bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grading scale of radiographic findings in the public bone and symphysis in athletes
Authors: Besjakov J. , von Scheele C. , Ekberg O. , Gentz C. F. , Westlin N. E.
Published: September 2013

Purpose: Radiographic abnormalities in the pubic bone and symphysis are often seen in athletes with groin pain. The aim was to create a grading scale of such radiologic changes.

Material and Methods: Plain radiography of the pelvic ring including the pubic bone and the symphysis was performed in 20 male athletes, age 19–35, with long-standing uni- or bilateral groin pain. We used two control groups: Control group 1: 20 healthy age-matched men who had undergone radiologic examination of the pelvis due to trauma. Control group 2: 120 adults (66 men and 54 women) in 9 age groups between 15 and 90 years of age. These examinations were also evaluated for interobserver variance.

Results and Conclusion: The grading scale was based on the type and the amount of the different changes, which were classified as follows: No bone changes (grade 0), slight bone changes (grade 1), intermediate changes (grade 2), and advanced changes (grade 3). The grading scale is easy to interpret and an otherwise troublesome communication between the radiologist and the physician was avoided. There was a high interobserver agreement with a high kappa value (0.8707). Male athletes with long-standing groin pain had abnormal bone changes in the symphysis significantly more frequently and more severely ( p>0.001) than their age-matched references. In asymptomatic individuals such abnormalities increased in frequency with age both in men and women.
Effects of Risk Aversion on the Value of Information in Two-Action Decision Problems
Authors: Abbas Ali E. , Bakır N. Onur , Klutke Georgia-Ann , Sun Zhengwei
Published: September 2013

This paper analyzes the value of information in a two-action decision problem where a decision maker is deciding on whether to accept an uncertain investment. We investigate the effects of the decision maker's risk aversion function on the value of information in this setting. We analyze the value of perfect information and the value of partition information where a decision maker with deterministic initial wealth receives information specifying that the outcome lies within a subset of the domain. We show that if two decision makers reject the investment without the information, then the more risk-averse decision maker will value information (both perfect and partition), less than the less risk averse one. On the other hand, if both decision makers initially accept the investment, or are indifferent to the investment without the information, then (i) the more risk-averse decision maker will value perfect information higher than the less risk-averse one, but (ii) this monotonicity result need not apply for the case of partition information. These results enable us to compare the value of information when decision makers have different risk aversion levels. They also hold when comparison of risk aversion is restricted only to a domain defined by the lottery.
First Principle Modeling and Neural Network–Based Empirical Modeling with Experimental Validation of Binary Distillation Column
Authors: Singh Amit Kumar , Tyagi Barjeev , Kumar Vishal
Published: September 2013

To get the better product quality and to decrease the energy consumption of the distillation column, an accurate and suitable nonlinear model is crucial important. In this work, two types of model have been developed for an existing experimental setup of continuous binary distillation column (BDC). First model is a theoretical tray-to-tray binary distillation model for describing the steady-state behavior of composition in response to changes in reflux flows and in reboiler duty. Another model is an artificial neural network (ANN)–based input/output data relationship model. In ANN-based model, temperature of first tray, feed flow rate, and column pressures have been taken in addition to reflux flow rate and reboiler heat duty as inputs to give the more accurate I/O relationship. The comparison of output of ANN model and the equation-based model with the real-time output of the experimental setup of BDC has been given for the validation of developed models.
Flows of constant mean curvature tori in the 3-sphere: The
equivariant case
Authors: Kilian Martin , Schmidt Martin U. , Schmitt Nicholas
Published: September 2013

We present a deformation for constant mean curvature tori
in the 3-sphere. We show that the moduli space of equivariant constant mean curvature tori in the 3-sphere is connected, and we classify the minimal, the embedded, and the Alexandrov embedded tori therein.
Combating ovarian aging depends on the use of existing ovarian follicles, not on putative oogonial stem cells
Authors: Zhang Hua , Adhikari Deepak , Zheng Wenjing , Liu Kui
Published: September 2013

Ovarian aging is characterized by both a reduction in egg quality and a drastic reduction in the number of ovarian follicles. It has been generally accepted for 60 years that a fixed population of primordial follicles is established in the ovaries during early life, and in most mammalian species, oocytes cannot renew themselves in postnatal or adult life. This dogma, however, has been challenged over the past decade. In this review, we summarize the recent studies on primordial follicles and putative oogonial stem cells and discuss what resources in the ovary might be more reliable and promising source tools for combating ovarian aging.
Extrasinus Zygomatic Implant Placement in the Rehabilitation of the Atrophic Maxilla: Three-Dimensional Finite Element Stress Analysis
Authors: Romeed Shihab A. , Hays Robert Nigel , Malik Raheel , Dunne Stephen M.
Published: September 2013

Placement of zygomatic implants lateral to the maxillary sinus, according to the extrasinus protocol, is one of the treatment options in the rehabilitation of severely atrophic maxilla or following maxillectomy surgery in patients with head and neck cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical behavior of a full-arch fixed prosthesis supported by 4 zygomatic implants in the atrophic maxilla under occlusal loading. Results indicated that maximum von Mises stresses were significantly higher under lateral loading compared with vertical loading within the prosthesis and its supporting implants. Peak stresses were concentrated at the prosthesis-abutments interface under vertical loading and the internal line angles of the prosthesis under lateral loading. The zygomatic supporting bone suffered significantly lower stresses. However, the alveolar bone suffered a comparatively higher level of stresses, particularly under lateral loading. Prosthesis displacement under vertical loading was higher than under lateral loading. The zygomatic bone suffered lower stresses than the alveolar bone and prosthesis-implant complex under both vertical and lateral loading. Lateral loading caused a higher level of stresses than vertical loading.
Energy piles: site investigation and analysis
Authors: Hemmingway Phil , Long Mike
Published: September 2013

Despite an increasing worldwide use of geothermal energy foundations, there is a lack of published guidelines and results from thermal response testing of such installations. In this paper the results are presented from thermal response, thermal recovery and laboratory thermal testing performed at two sites in Ireland. Some practical issues concerned with the use of thermal response testing rigs, designed for use with deep boreholes, on relatively short piles are discussed and addressed. Given the relatively short geothermally active depth of the energy foundations tested, and the fact that the University College Dublin thermal response testing rig has been designed primarily for testing on medium and deep geothermal boreholes, thermal response tests of shorter durations than are normally used for deep boreholes were performed. The techniques used to analyse the various test results are outlined, and the resulting values of thermal conductivity obtained are within the range of those expected for the prevailing geology of the sites.
Experimental behaviour of box concrete-encased CFST eccentrically loaded column
Authors: An Yu-Feng , Han Lin-Hai , Zhao Xiao-Ling
Published: September 2013

Box concrete-encased, concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) piers have been used in bridges in high-earthquake-intensity regions in China in recent years. They are expected to have higher strength and better ductility than normal box reinforced concrete members owing to the contribution of CFSTs in the corners of the composite box section. However, studies on this type of composite piers are limited. This paper presents an experimental study on the behaviour of box concrete-encased CFST columns under eccentric compression. A total of 14 specimens, including 12 box concrete-encased CFST specimens and two reference box reinforced concrete specimens are tested. The main parameters in the test are height-to-width ratio and load eccentricity. A simplified method is proposed to predict the load capacity of the box concrete-encased CFST columns.
Performance of precast concrete structures in October 2011 Van earthquake, Turkey
Authors: Ozden Sevket , Akpinar Erkan , Erdogan Hakan , Atalay Hilal Meydanlı
Published: September 2013

A destructive earthquake, magnitude of Mw = 7·2 (Richter scale), hit the city of Van, located in eastern Turkey, on 23 October 2011 and another major earthquake with a magnitude of Mw = 5·6 occurred on 9 November 2011. Significant damage was observed in all types of civil engineering structures in the city centre and nearby. This paper presents the field observations on the seismic performance of precast concrete structures during the earthquakes. Possible damaging factors were discussed in detail after a comprehensive site survey. The majority of the investigated structures were industrial precast concrete structures located in the organised industrial zone of Van. In addition to industrial precast concrete structures, a precast multi-storey residential building located in the city centre was also examined. The findings from the site investigations were compared with the seismic behaviour of similar precast concrete structures during the former devastating earthquake in north-western Turkey in 1999. The effects of improper design and detailing of precast connections during the construction of the precast concrete structures in the high-seismicity regions are reported.
Rising catch variability preceded historical fisheries collapses in Alaska
Authors: Litzow Michael A. , Mueter Franz J. , Urban J. Daniel
Published: September 2013

Statistical indicators such as rising variance and rising skewness in key system parameters may provide early warning of “regime shifts” in communities and populations. However, the utility of these indicators has rarely been tested in the large, complex ecosystems that are of most interest to managers. Crustacean fisheries in the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea experienced a series of collapses beginning in the 1970s, and we used spatially resolved catch data from these fisheries to test the predictions that increasing variability and skewness would precede stock collapse. Our data set consisted of catch data from 14 fisheries (12 collapsing and two non‐collapsing), spanning 278 cumulative years. Our sampling unit for analysis was the Alaska Department of Fish and Game statistical reporting area (mean n for individual fisheries = 42 areas, range 7–81). We found that spatial variability in catches increased prior to stock collapse: a random‐effects model estimating trend in variability across all 12 collapsing fisheries showed strong evidence of increasing variability prior to collapse. Individual trends in variability were statistically significant for only four of the 12 collapsing fisheries, suggesting that rising variability might be most effective as an indicator when information from multiple populations is available. Analyzing data across multiple fisheries allowed us to detect increasing variability 1–4 years prior to collapse, and trends in variability were significantly different for collapsing and non‐collapsing fisheries. In spite of theoretical expectations, we found no evidence of pre‐collapse increases in catch skewness. Further, while models generally predict that rising variability should be a transient phenomenon around collapse points, increased variability was a persistent feature of collapsed fisheries in our study. We conclude that this result is more consistent with fishing effects as the cause of increased catch variability, rather than the critical slowing down that is the driver of increased variability in regime shift models. While our results support the use of rising spatial variability as a leading indicator of regime shifts, the failure of our data to support other model‐derived predictions underscores the need for empirical validation before these indicators can be used with confidence by ecosystem managers.
Sediment‐induced turbidity impairs foraging performance and prey choice of planktivorous coral reef fishes
Authors: Johansen J. L. , Jones G. P.
Published: September 2013

Sedimentation is a substantial threat to aquatic ecosystems and a primary cause of habitat degradation on near‐shore coral reefs. Although numerous studies have demonstrated major impacts of sedimentation and turbidity on corals, virtually nothing is known of the sensitivity of reef fishes. Planktivorous fishes are an important trophic group that funnels pelagic energy sources into reef ecosystems. These fishes are visual predators whose foraging is likely to be impaired by turbidity, but the threshold for such effects and their magnitude are unknown. This study examined the effect of sediment‐induced turbidity on foraging in four species of planktivorous damselfishes (Pomacentridae) of the Great Barrier Reef, including inshore and offshore species that potentially differ in tolerance for turbidity. An experimental flow tunnel was used to quantify their ability to catch mobile and immobile planktonic prey under different levels of turbidity and velocity in the range encountered on natural and disturbed reefs. Turbidity of just 4 NTU (nephelometric turbidity units) reduced average attack success by up to 56%, with higher effect sizes for species with offshore distributions. Only the inshore species (Neopomacentrus bankieri), which frequently encounters this turbidity on coastal reefs, could maintain high prey capture success. At elevated turbidity similar to that found on disturbed reefs (8 NTU), attack success was reduced in all species examined by up to 69%. These reductions in attack success led to a 21–24% decrease in foraging rates for all mid to outer‐shelf species, in spite of increasing attack rates at high turbidity. Although effects of turbidity varied among species, it always depended heavily on prey mobility and ambient velocity. Attack success was up to 14 times lower on mobile prey, leaving species relatively incapable of foraging on anything but immobile prey at high turbidity. Effects of turbidity were particularly prominent at higher velocities, as attack success was overall 20‐fold lower and foraging rates 3.3‐fold lower at flow velocities ≥30 cm/s relative to ≤10 cm/s. Given that many planktivorous reef fishes predominantly occupy exposed, high‐flow habitats, these results provide a reasonable explanation for the lack of planktivores on inshore coral reefs and warn that the performance of visual predators could be impaired at turbidity levels of only 4 NTU.
Effects of wildlife and cattle on tick abundance in central Kenya
Authors: Keesing Felicia , Allan Brian F. , Young Truman P. , Ostfeld Richard S.
Published: September 2013

In African savannas, large mammals, both wild and domestic, support an abundant and diverse population of tick ectoparasites. Because of the density of ticks and the many pathogens that they vector, cattle in East Africa are often treated with acaricides. While acaricides are known to be effective at reducing tick burdens on cattle, their effects on the overall abundance and community composition of ticks in savanna ecosystems are less well understood. It is also not known how well tick populations can be maintained in the absence of large mammals. We evaluated the effects of wildlife and of acaricide‐treated cattle on host‐seeking tick populations in a long‐term, exclusion experiment in central Kenya. Over seven years, we sampled larval, nymphal, and adult ticks monthly on replicated treatment plots that controlled for the presence of cattle and for the presence of two guilds of large wild mammals: megaherbivores (giraffes and elephants) and all other large wild herbivores (>15 kg). Two species of ticks were found in this habitat; across all surveys, 93% were Rhipicephalus pulchellus and 7% were R. praetextatus. The presence of acaricide‐treated cattle dramatically reduced the abundance of host‐seeking nymphal and adult ticks but did not affect the abundance of host‐seeking larval ticks. The abundance of larval ticks was determined by the presence of large wild mammals, which appear to import gravid female ticks into the experimental plots. On plots with no large mammals, either wild or domestic, larval and nymphal ticks were rare. Adult R. pulchellus were most abundant in plots that allowed wildlife but excluded cattle. Adult R. praetextatus were relatively abundant in plots without any large mammals. These differences suggest that these ticks utilize different members of the host community. The reduction in ticks that results from the presence of acaricide‐treated cattle has potential health benefits for humans and wildlife, but these benefits must be weighed against potential costs, including reduced availability of food for birds such as oxpeckers that feed on ticks.
Bright lights, big city: influences of ecological light pollution on reciprocal stream–riparian invertebrate fluxes
Authors: Meyer Lars A. , Sullivan S. Mažeika P.
Published: September 2013

Cities produce considerable ecological light pollution (ELP), yet the effects of artificial night lighting on biological communities and ecosystem function have not been fully explored. From June 2010 to June 2011, we surveyed aquatic emergent insects, riparian arthropods entering the water, and riparian spiders of the family Tetragnathidae at nine stream reaches representing common ambient ELP levels of Columbus, Ohio, USA, streams (low, 0.1–0.5 lux; moderate, 0.6–2.0 lux; high, 2.1–4.0 lux). In August 2011, we experimentally increased light levels at the low‐ and moderate‐treatment reaches to 10–12 lux to represent urban streams exposed to extremely high levels of ELP. Although season exerted the dominant influence on invertebrate fluxes over the course of the year, when analyzed by season, we found that light strongly influenced multiple invertebrate responses. The experimental light addition resulted in a 44% decrease in tetragnathid spider density (P= 0.035), decreases of 16% in family richness (P= 0.040) and 76% in mean body size (P= 0.022) of aquatic emergent insects, and a 309% increase in mean body size of terrestrial arthropods (P= 0.015). Our results provide evidence that artificial light sources can alter community structure and ecosystem function in streams via changes in reciprocal aquatic–terrestrial fluxes of invertebrates.
Finding Resources to Help Parents Create Healthy Sleep Environments
Authors: Middlemiss Wendy , Kendall-Tackett Kathleen
Published: September 2013

Knowing the importance of helping parents create healthy sleep environments is an important first step in supporting new parents—and one that is not new to lactation consultants. The next steps can be the more challenging step—finding ways to clearly and easily help parents
understand the importance of responsiveness in care. This can be a particular challenge when so much best practice information focuses experimental research with animals and research with humans, now documents the detrimental effects of early stress on brain development. These effects can
occur not just in response to intense and repetitive stressful situations, but with some probability may also occur in situations of parenting that is not responsive. Below, and in the article that follows, are some resources for parents that address the biologically and ethologically based
reasons that cry-it-out and sleep-training programs are detrimental to infants’ development—negatively, impacting neurological structures, stress responses, physical health, and socioemotional well-being.
Diverse Osteoclastogenesis of Bone Marrow From Mandible Versus Long Bone
Authors: Chaichanasakul Thawinee , Kang Benjamin , Bezouglaia Olga , Aghaloo Tara L. , Tetradis Sotirios
Published: September 2013

Background: Mandibles (MB) and maxillae possess unique metabolic and functional properties and demonstrate discrete responses to homeostatic, mechanical, hormonal, and developmental stimuli. Osteogenic potential of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) differs between MB versus long bones (LB). Furthermore, MB‐ versus LB‐derived osteoclasts (OCs) have disparate functional properties. This study explores the osteoclastogenic potential of rat MB versus LB marrow in vitro and in vivo under basal and stimulated conditions.

Methods: Bone marrow from rat MB and LB was cultured in osteoblastic or osteoclastic differentiation media. Tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, resorption pit assays, and real‐time polymerase chain reaction were performed. Additionally, osmotic mini‐pumps were implanted in animals, mandibles and tibiae were isolated, and multinucleated cells (MNCs) were measured.

Results: MB versus LB marrow cultures that were differentiated with receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony‐stimulating factor produced more TRAP+ MNCs and greater resorptive area. To explore MB versus LB BMSC‐supported osteoclastogenesis, confluent BMSCs were cultured with parathyroid hormone (PTH), 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3), or PTH+1,25D3. 1,25D3‐ or PTH+1,25D3‐treated LB BMSCs expressed significantly higher RANKL and lower osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA and increased RANKL:OPG ratio. When whole marrow was cultured with PTH+1,25D3, more TRAP+ MNCs were seen in LB versus MB cultures. Ultimately, rats were infused with PTH+1,25D3, and MB versus tibia MNCs were measured. Hormonal stimulation increased osteoclastogenesis in both MB and tibiae. However, higher TRAP+ MNC numbers were observed in tibiae versus MB under basal and hormonal stimulation.

Conclusion: Collectively, these data illustrate differences of both osteoclastogenic potential and OC numbers of MB versus LB marrow.
Adhesions Following Cesarean Delivery: A Review of Their Occurrence, Consequences and Preventative Management Using Adhesion Barriers
Authors: Poole Judith H
Published: September 2013

The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the occurrence and consequences of postoperative adhesions following cesarean delivery (CD), and an overview of the published clinical data on prevention in this setting using adhesion barriers. Adhesions occur frequently after CD and the incidence increases with each subsequent CD. Repeat CDs are complicated by adhesions, which increase operating time, time to delivery and risk of bladder injury. Clinical data on the efficacy of adhesion prevention strategies specific to the setting of CD are limited. Two small, nonrandomized studies found that the use of absorbable anti-adhesion barriers was associated with a significant reduction in adhesion formation and a shorter time to delivery at repeat CD, compared with no barrier use. Implications for practice and research are discussed. There is a significant need for well-controlled, randomized clinical studies investigating adhesion prevention in the labor and delivery setting.
Preparers' Perceptions of the Costs and Benefits of IFRS: Evidence from Australia's Implementation Experience
Authors: Morris Richard D. , Gray Sidney J. , Pickering Joanne , Aisbitt Sally
Published: September 2013

SYNOPSIS

The costs and benefits of implementing International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in practice can now be examined as more countries adopt IFRS. Our survey-based study provides unique insights into the perceptions of the preparers of 305 Australian company financial reports, when companies were preparing Australian equivalents to IFRS financial statements for the first time. We analyze preparers' perceptions of the costs of the implementation process and the likely benefits arising for their companies. Our results reveal a very negative tone among respondents reflecting concerns about the problems of IFRS implementation and the low level of expected benefits. We show that the primary sources of these concerns about IFRS were the difficulties associated with specific accounting issues, the ongoing monetary costs involved, and the perceived limited capital market impact of the changes introduced.

Data Availability: Data used in the study are available from the authors upon request.
Particularities Of Sleep Habits In School Children From Tîrgu Mureș
Authors: Sólyom Réka , Maria Despina Baghiu Maria , Neagoș Adriana
Published: September 2013

Introduction: The international literature gives us very variable data regarding sleep disorders and the complaints related to this pathology. However, interpreting these data is difficult because of the ethnical and cultural differences and the numerous possibilities of the assessments. In this paper the authors examined and evaluated the main parameters which characterize the sleep habits of a group of children in Romania, as well as the complaints related to it, which could influence the quality of sleeping.

Material and method: Distributing questionnaires amongst children in Tîrgu Mureș. We used different questionnaires, based on the Epworth and Conner’s scores, for children between 11-14 and 15-18 years and for their parents.

Results: The gender ratio was approximately equal, the height and weight of the children was within the framework of Romanian standards. The most frequent nocturnal complaints were: problems with falling asleep, agitation, awakenings during the night. The most frequent daytime complaints: fatigue when in school, difficulty waking up in the morning and mood swings. The results showed significant differences between weekday sleeping hours and weekend sleep time (p = 0.0022).

Conclusion: Sleep habits change with age, which is a physiological effect. Other factors that modify sleeping habits in a negative way and reduce the time spent sleeping, play a crucial role in the occurrence of persistent fatigue, reduced quality school performance and even of a depraved life quality.
Multiple Sclerosis Of The Spinal Cord: Is Gadolinium Irreplaceable In Assessing Lesion Activity?
Authors: Treabă Constantina Andrada , Buruian M , Bălașa Rodica , Podeanu Maria Daniela , Simu I P , Macavei I
Published: September 2013

Purpose: To evaluate the relationship between the T2 patterns of spinal cord multiple sclerosis lesions and their contrast uptake.

Material and method: We retrospectively reviewed the appearance of spinal cord lesions in 29 patients (with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis) who had signs and symptoms of myelopathy on neurologic examination and at least one active lesion visualized on magnetic resonance examinations performed between 2004 and 2011. We correlated the T2 patterns of lesions with contrast enhancement and calculated sensitivity and specificity in predicting gadolinium enhancement.

Results: Only focal patterns consisting of a lesion’s center homogenously brighter than its periphery on T2-weighed images (type I) correlated significantly with the presence of contrast enhancement (p = 0.004). Sensitivity was 0.307 and specificity 0.929. In contrast, enhancement was not significantly related to uniformly hyperintense T2 focal lesions (type II) or diffuse (type III) pattern defined as poorly delineated areas of multiple small, confluent, subtle hyperintense T2 lesions (p > 0.5 for both).

Conclusions: We believe that information about the activity of multiple sclerosis spinal cord lesions in patients with myelopathy may be extracted not only from contrast enhanced, but also from non-enhanced magnetic resonance images.
The New Changes In The 7th Ajcc/Uicc Staging System Of Gastric Carcinomas
Authors: Hălmaciu Ioana , Gurzu Simona , Suciu B A , Comișel S I , Dénes L , Boc Lacrima , Brînzaniuc Klara
Published: September 2013

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze in parallel the 6th and the newest 7th AJJCC/UICC (American Joint Committee on Cancer/ International Union Against Cancer) staging system in order to highlight changes brought by the new staging system.

Methods: We analyzed data obtained retrospectively from 134 hospitalized patients diagnosed with gastric carcinomas, who underwent surgery at the Surgery Clinics of the County Emergency Clinical Hospital of Tîrgu Mureș, Romania between 2008-2010. The data have been obtained from histopathology reports, and the analyzed parameters were the following: age, gender and pTNM staging. For all cases included in the study restaging was performed according to the 7th AJJCC/UICC staging system.

Results: 71.66% of cases were adenocarcinomas, 7.46% mucinous adenocarcinoma, 14.17% signet ring cell carcinoma, and 6.71% undifferentiated carcinoma. The signet ring cell carcinomas predominated before 65 years of age (p = 0.003). Compared to the 6th staging system, in the new system pT2 percentages decreased significantly from 38.8% to 6.71%, and pT4 increases from 11.19% to 55.97% (p <0.0001). The pN3 cases increased from 20.9% to 45.52%, because all cases classified as pN2 in the old staging system, became pN3 in the new system. Some of the pN1 cases turned into pN2 in the new system (p = 0.004). Stage IV cases also decreased from 29.85% to 14.94%, due to regrouping of stage III.

Conclusions: There are significant changes between the two staging systems. The new staging system aims to achieve a better postoperative follow-up.
The Role Of Erythropoietin In The Treatment Of Anemia In Patients With Malignant Lymphoma
Authors: Kurtus Aranka , Benedek Erzsébet , Köpeczi Judith Beáta , Kakucs Enikő , Tunyogi Aliz-Beáta , Istrati Monica , Benedek I
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Anemia is a common complication of malignant lymphomas, which could be a direct consequence of the disease or secondary to the myelosupressive chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of erythropoietin to treat anemia. The main objectives were to demonstrate increases in hemoglobin levels and the existence of an association between symptom relief and treatment.

Material and method: In the Clinical Hematology and BMT Unit Tîrgu Mureș we performed an analytical, observational study to assess the role of erythropoietin treatment in malignant lymphoma related anemia. This linear, retrospective study included 127 patients diagnosed and treated with malignant lymphoma between January 1st, 2007 and December 30, 2011. The 127 patients were divided into two groups: a group of patients (n = 88) who were treated with erythropoietin and the other group (n = 39) who did not receive this treatment. Patients included in the study received treatment with epoetin beta 40,000 IU/week. We followed the hemoglobin level and the symptomatology at baseline and after 4 weeks.

Results: Patients who received treatment with erythropoietin had a 7.12 times higher possibility of being asymptomatic than patients who did not receive this treatment. The hemoglobin concentration of patients with erythropoietin treatment increased significantly (p <0.0001) compared to the patients who did not receive this treatment.

Conclusion: Effective treatment of anemia is an important aim in the management of patients with malignant lymphomas, because it increases their hemoglobin concentration, decreases the need of transfusion and maintains an acceptable quality of life.
Losing Hope? The Environmental Crisis Today
Authors: Hodson Martin J.
Published: September 2013

Environmentalists and scientists who study the environment often give a pretty bleak picture of the future. Surveys of secular views on the environment suggest that the general public in the developed West are concerned about the state of the environment. After considering all of the environmental problems that are causing scientists to worry, this paper then concentrates on four: climate change; biodiversity loss; global water supply; and the increase in our human population. Finally we will see what scientists have to say about hope in a time of environmental crisis
Exploring Hope
Authors: Weaver John
Published: September 2013

This paper has emerged out of a consultation held in Oxford to consider the relevance of the Christian message of hope in the face of global environmental crisis. For many Christians, hope has moved from being a proximate hope that we might change our behaviour, to an eschatological hope, as behaviour and policy change are becoming frustratingly hard to secure. It is recognised that this crisis of hope not only applies to environmental issues but also issues of poverty. The author considers our role as hopeful disciples living between proximate and ultimate hope. He uses Ricoeur’s ‘knot of reality’ to explore the interconnection between suffering, faithfulness and the promises of God. The link between catastrophe, judgment, endurance, and hope are examined. A number of key Bible passages are considered in outline and Col. 1:15-20 and Rom. 8:18-23 are examined in more depth, along with some passages from Genesis and Isaiah.

Church leaders who are aware of the environmental crisis, need to improve their communication to motivate Christians to take seriously the care for creation and for the poor. Drawing on the work of Walsh and Keesmaat, the author calls Christians to be countercultural. The Church can bring the signs of hope and these are found in community.

This requires action that embodies Christian virtues. These point to a renewal of creation and show that we are caught up in a bigger story. Our ultimate hope is always in God and is brought into our present world through our faithful discipleship.
Merger Remedies in a Small Market Economy: Empirical Evidence from the Baltic States
Authors: Svetlicinii Alexandr , Lugenberg Külliki
Published: September 2013

The paper represents a comparative study of the merger remedies practices of the three Baltic states: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Based on comprehensive merger control data (2004-2011) and a comparative assessment of merger remedies imposed by the NCAs in the selected economic sectors (telecoms, alcoholic beverages, construction materials, trade in pharmaceuticals) the study identifies trends and tendencies of merger control that are characteristic for small market economies. Despite harmonization of national competition laws and enforcement practices with the EU rules and standards, the study highlights an obvious divergence from the EU guidance expressed in increasing acceptance of behavioral commitments. The results of the assessment indicate the need to develop more specific guidance on behavioral remedies that would better reflect the merger control realities of small market economies.
MicroRNA Expression in Different Sybtypes of Breast Cancer
Authors: Kalniete Dagnija , Nakazawa-Miklasevica Miki , Strumfa Ilze , Abolins Arnis , Irmejs Arvids , Trofimovics Genadijs , Gardovskis Janis , Miklasevics Edvins
Published: September 2013

Introduction. MicroRNAs are a class of small, non-coding RNA molecules able to regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level through binding to the 3’-UTR of the targeted mRNA, thus suppressing translation of the mRNA. In various diseases, including malignancies, expression of microRNAs is altered. Moreover, the altered expression of the microRNAs correlates with clinical and pathophysiological features of cancer thus making them good candidates for prognostic/predictive markers.

Aim of the study. The aim of this study was to determine expression level of five different microRNAs (miR-10b, miR-21, miR-29a, miR-31, and miR-214) in breast cancer tissues and to look for the differences in microRNA expression between distinct subtypes of breast cancer.

Material and methods. Forty five breast cancer and corresponding resection line tissues (control tissues) were studied. Breast cancer tissues were classified into the subtypes of triple-negative (23), luminal-A (13), luminal-B (7), and HER2+ (2). Quantitative analysis of miR-10b, miR-21, miR-29a, miR-31, and miR-214 was performed by real-time PCR. The expression levels of microRNAs were normalized by the expression of the reference gene RNU6B. The event-free survival in regard of high and low expression levels of microRNAs were analyzed by Log-rank (Mantel Cox) and Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon tests.

Results. Expression levels of four microRNAs (miR-21, miR-29a, miR-31, and miR-214) were significantly higher in cancer tissues than in corresponding resection line tissues. Breast cancer patients with low expression level of miR-21 showed a trend of better event-free survival than breast cancer patients with high expression level of miR-21; however, this trend did not reach statistical significance. In triple-negative tumor tissues, miR-21, miR-29a, and miR-31 showed significantly higher expression level than in luminal-A tumor tissues. Expression levels of miR-21 and miR-29a were significantly higher in triple-negative tumor tissues than in luminal-B tumor tissues.

Conclusions. Breast cancer patients with high expression level of miR-21 in tumor tissues show a trend of worse event-free survival, though; this trend did not reach statistical significance. Different microRNA expression in distinct subtypes of breast cancer points to the genetic heterogeneity of breast cancer, different regulatory targets and signaling pathways
Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms with Accompanied Iliac Artery Aneurysms Using New Sack Sealing Device
Authors: Kisis Kaspars , Savlovskis Janis , Dombure Polina , Gedins Marcis , Ezite Natalija , Zarins Kristaps , Krievins Dainis
Published: September 2013

Introduction. 20-30% of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) occur simultaneously with unilateral or bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAA). Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is known to be an effective AAA treatment method used by many centres in over 80% of cases. Presence of AAA accompanied by CIAA significantly increases the complexity of EVAR with currently available endografts, internal iliac artery (IIA) often requiring coil embolisation resulting in serious post-procedural complications such as ischaemia of pelvic organs, gluteal claudication and erectile dysfunction.

Aim of the study. Demonstrate successful endovascular AAA and CIAA treatment with new generation sac-sealing endograft device.

Materials and methods. From 2008 Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital is participating in the prospective clinical trial assessing the efficacy and stability of the new generation sac-sealing endograft device (Nellix®, Endologix, USA). Until now this trial had 40 enrolled patients with suitable for endovascular treatment aneurysmal morphology. The treatment group has included 16 patients with AAA extending to either one or both common iliac arteries (CIA). The control group consisted of 24 patients with isolated AAA. AAA diameter was 5.6±0.76 cm (min - 4.3, max - 6.98) and 5.16± 0.91 cm (min-3.78, max-7.24) in the treatment and control groups respectively. Seven patients had unilateral and nine patients had bilateral CIAA. The diameter of CIAA was 2.61±0.57 cm (min - 2.04, max - 4.44). Post-procedural follow-up was done at one, six and twelve months and on annual basis thereafter. During follow-up the general health condition of the patients was assessed as well as computer tomography angiography (CTA) and duplex ultrasonography (DUS) imaging was performed in order to examine the status of the aneurysm, endograft condition and patency of IIA. Statistical analysis of data was performed using v19.0 SPSS software (IBM). Results. All patients successfully treated with new generation sac-sealing endograft excluding AAA and CIAA from blood circulation. Average follow-up period was 18 months. Upon follow-up in both groups endograft was stable and fixated in aneurysms with no endoleaks detected. In the treatment group all treated IIAs had remained patent with no pelvic organs ischaemia or gluteal claudication symptoms.

Conclusion. New generation sac-sealing endograft is effective and simple in employment for the treatment of concomitant AAA and CIAA allowing the treatment of aneurysms with complex morphology and preserving the blood flow to internal iliac arteries. Further studies are required for long-term assessment of this endograft efficacy.
Renal Cell Carcinoma – How Can We Predict its Outcomes in Clinical Practice?
Authors: Vaivode Ieva , Lietuvietis Vilnis , Hegmane Alinta , Kudaba Iveta
Published: September 2013

Morbidity and mortality data of RCC (renal cell carcinoma) differs a lot among the European countries. In Latvia a growing trend in both incidence and mortality rates is still observed. The expanding availability of multiple treatment strategies has increased the importance of skilled individualized outcome prediction for patients. Several prognostic factors are available in RCC including anatomical, histological, clinical and molecular ones, but none of them is very precise, when used alone. Therefore increasing number of prognostic systems has been created in local and metastatic disease to increase predictive accuracy. In order to encourage the clinicians to use the available models in their routine practice, we tried to select the most relevant ones and include them in a simple algorithm to be used in common clinical scenarios throughout entire history of the disease in patients with RCC
Power Factor Corrector Based on Parallel Quasi- Resonant Pulse Converter with Fast Current Loop
Authors: Denisov Yuriy , Stepenko Serhii
Published: September 2013

The problems, devoted to power quality and particularly power factor correction, are of great importance nowadays. The key requirements, which should be satisfied according to the energy efficiency paradigm, are not limited only by high quality of the output voltage (low total harmonic distortion), but also assume minimal power losses (high efficiency) in the power factor corrector (PFC). It could be satisfied by the use of quasi-resonant pulse converter (QRPC) due to its high efficiency at high switching frequency instead of the classical pulse-width modulated (PWM) boost converter. A dynamic model of QRPC with zero current switching (ZCS) is proposed. This model takes into account the main features of QRPC-ZCS as a link of a PFC closed-loop system (discreteness, sharp changes of parameters over switching period, input voltage impact on the gain). The synthesized model is also valid for conventional parallel pulse converter over an active interval of commutation. The regulator for current loop of PFC was synthesized based on digital filter using proposed model by the criterion of fast acting.
Constant Current Models of Brushless DC Motor
Authors: Krykowski Krzysztof , Hetmańczyk Janusz
Published: September 2013

Two constant current models of Permanent Magnet Brushless Direct Current Motor (PM BLDC) are presented in the paper. In the first part of the paper principle of operation, basic properties and mathematical equations describing PM BLDC models are given. Then, two different constant current models of PM BLDC motor are considered: In the first model, PM BLDC motor is approximated with dc motor; in the second model, modified constant current model is applied with additional block, which is used to take into account the impact of inductance on torque-speed characteristics. In order to verify these models, torque-speed characteristics have been determined and compared for different motor supply voltages. After running a series of simulation and laboratory tests, we have found that this modified model (which makes allowance for the influence of inductance on torque-speed characteristics) ensures obtaining torque-speed characteristics identical to those of the real motor. Therefore, this model may be recommended for those simulation tests which do not consider effects occurring inside the electronic commutator-motor circuit. However, approximation of PM BLDC motor with dc motor is not recommended in computer tests.
Formula Synthesis of Maximal Mechanical Torque on Volume for Cylindrical Magnetic Coupler
Authors: Ose-Zala Baiba , Onzevs Oskars , Pugachov Vladislav
Published: September 2013

In this paper the influence of basic design parameters (proportionality coefficient β and permanent magnets height h) on the mechanical torque for cylindrical magnetic coupler with rounded permanent magnets is researched. Such cylindrical magnetic couplers are often used in pumps and liquid mixers. At the beginning the design parameters and their relevance are explained. The mechanical torque is calculated applying the software QuickField. In the data analysis and for the coupler comparison the division of maximal mechanical torque on volume is taken as the main characteristic. Because of the planned optimization for the calculated variants there were synthesized few formulas, from which the most suitable were found (for all researched design parameters’ ranges). The formulas are synthesized using a program, which is created by Oskars Onzevs. The program for the formula synthesis is based on regression models, and the basic principles of it are explained. All the calculations for experimental and formula data are made for magnetic coupler’s design with one pole pair number p that is equal to three.
Finite Element Analysis of Modular Pulse Width Modulation Converters with JAMG Software
Authors: Galkin Ilya , Burtovoy Sergey , Stepanov Andrew
Published: September 2013

The paper is devoted to half-bridge versatile power modules which can compose various converters. Successful use of such modules is possible if their construction is optimal from the electromagnetic and thermal points of view. The first purpose can be achieved utilizing bus-bars in the system of conductors. This ensures reduction of stray inductance, losses and module dimensions, as well as increase of switching frequency. Calculation of stray inductances is not an easy task which, however, can be successfully done with dedicated Finite Element Method (FEM) calculation software, for example JMAG. It can also be used for thermal calculations. In the given paper this method is applied to the analysis of a novel optimized design of the half-bridge module with concentrated DC-bus capacitors. The benefits of the module are shown with the help of simulation as well as experimentally. It is, however, stated that physical parameters of the module could be improved by splitting the DCbus capacitors. The obtained design is more compact, but, as it was verified by means of simulation, also attractive from other points of view (EMC, voltage spikes, losses etc.). This design, therefore, can be recommended for future research.