bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
From cartography of the Universe to molecular cartography – the use of map projections
Authors: Pędzich Paweł 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Map projections are very important in the compilation of various types of maps and spatial databases. Geographical information systems provide their users with the significant opportunities in the choice of map projections, coordinate systems, their definitions and transitions between them. The role of map projection can be considered depending on an objective, for which a map has to be used, user of this map and a form of its publication. The Internet, mobile devices and GIS caused that the map projections are used for two main purposes: data visualization and performing of calculations and analyses. The role of map projections is still important, despite the changes occurring in cartography. The rules for the applications of map projections developed over the centuries are still valid. However, the new rules resulting from the new functions of map projections are also created. The aim of this article, that is the author’s overview of map projections, is to illustrate the broad spectrum of applications for the map projections.
Effect of the thermoplastic masks on dose distribution in the build-up region for photon beams
Authors: Półtorak Michał , Fujak Edyta , Kukołowicz Paweł 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of thermoplastic masks material (Klarity Medical&Equipment Co., Guangzhou, China) with different diameters of holes (ϕ 0.25 cm and ϕ 0.40 cm) on the dose distribution in the build-up region for photon beams. Measurements were made for external radiation beams produced by the linear accelerator (TrueBeam, Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA, USA) using the Markus parallel plane ionization chamber and the Unidos electrometer (both from PTW, Freiburg, Germany). Measurements were made in a solid water phantom for two photon energies 6 MV and 15 MV, at 90 cm source to skin distance, for four fields of 5 cm × 5 cm, 10 cm × 10 cm, 15 cm × 15 cm and 20 cm × 20 cm. Compared to the open field, the maximum dose with mask was closer to the surface of the phantom by about 1.4 mm and 1.2 mm for 6 MV and 15 MV X-Rays, respectively. The surface dose increase from 10% to 42% for 6 MV and from 5% to 28% for 15 MV X-Rays.
Dosimetric study of the protection level of the bone marrow in patients with cervical or endometrial cancer for three radiotherapy techniques - 3D CRT, IMRT and VMAT. Study protocol.
Authors: Jodda Agata , Urbański Bartosz , Piotrowski Tomasz , Malicki Julian 
Published: March 2016

Abstract

Background: The paper shows the methodology of an in-phantom study of the protection level of the bone marrow in patients with cervical or endometrial cancer for three radiotherapy techniques: three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy, intensity modulated radiotherapy, and volumetric modulated arc therapy, preceded by the procedures of image guidance.

Methods/Design: The dosimetric evaluation of the doses will be performed in an in-house multi-element anthropomorphic phantom of the female pelvic area created by three-dimensional printing technology. The volume and position of the structures will be regulated according to the guidelines from the Bayesian network. The input data for the learning procedure of the model will be obtained from the retrospective analysis of imaging data obtained for 96 patients with endometrial cancer or cervical cancer treated with radiotherapy in our centre in 2008-2013. Three anatomical representations of the phantom simulating three independent clinical cases will be chosen. Five alternative treatment plans (1 × three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy, 2 × intensity modulated radiotherapy and 2 × volumetric modulated arc therapy) will be created for each representation. To simulate image-guided radiotherapy, ten specific recombinations will be designated, for each anatomical representation separately, reflecting possible changes in the volume and position of the phantom components.

Discussion: The comparative analysis of planned measurements will identify discrepancies between calculated doses and doses that were measured in the phantom. Finally, differences between the doses cumulated in the hip plates performed by different techniques simulating the gynaecological patients' irradiation of dose delivery will be established. The results of this study will form the basis of the prospective clinical trial that will be designed for the assessment of hematologic toxicity and its correlation with the doses cumulated in the hip plates, for gynaecologic patients undergoing radiation therapy.
Inflation Target and its Impact on Macroeconomy in the Zero Lower Bound Environment: the case of the Czech economy
Authors: Hloušek Miroslav 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
This paper uses a stochastic simulation of a DSGE model of the Czech economy to study the macroeconomic consequences of inflation target setting when interest rates are constrained by the zero lower bound. The distortions of this constraint depend non-linearly on the inflation target. For an inflation target of two percent the costs are negligible, but they increase steeply with lower target values. The largest impact is on the average values of output, consumption and investment; inflation is only slightly influenced. The volatility of all the variables considered increases significantly, but only for inflation targets that are close to zero. An inflation target of four percent does not bring additional benefits either in terms of lower volatility or in terms of higher average values.
The effect of the degree of foreign ownership on firms' performance
Authors: Hintošová Aneta Bobenič , Kubíková Zuzana 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
A large number of studies have compared the performance of foreign-owned and domestic firms. However, only a limited number of studies have investigated the effect of the degree of foreign ownership on a firm's performance. We attempt to fill this gap in the literature by conducting research that distinguishes not only between domestic and foreign-owned firms, but also between wholly and partly foreign-owned firms. We also examine the possible non-linearity of the performance-ownership relationship. We divide the firms in our study into three groups by their ownership - domestic, foreign, and joint ventures. We use a regression analysis to explore whether foreign ownership influences the firms' performance, measured by several variables such as profitability, innovation performance (measured by gross expenditures on research and development activities), numbers of employees involved in research and development, production, value added, leverage and net working capital intensity. The results of our research indicate that there is a statistically significant difference in firms' performance as a result of foreign ownership in all variables except the number of research and development employees and leverage. Moreover, we show that foreign ownership and performance are linked by an inverted U-shaped relationship. A firm’s performance increases with greater foreign ownership up to the range of 61-65 %, and declines thereafter.
Increased Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Risk (Assessed by Findrisc Score) is Associated with Subclinical Atherosclerotic Markers in Asymptomatic Adult Population
Authors: Mitu Ovidiu , Mitu Florin , Leon Maria-Magdalena , Roca Mihai , Gherasim Andreea , Graur Mariana 
Published: March 2016

Abstract

Background and Aims. Risk score questionnaires for the screening of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) present high accuracy, especially the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC). The aim of the study was to assess the FINDRISC score and its correlations with multiple markers of subclinical atherosclerosis in an asymptomatic urban population.

Material and Methods. In the current prospective study, 111 randomized asymptomatic subjects, aged 35-75, were evaluated. FINDRISC score, the cardiovascular and metabolic risk profile were evaluated. Multiple markers of subclinical atherosclerosis were assessed including carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), ankle-brachial index (ABI), pulse wave velocity (PWV) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI).

Results. Mean age was 51.87 ± 10.64 years while FINDRISC score was 10.53 ± 4.53. 77% of the subjects were overweight and all parameters of obesity were well associated with FINDRISC score (p<0.001). This asymptomatic population was dyslipidemic (total cholesterol 212.79±44.99 mg/dl). DM risk correlated with age, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose and glomerular filtration rate. Increased FINDRISC was associated with IMT (r=0.24, p=0.01), PWV (r=0.26, p=0.008) or LVMI (r=0.23, p=0.01).

Conclusions. This asymptomatic population was metabolically uncontrolled. Easily administered type 2 DM screening questionnaires should be routinely performed as increased risk score values are associated with subclinical atherosclerosis.
The Impact of Anthropometric Measurements on Lipid Profile in Normal, Overweight and Obese Adults with Hypertension
Authors: Abdelhaq Abbes Mohamed , Karima Bereksi-Reguig , Mira Aissani , Ibrahim Chenaoui , Sami Bouguerra 
Published: March 2016

Abstract

Background and Aims: We investigated the association of anthropometric measurements with lipid profile in adult hypertensive patients with normal weight and overweight including obesity.

Materials and Method: This was a randomized study performed in Tiaret, Algeria, on 150 hypertensive patients aged 33-91 years. Patients were divided according to their body weight (normal weight vs. overweight and obesity) into two groups. Weight, height and body mass index (BMI) were measured to estimate the various categories of body weight. The blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) and lipid profile (total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and triglycerides (TG) were analyzed.

Results: We found significant relations between body weight and blood pressure. Patients with normal weight had a normal blood pressure. However, a significant increase in blood pressure was observed in patients with overweight and obesity. Numerous significant relationship were disclosed for TC and LDL-c.

Conclusion: Lipid profile is related with weight status in hypertensive overweight/obese patients.
Comparative Evaluation of Several Simple Screening Tests for Risk of Neuropathic Ulcerations of Feet in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lasca Monica , Tăut Andreea Larisa , Vereşiu Ioan Andrei 
Published: March 2016

Abstract

Background and Aims: The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate three semi-quantitative screening methods used to predict ulceration risk in diabetic patients: 10 g Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SW), 128-Hz tuning fork and VibraTip® device.

Material and Method: This case-control study was carried out at the Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases Department Cluj-Napoca and included 90 persons distributed into three groups: group A: 30 patients with diabetes mellitus and one or more active neuropathic ulcerations at one foot, group B: 30 patients with diabetes mellitus without ulceration and group C: 30 apparently healthy subjects. The subjects were examined by two independent examiners, using the three screening methods.

Results: The agreement kappa coefficient between the two examiners was high and statistically significant. The SW monofilament presented a sensitivity of 71.67% and a specificity of 91.67%. The 128 Hz tuning fork presented a sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 89.17%. VibraTip® device recorded a sensitivity of 76.66% and a specificity of 77.5%.

Conclusions: The highest sensitivity is encountered at the use of VibraTip® device, and the highest specificity is presented by SW monofilament.
Data Regarding the Prevalence and Incidence of Diabetes Mellitus and Prediabetes
Authors: Sandu Maria-Magdalena , Protasiewicz Diana Cristina , Firănescu Adela Gabriela , Lăcătuşu Elena Cristina , Bîcu Mihaela Larisa , Moţa Maria 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) represents one of the highest challenges in our century, due to the fact that in the last 20 years the number of patients with DM has doubled, at present affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide, both in developed countries and in developing ones, as well. One of the most serious consequences of this increase is the onset of type 2 DM in children, adolescents and young people, the main causes being an unhealthy lifestyle: unhealthy food, lack of physical exercise, which, most of the times, lead to obesity. Also, DM is often associated to micro and macrovascular complications, thus determining disabilities and high costs in the healthcare systems, respectively. DM is one of the main causes of death all over the world, a reason for which there are required prevention programs worldwide.
Meeting Report- EASD Postgraduate Course on Clinical Diabetes and Its Complications, 29 – 31 October 2015, Prague, Czech Republic
Authors: Stoica Roxana Adriana 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Since 2005 the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) invests in the education of diabetologists and facilitates the implementation of patient care by organizing postgraduate courses in different countries. I attended at one of these courses that was held in Prague between 29 and 31 October 2015. The course consisted of six sessions of state of the art lectures entitled: type 1 diabetes update, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, special situations, therapy, complications and the last one, diabetes treatment- what is on the horizon?. These sessions alternated with interactive workshops held in parallel sessions. I consider that this experience helped me improve my practice skills. I had the opportunity to interact with doctors from other European countries and exchange our experience in the field of diabetes. I hope Romania will organize again such constructive EASD postgraduate courses on clinical diabetes.
A retrospective comparison of laminectomy and unilateral fenestration with foraminotomy on outcome of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Adam D. , Hornea Ioana , Burduşa Gina , Iftimie D. , Moisescu Cristiana 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Background: Neural decompression for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) can be performed, besides conventional lumbar laminectomy, by many other surgical techniques.
Objective: The goal of this study is to analyze the results of laminectomy versus unilateral fenestration and foraminotomy with bilateral neural decompression in LSS patients.
Methods: A number of 58 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis were divided into two groups: group A (no.=22) consists of patients that underwent a laminectomy procedure and group B (no.=36) of cases where unilateral fenestration with foraminotomy was used. Outcome was assessed at 1, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Two parameters were evaluated: level of pain with the VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) score and the ODI (Oswestry Disability Index) scale for functional improvement.
Results: The level of pain was reduced in both patient groups. Cases in group A maintained higher levels of back pain in the first postoperative month versus group B. Improvement was faster for those operated by unilateral approach. At 6 months and 1 year follow-ups, VAS values were very similar. All patients presented functional recovery evaluated with the ODI scale, that showed continuous improvement at 6 months and 1 year.
Conclusions: Bilateral decompression by unilateral approach is an efficient method that represents the first option of treatment for patients with lateral lumbar spinal stenosis with unilateral or predominantly unilateral symptoms. For patients with severe central stenosis, classic laminectomy remains the first surgical choice.
Myasthenia Gravis – a beginning with no end
Authors: Croitoru Cristina Georgiana , Turliuc Dana Mihaela , Danciu Florentina , Cucu A.I. , Turliuc S. , Costea Claudia Florida 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is one of the neurological diseases with a relatively recent history, full of mistakes, in which the British and German neurology schools have attempted to find answers when confronted with the unknown. The paper aims at making a historical account of the disease from its discovery in the 16th century, when the first case of myasthenia gravis was medically diagnosed, to the beginning of the 20th century, when the dawn of modern therapy started to show.
Intracranial arachnoid cyst: an institutional experience
Authors: Sharma Mukesh , Mittal R.S. , Bansal Rajeev , Sharma Achal 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Aim: In this study, symptoms at presentation, indication for surgery, surgical treatment modalities, postoperative results and complications were studied.
Material and methods: We retrospectively compiled the details of patients with IAC from admission and operative records admitted through our OPD during the period between January 1995 and January 2015. Only those patients were admitted whose symptoms attributes to the cyst and asymptomatic patients were followed on OPD basis. This is a single institutional study.
Results: This study includes 56 patients of IAC who were operated. Posterior fossa cysts (62.5%) were found more commonly symptomatic. Headache (32%) was the most common symptom in a patient with IAC. Out of all, 24 patients presented with headache and underwent surgery subsequently; 20 showed satisfactory relief after surgery while four showed partial relief. Size of cyst was significantly reduced after surgery in 52 patients after 12 weeks but four patients, who underwent cystoperitoneal shunt, required re-operation as patients showed no decrease in size of cyst due to shunt malfunction. Head circumference was reduced following intervention in infant patients. Three patients who presented with visual field defects with IAC in sellar region showed improvement after endoscopic fenestration of cyst. One of the patient with cerebellopontine angle arachnoid was died immediately after marsupialization due to unexplained bleeding.
Conclusions: IAC is not an uncommon finding on imaging but only few are symptomatic. Patients with Intracranial arachnoid cyst should be treated only if the patient’s symptoms are attributable to the cyst.
Does the Students’ Preferred Pedagogy Relate to their Ethnicity : UK and Asian Experience
Authors: Winch Junko 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
An increasing number of international students, whose culture of teaching and learning practices are very different from UK students, are studying at British universities. This study investigates multicultural students’ preferences using two different teaching approaches in the 2009/2010 academic year, which is explained in the framework of this study. The study sample was two groups, a total of 34 students who were studying Japanese as a non-credited module. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected using questionnaires. The results showed that students’ preferences in teaching and learning appeared to be altered and influenced by the British educational culture regardless of students’ previous educational culture. In addition, the sample participants’ preference of teaching and learning are categorised into three types based on the framework of the study. Those who are in the teaching profession in a multicultural learning environment are encouraged to take consideration of students’ previous educational culture. It is suggested to incorporate teaching and learning practices from non-Anglophone countries to the Anglophone originated teaching approach to capture different preferences of multicultural students, reflecting global international characteristics of teaching and learning environments.
State Education Policy in the Field of Adult Education in Germany
Authors: Hizhynska Tetiana 
Published: March 2016

AbstractGerman experience of development and modernization of the field of adult education has been outlined in the paper. Historical development of the field and its recognition as an independent level in education have been considered. The aim of the field has been defined. It has been emphasized that the names of the field in Ukraine and Germany differ. It has been found out that Germany is a federal state with decentralized system of regulation for adult education where federation, states and municipal authorities cooperate. Based on studying literary and documentary sources the competences of states for legislation and initiatives in the field of adult education have been revealed. It has been stated that there is no legal support regulating the field of adult education in Germany. Based on the data of the conducted analysis it has become possible to find out that the state policy in the field of adult education is, first of all, is aimed at providing every citizen with the right to personality development and freedom to choose education institutions. The content of federal acts related to the field of adult education in Germany has been delivered. Theoretical generalization of main aspects of the field regulation due to states adult education / continuing education acts and educational leave acts has been performed.
Comparison of 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT and contrast-enhanced CT in localisation of tumours in ectopic ACTH syndrome
Authors: Goroshi Majunath R , Jadhav Swati S , Lila Anurag R , Kasaliwal Rajeev , Khare Shruti , Yerawar Chaitanya G , Hira Priya , Phadke Uday , Shah Hina , Lele Vikram R , Malhotra Gaurav , Bandgar Tushar , Shah Nalini S 
Published: March 2016

Background
Localising ectopic adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) syndrome (EAS) tumour source is challenging. Somatostatin receptor-based PET imaging has shown promising results, but the data is limited to case reports and small case series. We reviewed here the performance of 68Ga-DOTANOC positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) and contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) in our cohort of 12 consecutive EAS patients.

Materials and methods
Retrospective data analysis of 12 consecutive patients of EAS presenting to a single tertiary care centre in a period between January 2013 and December 2014 was done. CECT and 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT were reported (blinded) by an experienced radiologist and a nuclear medicine physician, respectively. The performance of CECT and 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT was compared.

Results
Tumours could be localised in 11 out of 12 patients at initial presentation (overt cases), whereas in one patient, tumour remained occult. Thirteen lesions were identified in 11 patients as EAS source (true positives). CECT localised 12 out of these 13 lesions (sensitivity 92.3%) and identified five false-positive lesions (positive predictive value (PPV) 70.5%). Compared with false-positive lesions, true-positive lesions had greater mean contrast enhancement at 60s (33.2 vs 5.6 Hounsfield units (HU)). 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT was able to identify 9 out of 13 lesions (sensitivity 69.2%) and reported no false-positive lesions (PPV 100%).

Conclusion
CECT remains the first-line investigation in localisation of EAS. The contrast enhancement pattern on CECT can further aid in characterisation of the lesions. 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT can be added to CECT, to enhance positive prediction of the suggestive lesions.
Kašučių senųjų laukų archeologiniai tyrinėjimai
Authors: Nemickienė Rėda 
Published: March 2016

Straipsnyje pristatomi Kašučių senųjų laukų archeologiniai tyrinėjimai ir jų metu gauti rezultatai. Trumpai apžvelgiami ir senųjų laukų teritorijoje vykdytų palinologinių bei geocheminių tyrimų rezultatai, aprašomi aptikti akmenys su dubenėliais. Kašučių senuosius laukus atrado ir juos tirti 1980–1981 m. pradėjo archeologas mėgėjas Ignas Jablonskis. XXI a. pradžioje Vilniaus universiteto Archeologijos katedros iniciatyva vykdytas antrasis Kašučių senųjų laukų tyrimų etapas. Tarpdalykiniuose ir tarptautiniuose tyrimuose dalyvavo ir Tartuuniversiteto archeologai, vadovaujami Valterio Lango, Kretingos muziejaus archeologas Julius Kanarskas, kiti tyrinėtojai.