Balkan Journal of Interdisciplinary Research Feed

Monetary policy and its impact on consumer behaviour toward banks: Evidence and policy implications for Albania

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This article examines how monetary policy influences consumer behaviour toward commercial banks in Albania. It develops an integrated framework combining the interest-rate channel, the bank-lending channel, the balance-sheet channel, expectations, inflation perceptions, exchange-rate exposure, trust, financial literacy and behavioural biases. It combines a structured literature review with descriptive secondary evidence from the Bank of Albania, World Bank and International Monetary Fund, focusing on 2004–2024 and the tightening and easing cycle of 2022–2024. The Albanian case is distinctive because of partial euroisation, uneven financial literacy, the importance of remittances, a bank-centred financial system and the growing use of digital channels. Evidence from 2024 illustrates the speed and asymmetry of transmission: the Bank of Albania reduced the policy rate from 3.25 per cent to 3.00 per cent in July and to 2.75 per cent in November, while estimating that loan rates were already around 0.4 percentage points lower than under a no-cut counterfactual. The article concludes that consumer responses are heterogeneous across income, age, indebtedness, currency exposure and digital capability. It proposes a policy agenda based on clearer central-bank communication, stronger disclosure of variable-rate and foreign-currency risks, behavioural consumer protection, improved financial education, better data on household expectations and more transparent bank pricing. The paper contributes by connecting macro-monetary transmission with micro-level banking behaviour in a small, open and partially euroized economy.

Burnout as an Emergent Property of Complex Adaptive Systems: A Systems Perspective

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Burnout is widely recognized as a major challenge for contemporary healthcare systems and has been extensively examined through occupational and organizational theories that emphasize job demands, organizational resources, leadership, workplace relationships, and ethical factors. While these perspectives have substantially advanced the understanding of burnout, comparatively less attention has been given to the dynamic organizational processes through which burnout develops and persists within healthcare systems operating under persistent structural pressure.The conceptual model proposed in this paper was informed by recurring patterns of organizational adaptation identified during the interpretation of the authors’ previous qualitative research on burnout among healthcare professionals working within a healthcare system undergoing prolonged institutional transition. These observations suggested that existing burnout theories, while successfully explaining many occupational and organizational determinants of burnout, provided a more limited understanding of the adaptive organizational processes through which burnout develops and persists over time. This prompted the exploration of Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) theory as a complementary framework for understanding the dynamic organizational processes associated with burnout.Building on established burnout theories, the paper proposes a conceptual model that interprets burnout as an emergent property of adaptive organizational dynamics. The model suggests that persistent structural constraints generate adaptive responses that enable healthcare organizations to maintain continuity of care while simultaneously contributing to the ongoing reproduction of the organizational conditions associated with chronic occupational strain. Within this perspective, adaptive practices that sustain organizational functioning may also reduce the visibility of structural deficiencies, delay organizational learning, and reinforce continued reliance on further adaptation. Rather than proposing a new theory of burnout, the paper offers a systems-oriented perspective that extends existing occupational and organizational approaches by emphasizing adaptation, emergence, and recursive feedback as complementary mechanisms for understanding burnout. In doing so, it provides a conceptual framework that may support future empirical research on the dynamic organizational processes underlying burnout and inform organizational strategies aimed at promoting more sustainable healthcare systems.

Towards Circular Tourism in an Emerging Balkan Destination: Evidence from Tourism SMEs in Shkodra, Albania

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The transition towards a circular economy (CE) is increasingly recognized as a pathway to sustainable tourism development. However, empirical evidence from emerging destinations remains limited, particularly in the Western Balkans. This study investigates the adoption of CE practices among tourism SMEs in the Shkodra region of Albania, focusing on awareness, implementation, perceived benefits, barriers, institutional support, and tourist demand.A quantitative approach was employed using a structured questionnaire administered to 54 tourism businesses. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, reliability testing, Spearman correlation, and regression analysis.The findings indicate that although only 29.6% of respondents were familiar with the CE concept, many businesses had already implemented practices such as waste reduction, recycling, energy conservation, and local sourcing. CE adoption was positively associated with competitive advantage, while tourist demand emerged as a significant driver. Financial constraints, limited knowledge, and shortages of skilled personnel were identified as the main barriers. The study highlights the importance of financial support, capacity building, and market demand in advancing circular tourism transitions.

Linguistic Stratification and Toponymic Persistence in the Kolonjë–Leskovik Region of Southeastern Albania

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study investigates the toponymy of the Kolonjë–Leskovik region in southeastern Albania through an integrated linguistic and historical framework. Rather than treating place names as isolated etymological labels or simple reflections of historical succession, the analysis treats toponymy as a structured linguistic system shaped by historical input and stabilized through internal language mechanisms. The research examines three interrelated dimensions: the stratification of toponyms by linguistic origin (autochthonous Albanian, Slavic, Greek, Ottoman, and Aromanian), the relationship between semantic meaning and historical experience in the organization of space, and the linguistic mechanisms that enable place names to persist over time.Using a qualitative, diachronic approach grounded in historical linguistics and Balkan onomastics, a corpus of macro- and micro-toponyms is analyzed through lexical classification, semantic interpretation, and formal linguistic examination. The findings indicate that toponymic persistence in the region depends less on etymological origin and more on the degree of morphological, syntactic, and phonological integration into Albanian, with semantic relevance further contributing to stability. The results highlight toponymy as a form of linguistic memory regulated by language structure, with implications for historical linguistics, onomastics, and cultural heritage research.

Study Protocol and Methodological Design for an Integrated Anderson-Donabedian Framework Analysis

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Primary Health Care (PHC) plays a main role in the promotion of equitable access, continuity of care and progress towards Universal Health Coverage. Nevertheless, understanding healthcare utilization needs consideration on the one hand of individual determinants of healthcare-seeking behavior and on the other hand, of the organizational conditions under which services are delivered. The current paper proposes an integrated conceptual and methodological framework. The framework concerns primary healthcare utilization and quality’s assessment within the Albanian public healthcare system. The framework combines Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use with Donabedian’s Structure-Process-Outcome model. Thereby, it links patient-level predisposing, enabling and need factors with healthcare-center-level structures, with care processes and finally, with the results that are patient-reported. The study adopts a quantitative, explanatory, whose design is cross-sectional. It integrates data that are collected from adult PHC users with organizational information obtained through structured assessments of the healthcare centers that participated. A stratified multistage sampling strategy is proposed. It covers urban, peri-urban and rural settings across Albania. There is an anticipated research sample of approximately 350-420 patients from 32-35 primary healthcare centers. As for the patient-level measures, they include healthcare utilization, accessibility, care experience, trust and satisfaction. Organizational measures include staffing, infrastructure, equipment, medicines, documentation systems and organizational protocols. The analytical strategy combines multivariable and multilevel regression with Structural Equation Modelling. Therefore, it examines direct, indirect and moderating relationships among the constructs of the study. By the integration of behavioral and organizational perspectives, the current proposed framework addresses the fragmented examination of PHC utilization and healthcare quality in previous Albanian research. Finally, the current study is expected to offer a holistic methodological basis for the identification of determinants of access, continuity, patient experience and quality of care. It is also expected to generate evidence that is relevant to the primary healthcare service’s further strengthening in Albania.

The Legal Framework for Renewable Energy Sources in Albania in the Context of International and EU Commitments

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

For Albania, renewable-energy development has particular strategic importance because the country combines a historically high dependence on hydropower with increasing electricity demand, exposure to hydrological variability, and the obligation to progressively align its energy legislation with the European Union acquis. This paper examines the legal framework governing renewable energy sources in Albania within the broader context of the country’s international climate commitments, obligations arising from membership in the Energy Community, and European Union accession process. Particular attention is devoted to Law No. 24/2023 On the Promotion of the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources, which represents a substantial step towards approximation with Directive (EU) 2018/2001 (RED II). The paper analyses renewable-energy targets, support mechanisms, competitive auctions, contracts for difference, guarantees of origin, self-consumption, renewable-energy communities, permitting, electricity-market integration, and the institutional responsibilities of the Energy Regulatory Authority. It argues that Albania has achieved significant formal convergence with the European renewable-energy model, particularly through the transition from administratively determined support towards competitive and market-oriented mechanisms. Nevertheless, important implementation challenges remain, including incomplete alignment with parts of the renewable-energy acquis, administrative and permitting constraints, grid limitations, market liquidity, institutional coordination, and the need to translate awarded renewable capacity into operational projects. The paper concludes that Albania’s principal challenge is progressively shifting from legislative approximation towards effective implementation and institutional convergence.

The Discursive Construction of the National Project in the Shkodër Press (1913–1920)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study analyzes political discourse in the Albanian press published in Shkodër between 1913 and 1920, with the aim of examining how newspapers and periodicals of the period constructed national identity, legitimized political rights, and articulated the project of the Albanian state. The study draws on Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), combining Ruth Wodak’s Discourse-Historical Approach with Teun A. van Dijk’s approach to ideological polarization and the construction of the relationship between the “us” and “them” groups. The corpus comprises leading articles and editorial texts published in Besa Shqyptare, Taraboshi, Shqypnia e Re, Hylli i Dritës, Lidhja Kombëtare, Posta e Shqypniës, Populli, and Koha e Re, which are analyzed in relation to the historical and political context of the period. The analysis shows that political discourse is articulated through themes related to the political present and future, strategies for the construction of national identity and historical legitimation, as well as polarization between the “us” and “them” groups. National identity is constructed through unity, history, language, territory, and collective memory, while the relationship between the “us” and “them” groups is structured around the defense of independence, sovereignty, and national interests. The study argues that the Albanian press of 1913–1920 functioned not only as a historical source or a means of information, but also as a discursive practice that contributed to the construction and legitimation of the Albanian political project. In this way, the article seeks to contribute to research on the history of the Albanian press by offering an interpretation of it through the framework of Critical Discourse Analysis.

Foreign Language Anxiety and English Grades: A Study of EFL Learners in Kosovo

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study examines the level of foreign language anxiety and the relationship between communication apprehension, test and assessment anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, and English language grades among secondary school students in Kosovo who learn English as a foreign language. A version of the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) translated into Albanian, with minor modifications, was used to measure foreign language anxiety. The modifications involved replacing ‘foreign language’ with ‘English language’ and ‘test anxiety’ with ‘test and assessment anxiety’ in order to reflect the English language learning context and anxiety effects beyond standardized testing. A sample of one hundred and seventy students from three secondary schools in Kosovo participated in this study by completing the questionnaire. The gathered data in this study were processed and analyzed using the SPSS software. The results revealed that Kosovo secondary school students experience a moderate level of English language anxiety, with difficulties when preparing for tests and concerns about making mistakes while undertaking tests and when being evaluated. In addition, these results have shown that the three components of foreign language anxiety were positively connected with the students’ English language grades. Such results can contribute to a better understanding of the EFL learning process, with a special emphasis on the relationship between foreign language anxiety and secondary school student English achievement.

Comparative Analysis of Support Schemes for Renewable Energy Sources in Europe and Albania. Legal Framework and Implementation Challenges

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The transition towards renewable energy has become a central component of European energy, climate, and economic policy. Although technological progress and declining production costs have substantially improved the competitiveness of renewable energy sources (RES), public support mechanisms continue to play an important role in reducing investment risk, accelerating deployment, and facilitating the achievement of national and European decarbonisation targets. Over the last two decades, however, the design of these mechanisms has changed considerably. Traditional feed-in tariffs have increasingly been replaced by market-oriented instruments, including feed-in premiums, competitive auctions, power purchase agreements, and contracts for difference. This evolution reflects a broader shift from administratively determined subsidies towards competitive and market-responsive mechanisms. This article examines the development of renewable-energy support schemes within the European Union and compares the European model with the emerging regulatory framework in Albania. Particular attention is devoted to Directive (EU) 2018/2001, as amended by Directive (EU) 2023/2413 (RED III), the reform of the EU electricity market design, and Albania’s Law No. 24/2023 “On the Promotion of the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources”. The analysis considers the transition from feed-in tariffs towards competitive auctions and contracts for difference and evaluates Albania’s efforts to approximate its renewable-energy framework to the EU acquis. The article argues that Albania has made significant progress in establishing a market-oriented legal framework and attracting private investment in solar and wind generation. Nevertheless, formal legislative approximation alone is insufficient to guarantee an effective renewable-energy transition. Market liquidity, grid capacity, administrative procedures, institutional coordination, permitting, access to finance, balancing responsibilities and regulatory predictability remain critical implementation challenges. The comparative analysis demonstrates that the next stage of Albania’s energy transition should therefore concentrate less on the formal introduction of new support instruments and more on creating the institutional and market conditions necessary for those instruments to function effectively.

Is Albania converging towards the Europeans Unions demographic structure?- An analysis of the aging populations indications based on findings from Eurostat

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Albania appears to be undergoing a demographic transition. It has experienced a gradual increaase in the proportion of the population aged 65+ in recent years. The aim of the study is to analyse if Albania is converging towards the demographic structure of European Union countries. The analysis will focus on the 65-79 and 80+ age groups. Eurostat was chosen as the main source of data in order to guarantee the comparability and standardisation of data between Albania and the European Union 27. Three hypotheses are tested for the research question: Is Albania converging towards the European Union (EU 27) demographic structure based on the population aging indicators? The results show that the share of the population aged 65-79, the share of the population aged 80+ and the dependency ratio have shown increasing trends in Albania. Life expectancy at age 65 has shown considerable fluctuations, while no comparable data are available for healthy life expectancy for Albania. However, the pace of change is not the same for all indicators and the degree of convergence to the European average varies according to the dimension analyzed. The results of the study suggest the need for policies that promote active ageing. They suggest the need to improve the quality of life of the elderly population. They also suggest the need to develop health and social services adapted to the new demographic structure.

Blockchain Adoption in Albania’s Digital Transformation: Perspectives from Students and Businesses

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Albania has taken massive steps in its roadmap to transforming its payment systems, from traditional banknote-based ones to digital ones. The context for this transformation is set by the regulation of electronic money institutions starting from November 2021, further accelerated by Albanian fintech startups and the country’s integration into the Single European Payment Area (SEPA), effective from 21 November 2024. One important development in this transition is the growing use of Distributed Ledger Technology-based assets, especially cryptocurrencies, by a large Albanian consumer base. Statista projections indicate that 126,200 Albanians were expected to interact with at least one cryptocurrency during 2025, while ongoing legislative efforts aim to align the national framework with the broader MiCA European regulation. Through two structured surveys—one involving 100 students from IT and finance-related programs at “Fan S. Noli” University, and the other involving 50 Albanian businesses, we evaluated awareness, adoption interest, and perceived benefits of these technologies. Students represent an important future workforce for the implementation of blockchain-based solutions, while businesses act as the main stakeholders providing the infrastructure for their adoption. For this reason, both perspectives are essential to understand the broader transformation. The results show that over one-third of students have already interacted with blockchain tools, with most highlighting security and transaction speed as key advantages. Meanwhile, Albanian business owners showed strong interest in applying core blockchain features—such as data traceability, security, and automation within their workflows. Over 80% expressed willingness to integrate AI and blockchain solutions, particularly for streamlining tax, utility, and payroll processes.

The Impact of Digitalized Property Records on Legal Certainty and the Protection of Ownership Rights

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Property rights protection and legal certainty constitute fundamental elements of a democratic state governed by the rule of law. In Albania, the post-communist transition generated significant challenges related to property ownership, including overlapping titles, fragmented institutional responsibilities, incomplete archival records, and prolonged legal disputes. In response, legislative reforms have been introduced to modernize the property registration system, particularly through the digitalization of property records. The establishment of the State Cadastre Agency and the expansion of electronic public services have contributed to enhanced transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in the administration of property documentation. Digitalized records have reduced the risk of document loss, manipulation, and administrative inconsistencies, while also facilitating faster verification procedures and more secure real estate transactions. These legal and institutional developments have reinforced the principle of legal certainty by increasing predictability, accountability, and public trust in state institutions. Nevertheless, challenges persist, particularly with regard to data accuracy, technical infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Overall, the Albanian case demonstrates that digitalization functions not only as a technological reform but also as an effective legal mechanism for the protection of property rights.

The evolution of Anti-money Laundering, Frameworks in the Digital Era: Challenges and Regulatory Gaps

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The rapid digitalization of financial systems has significantly transformed the landscape of anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks, reshaping both the opportunities for financial innovation and the risks associated with illicit financial flows. While technological advancements such as cryptocurrencies, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, and fintech innovations have enhanced operational efficiency, transaction speed, and financial inclusion, they have simultaneously introduced complex vulnerabilities that can be exploited for money laundering and related financial crimes. These developments challenge the adequacy of traditional AML mechanisms, which were primarily designed for centralized and institution-based financial systems. This paper critically examines the evolution of AML frameworks, tracing their development from rule-based and compliance-driven approaches to more dynamic, risk-based, and technology-enabled systems. It explores how digital transformation has altered the typologies of money laundering, enabling increasingly sophisticated methods such as the use of decentralized finance (DeFi), mixing services, and cross-platform transactions that obscure financial trails. The study further analyzes key challenges arising in the digital era, including the pseudonymity and anonymity of digital assets, the speed and scale of cross-border transactions, regulatory fragmentation across jurisdictions, and limitations in data integration and information sharing. Additionally, it highlights the growing tension between effective AML enforcement and the protection of individual privacy and data rights. A central focus of the paper is the identification of critical regulatory gaps, particularly in the governance of digital assets, the lack of harmonized international standards, insufficient oversight of emerging financial technologies, and weaknesses in beneficial ownership transparency. These gaps reduce the effectiveness of AML regimes and create opportunities for regulatory arbitrage. The paper concludes by proposing a set of policy recommendations aimed at strengthening global AML compliance. These include enhancing international coordination, adopting advanced technological tools for monitoring and detection, developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks for digital assets, and promoting a balanced approach that safeguards both financial integrity and individual rights. Ultimately, the study argues that adaptive, technology-driven, and globally coordinated AML strategies are essential to effectively combat money laundering in the evolving digital financial ecosystem.

An explorative analysis of the Deoxyribonucleic Acid evidence chain of custody in the Northern Cape, South Africa

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study explores the objective of this study was to explore the chain of custody for rape Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) evidence in the Northern Cape Province. A convenience sample of 57 participants from the South African Police Service in the Northern Cape, SAPS Forensic specialists from SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory in Pretoria, DNA specialists from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Pretoria, and community members from the Northern Cape Province were purposively selected. The inductive Textual Content Analysis (TCA) was adopted to analyse the collected data. The qualitative research approach was adopted, with the phenomenological research design. Unstructured Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving community members were employed for data collection. Non-participative observation was also adopted alongside documentary studies. This study established that the chain of custody is often compromised by novice SAPS investigators at crime scenes. Handling of DNA samples from rape scenes to the SAPS FSL for analysis and storage does not happen in a timely manner, and the collected evidence is not protected to avoid contamination. Results further indicate that the CJS process is weakened, with the presentation of DNA evidence in court rendered ineffective. It is recommended that relevant stakeholders be adequately trained to properly identify, analyze, collect, and preserve DNA exhibits to maintain the chain of custody. This study highlights the importance of continuous training and refresher courses for all rape investigators. The existing technicalities and limited basic knowledge on DNA analysis should be urgently revisited to easily identify DNA samples and sources. Lastly, collaboration between SAPS FSL, LCRC, SAPS investigators, DNA analysts, and community members to combat, investigate, and prevent this scourge in the Northern Cape is recommended.

Active and Passive Corruption of Judges, Prosecutors, and Other Justice Officials: The Impact of Justice Reform on Anti-Corruption Efforts

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Corruption, including corruption within the justice system, is a phenomenon of both national and international concern, as it undermines societal security, disrupts the functioning of state and public institutions, weakens democratic values, and hinders the development of the rule of law. It is closely interconnected with other serious forms of criminal activity, particularly organized crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, economic crime, and money laundering. These interconnections threaten the political, social, and economic stability of states, demonstrating that corruption is not solely a domestic challenge but a global phenomenon affecting societies and economies worldwide. In this context, international cooperation in preventing and combating corruption is of particular importance. Criminal offences of corruption in the justice system, in the forms of active and passive corruption, are regulated in Albanian criminal legislation to safeguard the proper functioning of the judiciary, prosecution, and other justice institutions, as well as to protect the lawful rights of citizens. Given that the justice system represents a fundamental mechanism for law enforcement and the protection of rights, any deviation from standards of integrity in this sector produces both institutional and societal consequences. Corruption in this area affects not only individual cases but also the quality of judicial decision-making, legal certainty, and the overall functioning of the justice system. In this context, legal reform has been considered necessary to strengthen the justice system through enhanced impartiality, transparency, and integrity. The 2016 justice reform in Albania, implemented through a comprehensive legal package, represents a significant structural intervention in both the legal framework and institutional organization of the justice system. Its primary objectives include increasing public trust and ensuring a more independent and efficient judiciary. This paper analyzes two distinct criminal offences: active and passive corruption involving judges and prosecutors. These offences are selected due to their critical importance in safeguarding judicial integrity, as well as the practical challenges associated with their detection and proof. Given the central role of judges and prosecutors in the administration of justice, any deviation from impartial conduct has far-reaching consequences not only at the individual level but also for the legal system as a whole. In practice, issues related to the balance of powers continue to be observed, particularly in the relationship between the executive and judicial branches. This further underscores the necessity of addressing these offences as a key element in maintaining the separation of powers and ensuring the proper functioning of the rule of law.

Some information on the species composition of the native freshwater ichthyofauna in Albania and their conservation status according to the IUCN National Red List and the IUCN Red List of European Freshwater Fishes

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A review of scientific studies on Albanian fish shows that there are 76 native freshwater species and subspecies, including 20 that are endemic. According to the IUCN National Red List, 38 species (50%) are in high-risk categories—Vulnerable (VU), Endangered (EN), and Critically Endangered (CR). Among these, 14 species (70%) are endemic. There are also differences between the IUCN National Red List and the IUCN Red List of European Freshwater Fishes in how species are classified across five categories: Least Threatened (LT), Not Evaluated (NE), Vulnerable (VU), Endangered (EN), and Critically Endangered (CR).

Investigations on the Feeding Ecology of Ohrid Belvica (Salmo ohridanus)

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The feeding ecology of Ohrid Belvica was studied based on the species composition of dietary components, their relative importance, and seasonal variability in Simpson’s diversity index. Qualitative analysis confirmed the presence of 45 trophic elements, of which 39 were planktonic and benthic hydrobionts, while six represented life stages (eggs, larvae, and imago) of some of these organisms. Planktonic crustaceans (mainly Daphnia, Cyclops, and their eggs), larvae of Chironomus (Insecta), adults of Limnodrilus (Annelida), as well as eggs, larvae, and adults of Alburnus (Pisces), constituted the main components of the diet of the Ohrid Belvica stock. The highest frequency of trophic elements in the diet was recorded in spring (n = 43; F% = 93.6), while the lowest value of feeding intensity was observed in autumn (n = 21; F% = 46.7). The average annual value (M ± SD) of the species diversity index (Ds), characterizing the diet of the Ohrid Belvica stock from the Albanian part of Lake Ohrid, was 0.721 ± 0.068 (Var% = 9.44). In addition, annual variability in three organo-somatic indices (RGL, VSI%, and HSI%) was assessed. The mean values of these parameters for the Ohrid Belvica stock were VSI% = 10.764 ± 1.735, HSI% = 1.152 ± 0.224, and RGL = 0.849 ± 0.072.

Occurrence of Phycis phycis (Linnaeus, 1766) on the Rocky Coast of the Ionian Sea near Vuno (Albania), with Notes on Spatial Distribution and Taxonomic Classification

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study provides new information on the occurrence of the forkbeard (Phycis phycis Linnaeus, 1766) along the rocky coast of the Ionian Sea, specifically near the village of Vuno (Albania). A single specimen was collected in February 2023 at a depth of 6–10 m in a rocky habitat characterized by caves and algae-covered substrates. Morphometric and meristic analyses were conducted, together with detailed anatomical examination of skeletal elements, particularly the premaxillary bone and vertebrae, in order to confirm species identification and distinguish the specimen from the closely related P. blennoides. Diagnostic features included the absence of an elongated first ray in the first dorsal fin (D1) and the presence of conical, needle-like teeth consistent with a predatory feeding mode. The findings support the taxonomic placement of the genus Phycis within the family Phycidae and highlight the need to update existing data on the ichthyofauna of the Albanian Ionian coast.

Bone marrow biopsy as a new practice in a tertiary hospital center in Tirana Correlation with the literature and future perspective

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundThis study employed a retrospective, descriptive design. All variables were entered into a database using Microsoft Excel and subsequently analyzed using statistical methods to calculate frequencies and levels of statistical significance (p-values).ObjectivesThe study aimed to examine the distribution of diagnostic categories across different years, develop an epidemiological database based on age, gender, and time periods, and evaluate diagnostic challenges by identifying the factors influencing them.Materials and MethodsA total of 372 bone marrow biopsies collected over a three-year period (January 2019 to December 2021) were included in the study. Data obtained from biopsy reports were analyzed and compared in relation to clinical diagnosis, patient age, gender, and temporal distribution. Histopathological parameters assessed included cellularity, clonal maturation, fibrosis, and the application of immunohistochemical panels.ResultsThe most frequent diagnosis was myeloproliferative disorders, accounting for 193 cases (52%, p < .01), followed by lymphoproliferative disorders with 78 cases (21%), of which non-Hodgkin lymphoma represented 69.2%. The annual distribution of myeloproliferative disorders demonstrated statistically significant differences for polycythemia vera (p < .01) and essential thrombocythemia (p < .01). The mean age of patients with hematologic disorders was 58.9 years, with the highest proportion of cases occurring in the sixth decade of life (33.2%). A slight male predominance was observed (male-to-female ratio 1.2:1), with a statistically significant variation in this ratio (p < .01), reaching 1.8:1 in 2021. Additionally, in 2021, a new category of biopsy reports (1%) characterized by reactive changes was identified. According to existing literature, such histological alterations have been observed in patients with severe COVID-19 infection.

Modern Tools, Real Classrooms: Impact and Sustainability of Akelius E – learning in Albania

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study provides a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative analysis of students’ and teachers’ perceptions of the Akelius digital language learning platform in Albanian public schools. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from 100 students and four English language teachers with qualitative insights derived from classroom observations and teacher reflections. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, incorporating descriptive statistics and reliability analysis (Cronbach’s alpha). The findings indicate high levels of student motivation, engagement, vocabulary development, and integrative participation. At the same time, the study identifies notable pedagogical and infrastructural challenges affecting the effective implementation of the platform. Overall, this research contributes to the educational technology literature by offering a detailed analysis and evidence-based recommendations for the implementation of blended and integrated digital learning environments.