bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of Small Mammals (Eulipotyphla, Rodentia) in the Gradient Direction Urban–Suburban–Rural of Central Slovakia
Authors: Langraf Vladimír , Krumpálová Zuzana , Petrovičová Kornélia , Poláčiková Zuzana , Ambros Michal , Schlarmannová Janka
Published: July 2021

Changes in the structure of small mammals’ communities (Eulipotyphla, Rodentia) along urban–rural gradient indicate the environmental state of stability or instability. Since small mammals are important with regard to the transmission of diseases to man and domestic animals, therefore knowledge of their association with the landscape structure is needed in land use planning. In course of the period from 2015 to 2017, there were recorded 109 individuals belonging to 15 species at 9 study sites (3 rural, 3 suburban, and 3 urban). We recorded a decrease in the average number of species in the direction of the suburban–urban–rural gradient. The number of individuals decreased in the rural–urban–suburban gradient. Eudominant species Clethrionomys glareolus (D = 20.2%), Microtus arvalis (13.8%), and Sorex araneus (19.3%) preferred the close links between the terms of the rural landscape, while Apodemus agrarius (D = 11.9%) and Sorex minutus (D = 11.0%) preferred the close links between the terms of the urban landscape.
Comparison of Methodological Approaches for the Evaluation of Ecosystem Services for Options to Develop Sustainable Tourism Forms (Ecotourism) (Example: Bratislava IV)
Authors: Krnáčová Zdena , Barančok Peter , Pavličková Katarína , Platková-Demčáková Alexandra
Published: July 2021

Ecosystem services are the benefits provided to human society by natural ecosystems, which are generally understood as the ecosystem processes that sustain human life. In particular, an ecosystem’s cultural services include intangible benefits derived from aesthetic and other experiences, recreation, cognition and spiritual enrichment, and the ability to discern values. The study focuses on the comparison of two methodological approaches to the evaluation of landscape and the benefits of ecosystems for the development of ecological forms of tourism, using Bratislava IV as an example. The basis for database information is the processing of secondary landscape structure. The first methodological approach is based on a detailed mapping of land cover classes (Land Cover) in accordance with the legend of the Technical Guide CORINE Land Cover – supplement at the fourth and fifth levels of mapping in 2014‒2018 and determining the degree of landscape-ecological significance. The second approach is based on creating a set of relevant indicators and their evaluation using the scaling and weighting method. We reached the conclusion that the first methodological approach is more suitable for smaller territories at the cadastral level, while the second is better suited for regional-level territories.
An Evaluation of the Implementation of the Europe 2020 Strategy
Authors: Kasprzyk Beata , Wojnar Jolanta
Published: July 2021

Subject and purpose of work: A quantitative measurement of the implementation of the objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy, an assessment of the degree of implementation of the strategy objectives for the individual EU-27 countries, and a ranking of countries in terms of the implementation of the strategy objectives were carried out.

Materials and methods: The empirical analysis used EUROSTAT statistics covering the values of the basic indicators of the Europe 2020 strategy in the five main areas of development. The TOPSIS linear ordering method was used. For each country, a synthetic measure was established to express the level of achievement of the objectives of the strategy. On the basis of the value of the synthetic measure, a ranking of the countries was created in terms of the degree of the implementation of the Europe 2020 strategy objectives. A ECONOMIC AND REGIONAL STUDIES STUDIA EKONOMICZNE I REGIONALNE ISSN 2083-3725 Volume 14, No. 2, 2021 ECREG STUDIES

Results: Vol. 14, No. 2, 2021 www.ers.edu.pl PDF OPEN ACCESS eISSN 2451-182X quantitative approach was adopted in order to compare the effects of implementing the strategy assumptions. Groups of countries with a similar level of strategy implementation were identified.

Conclusions: The research confirmed the existence of a significant diversification of the results of implementing the strategy objectives in the EU-27 countries. The differences were particularly visible between the highly developed Western European countries and the South European countries, severely weakened by the economic crisis of 2008–2009 and the recession of 2012–2013. The values of the synthetic measure allowed to determine the degree of the implementation of the objectives of the strategy and to create a ranking of the EU-27 countries. The adopted approach made it possible to compare the obtained classification of the Member States into groups with a similar level of achievement of the objectives of the strategy and to define measurable effects of the implementation of the “Europe 2020” strategic plan.
Land Tenure Security Perceptions Amongst Nigerian Rural Communities: A Case Of Atiba Local Government Area (Lga), Oyo State
Authors: Oladehinde Gbenga J. , Olayiwola Lasun M.
Published: July 2021

Subject and purpose of work: Security of tenure is observed as an underlying tool for measuring the development among communities of developing countries. Despite this, the issues related to peoples’ thinking or feelings as well as to what drives security of land tenure are poorly understood and inconclusive. This study examines the residents’ perception of security of land tenure in rural Nigeria.

Materials and methods: A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 125 respondents from the study area by administering a questionnaire while key informants were subjected to an in-depth interview.

Results: The data for the study were collected and analysed using content analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics. The study revealed that the perception of security of land tenure varies in the area studied and across the settlement categories. Further results showed that four factors such as income, length of stay, culture, and education were identified as major factors influencing the residents’ perception of the security of land tenure.

Conclusions: The study concluded that socio-economic and cultural factors influence the residents’ perception of security of land tenure in the area researched.
Impact of Public Investments on the Local Development of the Sarnaki Commune in the Years 2014-2020
Authors: Zaręba Piotr , Chwedorczuk Monika
Published: July 2021

Subject and purpose of work: The aim of the work was to show the impact of the implemented public investments and development projects on the local development and the changes that occurred, as well as on the living conditions of the inhabitants of the Sarnaki Commune in 2014- 2020. The research problem of the study was to show the role and the nature of the investments made by the commune in the area of local development. The assumed hypothesis states that the investments implemented in the Sarnaki Commune in the period 2014-2020 have led to the socio-economic development of the commune.

Materials and methods: The publication used Polish literature concerning local investments, local development and local government, statistical data and an analysis of the documentation related to the investments obtained from the Sarnaki Commune Office. In order to achieve the aim of the study, a survey was carried out among a deliberately selected group consisting of the representatives of the commune office (commune administrator, secretary, and treasurer), the councilors (legislative authority) and the village leaders (opinion-forming authority) of the Sarnaki commune. A particularly important group included the village leaders, that is the representatives of the local community who are the closest to social developmental problems and are impartial in issuing their opinions. A separate research group consisted of social representatives who were elected in democratic elections by the inhabitants, and who are closely related and knowledgeable about social and economic matters. Some information was also collected from the employees of the commune office.

Results: The conducted analyses and the research show that the implemented public investments in the commune studied had the most positive impact on the technical infrastructure in which the most funds were invested. They had the most impact on the access to sports and recreation facilities, road and water infrastructure, as well as on the state of the natural environment and the aesthetics of the surroundings. On the other hand, they had the least impact on the employment opportunities in the commune, access to housing infrastructure and public safety.

Conclusions: The investments carried out in the period 2014-2020 in the Sarnaki Commune led to the socio-economic development of the commune, and, as a result, to positive changes, both quantitative and qualitative, in the local development as well as in the living conditions of the inhabitants.
Profitability and Risk of Selected Forms of Investment on the Polish Capital Market
Authors: Daniluk Katarzyna
Published: July 2021

Subject and purpose of work: The subject of this study concerns profitability and risk of selected forms of investment on the Polish capital market. The aim of the study was to compare profitability and risk of active and passive investment portfolios.

Materials and methods: The research material consisted of the rates of return on investments in the undervalued shares and growth shares included in the WIG-20 index and the results of the Lyxor WIG 20 UCITS ETF fund in 2014-2019. The study compares the rates of the return and standard deviations of returns of the portfolios managed actively and passively.

Results: The analysis of the rates of return of the created investment portfolios indicates a higher profitability and a lower risk of the passive form of investment consisting in the purchase of an ETF fund. Among active strategies the growth investing strategy showed a higher profitability and a lower risk.

Conclusions: Passive forms of investment are an effective alternative to active portfolio management.
Quality of the School’s Work in the Light of the Assessment of the Parents of the Children Attending the Primary School in Janów Podlaski
Authors: Nazaruk Stanisława
Published: July 2021

Subject and purpose of work: At the time of constant changes in the sphere of education, any changes aimed at improving the quality of school’s work are of particular importance. Therefore the aim of the current research was to determine the quality of primary school’s work in its main areas as evaluated by parents.

Materials and methods: The theoretical insights on the quality of school’s work were obtained on the basis of the review of the literature on the subject and acts of education law. The empirical data from the research was gathered through the diagnostic survey method with the use of the author’s research tool, i.e., a questionnaire addressed to parents of students in grades IV-VIII attending one of the primary schools in the Biała Podlaska District (N = 103).

Results: The obtained data showed quite a diverse assessment of the quality of the primary school’s work in some of its areas.

Conclusions: Most of the parents surveyed gave specific proposals for actions to improve the quality of the school’s work, mainly concerning the increase of their participation not only in financial aid, but also in the didactic and educational area, which well forecasts and prompts school authorities and tutors to recommend the above-mentioned proposals and implement them in real life.
Forming an e-learning Proposed Model. A Case Study of Palestine
Authors: Jouda Haitham , Dan Maysara Abu , Awaja Ahmed , Tafish Ahmad
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, e-learning systems play an important role in our life; they help instructors in the process of teaching and help the students and learners to access knowledge. e-learning is the concept that refers to the use of computerized and smart tools and designed systems in the learning process. Also, the interest in e-learning has started to increase dramatically, and researchers everywhere have become more interested in how to develop e-learning in all aspects. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present a model that includes the most important necessary variables required to provide and implement e-learning systems according to international standards for the students of Palestinian universities. This study undertook an in-depth review of literature concerning the success of e-learning implementation and focusing on the aspects of technology, infrastructure, scientific materials and services provided. The proposed model in this study will be the first building block that universities can focus on in designing, building and developing their own e-learning system and will be a cornerstone and the basis in the development of e-learning in Palestine over time.
Evaluation of Technical Efficiency in Financial Dimension of Private Medical Entities in Podkarpackie Voivodhip – DEA Approach
Authors: Leśniowska-Gontarz Małgorzata
Published: July 2021

The major aim of this paper is to assess technical efficiency of private medical entities. Technical efficiency refers to the capacity of a medical entity to obtain the maximum output for a particular set of inputs. The article presents results of research study on technical efficiency of 33 medical entities using the Data Envelopment Analysis method (DEA) which allows the use of multiple inputs/outputs without imposing any functional form on data or making assumptions of inefficiency. The research study was carried out in years 2011–2016 on medical entities from Podkarpackie voivodship. The analysis was conducted based on the CCR input-oriented model.
Integrating the Cost of the Carbon Footprint within the Income Statement – Tests on Seven Polish Firms
Authors: Cathala Christophe
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Even if popular, carbon accounting is not yet compulsory for companies. However, it should be and certainly will be. From the state’s point of view, this will be a prerequisite to respecting its international commitments. From the point of view of companies, it is also necessary because they use, in part for free, limited resources to create value-added […] and they generate externalities which are not yet fully measured and communicated. Our purpose is to propose a relatively new metric, which is quite simple and could be applied to all companies, especially small ones (turnover < EUR 10 million).

Design/methodology/approach: Our metric in this paper is linked to the income statement and measurement of the output of carbon used in the production process of goods and/or services. We compare the use of carbon by seven Polish companies in seven different sectors from 2014 to 2020. The metric is computed in the same way for the firms in our sample and is based on information which must be stated on the yearly income statement.

Findings: From our empirical tests, we observe that comparison can first be made between firms and sectors. As expected, the impact is far more important for industries than for service companies. In terms of volatility, we reach the same result. However, this volatility is not linked to the nature of the companies but more to the volatility of the carbon price. As a first step, this gives an interesting and rough measure of the cost of the carbon emission per company per year.
Financial Inclusion-Exclusion Paradox: How Banked Adults become Unbanked Again
Authors: Ozili Peterson K.
Published: July 2021

This paper analyses how financially included adults might become unbanked again. Agents of financial inclusion incorporate economic and social constraints in the delivery of formal financial services. These constraints limit the ability of poor banked adults to use basic financial services to the fullest. The constraints affect agents of financial inclusion positively and affect customers negatively up to a point where the marginal benefit of being financially included is negative for poor customers. When the marginal benefit of using formal financial services becomes negative, the affected banked adults may discontinue using their formal accounts or exit the formal financial sector when they can no longer bear the negative effect of social and economic constraints that hinder their ability to enjoy basic financial services to the fullest.
The Determinants of Financial Inclusion
Authors: Mose Naftaly , Thomi John
Published: July 2021

There are hosts of dynamics contributing to financial inclusion. These sources may be both from the demand side and supply side. The government and financial institutions use several policy initiatives to encourage the supply of financial services to the excluded sector. However, the demand-side factors of financial access have attracted little focus. This study provides an overview of sources of financial inclusion and highlights the policy measures from the perspective of consumers of financial services – also known as the demand-side. The secondary series data were estimated using the ordinary least square method. The findings of the study indicate that economic growth and the number of internet users exert a positive and significant effect on financial access in East Africa. On the other hand, the result indicates that the deposit interest rate was insignificant. The study recommends the deposit interest rate be made attractive to promote continuous saving and access to loanable funds in the financial market. The policy strategies therefore should be aimed at cultivating a conducive financial system that upholds financial access-demand-driven rates to stimulate financial growth.
Effect of Auditor’s Independence on Financial Reporting Quality of Nigerian Deposit Money Bank
Authors: Agbaje Abdul-Ganiyy , Sadiq Raji , Adesoji Oke , Oyindamola Shittu Aminat
Published: July 2021

This study examined the effect of auditor independence on financial reporting quality of deposit money banks in Nigeria with Financial Reporting Quality as the dependent variable; Audit Fee, Audit Firm Size and Audit Meeting as independent variables, Debt Ratio as control variable. The sample period covered six (6) years (2013 to 2018) and data were extracted from the audited annual reports of ten (10) selected deposit money banks. The results of this study revealed that Audit Fee, Audit Meeting and Debt Ratio are positive but have insignificant impact on financial reporting quality; Audit Firm Size is negative and has insignificant impact on financial reporting quality. The study recommends orientation and reorientation of audit committee members to guarantee significant influences on financial reporting quality.
Ethnobotanical investigation of significant seasonal medicinal weeds of Toba Tek Singh District, Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Tufail Muhammad , Hussain Khalid , Nawaz Khalid , Iqbal Iqra , Arshad Noshia , Shahzadi Amna , Javed Ayesha , Nazeer Arifa , Bashir Zobia , Qurban Mohammad , Zeb Jamal , Ali Syed Saqib
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Medicinal plants are found throughout the world but most are considered weeds. They are – directly or indirectly – the major source of medicines in pharmaceutical and herbal industries. Formulations used to prepare medicines or the method of use for these plants are mainly based on folk or traditional knowledge. This folk knowledge is not documented in many areas and needs to be explored.

Objectives: This study was aimed to enlist the seasonal weed species with traditional medicinal usage in Toba Tek Singh District, Punjab, Pakistan.

Methods: Field surveys were arranged in winter and summer 2019–2020 to enlist the important medicinal weeds and traditional knowledge of the local community. Data collected were as follows: local name of weed, medicinal use, method and part used.

Results: Numerous wild perennial, biennial and annual plants were identified, 30 of them were ethnomedicinally important in the local community. They were grouped in 16 families. It was found that whole weed is used in many prescriptions (37%). Achyranthes aspera L. (Amaranthaceae) was the most common weed used in treating fevers, respiratory problems and asthma. Cichorium intybus L. (Asteraceae) was used in summer drinks to reduce thirst, improve digestion and liver function. Chenopodium album L. (Amaranthaceae) was used with 0.71 UV and 0.147 RFC values. Medicago polymorpha L. (Fabaceae) was used to treat kidney, intestinal and bladder infections. Its UV was 0.65 and RFC was 0.121. Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae) was used in impotency treatment, and in the removal of kidney stones and urinary tract infections treatment. It has 0.63 UV and 0.21 RFC values. This weed also showed the highest Fidelity Level (FL) (77%), as compared to other weeds.

Conclusion: It was concluded that there are many significant medicinal weeds in the Toba Tek Singh District, Punjab, Pakistan that are used in traditional medicines in treating various disorders. These plants also showed herbal or pharmacological importance that can be used to develop medicine at commercial scale.
Nigerian polyherbal-based hydrotherapy: a panacea to infectious diseases
Authors: Lawal Ibraheem O. , Omogbene Temitope O.
Published: July 2021

A global society, including developed countries, continues to struggle with fatal diseases that are difficult to treat with Western medicine. A variety of infectious diseases have existed for ages, but in Africa they had been limited thanks to the Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) prior to the introduction of cosmopolitan medicine. Influenza virus repression has been demonstrated by a number of herbal antivirals, yet the invaluable therapeutic potential of herbal medicine has been underestimated. Despite various reliable methods offered by Western medicine, the globally destructive COVID-19 pandemic requires a successful fight. The wisdom of African IKS used in tackling epidemics that have broken out in the past is brought to mind again. Pneumonia – a COVID-19 symptom, could be treated with polyherbal fomentation. Selected plants cultivated across Nigeria for hydrotherapy are under consideration to be used in proper doses. Given the potential associated with IKS, a multi-disciplinary approach involving experts in phytomedicine, ethnobotany, phytochemistry, plant physiology and ecology is necessary to unlock the therapeutic potential of traditional medicine.
Phytochemistry and biological activities of Opuntia seed oils: Opuntia dillenii (Ker Gawl.) Haw. and Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. A review
Authors: Bouhrim Mohamed , Bouknana Saliha , Ouassou Hayat , Boutahiri Salima , Daoudi Nour Elhouda , Bnouham Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Opuntia species belong to semi-arid and arid regions of Mexico and the United States. O. ficus-indica and O. dillenii are commonly used in alternative medicine to treat various diseases. Up to date, several scientific works have been carried out on the different parts of these plants. However, over the last few years, studies have been focusing on the oil obtained from the fruit seeds of these species. For this reason, this study aims to draw the attention of researchers toward the phytochemical and the pharmacological effects of these two Opuntia oils, which would help set up other scientific projects that promote these products. Phytochemical studies have shown that these oils are rich in biologically active molecules, such as unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols (mainly linoleic acid and β-sitosterol), as well as vitamin E, which is represented only by the γ-tocopherol. Besides, these oils are rich in polyphenols that protect them from photo-oxidation. Moreover, several studies have shown their antioxidant, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and gastroprotective activities, as well as their hypolipidemic properties. The beneficial effects of these oils include also their ability to block the weight loss, and what makes them more interesting is their safety, according to the literature.
In silico studies of selected xanthophylls as potential candidates against SARS-CoV-2 targeting main protease (Mpro) and papain-like protease (PLpro)
Authors: Karpiński Tomasz M. , Kwaśniewski Marek , Ożarowski Marcin , Alam Rahat
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The main protease (Mpro) and the papain-like protease (PLpro) are essential for the replication of SARS-CoV-2. Both proteases can be targets for drugs acting against SARS-CoV-2.

Objective: This paper aims to investigate the in silico activity of nine xanthophylls as inhibitors of Mpro and PLpro.

Methods: The structures of Mpro (PDB-ID: 6LU7) and PLpro (PDB-ID: 6W9C) were obtained from RCSB Protein Data Bank and developed with BIOVIA Discovery Studio. Active sites of proteins were performed using CASTp. For docking the PyRx was used. Pharmacokinetic parameters of ADMET were evaluated using SwissADME and pkCSM.

Results:
β-cryptoxanthin exhibited the highest binding energy: –7.4 kcal/mol in the active site of Mpro. In PLpro active site, the highest binding energy had canthaxanthin of –9.4 kcal/mol, astaxanthin –9.3 kcal/mol, flavoxanthin –9.2 kcal/mol and violaxanthin –9.2 kcal/mol. ADMET studies presented lower toxicity of xanthophylls in comparison to ritonavir and ivermectin.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that xanthophylls can be used as potential inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 main protease and papain-like protease.
Probiotics in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: Przerwa Filip , Kukowka Arnold , Kotrych Katarzyna , Uzar Izabela
Published: July 2021

The human microbiota has a tremendous effect on our health. In the last decades, our knowledge about interactions between bacteria and humans have grown greatly. Not only is it necessary for humans to synthesize vitamins, to have tight intestinal barriers or protect from pathogens, it also has an impact on our immune system and thus plays an important role in autoimmune diseases and prevention of excessive inflammatory response. The idea of probiotics is to restore the balance in humans digestive microbiota. There is a growing number of scientific papers that proves a positive impact of using probiotics in various diseases. However, there are still questions that need to be answered before probiotics play a bigger role in the treatment. This paper presents the information about the use of probiotics in most common diseases of gastrointestinal tract.
Vitamin D Supplementation Replaced Catheter Ablation in a Patient with Frequent Premature Ventricular Contractions
Authors: Cismaru Gabriel , Pop Dana , Zdrenghea Dumitru , Rosu Radu
Published: July 2021

A high premature ventricular contractions (PVC) burden can disturb the patient’s condition through fatigue during exercise or palpitations. Hence, researchers started to look for treatment options that decrease PVC burden without the side effects of antiarrhythmic drugs, and vitamin D could be a valuable solution and safe alternative to drugs or catheter ablation for high-burden PVCs. We present the case of a 24-year-old patient with high-burden PVC of >25,500/24 hours referred for urgent catheter ablation. Treatment with beta-blockers and calcium blockers did not reduce PVC burden. Under propafenone, there was a slight reduction in the number of PVCs to 21,200/24 hours, therefore the patient was referred for catheter ablation. As there was a vitamin D deficiency of 10.1 ng/mL, an attempt of vitamin D supplementation was done, with increase of vitamin D to 32.1 ng/mL and decrease of PVC burden to 9,600/24 hours. Further dietary supplementation increased 25-OH vitamin D to 50.2 ng/mL and decreased the PVC burden to 119/24 hours. Consequently, catheter ablation was canceled, and the patient remained free of antiarrhythmic drugs.
Current Recommendations for the Management of Cancer-Associated Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Makó Katalin
Published: July 2021

Cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) is a major cause of death in oncological patients. The mechanisms of thrombogenesis in cancer patients are not fully established, and it seems to be multifactorial in origin. Also, several risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) are present in these patients such as tumor site, stage, histology of cancer, chemotherapy, surgery, and immobilization. Anticoagulant treatment in CAT is challenging because of high bleeding risk during treatment and recurrence of VTE. Current major guidelines recommend low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) for early and long-term treatment of VTE in cancer patients. In the past years, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are recommended as potential treatment option for VTE and have recently been proposed as a new option for treating CAT. This manuscript will give a short overview of risk factors involved in the development of CAT and a summary on the recent recommendations and guidelines for treatment of VTE in patients with malignancies, discussing also some special clinical situations (e.g. renal impairment, catheter-related thrombosis, and thrombocytopenia).
Site-specific Phenotype of Atherosclerotic Lesions According to Their Location Within the Coronary Tree – a CCTA-based Study of Vulnerable Plaques
Authors: Opincariu Diana , Rat Nora , Mester Andras , Hodas Roxana , Cernica Daniel , Pasaroiu Dan , Ratiu Mihaela , Chitu Monica , Kovacs Istvan , Benedek Imre , Benedek Theodora
Published: July 2021

Background: The evaluation of site-specific phenotype according to the topographic location of atherosclerotic lesions within the coronary tree has not been studied so far. The present study is based on the premise that the location of coronary plaques can influence their composition and degree of vulnerability. Aim: To evaluate different phenotypes of vulnerable coronary plaques across the three major coronary arteries in terms of composition, morphology, and degree of vulnerability, in patients with chest pain and low-to-intermediate probability of coronary artery disease, using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and a complex plaque analysis. Material and methods: This was a cross-sectional study on 75 subjects undergoing CCTA for chest pain, who presented at least one vulnerable coronary plaque (VP), defined as the presence of ≥1 CT vulnerability marker (low attenuation plaque, napkin-ring sign, spotty calcifications, positive remodeling). The study included per plaque analysis of 90 vulnerable coronary lesions identified in various locations within the coronary tree as follows: n = 30 VPs in the left anterior descending artery (LAD), n = 30 VPs in the circumflex artery (CXA), and n = 30 VPs in the right coronary artery (RCA). Results: The RCA exhibited significantly longer VPs (p = 0.001), with the largest volume (p = 0.0007) compared to those arising from the LAD and CXA. Vulnerable plaques located in the LAD exhibited a significantly more calcified phenotype (calcified volume: LAD – 44.07 ± 63.90 mm3 vs. CXA – 12.40 ± 19.65 mm3 vs. RCA – 33.69 ± 34.38 mm3, p = 0.002). Plaques from the RCA presented a more non-calcified phenotype, with the largest non-calcified (p = 0.002), lipid rich (p = 0.0005), and fibrotic volumes (p = 0.003). Low-attenuation plaques were most frequent in the RCA (p = 0.0009), while the highest vulnerability degree was present in lesions located in the LAD, which presented the highest number of vulnerability markers per plaque (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Vulnerable plaques arising from the right coronary artery are longer, more vo-luminous and with larger lipid and non-calcified content, whereas those located in the left anterior descending artery present a higher volume of calcium, but also a higher degree of vulnerability. The least vulnerable lesions were present in the circumflex artery.
The Risk of Thrombotic Events in Anetoderma Affecting Young Patients
Authors: Chiriac Anca E. , Betiu Mircea , Podoleanu Cristian , Stolnicu Simona
Published: July 2021

Anetoderma is a rare skin disease, and its associated risk of thromboembolic events is unknown. Anetoderma is characterized by focal injury of elastic fibers in the dermis, clinically expressed by atrophic skin lesions. We report the case of a young person with anetoderma, drawing attention to the risk of associated thromboembolic peril.
Smoking Habit and Correlation with Hand Eczema in Healthcare Workers in the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Chiriac Anca E. , Azoicai Doina , Wollina Uwe , Chiriac Anca , Podoleanu Cristian , Stolnicu Simona
Published: July 2021

Background: Hand eczema, in time of COVID-19, is one of the most frequently diagnosed skin disorders in nurses. In this study, we sought to investigate whether smoking could be an additional risk factor for hand eczema in nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Using a questionnaire about smoking details and hand eczema, we conducted a study among nurses involved in the frontline management of COVID-19 patients. A total of 1,000 questionnaires were sent out. The questionnaires were anonymous and based on self-reported answers, with no clinical examination or medical data evaluation. All nurses enrolled in the study were women, working in shifts for the last three months since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Two-hundred forty-seven questionnaires were accepted for the study, after eliminating non-responders and nurses without hand eczema. The majority of nurses denied smoking (87.85%) in the past and at the moment of the study. Statistics related to years of smoking and occurrence of hand eczema showed no increase in the number of cases in correlation with the number of years of smoking. Similarly, a random distribution of cases of hand eczema was observed when compared to the number of cigarettes per day. Conclusion: Our data does not support the hypothesis that smoking is an independent risk factor for the development of occupational hand eczema during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Characteristics, Manifestations and Cardiopulmonary Imaging (CT/MRI) of COVID-19 in SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Rus Abigaela , Rat Nora , Chitu Monica , Benedek Imre
Published: July 2021

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The novel coronavirus has diverse manifestations, usually similar to a common cold or influenza. The majority of patients with coronavirus disease have typical imaging features. The typical CT characteristics of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia are ground-glass opacities and consolidative lesions with a peripheral and posterior distribution. Noninvasive imaging methods are precise and rapid means of diagnosing pneumonia and cardiovascular complications caused by COVID-19 infection. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to understand the implications of this pandemic and to be familiar with the different imaging aspects of the novel coronavirus disease. This review focuses on the most commonly reported imaging findings of COVID-19 infection in different patients from different countries, the expert recommendations, and the cardiac manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Gasping on Oxygen: A Case Report on Toxic Methemoglobinemia
Authors: Sahadevan Mahavishnu , Mahendran Menaka , Govindan Subasini , Viswanathan Thilagavathi Thanusia
Published: July 2021

We report the case of a 27-year-old male patient who presented with refractory hypoxemia following the alleged inhalation of an unknown substance. The patient appeared to show worsening cyanosis despite increment of supplemental oxygenation. A drawn sample of the patient’s blood appeared chocolate brown in color, and disparity was noted between the patient’s oxygen saturation (SaO2) in his blood against the pulse oximetry (SpO2) reading. A diagnosis of toxic methemoglobinemia was established following elevated levels of methemoglobin discovered in his blood. The patient was started on methylene blue and instantaneously recovered without any complications. Methemoglobinemia should be suspected in any patient with refractory cyanosis, and early recognition of this condition could be potentially lifesaving.
Malaria and Insecticide-Treated Net (ITN) Utilization among Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Nigeria
Authors: Oyeyemi Oyetunde T. , Akinseye Kehinde M. , Odewuyi Iyanuoluwa I. , Olayinka Rashidat O. , Ajibawo Oluwasegun E. , Ogunleye Imoleayo A. , Oyeyemi Ifeoluwa I.
Published: July 2021

Background: The lack of empirical data on the malaria status of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), access to long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs), and knowledge about the disease can hamper the development of effective policies and programs to address their malaria-related needs. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge of malaria transmission and utilization of LLINs among OVC in Ondo metropolis, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Ondo City, Ondo State, Nigeria, between January and March 2018. The study was carried out among 66 OVC (age 5–19 years) using questionnaires. Information on socio-demography, LLIN utilization, knowledge and risks of malaria transmission among OVC was sought. Results: The use of LLINs (80.9%) among OVC was significantly higher than the use of insecticide spray (6.1%) and mosquito coils (12.1%) (p <0.0001). Knowledge about malaria transmission was relatively high, and the majority of children (60.6%) believed malaria is mostly transmitted during the dry season. Fewer children (21.2%) had a history of malaria in the last 3 months. Conclusions: The risk of malaria transmission was low among OVC. Continuous accessibility of orphanage homes to LLINs should be sustained to prevent malaria transmission among OVC.
Unresponsive Severe Aplastic Anemia in a Young Patient: Case Report and Short Review of the Literature
Authors: Bădulescu Oana Viola , Popescu Diana , Bădescu Minerva Codruța , Dima Nicoleta , Gănceanu-Rusu Ana-Roxana , Rezuș Ciprian
Published: July 2021

Aplastic anemia or medullary aplasia is a medical condition characterized by pancytopenia and is associated with a high prevalence of morbidity and mortality. In patients in whom bone marrow transplantation cannot be attempted, an immunosuppressive regimen is considered to be the first-line therapy. Also, the addition of eltrombopag from the first day of immunosuppressive treatment seems to significantly increase response rate. Unfortunately, there are a small number of patients who remain unresponsive to all these therapies. Here we present the case of a young woman who was referred by the family doctor complaining of marked physical asthenia, new onset dyspnea, and dizziness. Apart from a severe pancytopenia, no further changes have been brought to light by paraclinical investigations. After multiple secondary causes were excluded, the patient was diagnosed with idiopathic aplastic anemia. Even if bone marrow transplant was the first-line therapy in this case, because of the severe leukopenia, it was not possible to determine the HLA type. Therefore, the patient was prescribed immunosuppressive treatment. Despite the three drug-associated therapy (horse anti-thymocyte globulin, cyclosporin A, and eltrombopag), the response was unsatisfactory, with the persistence of severe pancytopenia.
Hybrid Imaging to Assess the Impact of Vulnerable Plaque on Post Myocardial Infarction Myocardial Scar
Authors: Stănescu Alexandra , Manuca Rareș , Togănel Rodica , Cernica Daniel , Benedek Theodora , Benedek Imre
Published: July 2021

Background: Multimodality imaging improves the accuracy of cardiac assessment in patients with prior myocardial infarction. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between coronary plaque vulnerability (PV) and myocardial viability in the territory irrigated by the infarct-related artery (IRA). Secondary objectives include evaluation of the systemic inflammation but also different cardiac risk scores (SYNTAX score, Duke jeopardy score, or calcium score) using hybrid imaging models of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients who have suffered a previous myocardial infarction (MI). Material and methods: The study included 45 subjects with documented MI in the 30 days prior to study enrolment, who underwent CCTA and CMR examinations. Computational postprocessing of CCTA and CMR images was used to generate fused imaging models. Based on the vulnerability degree of the associated non-culprit lesion located proximally in the IRA, the study population was divided into 3 groups: Group 1 – subjects with no sign of vulnerability (n = 7); Group 2 – subjects with 1 or 2 CT vulnerability features (n = 28); and Group 3 – subjects with >2 features of vulnerability (n = 12). Results: CCTA features indicative for the severity of coronary artery disease were not different between groups in terms of calcium scoring (460 ± 501 vs. 579 ± 430 vs. 432 ± 494, p = 0.7) or SYNTAX score (25 ± 9.2 vs. 24.9 ± 8.3 vs. 20.2 ± 11.9, p = 0.4). However, after 1 month, infarct size and the Duke jeopardy score were associated with increased PV (infarct size 8.77 ± 3.4 g in Group 1, compared to 20.87 ± 8.3 g in Group 2 and 27.99 ± 11.8 g in Group 3 (p = 0.007), while the Duke jeopardy score was 4.4 ± 1.6 in Group 1, vs. 7.07 ± 2.1 in Group 2 vs. 7.5 ± 1.73 in Group 3 (p = 0.01). Inflammatory biomarkers were directly associated with coronary plaque vulnerability (p = 0.007 for hs-CRP and p = 0.038 for MMP-9). Conclusion: In patients with prior myocardial infarction, the size of myocardial scar was directly correlated with the vulnerability degree of coronary plaques and with systemic inflammation quantified during the acute phase of the coronary event. Hybrid imaging may help to identify the hemodynamically significant plaques with superior accuracy.
Factors Associated with Pain Intensity in Patients Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment Based on Mini-Implants
Authors: Bud Eugen , Vlasa Alexandru , Chibelean Manuela , Martha Krisztina , Păcurar Mariana , Bud Anamaria , Esian Daniela
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Pain is currently reported as the most common side effect associated with orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors associated with the intensity of pain perception during orthodontic procedures consisting in anesthesia, orthodontic mini-implant placement and removal, as well as during the postoperative period following these procedures. Material and Methods: The study included 50 young adults with a permanent dentition in need of orthodontic treatment. The pain assessment was based on visual analogue scale (VAS), using self-report questions from approved questionnaires. Pain severity was analyzed in relation to: anesthesia, implant placement, implant removal, implant movement, elastic traction and gingiva/bone pain around the implant. The study lot was divided into Group 1 – patients experiencing a pain degree of 1 or 2, and Group 2 – patients experiencing a pain degree of 3 or 4 during implant placement. Results: The maximum pain intensity (PI) was recorded during implant placement, which has been associated with a PI of 2.4 ± 0.8 (95% CI: 2.17–2.63), followed by implant removal (PI = 2.36 ± 0.66, 95% CI: 2.17–2.54), gingiva/bone pain around the implant (PI = 2.32 ± 2.58, 95% CI: 2.15–2.48), and elastic traction (PI = 2.26 ± 0.63, 95% CI: 2.08–2.44). Male gender was present in a significantly higher extent in the group of patients presenting a high intensity pain during implant placement (86.3% in Group 2 vs. 3.5% in Group 1, p <0.0001). The age group most sensitive to pain was 18 to 21 years. Conclusions: In our study, pain perception was significantly higher in males and in the 18–21 years age group. The most painful procedure during surgery was the initial moment of implant placement, followed by the moment of implant removal, gingival/bone pain around the implant, and the elastic tractions placed on the implant during anchorage.
A Review of Anti-C Reactive Protein Antibodies in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Richter Patricia , Burlui Alexandra , Bratoiu Ioana , Cardoneanu Anca , Rezus Ciprian , Rezus Elena
Published: July 2021

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the prototype autoimmune disease, is characterized by the production of a plethora of autoantibodies with various roles in the development of disease-related tissue damage. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase reactant with a pentameric structure. Under acidic or alkaline conditions, or when urea levels are high and/or calcium levels are low, the pentamer (pCRP) dissociates irreversibly into monomeric CRP (mCRP) and exposes new epitopes (neo-CRP). Importantly, anti-mCRP (but not anti-pCRP) antibodies have been described in patients with SLE, their prevalence varying from 4% to 78% in different cohorts. Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between autoantibodies directed against CRP (anti-CRP) and disease activity as well as their association with lupus nephritis (LN), frequently reporting discrepant findings. The main objective of the present review is to describe the role of anti-mCRP antibodies in SLE according to the currently available data.
Digestive Dysbiosis in Systemic Scleroderma: a Review
Authors: Bratoiu Ioana , Burlui Alexandra , Richter Patricia , Cardoneanu Anca , Rezus Ciprian , Rezus Elena
Published: July 2021

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by widespread microvasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The involvement of the gastrointestinal tract is associated with a wide variety of symptoms and affects circa 90% of patients during the course of the disease. The gastrointestinal microbiota contains trillions of microbial cells and has been found to contribute to both local and systemic homeostasis. In both health and disease, a dynamic interrelationship between gut microbiome activity and the host immune system has been identified. Gastrointestinal dysbiosis has been described as having an important role in obesity, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric disorders, neoplasia, as well as autoimmunity. Recent scientific data indicates a notable role of dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of SSc-related digestive involvement together with various other clinical manifestations. The present review aims to summarize the recent findings regarding digestive dysbiosis as well as the relationship between gastrointestinal microbiota and certain features of SSc.
Evaluation of an Alternative Depression Therapy Using Bioresonance
Authors: Muresan Daniela , Salcudean Andreea , Barbu Bogdan Viorel , Bodo Cristina Raluca , Grecu Iosif Gaboș
Published: July 2021

Background: Bioresonance therapy is a holistic physical method used in the treatment of various diseases. Aim of the study: The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the effect of bioresonance therapy in patients with recurrent major depressive disorder and with mild or moderate depressive episodes, respectively, without any other pharmacological, psychological, or other type of treatment. Methods: We selected 40 patients diagnosed with recurrent depressive disorder and bioresonance therapy as the only treatment. Assessment of the level of depression was achieved by measuring the biorhythm with the bioresonance device and by applying the Hamilton Depression Inventory questionnaire, with 17 items, at the beginning and the end of five weeks of treatment. Results: We identified a statistically significant decrease in depression levels as quantified by the HAM-D 17 scale, between the initial and final phase of therapy (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Our results suggest that bioresonance therapy can decrease the level of depression in patients with recurrent depressive disorder, with mild and moderate depressive episodes.