective treatment for Parkinson's disease, because of the necessity of surgical intervention, follow-up and the effects on symptoms, this study was carried out to determine the challenges, expectations and accomplishments of patients with DBS in Parkinson’s disease.

Materials and Methods. This qualitative study was carried out at the Neurosurgery Department of a research hospital in Turkey with seven patients who underwent DBS between 2008 and 2018. In the study, the challenges, expectations, and accomplishments of patients were investigated by using three focus group interviews in October 2018.

Results. Among the participants, six patients were male, and one patient was female. The mean age of the patients was 56.85}16.48. Three main themes were revealed in the study. These were (1) Reborn; decrease in dependence, sense of accomplishment, enjoyment of life, (2) Prejudice; perceived as severely ill by others and (3) Fear; not being accustomed to the device, loss of device function.

Conclusion. The results obtained from this study can be used in the process of adaptation to this process by discussing and evaluating the challenges, expectations and accomplishments of the Parkinson's patient in DBS with healthcare professionals and other patients.
Extensive Posterolateral Approach for Giant Spinal Epidural Tumors
Authors: Ravnik Janez , Štangelj Jan , Košar Jaka
Published: May 2021

Objective. Our objective was to determine the safety, efficacy, and surgical outcome of an extensive posterolateral approach for giant spinal epidural tumors.

Materials and Methods. Our clinical study included 12 patients with various giant primary tumors and metastases of the spine, who underwent surgery between 2008 and 2019. The surgical procedure consisted of costotransversectomy, laminectomy, corpectomy, tumor resection, spinal column stabilization, and reconstruction. Neurological status examination and pain assessment were recorded at the time of admission, upon discharge and at outpatient check-up.

Results. In our clinical sample, there were no major perioperative complications. All patients were discharged from the intensive care unit back to the hospital department within a week after the surgery. Postoperative follow-up showed no deterioration of neurological status. Furthermore, there was a moderate to significant improvement of paraparesis in all patients for weeks after surgery. The most notable improvement was significant pain relief in all the patients. None of the patients had issues with failure of the implanted hardware. Two patients died less than six months after the surgery due to the progression of the primary malignant process.

Conclusion. An extensive posterolateral approach to giant spinal epidural tumors is an effective one-step approach. It presents a good compromise between invasiveness and sufficient exposure for both tumor resection and spinal column reconstruction. Good short-term clinical improvement can be achieved, but the long term results depend on the advancement of the initial disease. Careful evaluation and selection of patients are necessary to achieve clinical improvement and prolonged life expectancy, and the best results are achieved with a multidisciplinary approach.
Continuous Dynamic Mapping of the Corticospinal Tract in Motor Eloquent Tumor Surgery: Our Experience and Evaluation of the Method
Authors: Porčnik Andrej , Pešak Jure , Žele Tilen , Koritnik Blaž , Rodi Zoran , Prestor Borut
Published: May 2021

Objective. The aim of this article is to present our experience with continuous dynamic mapping (CDM) of the corticospinal tract (CST) when removing tumors in motor eloquent regions.

Methods. We studied 44 patients with a brain tumor adjacent to the CST where CDM was used. The mapping probe was integrated at the tip of the suction device. Thresholds for eliciting MEPs were recorded. In all patients, along with CDM, MEPs to direct cortical stimulation were also monitored throughout the operation. Motor function was assessed preoperatively, after the procedure and on discharge.

Results. In the series, there were 37 patients with gliomas, six with brain metastasis, and one with cavernoma. The threshold to elicit MEPs in CDM was >20 mA in 17 cases, 16–20 mA in six cases, 11–15 mA in six cases, 6–10 mA in nine cases and 2–5 mA in six cases. MEPs to direct cortical stimulation were preserved in all patients. In three cases a new temporary motor deficit was noted. No new permanent motor deficit occurred. Gross total resection was reached in 57% of cases.

Conclusions. From our experience, the combined use of CDM and MEPs to direct cortical stimulation improves the safety of surgery in the proximity of the CST, and at the same time offers the possibility of higher rates of gross total resection.