bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

ABSTRACT
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

Summary
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

Summary
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

Summary
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

Abstract 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

Abstract 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

Abstract 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

Abstract 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.
Simultaneous chiral separation and determination of carvedilol and 5′-hydroxyphenyl carvedilol enantiomers from human urine by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescent detection
Authors: Magiera Sylwia , Adolf Weronika , Baranowska Irena 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
A sensitive and specific high performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescent detection (HPLC-FL) and tandem mass spectrometry detection (HPLC-MS/MS) methods for separation and determination of carvedilol (CAR) enantiomers and 5′-hydroxyphenyl carvedilol (5′-HCAR) enantiomers has been developed and validated. The analysed compounds were extracted from human urine by solid phase extraction. Good enantioseparation of the studied enantiomers was achieved on CHIRALCEL® OD-RH column using 0.05% trifluoroacetic acid and 0.05% diethylamine in water and acetonitrile in a gradient elution. The mass spectrometric data were acquired using the multiple reaction monitoring mode by positive electrospray ionisation. The method was validated over the concentration range from 25.0 ng mL−1 to 200 ng mL−1 for the analysed compounds. The limit of quantification varied from 14.2 ng mL−1 to 24.2 ng mL−1. Both the repeatability and inter-day precisions were below 10.0%, and the accuracy varied from −13.2% to 3.77%. The extraction recoveries ranged from 79.2% to 108%. The present paper reports the method for the simultaneous determination of CAR enantiomers and their metabolite enantiomers (5′-HCAR) in human urine samples. This newly developed method was successfully used to analyse the aforementioned analytes in human urine samples obtained from patients suffering from cardiovascular disease.
Salutaridine and its derivatives as thebaine-equivalents in the synthesis of aporphines
Authors: Udvardy Antal , Sipos Attila 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Here we report the transformation of tetracyclic morphinan salutaridine (1) into 2,3,10,11-tetrasubstituted (R)-aporphines. This method serves as another chemical proof of the previously verified biosynthetic connection with pentacyclic morphinan-6,8-diene-type thebaine. In the presence of nucleophiles, this procedure could lead to pharmacologically interesting new tetrasubstituted aporphinoids. The enantioselective synthesis of 7S-salutaridinol (2) has been also achieved in order to investigate the acid-catalyzed reactions of this natural morphinan.
Clinical Trial Registration in Physical Therapy Journals: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Babu Abraham Samuel , Veluswamy Sundar Kumar , Rao Pratiksha Tilak , Maiya Arun G. 
Published: September 2013

Background
Clinical trial registration has become an important part of editorial policies of various biomedical journals, including a few physical therapy journals. However, the extent to which editorial boards enforce the need for trial registration varies across journals.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to identify editorial policies and reporting of trial registration details in MEDLINE-indexed English-language physical therapy journals.

Design
This study was carried out using a cross-sectional design.

Methods
Editorial policies on trial registration of MEDLINE-indexed member journals of the International Society of Physiotherapy Journal Editors (ISPJE) (Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy, Journal of Hand Therapy, Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy, Journal of Physiotherapy [formerly Australian Journal of Physiotherapy], Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, Manual Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Sport, Physiotherapy, Physiotherapy Research International, Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, and Revista Brasileira de Fisioterapia) were reviewed in April 2013. Full texts of reports of clinical trials published in these journals between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2012, were independently assessed for information on trial registration.

Results
Among the 13 journals, 8 recommended trial registration, and 6 emphasized prospective trial registration. As of April 2013, 4,618 articles were published between January 2008 and December 2012, of which 9% (417) were clinical trials and 29% (121/417) of these reported trial registration details. A positive trend in reporting of trial registration was observed from 2008 to 2012.

Limitations
The study was limited to MEDLINE-indexed ISPJE member journals.

Conclusions
Editorial policies on trial registration of physical therapy journals and a rising trend toward reporting of trial registration details indicate a positive momentum toward trial registration. Physical therapy journal editors need to show greater commitment to prospective trial registration to make it a rule rather than an option.
Rasch Analysis Supports the Use of the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire
Authors: Di Pietro Flavia , Catley Mark J. , McAuley James H. , Parkitny Luke , Maher Christopher G. , Costa Luciola da Cunha Menezes , Macedo Luciana G. , Williams Chris M. , Moseley G. Lorimer 
Published: September 2013

Background
The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) is used by physical therapists in clinical practice and in research. However, current understanding of the PSEQ's measurement properties is incomplete, and investigators cannot be confident that it provides unbiased information on patient self-efficacy.

Objective
The aims of this study were: (1) to investigate the scale properties of the PSEQ using Rasch analysis and (2) to determine whether age, sex, pain intensity, pain duration, and pain-related disability bias function of the PSEQ.

Design
This was a retrospective study; data were obtained from 3 existing studies.

Methods
Data were combined from more than 600 patients with low back pain of varying duration. Rasch analysis was used to evaluate targeting, category ordering, unidimensionality, person fit, internal consistency, and item bias.

Results
There was evidence of adequate category ordering, unidimensionality, and internal consistency of the PSEQ. Importantly, there was no evidence of item bias.

Limitations
The PSEQ did not adequately target the sample; instead, it targeted people with lower self-efficacy than this population. Item 7 was hardest for participants to endorse, showing excessive positive misfit to the Rasch model. Response strings of misfitting persons revealed older participants and those reporting high levels of disability.

Conclusions
The individual items of the PSEQ can be validly summed to provide a score of self-efficacy that is robust to age, sex, pain intensity, pain duration, and disability. Although item 7 is the most problematic, it may provide important clinical information and requires further investigation before its exclusion. Although the PSEQ is commonly used with people with low back pain, of whom the sample in this study was representative, the results suggest it targets patients with lower self-efficacy than that observed in the current sample.