bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contribution of Emotional Intelligence to Human Resource Development and Career Success: a Review
Authors: Ana Chagelishvili
Published: October 2021

This paper is the review of the main scientific literature about the role of emotional intelligence in career success and human resource development. It aims to analyze how emotional intelligence and its components determine human resource development or career success. Through documentary analysis the paper is based on reviewing leading scientific publications and summarizes main theoretical approaches. The results of the analyze show that emotional intelligence helps employees in many ways to achieve success at work and also highlight the need for more attention to the development of employees' emotional intelligence in organizations. The review also addresses promotion issues which consideration will avoid organizations further problems. This analysis will be especially useful for managers to improve the quality of employees' performance. This review on emotional intelligence issues in terms of career success contributes to review literature about human resource management and development and it may also indicate future directions for surveys.
The Impact of High School Program Reform on First-Year University Students’ Academic Performance. Case Study: Biology
Authors: Milo Mimoza , Paparisto Anila , Bidaj Flamur , Shehu Fatmira
Published: October 2021

The student transition from high school to university is a complex process in which various factors operate. One of these factors is the degree of the students’ academic preparation in certain subjects. This article analyzes the impact of this factor on the students’ success in the first year of university studies, in the conditions when the subject program in high school has been reformed. This impact on the students’ success, which is expressed both in the degree of academic preparation and in the students’ attitude in the relevant subject, has been assessed employing statistical analysis. The analysis covers a period of 3 years (2017-2020), and is based on a sample of first year students of the Bachelor degree in Biology. The results of the questionnaire, conducted with first year university students, show the impact of their high school academic preparation on the success they have in the first year of university. This success is measured by assessing the change in average grade and their pass rates. Evidence of the impact of this factor in teaching has helped to know in detail these intermediate phases of this process. The built model makes it possible to analyze the impact of the high school curriculum reform on the students’ success, creating the opportunity for further improvements. Despite the fact that the object of the study is the Biology curriculum and the evaluation of the impact in academic success of students who graduated from high schools where a competence based curriculum was implemented, this methodology can be used for the study in other subjects, especially life sciences.
Transport Corridors as a Social-Economic Energizer
Authors: Qaja Besjana
Published: October 2021

Transport corridors and their socio-economic impact have been analyzed and explored in many cases. In the transport sector, there is a series of problems that affect the quality of life of the inhabitants in different regions. These issues need to be analysed and to find the cause and consequences that they cause and hinder the further development of the region initially and subsequently affect the national level. Moreover, roads as a construction structure have a very important role in the economic development of a country. They enable quick and convenient transportation of people to settlements as well as the economical transport of goods. The geographical position of the places, the natural beauties, and the sea are a prerequisite for tourism development. But in many cases, the natural and attractive attractions for tourists remain unused due to the lack of roads or the existence of a poor road network. The inspiration for the development of this topic comes from the daily observation of the transport situation and from receiving information through various publications such as studies, strategies or thematic books, discussions with colleagues and various events related to this sector. The research is focused on a specific case that can combine the theoretical part with the real situation to confront them both between using a specific methodology. The aim of this paper is to extract some of the reasons for regional development and energizing. As a case study is taken a part of route 7, in the Balkan peninsula which connects Albania with Kosovo and Serbia. Discussions on the construction of a highway between Albania and Kosovo are early, they were born on the eve of the First World War in Austria-Hungary. Even in the 1970s and 1980s, there was a discussion about building a road that would have to connect two locations. Based on this, it looks a good reason to search more and to analyse some effects of it in the social and economic life of citizens and residents of the impacted areas.
Road Asset Management Assessment
Authors: Bardhi Diana
Published: October 2021

Albanian Road Authority (ARA) under the administration of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. It is responsible agency for the process of construction and maintenance of national and regional roads. Albanian Development Fund (ADF) is the agency for construction of rural and regional road infrastructure, also training for maintenance and management of municipalities responsible for maintenance of the urban and rural roads. ARA and ADF are using public funds for the construction of road infrastructure network, so due to restriction budgetary in road maintenance they the need to develop a strategy for the management and financial of maintenance, based on current accounting principles and efficiency of public funds in order to ensure safety and cost saving users. This includes the use of a balance of investments made to launch a database for years and the development of basic documents for the planning and control of public spending in these activities. The question that arises and requires an analysis is: a generally accepted value will be calculated for the infrastructure during its useful life, using the principles of sound accounting and valuation of real estate activities internationally applied. The results show that the existing accounting standards are suitable for use in infrastructure management, allowing a better control of public spending on infrastructure, while the principles of technical assessment of public infrastructure assets require the creation of a database and inventory for all road classification.
Sense of Defeat, Social Status and Oral Health Among Forensic Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Buunk Abraham P. , Buunk-Werkhoven Yvonne A B
Published: October 2021

Aim: The aim was to examine how sense of defeat and social status are related to perceived oral health, tooth brushing, and oral health-related quality of life among Dutch male forensic psychiatric patients.Methods: The sample consisted of 40 hospitalized forensic psychiatric patients participated. The questionnaire included five questions about moments of tooth brushing, scales for sense of defeat and subjective social status, a scale from 1 to 10 for perceived oral health and a Dutch version of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14).Results: The results showed that on the basis of a factor analysis of the OHIP-14, three meaningful scales could be constructed, i.e., functional limitations, social discomfort, and psychological inhibitions. The major results revealed that sense of defeat correlated negatively with tooth brushing after breakfast and before going to sleep, positively with social discomfort because of one’s teeth, mouth, or dentures, not with functional limitations, and negatively with self-perceived oral health. Social status correlated positively with tooth brushing before going to sleep, with psychological inhibitions, but not with social discomfort, and neither with functional limitations.Conclusions and implications: The major conclusion is that sense of defeat and social status have theoretically meaningful relations with oral self-care and oral health. Oral health professionals working with male forensic psychiatric patients should be sensitive to the sense of defeat these patients may experience, and to the fact that this may be associated with problems with their oral health and with a lack of oral self-care.
Comparison of Extraction Methods of Chitin and Chitosan from Different Sources
Authors: Ibram Alef , Ionescu Ana-Maria , Cadar Emin
Published: October 2021

Chitin and chitosan have become of great interest not only as underutilized resources, but also as new functional materials of high potential in various fields. The methods of isolating chitosan from different sources: shrimp (Panaeus monodon), crab (Scylla olivicea and Scylla serrata), locust (Schistocerca gregaria), honeybee (Apis mellifera), beelte (Calosoma rugosa) and fish (Labeo rohita) were compared. The same steps of demineralization and deproteinization were followed for the chemical extraction of chitin, but the concentration of reagents, the temperatures and reaction times were varied, which resulted in chitosans with different degrees of deacetylation.
Residual Marine Algae Biomass - An Important Raw Material for Obtaining a Soil Biostimulator-Regenerator
Authors: Negreanu-Pirjol Bogdan-Stefan , Negreanu-Pirjol Ticuta , Paraschiv Gabriela Mihaela
Published: October 2021

This paper highlight a study regarding the valorification of residual marine algae biomass along Romanian Black Sea Coast, which recorded in the last summer period an accumulation of a large seaweed biomass quantities. The valorization of this waste was conceived as a result of theirs nutritional potential for improvind degraded soils of Dobrudja region, Romania and as complex capitalization of this biomass. It was establish the biotechnological process for the new biosolid nutrient composite obtaining. The parameter physical-chemical results of raw material used for biofertilizer obtaining, emphasized an increased organic charge compared with the inorganic compounds. Also, an increased value of total organic nitrogen and an optimum pH limits, was registered. Regarding the nutrients concentrations values, it could be noticed that the new biosolid fertilizer contains organic matter and valuable nutritive elements (N, P) could be contributed to the enhancement of the soil quality. The new biosolid biostimulator-regenerator obtained from natural residues bring a complex of nutrients for degraded soils by the presence of organic residual compounds, through the proteins, lipids, nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus) and mineral salts content, necessary for plants nutrition and improvement of soils quality.
The Role of University on the Civic Preparation of the Youth
Authors: Lutaj Lindita
Published: October 2021

University plays an important role in equipping students with knowledge and academic expressions. The institution helps the students in development of society understanding and civil engagement. The aim of this study is to observe the role of university through the curricula in civil preparation of the students and their awareness for active civic participation. The study used a mix quantitative and qualitative scientific method. The instrument included online closed and open questions, which were completed from 50 second year students, of Education Faculty, Professional Master “Elementary Education Teacher” and Professional Master of “Didactics”. The study resulted that students are very interested in being prepared in Democratic Civil Education. Practical activity is very important, but the pandemic was an obstacle in performing practical activities. Students state that using convincing argument, preparation job and researching the information from various sources helps them develop high-level thinking, and reach high results. Family civil education also helps them in continuing further education. Students gain knowledge, skills, attitudes and values from the university as prerequisites to be active future citizens. Realizing the teaching quality indicators in university is necessary for youth healthy democratic formation. It is important to increase students’ awareness and motivation for change. This is to make them aware in fulfilling their mission on creating a democratic civil society, with responsible citizens for their roles and engagement taken. Universities should know their responsibilities by including in the Education Faculty programs the curricula of Civil Education to increase students’ academic and create practical expressions.
Human Capital and Production Structure: Evidence from Greece
Authors: Giouli Eleni , Yorgos Pisinas , Kanzola Anna-Maria
Published: October 2021

The present paper offers a theoretical review of the concept of human capital and its component elements, namely Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Working Activities, and attempts to sketch the requirements of the production structure in the Greek economy. In addition, the role is stressed of the educational model in Greece in positively affecting the changes underway under the simultaneous impact of the 4th industrial revolution and COVID-19.
Strong Disagreements West-Moscow on the Future of the World After World War II
Authors: Malia Alban
Published: October 2021

The European continent after the end of World War II was completely destroyed. A destruction of such proportions was not even done in the 30-year War three hundred years ago, not even in the Napoleonic wars of the 19th century. Now the victors had to prepare the treaties. This did not turn out to be a simple task. For the first time the Council of Foreign Ministers of the victorious countries met in London from September 11 until October 2, 1945. The first problem faced by this council was the opposition of Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov to accept France and China as allies. France was dissatisfied with the Soviet move and again felt excluded from major decisions. US President Harry Truman appealed directly to Stalin, but the latter did not respond. The Western allies proved determined. They would not allow any of their allies to be excluded from Soviet desires. This act was also the first disagreement between the Western foreign ministers and the Soviet foreign minister.
Preliminary Data Regarding Total Chlorophylls, Carotenoids and Flavonoids Content in Flavoparmelia Caperata (L.) Hale Lichens Species
Authors: Negreanu-Pîrjol Ticuța , Sîrbu Rodica , Bogdan Negreanu-Pîrjol Ștefan
Published: October 2021

Flavoparmelia caperata L. Hale (common greenshield lichen) is an Ascomycete, foliose lichen usually growing on tree bark in most mesophytic-forested habitats in Romania. Lichen samples were collected from three stations in Romania (Craiova, Timișoara, Hoia-Baciu Forest, Cluj) and extracted in 96% ethanol. Both dry lichen tissue powder and extracts were analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry for determining photosynthetic pigment concentrations (chlorophylls a and b and total carotenoids). Dry tissue samples had chlorophyll a concentrations of 95.12-109.59 mg/kg DW, chlorophyll b concentrations of 88.53-110.98 mg/kg and total carotenoids 88.89-102.85 mg/kg. Alcoholic extracts of fresh lichen tissue showed an extreme variability, with 715.97-10331.50 mg/kg chlorophyll a, 527.77-8124.20 mg/kg chlorophyll b, 1125.72-8714.90 mg/kg carotenoids pigments, with the highest values in samples from Craiova. A lower variability was observed in flavonoid contents, with 461.78-966.02 mg/kg DW in dry powder and 815.56-2734.135 mg/kg in ethanolic extracts. Extracts of lichens from Craiova had a decreased content of total flavonoids compared with the other two lichens ethanol extracts.
Adapting Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory to a VUCA World – A Repertory Grid Study
Authors: Bundtzen Henning
Published: October 2021

Employee motivation is a key driver of organizational performance and employee retention. An increasing shortage of skilled workers forces companies to think of ways to motivate and retain their employees. Herzberg’s two-factor theory of motivation provides an insight which factors are relevant for motivating employees. The theory founded on research carried out in the 1960’s. Since then, the practical and theoretical tenet of supervision and management has shifted to a different leadership approach. Additive the economic environment is found to be more volatile, unpredictable, complex and ambiguity. VUCA has made its way into organizational science resulting in a focus on agile working methodologies. To add up a generation of millennials demanding for feedback, open communication and team-based workplaces starts to integrate into labour market. Does Herzberg’s theory persist in this new economic environment? Can it be adapted or is a completely new approach inevitable? This organizational psychology related study is aimed to test Herzberg’s theory in a contemporary environment by applying the theory of personal constructs as an investigative method. 61 qualitative repertory grid structured interviews elicited n = 782 personal constructs to investigate the theory. The personal constructs are clustered and compared to the theory of Herzberg.
Identity Narrative as an Unconscious Scaffold for Human Autobiography
Authors: Novac Andrei , Tuttle M  C , Bota R , Blinder B  J
Published: October 2021

Over the past years, a multi-disciplinary literature on the significance of personal narratives in autobiography and identity has emerged. This subject has been of interest to authors in the fields of humanities, psychology, and medicine alike. In this paper, we are proposing the term Identity Narrative (IdN) to define a cognitive and emotional framework that serves as an implicit (unconscious) scaffolding of memory on which to build human autobiography. The authors first classify narratives into external (universal history, the humanities, culture) and internal (autobiography, based on personal experiences, both directly and indirectly, through identification and education). All philosophy and social commentary has utilized history for the purposes of prediction and meaning-making. Personalities including Aristotle, St. Augustine, Rousseau, Freud, Marx, Spengler, and Benjamin Franklin have reread history to gain insight about human nature. History has inspired the enlightenment and renaissance of a new reality for humanity. It is widely known that history can also be misused to justify aggression and human suffering. The use of history to create deep convictions that annihilate moral imperatives is only possible because of unconsciously consolidated internal narratives, the IdN. IdN is reshaped through life, both by “bottom-up” acquisition of information, as well as a “top-down” learning model, which includes the following circumstances: (a) sudden insight and awareness; (b) experiences with high emotional valence; (c) high frequency of repetition; and (d) prolonged duration of exposure. In this way, IdN, a form of relatively stable unconscious, anoetic memory, provides a “first-person” experience to autobiography. Autobiography then, becomes part of auto-noetic consciousness, the human ability to mentally time travel and have self-knowledge. IdN parallels lifelong growth and development, language acquisition, and maturing of attachment. The extensive brain activation during communication and speech, revealed by neuroimaging studies, will be referred to as the “communication beltway.” We hypothesize that the alternation in activation between the default mode (midline structures) of the brain (previously associated with the Self) and the language brain creates a platform that encodes crucial components of IdN throughout life. In this way, IdN, autobiographical memory, and the language brain are parts of a larger biological substrate of social affiliations.
Studies on Improving Solubility in Different Media for Said Formulations with Topical Application
Authors: Cadar Emin , Ionescu Ana-Maria , Sîrbu Rodica
Published: October 2021

The studied compounds are gels with meloxicam, piroxicam and tenoxicam in different solvents. The problem of solubilization of these compounds is generated by their poor solubility in hydrophilic media. Also, when applying local non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the form of ointments, the local concentration of the active substance is much higher than in the untreated tissue. The amount of NSAIDs required to produce a therapeutic effect by topical administration is much lower than in oral administration. Side effects may, however, occur as a local irritation from the time a topical formulation is applied. This paper presents the solubilization tests performed for pharmaceutical compounds of the NSAID class in different hydrophilic media. The test conclusions are useful because their solubility can be increased by using solvents (polar or non-polar) and surfactants. The conclusions of the solubility tests help in choosing solvents in the formulation and technologicalization of semi-solid preparations with topical application.
Pemanfaatan Data Pasang Surut Stasiun Meteorologi dan Maritim untuk Identifikasi Kenaikan Muka Air Laut dan Mitigasi Banjir Kota Pontianak
Authors: Danial Mochammmad Meddy , - Darmania - , Sari Nanda Purnama
Published: October 2021

Kota Pontianak terletak pada daerah dataran rendah, sehingga sangat rentan terhadap genangan banjir akibat air laut pasang. Tulisan ini bertujuan untuk memanfaatkan dan menganalisis data pasang surut untuk mengidentifikasi kenaikan muka air laut dan membakukan satuan muka air pasang surut. Data pasang surut jam-jaman diperleh dari diperoleh dari Stasiun Meteorologi Maritim Pontianak. Panjang data satu tahun diolah dengan metode analisa harmonik untuk mendapatkan konstanta pasang surut, untuk tahun 2016 dan 2020. Nilai konstanta tersebut akan digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi kenaikan muka air laut dengan cara menghitung tinggi muka air makimum, tinggi muka air rata-rata, dan tinggi muka air minimum. Untuk membakukan data elevasi muka air pasang surut, dilakukan konversi elevasi tinggi palm pasang surut menjadi satuan meter LWS dengan menggunakan waterpas untuk menghitung beda tinggi dengan elevasi lantai dermaga 01 Pelindo. Hasil analisis menunjukkan indikasi kenaikan muka air laut, dimana tinggi muka air laut rata-rata berubah dari 1.54 m LWS pada tahun 2016 menjadi 1.66 m LWS pada tahun 2020. Hasil nilai muka air maksimum adalah 2.6 m LWS dan hasil nilai muka air minimum adalah 0.93 m LWS. Beda tinggi antara elevasi puncak palm pasang surut dengan lantai dermaga menunjukkan perbedaan +0.810 m. Dengan demikian, elevasi puncak palm pasang surut setara dengan +3.0 m LWS, jika diukur dari lantai dermaga Pelindo.Kata Kunci: pasang surut, kenaikan muka air laut, mitigasi banjir, konversi elevasi palm.
Predicting Physiological Growth Period based on Cumulative Climatic Suitability of Spring Maize
Authors:   Institute of Atmosphere Environment, China Meteorological Administration, China, B Zhou , Y Zhang ,   Institute of Atmosphere Environment, China Meteorological Administration, China, J Li ,   Liaoning Ecological Meteorology and Satellite Remote Sensing Center, China, T Wang ,   Liaoning Ecological Meteorology and Satellite Remote Sensing Center, China, D Liu ,   Liaoning Ecological Meteorology and Satellite Remote Sensing Center, China, J Lin ,   Key Laboratory of Water Environment Evolution and Pollution Control in Three Gorges Reservoir, Chongqing Three Gorges University, China
Published: October 2021

The growth period prediction at the various physiological stage of spring maize is an essential component in agricultural management decisions. An Improved Climate Suitability (ICS) model was established by integrating temperature, precipitation, sunshine and soil moisture and setting individual weight coefficient in each subordinate function according to the observation data of spring maize growth and meteorological factors of 14 agrometeorological stations in the Liaoning Province of northeast China from 1981 to 2010. The predicted value (Bjk) and reference value (Bk) of the cumulative climatic suitability index were calculated by the ICS model for arranging farming activities in advance when the Bjk > Bk at the various physiological growth stage of spring maize. The ICS model was further verified by the observation data at the whole and various physiological stages of spring maize. The result showed that the Bjk was linearly correlated with the observed days at each physiological growth stage of spring maize with R² of 0.75-0.88, P<0.001, Thus, the Bjk can be used to determine the growth period of the various physiological stage of spring maize. The prediction days were significantly correlated with the observed days at the whole and each physiological growth stage of spring maize (R² of 0.57-0.98, P<0.001) with the absolute error (ABSE) of 1.1-4.1 d. Thus, the precision of the ICS model is acceptable for forecasting the growth period and arranging farming activities in advance. Thus, the ICS model should be promoted further in the management of spring maize plantation.
Comparison of Airtraq® Laryngoscope, Bonfils Endoscope and Fiberoptic Bronchoscope for Awake Tracheal Intubation: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors:   Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany, W Köhne , A Elfers-Wassenhofen ,   Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany, M Nosch ,   Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Marien Hospital, Bottrop, Germany, H Groeben ,   Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany
Published: October 2021

Over the last decades several indirect laryngoscopes have been developed to provide a significant better glottic view and improved the success rate in difficult intubations. Some case reports describe the use of indirect laryngoscopes for awake tracheal intubations under preserved spontaneous breathing. However, randomized clinical studies comparing indirect laryngoscopy to the standard of fiberoptic intubation under spontaneous breathing are rare. Therefore, we compared the intubation with the Airtraq® laryngoscope and the Bonfils endoscope, to the standard fiberoptic intubation in patients with an expected difficult intubation under local anesthesia and sedation. 150 patients with an expected difficult intubation were randomized to one of the three devices. All intubation attempts were performed under local anesthesia and sedation. We evaluated success rate, time for intubation and the satisfaction of anesthesiologists and patients. Fiberoptic intubation was significantly more successful (100%) than intubation with an Airtraq® laryngoscope (88%) or the Bonfils endoscope (88%). Time for intubation was quickest with the Airtraq® laryngoscope and significantly shorter than fiberoptic intubation (p=0.044). There was no difference in satisfaction of the anesthesiologists and none of the patients had a negative recall to one of the techniques. An expected difficult intubation can be managed using the Airtraq® laryngoscope or the Bonfils endoscope in 88% and shows the same satisfaction of anesthesiologists and patient. We conclude that these techniques represent an acceptable alternative for an awake tracheal intubation under sedation and preserved spontaneous breathing.
Acupuncture Used as a Method of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation in Chronic Prostatitis: A Case Study
Authors:   Vestfold Hospital Trust, The Arctic University of Norway, National Research Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Norway, J Hervik , T Stub ,   Vestfold Hospital Trust, The Arctic University of Norway, National Research Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Norway
Published: October 2021

Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS) is defined as chronic pelvic pain lasting for at least 3 months, often associated with lower urinary tract symptoms and/or sexual dysfunction [1]. Prostatitis is a common condition, with 35–50% of men affected by symptoms suggesting prostatitis during their lifetime. It is associated with negative psychological effects and substantial health care costs [2]. There are currently many approaches for its management, using both pharmacological and non‐pharmacological interventions, though there is a lack of evidence for the efficacy of these treatments. A systematic review [3] examined the evidence for 16 different pharmacological treatments of CP/CPPS. Ninety-nine studies included 9119 men. Treatment approaches included alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, allopurinol and botulinum toxin injections. The authors found low‐ to very low‐quality evidence that these interventions cause a reduction in prostatitis symptoms, without an increased incidence of adverse events in the short term. They reported lack of evidence regarding the effects of these drugs on sexual dysfunction, quality of life, or anxiety and depression. The efficacy of acupuncture on CP/CPPS was examined in a systematic review and meta-analysis [4] of 10 published trials (n=770). Analysis revealed that acupuncture significantly reduced the National Institute of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) score and provided pain relief, compared to standard medication, and reduced symptoms when compared to sham. Four acupuncture sessions were the minimum “dose” to reach clinical efficacy, and prolonged acupuncture sessions continuously improved urinary symptoms and quality of life. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is an effective tool for the treatment of chronic pain. Miniaturized devices that are less invasive than previous generations has brought this treatment modality into mainstream use. Recent clinical evidence suggests clinically significant and sustained reductions in pain can persist well beyond the PNS treatment period [5]. Acupuncture is a minimally invasive method of PNS. Acupuncture points have been shown to overlie major neuronal bundles, which correlate with cutaneous branches of major nerves [6]. These nerves converge and interact with visceral nociceptive inputs at the spinal cord level. This anatomical correlation provides the basis on which acupuncture applied to a specific region could treat a variety of conditions such as prostatitis, remote to the site of treatment.
Man in the Barrel Syndrome Following TEVAR
Authors:   Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, Zhi Biao , Niu Xiangke ,   Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, Chen Yong ,   Department of Intervention, Affiliated Southern Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
Published: October 2021

Man-in-the-Barrel Syndrome (MIBS) is a neurological disorder characterized by the paralysis of both upper limbs without paralysis of both lower limbs or paralysis of the pathological reflex and is very rare in clinical practice. The pathogenesis of MIBS varies and includes disorders of the brain, brainstem, spinal cord or peripheral nerves. Most cases are due to intracranial lesions, and MIBS caused by cervical spinal cord ischemia is particularly rare. This study reports a case of MIBS caused by cervical spinal cord ischemia one day after Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR).
Sero Status and Presumed Risk Factors Assessment for Bovine Herpesvirus-1 in North Western, Ethiopia
Authors:   National Animal Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center, Sebeta, Ethiopia, D Zewde , T Tadesse ,   Haramaya University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, S Alemu ,   Haramaya University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
Published: October 2021

A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to June 2021 on a total of 442 randomly selected indigenous zebus (bos indicus) of extensively and semi-intensively managed cattle’s. These cattle’s were sampled from East Gojam (n=137), west Gojam (n=160) and Awi zone (n=145) north western part of Ethiopia. Indirect Enzyme-Linked Immune-Sorbent Assay (I-ELISA) was used to detect antibodies specific to Bovine Herpes Virus-1 (BoHV-1). The relationship of the categories under the variables was analyzed using a chisquare descriptive statistic. Logistic regression analyses were also used to assess potential predictive factors associated with the outcome variable. An overall animal level sero-prevalence of BoHV-1 antibodies were 77.6% (95% CI: 73.5-81.3%) for the present study. In a random-effects of an adjusted logistic regression model, geographically the sero-prevalence of BoHV-1 exposure was higher for cattle’s from East Gojam (Odds ratio [OR] =0.2; p=0.002) than in Awi zone (OR=1.4; p=0.377) and West Gojam. The likelihood of disease occurrence for introduced cattle’s were relatively higher (OR=0.4; p= 0.001) than homebred. Age of cattle’s and parity status of heifers/cows were significantly associated with BoHV-1 infection (p<0.001). The risk of infection was also positively correlated with the occurrence of respiratory problem (OR=2.2; P=0.048). Thus, this result signifies that BoHV-1 is widely circulating among the indigenous zebus in the study areas. Given that there was no BoHV-1 vaccination delivery in the study area and in the country as a whole, control and prevention measures using marker vaccines were highly recommended.
Multiple Primary Intracranial and Spinal Juvenile Xanthogranuloma: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Saudi Arabia, AK Almanea , MS Alqazlan ,   Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Saudi Arabia, MM Bardisi ,   Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Riyadh Regional Lab and Blood Bank, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia., F Alotaibi ,   Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Medical City, Saudi Arabia, W Alshakweer ,   Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Fahad Medical City, Saudi Arabia
Published: October 2021

Juvenile Xanthogranuloma (JXG) is a rare histiocytic disorder that belongs to the non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis family. It commonly occurs in the skin of young children, particularly the head and neck region. Occasional cases with extracutaneous involvement have been described. However, involvement of the central nervous system without cutaneous lesions is extremely rare. We present a case of an 11-year-old male child with multiple intracranial and spinal JXGs. At 30 months follow up, after administration of chemotherapy, the patient had passed away. The broad clinical spectrum of JXG and the morphological resemblance to other histiocytic lesions prompt a cautious approach for the diagnosis. Immunohistochemically, those lesions were positive for CD68 and negative for S100 and CD1a. A revised classification for histiocytosis was recently proposed, based on the underlying molecular characteristics. The diagnosis of extracutaneous or disseminated JXG with MAPK-activating mutation or ALK translocations was considered as Erdheim-Chester disease. However, our study did not fit into the proposed classification due to the absence of BRAF-V600E gene mutation and ALK gene rearrangement. Chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy has been suggested as treatment options for unresectable central nervous system lesions.
A Single Firm Nodule of the Upper Lip: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Oral Surgery, University of Paris-Saclay, France, K Czarny , F Le Pelletier ,   Department of Oral and ENT Pathology, Sorbonne University, France, AL Ejeil ,   Department of Oral Surgery, University of Paris, France
Published: October 2021

Canalicular Adenoma (CA) is a benign accessory salivary gland neoplasm. It represents less than 1% of salivary gland tumors. It occurs generally on the upper lips in female patients over 50 years of age. We report a case of canalicular adenoma that arose from buccal minor salivary glands of the upper lip without any symptomatology. Clinically, CA appears as an often single firm mass of 1cm, sparing the main salivary glands which is not pathognomonic of canalicular adenoma. Treatment of choice is enucleation to rule out many differential diagnoses that may present clinically as an asymptomatic nodule. Recurrences are rare. Histological features are characteristic and usually allow a definitive diagnosis to be made with confidence. However, many differential diagnoses remain to be ruled out.
Availability of Essential Medicines in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Medda Wolabu University, Bale Robe, Ethiopia, D Tewuhibo , G Asmamaw ,   Department of Pharmacy, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia, W Ayenew ,   Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
Published: October 2021

Objective: Essential Medicines (EMs) are those that satisfy the priority health care needs of the population. Access to health care including EMs is a fundamental human right. In Ethiopia, studies designate the frequent drug shortages in public health facilities. Hence, this review aimed to assess and evaluate the national availability of essential medicines in Ethiopia. Method: A systematic searching for all study designs which are published and/or reported from inception to August 27/2019 strategy was conducted in two literature databases (Google Scholar and PubMed. Additionally, references of related articles were searched using different search engines. Data qualities were assessed by abstracting the quality procedures taken in each individual’s studies and cross checked with Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality appraisal criteria. Results: A total of 256 studies, including duplicates, were primarily searched. Nine studies were met current study inclusion criteria. All included studies were published from 2003 to 2019 G.C. Consequently, reviewed studies conducted a total of 356 public and private drug outlets. All studies used cross-sectional study design. The most frequent concepts emerged in these documents were regarding availability and affordability of EMs (5 Articles), availability and pharmaceutical inventory management (3 Articles), one document on availability and price. The average national availability of EMs was precisely in public and private facilities scored about 70.16% and 70.1%, respectively. Results from the sub-national study indicate that, the national average stock out duration in primary health care facilities was 99.2 days, highest in Benishangul Gumuz (139 days). The most frequently reported stocked out drugs within the past 6-12 months at the time of study were; ORS, Amoxicillin syrup 125mg/5ml, Tetracycline eye ointment and tablet, Ergometrine injection in Adama and chloroquine syrup in Gondar. Whereas, carbamazepine 100mg/5ml syrup, diazepam 5mg/ml ampoule, gentamicin 20mg/2ml ampoule and ibuprofen 100mg/5ml suspension were not found in any drug outlets in both public and private sectors at the day of visit in West Wollega. Conclusion: The finding of this review indicates the average national availability of essential medicines in Ethiopia is presently under the requirements of WHO recommendations. Moreover, the longer stockout period was also perceived in healthcare facilities. Thus, might need further attention of the respective stakeholders.
Multimicrobial Pneumonia during the Early Stages of a Global Pandemic
Authors:   Department of Medical Education/Family Medicine, Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, USA, H Jalal , G Henriksen ,   Department of Family Medicine, Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, USA
Published: October 2021

Community-acquired pneumonia is an acute infection of lung parenchyma which causes local and systemic inflammatory changes via cytokines. Several bacteria and viruses are responsible for this type of pneumonia, and the most common bacterial cause is Streptococcus pneumoniae. The classic symptoms are cough, fever, and pleuritic chest pain. In the Winter of 2020, a new strain of coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2 spread throughout the world and was responsible for a global pandemic that transformed the way we live our lives. A 93-year old female presented to the hospital with respiratory distress and was found to have not only COVID-19 pneumonia but also superimposed Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia. Following the most up-to-date guidelines, she was determined to have community-acquired pneumonia. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are uncommon causes of communityacquired pneumonia. She was treated with the standard of care at the time, which included vancomycin, piperacillin-tazobactam, and hydroxychloroquine. This case highlights the rarity of this specific presentation of community acquired pneumonia in regards to microbial etiology. It showcases that patients may develop certain diseases despite not having any risk factors. A major takeaway point is that apt decision making is a critical and time sensitive matter when determining whether a bacterial co-infection is present since it can affect patient outcomes. Since co-infections are relatively infrequent, antibiotic use in COVID-19 positive patients needs to be tailored accordingly. At the same time, it is crucial to keep in mind that co-infections are associated with increased severity of COVID-19 as well as poorer outcomes.
A Student Society Bridges the Gap between Interest and Involvement in the NICU by Creating a Cuddler Guide and Program
Authors:   Occupational Therapy Program Graduates of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, NY, USA, K Balton , P Saad ,   Occupational Therapy Program Graduates of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, NY, USA, I Salazar ,   Occupational Therapy Program Graduates of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, NY, USA, J Restivo ,   National Perinatal Association Board Member, Director of NPASS Outreach, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Occupational Therapist, New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, USA, BC Desport ,   Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy Program at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, NY, USA
Published: October 2021

A group of occupational therapy students, who serve as executive board members of the National Perinatal Association Student Society (NPASS) chapter at The State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University created a Cuddler Guide and Program. They worked with National Perinatal Association (NPA) Board Members Jessica Restivo, MS, OTR/L and Brigitte Desport DPS, OTR/L, BCP, ATP on these projects to contribute to the welfare and development of babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). To understand how this NPASS chapter embarked on such an initiative, below outlines the student organization’s connection to its parent organization (National Perinatal Association), its development and experiences, and finally the creation of the Cuddler Guide and Program.
Management of patients with arterial hypertension and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chazova Irina E. , Golitsyn Sergei P. , Zhernakova Juliya V. , Zheleznova Ekaterina A. , Kropacheva Ekaterina S. , Mironov Nikolai Iu. , Kostiukevich Marina V. , Laiovich Lada Iu. , Utsumueva Madina D. , Iuricheva Iuliia A. , Litvin Alexander Yu. , Elfimova Evgeniia M. , Rogoza Anatolii N. , Panchenko Elizaveta P.
Published: October 2021

Arterial hypertension (AH) is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease as well as it is the most common, independent and potentially reversible risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). AH contributes to the occurrence and maintenance of AF due to hemodynamic disorders, alterations in cardiomyocyte electrophysiological properties and structural remodeling in the atria. AF, which is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, is the most common arrhythmia. AH and AF often coexist, and their prevalence increases with age. This consensus provides the key features of the management of patients with these nosological units. The pathogenesis, risk stratification, and features of the selection of antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic and antithrombotic therapy are described in detail.
Renal artery denervation in patients with resistant arterial hypertension: clinical and organ-protective effect
Authors: Gapon Liudmila I. , Mikova Ekaterina V. , Krinochkin Dmitrij V. , Savelyeva Nina Yu. , Zherzhova Anna Yu. , Aleksandrovich Ekaterina L.
Published: October 2021

Aim. To assess the clinical efficacy of renal artery denervation (RAD) in treatment of patients with resistant arterial hypertension (RAH) compared to patients taking drug therapy (DT) at long-term follow-up and the possibility of RAD impact on target organs (heart, kidneys).
Materials and methods. 80 RAH patients were examined (mean age 54.3010.19 years). Patients were divided in two groups: the basic group was comprised of 40 RAH patients taking antihypertensive DT, who underwent RAD (gr. 1) and comparison group was composed of 40 RAH patients taking only antihypertensive DT (gr. 2). Gender and age differences between groups were statistically insignificant (p0.05). Mean duration of AH was 18.638.96 years. The follow-up was carried out during one year.
Results. In RAD group there was confirmed decrease not only in the office, but also in the average day-time and night-time blood pressure (BP), changes were more significant in systolic BP (SBP) indicators: the overall daytime SBP was 17.369.31 mmHg (p0.001), the average day-time SBP was 17.1810.53 mmHg (p0.001), the average night-time SBP was 19.2210.76 mmHg (p0.001). At the same time, in DT group changes in values of overall, maximum, minimum, average day-time and average night-time SBP and diastolic BP were not statistically significant in 12 months. RAD in RAH was accompanied by decrease in left ventricular hypertrophy with initial hypertrophy (p0.05), decrease in microalbuminuria (p0.05), decrease in velocity in segmental (p0.05) and interlobar renal arteries (p0.01).
Conclusion. RAD in patients with RAH had not only antihypertensive effect but also positive effect on target organs of AH (heart, kidneys).