bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy Logic to Assess Service Quality at Arts Festivals
Authors: Du Plessis Engelina , Martin Juan Carlos , Roman Concepcion , Slabbert Elmarie
Published: May 2018

Service quality is a key factor in the success or failure of tourism products such as festivals. The intangible nature of some elements of service quality creates challenges in the measurement thereof. This study measured service quality at the Innibos National Arts Festival in June
2013, using a multicriteria model based on fuzzy numbers. This method has not previously been applied to a festival, so this study is innovative in using this subtle way of measuring service quality and adding an alternative to measuring service quality of festivals. The festival's competitive
quality advantage lies in the visually attractive environment, the sufficiency of equipment, the festive atmosphere, and accessibility of information. Gender, age, and frequency of attendance were found to be moderating factors of service quality at festivals.
Exercise Participation Motives and Engaging In Sports Activity among University of Ljubljana Students
Authors: Cerar Katja , Kondrič Miran , Ochiana Nicolae , Sindik Joško
Published: May 2018

AIM: The main aim of this study was to examine differences in sport participation motives, the frequency of engaging in sports activities according to gender, region and field of study, but also the association between the incidence of engaging in sports activity and the motivation for sports activity of students at the University of Ljubljana.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Five thousand two hundred seventy-one students completed The Exercise Motivations Inventory (EMI-2), with additional questions about 12 socio-demographic parameters.RESULTS: The results reveal that most of the students are engaged in unorganized sports activities. Male students engage in sports activity more often than female students do. For male students, dominant participation motives are enjoyment, challenge, social recognition, affiliation, competition and strength but also endurance, for female students these are: stress and weight management, revitalisation, ill-health avoidance, positive health, appearance and nimbleness. Gender differences in participation motives are partly reflected also in differences according to the field of study. The correlations between the frequency of engaging in sports activity and the participation motives are mainly statistically significant. We did not find any significant differences in participation motives by region.CONCLUSION: In spite of these discouraging findings, increasing physical activity among students continues to be a national priority.m
Sentinel Lymph Node Detection in Colorectal Cancer – First Experience
Authors: Stojanoski Sinisa , Manevska Nevena , Antovic Svetozar , Pop-Gjorcheva Daniela , Vaskova Olivija , Miladinova Daniela , Mileva Magdalena
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second commonest cancer in women, the third in men, being the fourth commonest cause of cancer death. The most important factor for prognosis and staging in CRC patients is the status of the regional lymph nodes (LN).AIM: To implement the method for sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection in CRC patients using radiocolloid, and test its detection rate, sensitivity, accuracy, negative predictive value and the possibility for upstaging.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 40 CRC patients, age 63 ± 14 years, without LNs detected on CT or MRI. SLN detection was performed after endoscopically peri- and intratumoral injection of 99mTc-SENTISCINT. All patients underwent resection with systemic lymphadenectomy, and the SLNs were detected ex vivo. Pathohistology was performed to all resected LNs.RESULTS: The identification rate was 95%, the accuracy of the procedure was 92.1%, the negative predictive value was 86.95%, the sensitivity was 83.3%, and the upstage was 22.5%.CONCLUSION: Identification of SLNs in CRC patients with this method is possible and the detection rate, negative predictive value, accuracy and sensitivity are reliable. We expect to contribute in the upstaging of stage II CRC patients and the selection of appropriate oncology treatment protocols.
Is There a Place for Local Natural Treatment of Psoriasis?
Authors: El-Gammal Agharid , Di Nardo Veronica , Daaboul Farah , Tchernev Georgi , Wollina Uwe , Lotti Jacopo , Lotti Torello
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Apitherapy is the medical use of honey bee products (honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee wax, and bee venom) to relieve human ailments, propolis in particularly, rich in essential oils such as flavonoid. Propolis is derived from tree buds and plants. It is considered as one of the most well-documented products from the honeybee and has always played an important role in traditional folk medicine. Another renowned plant is Aloe vera appertaining to the Liliaceae family. Its mucilaginous gel has been extensively used in many cultures for its apparent effectiveness in treating wounds, burns, itchiness and hair loss.AIM: The aim was to assess the efficacy of a mixture in an ointment form of propolis (50%) and aloe vera (3%), in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis.METHODS: In this double-blind control study, 2248 patients with both mild to moderate cases of psoriasis were evaluated from 2012 to 2015.RESULTS: In Group 1 the overall response at the end of 12 weeks was as follows: Cleared in 64.4% (excellent response), good response in 22.2%, and weak response in 5.6% and no response in 7.7%. In Group 2 (placebo group) no significant improvement was observed after 12 weeks of treatment. Also, histology also demonstrated a marked reduction in hyperkeratosis and acanthosis.CONCLUSION: In comparison with Group 2 (placebo group) patients in Group 1, treated with a mixture of propolis (50%) and aloe vera (3%), in the form of an ointment have shown noteworthy improvement thus substantiating the therapeutic value of propolis and aloe vera in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis.
Absent 99mTc-MIBI Uptake in the Thyroid Gland during Early Phase of Parathyroid Scintigraphy in Patients with Primary and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Jovanovska Anamarija , Stoilovska Bojana , Mileva Magdalena , Miladinova Daniela , Majstorov Venjamin , Ugrinska Ana
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Thyroid uptake of technetium-99m methoxyisobutylisonitrile (99mTc-MIBI) during parathyroid scintigraphy can be affected by various conditions.AIM: To evaluate the frequency of absent 99mTc-MIBI uptake by the thyroid gland in the early phase of dual-phase parathyroid scintigraphy.METHODS: The early planar images of dual phase Tc99m MIBI parathyroid scintigraphy from 217 patients performed between 2014 and 2017 were retrospectively analysed. Patients were divided into two groups. The first group included 147 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and the second group included 70 patients with chronic renal failure. Patient records, laboratory and ultrasonographic data were analysed in all patients. Descriptive statistic was used for data analysis.RESULTS: Out of all patients in the first group, 18 patients (12.24%) showed absent thyroid uptake. Thyroidectomy was performed in 44.4% of these patients, and the rest of them had some thyroid disease. Only one patient had no thyroid or another chronic disease. In the second group, 8 patients (11.42%) presented with absent thyroid uptake of MIBI. Among them, 5 patients had no history of thyroid disease and had been on hemodialysis programme, and 3 patients had hypothyroidism.CONCLUSION: Absent 99mTc-MIBI uptake in the thyroid during the early phase of parathyroid scintigraphy is most frequently related to thyroid disease. A small proportion of patients with chronic renal failure can present with absent 99mTc-MIBI uptake in the thyroid as well. The mechanism for this alteration is still unclear and needs further investigation.
What Online Traditional Medicine Dictionaries Bring To English Speakers Now? Concepts or Equivalents?
Authors: Fang Lu
Published: May 2018

Nowadays, more and more Chinese medicine practices are applied in the world and popularizing that becomes an urgent task. To meet the requiremets, an increasing number of Chinese - English traditional medicine dictionaries have been produced at home or abroad in recent decades. Nevertheless, the users are still struggling to spot the information in dictionaries. What traditional medicine dictionaries are needed for the English speakers now? To identify an entry model for online TCM dictionaries, I compared the entries in five printed traditional medicine dictionaries and two online ones. Based upon this, I tentatively put forward two samples, “阳经 (yángjīng)” and “阴经 (yīn jīng)”, focusing on concepts transmitting, for online Chinese - English TCM dictionaries.
In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Diarrhoeal Activity of Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract
Authors: Mesaik Ahmed M. , Poh Hiap Wei , Bin Ooi Yan , Elawad Izzaddinn , Alsayed Badr
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Ziziphus jujuba belongs to family Rhamnaceae widely distributed in subtropical and tropical countries. It is used traditionally for several pharmacological purposes including anti-inflammation, antidiarrhoeal and antibacterial, as well as tonic and sometimes as hypnotic (sedative).AIM: To determine the in vivo antidiarrhoeal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of Z. jujuba fruit ethanolic extract.METHOD: The fruit was macerated and extracted by 95% (v/v) ethanol. The antidiarrhoeal activity was evaluated using castor oil and Escherichia coli induced diarrhoea mouse model. The antidiarrhoeal and antibacterial activity was investigated at graded doses (400-1200 mg/kg). The anti-inflammatory effects were tested using the carrageenan-induced paw oedema in female Wistar rats. Rat’s treatment groups received tragacanth, 100 mg/kg diclofenac sodium, 800 mg/kg, 1200 mg/kg or 1600 mg/kg of an ethanolic extract of Z. jujuba (EEZJ). All treatment groups were fed with the compounds one hour before carrageenan injection at of rat’s paw. Also, the EEZJ was further analysed by HPLC-PDA system for identification of the presence of betulinic acid and quercetin.RESULTS: EEZJ different doses did not show inhibitory activity against castor oil induced diarrhoea except for the higher (1200 mg/kg) dose. However, the frequency of defecation of stools and watery stool were reduced significantly when compared to control group (P ≤ 0.05 and P ≤ 0.01 respectively), resulted in overall 67% inhibition of diarrhoea. Our anti-inflammatory results demonstrated that EEZJ was able to inhibit the carrageenan-induced paw oedema in rats to a significant degree (p ≤ 0.05) and the paw volume and thickness of both left and right paw were affected compared to the negative control group.CONCLUSION: EEZJ possesses antidiarrhoeal and antibacterial activity in a dose depending manner and may provide a pharmacological basis for its clinical use in diarrheal diseases. The activity may partially be due to the presence of betulinic acid and quercetin.
A New Horizontal Plane of the Head
Authors: El Kattan Ehab , El Kattan Mohamed , Elhiny Omnia A.
Published: May 2018

AIM: This study aimed to attempt to introduce a new extracranial horizontal plane of the head (K plane that extends from SN to SAE bilaterally) that could act as a substitute to the Frankfurt horizontal intracranial reference plane; both clinically and radiographically.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The new K plane depended on three points of the head. The first was the soft tissue nasion (NS) on the interpupillary line when the subject looked forward at a distant point at eye level. The other two points were the superior attachments of the ears (SAE).RESULTS: The student “t” test comparing mean values of K/V and FH/V was not significant; -0.21.  The coefficient of correlation between different variables was highly positively significant (r = 0.98 with probability = 0.001).CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this prospective study, the new K plane was found to be both reliable and reproducible. It can be used as a reliable reference plane instead of Frankfort horizontal plane both clinically and radiographically; as it is an accurate tool for head orientation in the natural head position.
Knowledge and Awareness of Osteoporosis among Saudi Physicians and Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alghamdi Mushabab Ayed , Mohammed Abdel Gaffar AbdelAllah
Published: May 2018

AIM: We aimed to evaluate the awareness and knowledge of osteoporosis in a sample of 141 health professionals.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A group of 141 health professionals (medical, surgical, primary health care and nursing departments) were enrolled in this cross-sectional study in the period from August 2017 to November 2017. The participants completed a questionnaire composed of 19 questions about osteoporosis which covering the main domains of knowledge on osteoporosis. Each correct answer carried 1 point whereas incorrect or ‘don’t know’ carried 0 points. This gave a total score range of 0-19. A cut-off level of < 10 points was considered as poor knowledge while ≥ 10 was regarded as good knowledge.RESULTS: Out of 141 respondents, 78 were females, 63 males, mean age of the participants was 38.17 ± 9.6 years, less than 40 years (n = 89), more than 40 years (n = 52). Nurses (n = 54), medical (n = 29), surgical (n = 35), primary health care (n = 23). Most of the study group with experience of fewer than 10 years (n = 66), 127 (90.1%) had good knowledge and 14 (9.9%) had poor knowledge p-value < 0.01.CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that Saudi health professionals have a good of knowledge about osteoporosis and no significant difference in osteoporosis knowledge between the health professional subgroups.
Can Health Belief Model Predict Breast Cancer Screening Behaviors?
Authors: Darvishpour Azar , Vajari Soheila Mazloum , Noroozi Sara
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the second cause of cancer-related death among women. Prevention programs insist on the early diagnosis and screening to reduce the mortality rate.AIM: The study was conducted to determine the predictors of breast cancer screening behaviours based on the health belief model.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present cross-sectional study was conducted by involving 304 women ranging from 20 to 65 years of age, living in East Guilan cities, the North of Iran, in 2015 using two-stage cluster sampling. The research instrument was Champion's Health Belief Model Scale. The data were analysed based on Regression test by using SPSS software version 18.RESULTS: The results showed perceived benefits (ExpB = 1.118, p = 0.009), self-efficacy (ExpB = 1.122, p = 0.001) and the perceived barriers (ExpB = 0.851, p = 0.001) as the predictors of breast self-examination. In addition, the study revealed that the two components of perceived benefits (ExpB = 1.202), and the perceived barriers were the predictors of mammography (ExpB = 0.864) (p = 0.001). None of the health belief model components showed a role to predict clinical breast examination (P > 0.05).CONCLUSION: The present study highlights the need for educational programs, which should focus on increasing breast self-exam skills and understanding the benefits of healthy behaviours and eliminating their barriers.
Prosthodontics Status and Treatment Needs among the Elderly in the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Nikolovska Julijana , Korunoska-Stevkovska Vesna , Mijoska Aneta , Popovska Lidija
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Oral health care management among the elderly differs from the rest of the population, due to some specific physiological changes and general health status related to age. We know very little about the oral health in elderly in the Republic of Macedonia, because there are only a few articles published about dental health status and edentulism of this population.AIM: The study aimed to evaluate the prosthodontic status of older adults over 65 years in the Republic of Macedonia, about their socio-economic status and individual factors.MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 8 regions, in rural and urban areas of Macedonia and a representative sample of 432 people (age > 65 years) was examined. Statistical analyses of the data were made by chi-square tests and the corresponding C-coefficient.RESULTS: Only 6% of all participants had not any prosthetic appliance, 9.5% had more than one bridge, 28.7% of examinees had partial dentures, both bridge(s) and partial denture(s) had 10.7% participants, and 45.1% of examinees were toothless. There was a significant difference between patients who visited the dentist more than once a year and those who did not (c2 = 14.2; df = 4, p < 0.01). From all of the participants, 40.3% used public dental care organisations.CONCLUSIONS: We found a high prevalence of edentulousness among older adults over 65 years in Macedonia. The study confirmed the necessity for establishing healthcare educational programs for the dental treatment of elderly in Macedonia.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome as a Postpartum Complication
Authors: Kadić-Vukas Samra , Hodžić Mirsada , Tandir-Lihić Lejla , Hrvat Lejla , Kožo-Kajmaković Azra , Kuzmanović Nina , Vukas Haris
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical-radiological syndrome with seizures, altered consciousness, visual disturbances and headache among other symptoms. Hinchey et al. first described Pres in 1996, with two other case series published shortly after.CASE REPORT: A 23-year-old women patient was emergency sent from General Hospital Tešanj due to a crisis of consciousness and repeated epileptic seizures. The patient had a second birth before 10 days (postpartum cesarean) in general endotracheal anaesthesia (two cesarean-born babies). On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of cranium described both sides of the symmetrically frontal, parietal (and pre-ventricular gyri) and occipitally visible T2W/FLAIR hyperintensity focuses on the cortex and the thin layer of white mass subcortically. In the projection of the lesions parts, discrete DWI hyperintensity is seen without a reliable ADC correlate. The patient improved after management with intravenous fluids, antibiotics, antiepileptics and monitoring of blood pressure. According to latest experiences delayed diagnosis and treatment may lead to mortality or irreversible neurological deficit. Aggravating circumstances are differential diagnoses that include cerebral infarction (ischemic, haemorrhage), venous thrombosis, vasculitis, pontine or extrapontine myelinolysis.CONCLUSION: MRI of the brain is key to make this distinction with crucial recognition and an open mind from radiology and neurology specialist.
The Concept of Withdrawal of Divorce Petition Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Mazloomi-Mahmoodabad Seyed Saied , Afshani Seyed Alireza , Ardian Nahid , Vaezi Ali , Refahi Seyed Ali
Published: May 2018

AIM: The present study sought to explore the experiences of participants in divorce process according to the theory of planned behaviour.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted using content analysis method. In this research, 27 participants involved in the divorce process were selected. The data were coded, and the qualitative content analysis was performed.RESULTS: Based on four constructs of the theory of planned behaviour, the subcategories of instrumental attitude were “Divorce as the last solution” and “Divorce as damage for individuals and society”. From the perceived behavioural control theme, two subcategories of behavioural control and self-efficacy were drawn; the first subtheme included “Others’ meddling in the married life”, “Social problems reducing behavioural control power” and “Personality characteristics affecting the behavioural control power”; and the second one included: “Education as a means for developing self-efficacy” and “barriers to self-efficacy”. The injunctive norms theme included three subcategories of “Others help to reconcile”, “Others meddling and lack of reconciliation”, and “Families support to reconcile”. The descriptive norms theme was “High divorce rate and misuse of satellite channels and social networks as factors making reconciliation difficult”.CONCLUSION: It seems that education and counselling, within a predefined framework, such as applied theories, can be useful.
Prevalence Refractive Errors among Medical Students of Qassim University, Saudi Arabia: Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
Authors: Al-Rashidi Sultan H. , Albahouth Adel A. , Althwini Waleed A. , Alsohibani Abdullah A. , Alnughaymishi Abdulmejeed A. , Alsaeed Abdulamlaik A. , Al-Rashidi Fahad H. , Almatrafi Salem
Published: May 2018

OBJECTIVE: To study the prevalence of various errors of refraction among the medical students studying at the college of medicine, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia.METHODS: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at Qassim University clinics over a period of two months. The study population comprised 162 male and female students from different academic years. The students were selected randomly so that around 35-40 students were taken from each academic class. The selected study population was explained the objectives of the study and a written consent form that stated the purpose, methods, risks, benefits, and the assurance of the confidentiality of the data was obtained from each student. After giving the consent, each subject was examined by auto refractometer. The examination was carried out by an optometrist without using cycloplegia. Both right and left eyes were thoroughly examined by auto refractometer and on the average three readings of the refraction measurements were taken. The readings were recorded on a data sheet of every individual, and the Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).RESULTS: One hundred and sixty-two (162) students with a mean age of 22.44 years, Std 1.661 and a range of 8 (19-27) were included in the study. Of the total number, 111 (68.51%) were males and remaining 51 (31.48%) were females. Of the total sample, only 1 (0.617%) student had diabetes mellitus, and 6 (3.70%) students gave a history of previous ocular surgery. Myopia was found to be the commonest error of refraction 53.7% with hyperopia next to it.CONCLUSION: Myopia is found to be a common error of refraction in young adults. A regular checkup is essential to timely correct the error and to prevent deterioration of the vision.
Brucellosis as the Cause of Non-Viral Bacterial Hepatitis: A Case Report
Authors: Çavuş Bilger , Çaydaşı Özge , Aktan Ahmet , Ayaz Ercan
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Brucellosis can lead to different clinical pictures such as hepatomegaly, granulomatous liver disease, hepatic abscess, and it can cause mild hepatic transaminase elevation in the laboratory investigations.CASE REPORT: We found out that the etiologic agent was Brucella in our two cases admitted with acute hepatitis presentation in the investigations conducted. Liver transaminases were as follows for case 1 and case 2; AST: 306/187U/L, ALT: 368/312U/L, ALP: 355/264U/L, GGT: 116/197U/L, LDH: 887/549U/L, respectively. Sacroiliitis also accompanied the clinical picture in our first case. Our patients showed clinical and laboratory improvement with rifampicin, doxycycline, (additional streptomycin for 21 days in the patient with sacroiliitis) treatment.CONCLUSION: Brucellosis which may manifest as a clinical picture regarding numerous medical branches should be considered in case of acute hepatitis, especially in endemic regions, along with viral hepatitis.
Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Patients with a Post Stroke Depression from the Municipality of Tetovo, Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Vojtikiv-Samoilovska Danijela , Arsovska Anita
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Although post-stroke depression (PSD) is the most common neuro-psychiatric consequence after a stroke there is still some obscurity regarding its aetiology and risk factors, which complicates its management. A better knowledge of the predictors will enable better prevention and treatment.AIM: The aim of this work was the identification of the risk factors for PSD, typical for the Macedonian population, which will help in early prediction, timely diagnosis and treatment of the disease.MATERIALS AND METHODS:  We carried out a prospective study at the Clinical Hospital in Tetovo, the Republic of Macedonia to determine the prevalence of PSD and to analyse the socio-demographic characteristics as possible risk factors in 100 patients on discharge and after 5 months. The depression symptoms were quantified using the Hamilton Depression Ranking Scale (HAM-d) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).RESULTS: The average age of the patients with PSD on the first examination is 65.0 ± 8.3, whereas on the second examination is 64.5 ± 9.2. According to the Mann-Whitney U test, the difference between the average ages on both examinations is statistically insignificant for p > 0.05. On both examinations, the statistically significant dependence of p > 0.05 between PSD and the occupational status and PSD and education is not recorded. On both examinations, the PSD in male patients was 78.0% and 62.7%, while in female patients it was 85.4% and 68.3% not recording the statistically significant dependence of p < 0.05 between PSD and the gender.CONCLUSION: The socio-demographic characteristics of the patients with PSD cannot be considered as predictors of the disease.
Epidemiology of Hand Burn in Albania 2011-2016
Authors: Zikaj Gentian , Belba Gjergji , Xhepa Gezim
Published: May 2018

INTRODUCTION: Hand burns occur commonly both as part of larger burn injuries as well as isolated injuries.AIM: To give an overview of epidemiologic features and outcome of burn hand patients who admitted to our Service. This study was performed at University Hospital Center “Mother Teresa” Tirana which is the only tertiary hospital in Albania.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective study included all patients who had combustion of the hands solely or hands accompanied with burns to other areas of the body, treated and followed up at our service during the years 2011-2016.RESULTS: Of the 333 included burn patients, 64% were males. The median age of patients is 25.9 years. About half of patients belong to the age group 20-60 years (49.5%) and only 10.2% belong to the age of 60 years. In most of the cases (73.6%), the burn of hands is associated with the burn of the other anatomical region, mostly forearm.CONCLUSION: The surgical treatment is used for less 30% that of patients. The undesirable results of the burn of hands are presented in the 33% of the patients. The contractures were the main unfavourable outcome of the burned hand.
Mathematical Model for Forecasting the Influence of Atmospheric Pollution on Population Morbidity in Stara Zagora Municipality (Bulgaria)
Authors: Platikanova Magdalena , Hristova Petya , Milcheva Hristina
Published: May 2018

AIM: This paper aims to create a mathematical model for forecasting the morbidity of the population in the Republic of Bulgaria and the Stara Zagora Municipality in particular as a consequence of the atmospheric pollution.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This model is based on a formula which determines the correlation between the average annual concentrations of atmospheric pollutants SO2, PM10, Pb aerosols, NO2 and H2S) and the morbidity of the population based on the number of people who visited their GPs in a relation with a chronic health problem or emergency condition and the number of hospitalisations in two age groups (newborn to 17 years olds and 18 and older) as well as for the entire population in the period 2009-2013, making it possible to predict morbidity levels.RESULTS: The expected morbidity level predictions based on the number of people who visited their GPs in Municipality are lower, while hospitalisation level predictions are higher. This model has been created and tested and is applicable in all residential areas.CONCLUSIONS: A new, very sensitive, mathematical model has been created and tested (average margin of error from 0.61% to 2.59%) and is applicable in all residential areas.
Electrical Burns and Their Treatment in a Tertiary Hospital in Albania
Authors: Zikaj Gentian , Xhepa Gezim , Kola Nardi , Isaraj Sokol
Published: May 2018

INTRODUCTION: The electrical current burns represent a very aggressive pathology that leaves many functional and aesthetic consequences.AIM: To evaluate the epidemiology of electrical burn injury and its associated complications and treatment.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Demographic data, aetiology, burn percentage and other measures related to electrical burn injury of 33 electrical burn patients in a tertiary hospital during the years 2015-2017.RESULTS: The mean age of patients is 31 (± 8.3) years old with a predominance of males (94%). The vast majority of injuries occurred at work (p < 0.01), superior extremities were more affected with hand (21.2%) and fingers (18.2%) being the main point of contact (p < 0.01). Muscular fasciotomy was performed in all patients who were treated surgically (n = 27), amputation was performed in 11 (40.7%) of cases, but amputated sites were more than the number of patients affected. Myoglobinuria (39.4%), cardio-respiratory distress (12.1%) contusion cerebri (6.1%), were the complication encountered in patients.CONCLUSIONS: Electrical burn injuries are still amongst the highest accident-related morbidities. Educating the population about the dangers and hazards associated with improper use of electrical devices and instruments is imperative.
Transfusion of Fresh Frozen Plasma in Critically Ill Patients: Effective or Useless?
Authors: Biu Ermira , Beraj Silvana , Vyshka Gentian , Nunci Lordian , Ҫina Tatjana
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is widely used in critically ill patients to correct the deficiency of coagulation factors or increased INR.AIM: In the present study we aimed to evaluate the outcome of the freshly frozen plasma use as prophylaxis in ICU patients before an invasive procedure.METHODS: The study was conducted at Central Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Service UHCT “Mother Theresa”, Tirana. 136 patients were enrolled with coagulopathy with no bleeding before the invasive procedure, from June 2016 to December 2016. A group of 75 patients underwent a median volume of 12.5 ml/kg FFP given, and 61 had no transfusion. Data were collected on demographics, the severity of illness measured by APACHE III scores, INR, medication use, hemodynamic data.RESULTS: From 136 patients with coagulopathy with no bleeding who underwent planned invasive interventions, 75 [55%] received FFP, vs 61 [45%] p = 0.04 who did not receive. Overall, the median FFP dose was 12.5 ml kg-1. Median INR level in FFP and non-FFP groups was respectively 3.1 (1.9-4.8) and 3.5 (1.8-5.2). INR was corrected in 24 of 75 (32%) of those who received a transfusion. The frequency of minor bleeding episodes was 9.3% in transfused patients vs 4.9% in the non-transfused group. Patients who developed an onset of acute lung injury were more frequent in the FFP group. No allergic transfusion complications were observed. Also, the median length of hospital stay [LOS] was 3.05 days vs 2.91 days and mortality rate 8.2% vs 6.5% with no significant difference between two groups.CONCLUSIONS: Freshly frozen plasma transfusions are often unnecessarily administered during an inadequate correction of the deficiencies of coagulation factors. When comparing a liberal FFP transfusion strategy vs restrictive other clinical trials are required to asses which one is the best to adopt in intensive care settings.
Epidemiology of Cesarean Delivery in Qassim, Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlSheeha Muneera Abdulaziz
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: There is a global increase in the rate of cesarean deliveries, with the higher morbidity and mortality. Few published data on cesarean delivery exist in Qassim, Kingdom Saudi Arabia (KSA).OBJECTIVES: To investigate the incidence, type, indications, maternal and perinatal outcomes of cesarean delivery.METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted during three months (August-October 2016) at Maternity and Children’s Hospital (MCH), Buraidah, Qassim, KSA. The medical files of parturient women during the period were revised and the data extracted through questionnaires.RESULTS: There were 936 deliveries during the study period. The mean (SD) of their age, parity and gestational age were 28.6 (6.3) years, 3.0 (2.1) and 38.8 (1.6) weeks, respectively. Out of these 936 deliveries, 396 (42.3%), 21 (2.2%), 114 (12.2%), 405 (43.3%) were vaginal, instrumental, elective and emergency cesarean deliveries, respectively. The indications of the cesarean delivery were; repeated cesarean deliveries (201, 21.5%), failure to progress (87, 9.3%), fetal distress (72, 7.7%); breach (60, 6.4%), antepartum hemorrhage (54, 5.8%), hypertension (36, 3.8%) and diabetes mellitus (9, 1.0%) and more than one indication (6; 0.6%). In binary regression, while age, parity, birth weight and newborn gender were not associated with cesarean delivery, education ≤ secondary level (OR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.59-3.61, P < 0.001), obesity (OR = 2.30, 95% CI = 1.51-3.48, P < 0.001 and morbid obesity (OR = 3.48, 95% CI = 2.16-5.60, P < 0.001) were associated with cesarean delivery. Nine (2.2%) vs three (0.6%), P = 0.03 women in the group of the cesarean and vaginal delivery respectively developed endometritis. Apgar score at one minute was significantly lower in newborn delivered by cesarean. There were three stillbirths (all of them were delivered by emergency cesarean), P = 0.120. Fifty-four of the newborn was admitted to the nursery; 39 (7.5%) vs.15 (3.6%) were delivery by cesareans vs vaginal delivery; P = 0.010.CONCLUSION: There is a high incidence of cesarean delivery in this hospital; most of them were due to repeated cesarean delivery. Obese women were at higher risk of cesarean delivery.
The Spectrum of Kidney Diseases in Children Associated with Low Molecular Weight Proteinuria
Authors: Salihu Shpetim , Tosheska Katerina , Aluloska Natasa , Gucev Zoran , Cekovska Svetlana , Tasic Velibor
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Proteinuria, in addition to haematuria, is the most important laboratory parameter in patients with nephro-urological diseases. Low molecular weight proteinuria (LMWP) is of particular importance because some diseases genetic and tubulointerstitial are diagnosed based on its presence.AIM: The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical features, the course and outcome of pediatric patients with a renal disease associated with LMWP.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective observational study included 250 pediatric patients with various kidney diseases in which the type of proteinuria was defined by 4-20% gradient gel sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAG) electrophoresis.RESULTS: Isolated LMWP was detected in 12% of patients, while mixed glomerulotubular proteinuria was detected in 18% of patients. It was detected in all patients with the Dent-1/2 disease, Lowe's syndrome and secondary Fanconi syndrome. Transient LMWP was also detected in a series of 12 patients with distal renal tubular acidosis. In patients with nephrotic syndrome, it was associated with corticoresistence and unfavourable clinical course.CONCLUSION: This study contributes to the understanding of the clinical spectrum of various kidney diseases associated with LMWP, their natural course, and the effect of therapy.
Linguistic Validation and Cultural Adaptation of Bulgarian Version of Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC)
Authors: Stoyanova Rumyana , Dimova Rositsa , Tarnovska Miglena , Boeva Tatyana
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Patient safety (PS) is one of the essential elements of health care quality and a priority of healthcare systems in most countries. Thus the creation of validated instruments and the implementation of systems that measure patient safety are considered to be of great importance worldwide.AIM: The present paper aims to illustrate the process of linguistic validation, cross-cultural verification and adaptation of the Bulgarian version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (B-HSOPSC) and its test-retest reliability.METHODS: The study design is cross-sectional. The HSOPSC questionnaire consists of 42 questions, grouped in 12 different subscales that measure patient safety culture. Internal con­sistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the split-half method were used; the Spear­man-Brown coefficient was calculated.RESULTS: The overall Cronbach’s alpha for B-HSOPSC is 0.918. Subscales 7 Staffing and 12 Overall perceptions of safety had the lowest coefficients. The high reliability of the instrument was confirmed by the Split-half method (0.97) and ICC-coefficient (0.95).  The lowest values of Spearmen-Broun coefficients were found in items A13 and A14.CONCLUSION: The study offers an analysis of the results of the linguistic validation of the B-HSOPSC and its test-retest reliability. The psychometric characteristics of the questions revealed good validity and reliability, except two questions. In the future, the instrument will be administered to the target population in the main study so that the psychometric properties of the instrument can be verified.
Establishing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Services in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Survey of Suggestions Made by Health Care Workers in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Kalu Queeneth Ndukwe , Oku Oboko Oboko , Ilori Ini-Abasi Udo
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Rising trend in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in developing countries often result in sudden death, which are largely preventable through effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Most communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, however, lack access to CPR services, due to a deficiency in requirements for the establishment of such services. These requirements can be grouped into a triad of awareness, infrastructure and capacity building.AIM: This study was aimed at assessing the perceived need and recommendations for improvement in CPR services in Cross River State.METHODS: Proportionate sampling was used to recruit healthcare workers in this cross-sectional study. Data was obtained using semi-structured open-ended questionnaire consisting of recommendations for improving CPR services. Responses were coded and grouped into three essential areas. Data were entered and analysed using SPSS version 20.0.RESULT: Two hundred and twenty-nine (229) questionnaires were completed; mean age of respondents was 42.1 ± 11.2 years. The commonest cadre of healthcare worker was nurses (135, 59.0%). One, two, and three areas of suggestions were made by 55.5%, 37.1%, and 7.4% of respondents, respectively. Suggestions included training of health care workers on CPR (111, 48.5%) and provision of resuscitation equipment (95, 41.5%). Sixty-five respondents (29.3%) recommended creating awareness and means of contact, while some respondents recommended capacity building (132, 57.6%) and resuscitation infrastructure set-up (149, 65.1%).CONCLUSION: Healthcare workers perceive an urgent need for the establishment of CPR services in our health facilities and communities. There is need to address the triad of awareness, infrastructure and capacity building for the establishment of CPR services peculiar to Sub-Saharan Africa.
Nevus Blue as a Sporadic Finding in a Patient with a Blue Toe?
Authors: Temelkova Ivanka , Stavrov Konstantin , Yungareva Irina , Wollina Uwe , Mangarov Hristo , Radinoff Atanas , Popova Tanya Naskova , Tchernev Georgi
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Blue nevus is an interesting finding, which aetiology and risk of locoregional and distant metastasis have not yet been fully clarified. It may be inherited or acquired, with sporadic cases usually presented as solitary lesions. It is often localised in the area of the head and less often on the arms, legs or trunk. Blue nevi are formations with relatively low but still possible potential for switching to melanoma.CASE REPORT: The patient we described was hospitalised for pronounced cyanosis of the small toe of the right foot, accompanied by painful symptoms at rest and pain symptoms for a few weeks. Using inpatient paraclinical and instrumental tests, the patient was diagnosed with cholesterol microembolism. During the dermatological examination, blue nevus on the contralaterally localised limb was also diagnosed as a sporadic finding. According to the patient’s medical history, the finding had existed for many years, but in the last few months, the patient has observed growth and progression in the peripheral zone of the nevus without any additional clinical symptoms.CONCLUSION: Due to the risk of progression to melanoma, the lesion was removed by radical excision, and the defect was closed by tissue advancement flap.
Citizen science at the borders of Romance (www.doedat.be)
Authors: Groom Quentin , Engledow Henry , Bogaerts Ann , Veríssimo Pereira Nuno , De Smedt Sofie
Published: May 2018

Many, if not most, countries have several official or widely used languages. And most, if not all, of these countries have herbaria. Furthermore, specimens have been exchanged between herbaria from many countries, so herbaria are often polylingual collections. It is therefore useful to have label transcription systems that can attract users proficient in a wide variety of languages. Belgium is a typical polylingual country at the boundary between the Romance and Franconian languages (French, Dutch & German). Yet, currently there are few non-English transcription platforms for citizen science. This is why in Belgium we built DoeDat, from the Digivol system of the Atlas of Living Australia.

We will be demonstrating DoeDat and its multilingual features. We will explain how we enter translations, both for the user interface and for the dynamic parts of the website. We will share our experiences of running a multilingual site and the challenges it brings. Translating and running such a website requires skilled personnel and patience. However, our experience has been positive and the number and quality of our volunteer transcriptions has been rewarding. We look forward to the further use of DoeDat to transcribe data in many other languages. There are no reasons anymore to exclude willing volunteers in any language.
Haine de soi, haine de l’autre
Authors: Brabant-Gerö Eva
Published: May 2018

Partant de l’ouvrage de Theodor Lessing sur la haine de soi des Juifs allemands du XIX e et début du XX e siècle, l’auteur propose une réflexion, fondée sur les théories de Freud, Ferenczi, Hermann, Balint et Rank, sur l’origine de ce sentiment, marquant collectivités et individus.
La « haine de soi », mauvais concept
Authors: Sibony Daniel
Published: May 2018

On entreprend de secouer le concept de haine de soi, qui révèle ses limites. La haine de soi est toujours partielle, ce qui implique un vrai travail psychique où le sujet s’appuie sur elle pour la cerner, la réduire ou l’inclure dans un symptôme compulsif. On étudie l’aspect clinique et aussi l’aspect « juif » de ce concept ; ce qui amène à le dépasser par des notions comme la haine de soi-dans-l’autre ; laquelle peut se combiner avec la haine de l’autre-en-soi pour activer une sorte de boucle qu’on peut appeler haine du symbolique. Cette notion, que j’ai introduite et exploitée depuis longtemps, se révèle ici utile.
Le Moi inutile
Authors: Grenier Louise
Published: May 2018

La haine ne va pas de soi. Il y a là quelque chose qui dérange et qui tue dans le rapport à soi-même. À travers trois exemples, l’un tiré de ma pratique, les deux autres des biographies de Romain Gary et de Marilyn Monroe, je l’analyserai en tant que symptôme d’un effacement du sujet dans l’autre, mère ou environnement précoce. La peine extrême qui s’ensuit pourrait bien alimenter cette haine de soi. Dans le transfert d’analysants carencés affectivement et symboliquement, l’analyste n’est qu’une des figures d’une absence à soi jamais surmontée, du moins en apparence car une espérance soutient leur démarche et leurs mots.
La haine de soi : de la culpabilité au narcissisme
Authors: Gachnochi Georges
Published: May 2018

L’auteur envisage des aspects de la « haine de soi » dans le monde occidental en général, et dans le judaïsme – à propos duquel ce concept a été créé par Theodor Lessing – et en Israël. Il aborde plusieurs facteurs : culpabilité, masochisme, identification à l’agresseur, soumission à l’opinion dominante, narcissisme sous ses diverses formes et masques. Une vignette clinique concerne une patiente dont la soumission au « politiquement correct » dérivait de l’emprise exercée sur elle par une sœur.
L’autre en soi
Authors: Guy Claude
Published: May 2018

Les signes de « l’autre en soi » rejetés, haïs, sont multiples, mais toujours radicalement pesants et encombrants, depuis la ressemblance physique aussi classique qu’insupportable, jusqu’aux atteintes plus sérieuses telles les dysmorphophobies et autres anorexies, où c’est le corps tout entier qui est en jeu. L’obsession du corps porté à son paroxysme concerne très directement le lien avec la généalogie. La focalisation sur un point spécifique d’un empêchement majeur fixé sur une partie du corps devient alors l’émetteur de la haine, du dégoût, du rejet de ce que l’on est par la naissance.
Prostitution, de la misogynie à la haine de soi
Authors: Duché Geneviève
Published: May 2018

Le système prostitutionnel est d’une telle violence, avec des conséquences très graves sur la santé physique et psychique des victimes, qu’il faut aller chercher et nommer les modes de domination et la haine qui l’organisent. D’abord la misogynie des hommes, qui disqualifie les femmes, les transforme à la fois en objet et en putains dangereuses à maîtriser. Ensuite, ce que produit cette misogynie mise en acte par les clients et les proxénètes, le retour de la haine, mais surtout la perte de confiance des victimes, la mise sous emprise, la dévalorisation et la haine de soi.
L’impossibilité d’être
Authors: Landa Fabio
Published: May 2018

Dans son livre inclassable, Theodor Lessing invente l’expression « la haine de soi » et décrit cette psychopathologie juive, exemple éclairant de la psychologie de toute minorité qui souffre. La culpabilité, profondément enracinée dans l’argumentaire juif, donne origine à une « volonté éthique » au-delà de tout contrôle, suivie d’une autovigilance tyrannique. Tout en se gardant d’une traduction hâtive psychanalytique, l’entrée dans le champ de la psychanalyse de la figure de la haine de soi passe par le stade de tendresse (Ferenczi), registre où l’environnement glacial marque de son empreinte l’homme méprisé.
Identité juive, haine de l’autre et haine de soi chez l’homme et savant Sigmund Freud
Authors: Kamieniak Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2018

L’homme et savant Freud fut inévitablement confronté à l’hostilité générée par l’identité juive, et son appartenance au peuple maudit le prédisposa à l’élaboration de ces mouvements ambigus, voire ambivalents, si ce n’est hostiles ou haineux, notamment ceux traversant et ciblant les Juifs. Ce faisant, en s’interrogeant sur les fondements d’une telle hostilité millénaire, c’est à la nature de son identité et à ses origines qu’il est conduit, sans cependant être en mesure d’en fournir une interprétation autre que mythique.
Les juifs honteux : La Question finkler
Authors: Alexander Edward
Published: May 2018

La Question finkler de Howard Jacobson est un « roman à clef », humoristique et profondément grave, qui permet au lecteur averti d’identifier dans l’œuvre des intellectuels et des artistes juifs anglais connus, qui se disent honteux de l’existence d’un État juif. Les antisionistes fictifs de Jacobson semblent exagérés, mais restent en deçà de leurs correspondants dans la réalité qui dépasse de loin l’audace imaginative de l’auteur. Ils jouent un rôle excessif dans l’acharnement à dénigrer Israël et dans l’actuelle résurgence de l’antisémitisme : les prémices d’un nouvel holocauste ?