bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of relatively new chemotherapeutic agents on the outcome of Egyptian patients with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Gaafar R , Khaled H , Sallam Y.A. , Shafik H , Aboulkassem F.A. , Emara M 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Purpose: Patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) are well known to have poor response to chemotherapy. The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of new chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of Egyptian MPM patients.
Patients and methods: The first study was a non-randomised, open-label trial. It included 34 eligible patients who were assigned to receive either cisplatin–pemetrexed or pemetrexed alone if cisplatin was contraindicated for a maximum of eight cycles. In the second trial, 21 chemo-naive patients with histologically proven advanced MPM were included. They received cisplatin and raltitrexed for a maximum of six cycles.
Results: In the first trial, the median age was 43.5 years (range 25–69), partial response (PR) was achieved in 37.5%, stable disease (SD) in 50%. Median time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) were 7 and 14 months, respectively. Survival at 1 year was 64.7%. No toxicity was observed in 17.6% of patients and grade 3–4 toxicity was evident in 11.8% (neutropenia), 8.8% (anaemia) and 2.9% (vomiting and diarrhoea) of patients. In the second trial, median age was 46 years (range 19–71), PR was achieved in 23.2% and one CR was reported. SD was noticed in 61.9% of patients. Median TTP and OS were 6 and 12 months, respectively. Survival at 1 year was 51.6%.
Conclusion: Both cisplatin–pemetrexed and cisplatin–raltitrexed are effective and safe regimens in the treatment of MPM.
The Oversight of Fire Prevention in an Enterprise
Authors: Kopczewski Marian , Tobolski Marek 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
An efficiently working fire protection system in an enterprise, a work place or an institution guarantees the proper execution of fire protection duties. Its proper organisation is of key importance. The conditions of the proper organisation of the fire protection system in a given organisational unit are above all the universality in the scope of using applicable provisions, knowledge of applicable provisions, appropriately exercised supervision of usage of applicable provisions, orders and established rules of conduct. The aim of this paper is to specify the most important duties of owners, users or managers in providing protection against fire or other local risks. This results from the fact that given the variety of operating enterprises, the character of their activity, kind of production and used technology, size, fire risk, etc. it is not possible to determine a standard model of a fire protection system for a particular work place.
Omega-Psir: From the Repository to the Research Knowledge Base Experience of Warsaw University of Technology
Authors: Rybiński Henryk , Koperwas Jakub , Skonieczny Łukasz , Kozłowski Marek , Kozłowski Marek 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
This paper is devoted to a solution for building a research knowledge base for the university. An experience in developing a specialised software for building such a knowledge base is presented. We present the functionality of the system, as well as, sketch applied AI technologies aiming at providing features attractive for the system beneficiaries. It is shown that although a classical repository is the main part of the system, the essential value of the solution is in providing analytical tools for the ‘research management’. First lessons learned from deploying the software at Warsaw University of Technology are also discussed. The platform has been developed under the SYNAT project, aimed at building nation-wide scientific information infrastructure
Effectiveness of the Management System in Accredited Laboratory as a Tool to Enhance Competitiveness
Authors: Wierzowiecka Joanna 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
The situation on the market of laboratory services in Poland is growing rapidly. In order to stay in this difficult market, one shall convince potential customers to his/her competences and quality of services. Testing or calibration laboratories, wishing to assert its position in the market, introduce the management system based on the PN-EN ISO/IEC 17025:2005 standard, the so-called ‘General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories’, and then apply for the certificate of accreditation in the Polish Centre for Accreditation (PCA) [14].
In order to maintain accreditation, as well as to maintain a competitive advantage, laboratories must prove that the management system is effective, which is the matter of this article. The first part presents the analysis of concepts on the effectiveness of the quality management systems and their improvement, in particular those set out in the standards of ISO 9000 series, as well as in the ISO/IEC 17025 standard (in the past and present). In the following part one identified and described the PN-EN ISO/IEC 17025:2005 standard on the effectiveness of the management system in the accredited laboratory (including the involvement of top management and quality policy, internal audits, corrective and preventive actions, evaluation of the effectiveness of training, quality control tests). Then one showed how to assess the effectiveness of the management system, which shall or may be used by the accredited laboratory (i.e. internal audit, self-assessment, management review, surveys and financial appraisal).
Insourcing as a New Trend in Global Business
Authors: Chudzicka Jadwiga 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
In the face of world economic crisis, it is worth considering ‘what changes in thinking are needed to revive the global economy?’ Traditional management methods have already lost much of their potential. Keeping the compliance of job category with human nature is an important factor supported by insourcing. The purpose of this study was to answer the question whether the current economic situation in the world is more profitable to firms sending domestic jobs overseas, or perhaps - in the end - it is better to use insourcing services, providing employment to workers in their home countries
A Model of Knowledge Sharing in Polish Manufacturing Enterprises
Authors: Patalas-Maliszewska Justyna 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
This article elaborates on a model of knowledge sharing in Polish manufacturing enterprises. The author aims to analyse the effectiveness of knowledge sharing in Polish manufacturing enterprises based on the research results gained from the study described in this paper. In particular, the likely consequences and results of knowledge sharing by using Web 2.0 technologies are studied. This is followed by a discussion on the results of the literature and empirical studies. The summary indicates potential directions for further work.
The Mutual Benchmarking Method for Smes’ Competitive Strategy Development
Authors: Rostek Katarzyna 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Competitive advantage is a relative feature, evaluated in respect of other competing enterprises. The gaining of sustainable competitive advantage is conditioned by knowledge of own performance and the results of the competitive environment. SMEs have limited opportunities to obtain such information on their own. The method of mutual benchmarking changes this situation by introducing the collaborative network. The aim of the cooperation is to support each of the group members to achieve sustainable competitive advantage, which is the result of a conscious strategy, and not only a matter of chance. This cooperation is based on the collecting and processing of data and sharing information through a common IT platform: for example, a group of Polish SMEs was shown how to implement such a common IT solution and how to provide the information preparing within the proposed service. The whole is a complete proposal for effective support of creating a competitive strategy in SMEs.
A Hybrid Method for the Modelling and Optimisation of Constrained Search Problems
Authors: Sitek Pawel , Wikarek Jaroslaw 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
The paper presents a concept and the outline of the implementation of a hybrid approach to modelling and solving constrained problems. Two environments of mathematical programming (in particular, integer programming) and declarative programming (in particular, constraint logic programming) were integrated. The strengths of integer programming and constraint logic programming, in which constraints are treated in a different way and different methods are implemented, were combined to use the strengths of both. The hybrid method is not worse than either of its components used independently. The proposed approach is particularly important for the decision models with an objective function and many discrete decision variables added up in multiple constraints. To validate the proposed approach, two illustrative examples are presented and solved. The first example is the authors’ original model of cost optimisation in the supply chain with multimodal transportation. The second one is the two-echelon variant of the well-known capacitated vehicle routing problem.
Regional Convergence in the European Union, new Member States and Croatia
Authors: Mikulić Davor , Lovrinčević Željko , Nagyszombaty Andrea Galić 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Over the past two decades, the issue of regional convergence in the European Union has been the subject of a wide range of empirical research. This paper aims to provide more information on the differences in regional growth patterns of new member states (NMS), as well as Croatia, in addition to the factors influencing regional disparities within each country. This research provides an analysis of regional convergence in the period 2001-2008 at the NUTS II and NUTS III level.
The most widely used model for testing convergence hypotheses is beta-convergence analysis. Other factors commonly included in the econometric modelling of convergence are demographic variables, labour market conditions, industrial structure, institutional factors and overall government policy. The main hypothesis is that the process of regional convergence in NMS and Croatia is not strong enough to dominate over other factors, influencing regional potential growth (mainly industry structure and quality of human capital). Absolute β-convergence can be found at the national level for EU countries. Convergence also can be found for NMS regions, but the pace of convergence on the regional level is lower in comparison to the national level and the estimated β-convergence parameter is less significant.
Commodity Price Volatility during and after the Economic Crisis – Implications for Romania
Authors: Pop Larisa Nicoleta , Rovinaru Flavius , Rovinaru Mihaela 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Under the impact of a wide range of forces, the prices of globally traded commodities often experience sudden and significant fluctuations, putting under uncertainty and risk the economic status of producers, consumers and traders from the private to the national level. Although commodity markets are notorious for their price volatility, the events the world economy experienced in recent years, particularly the global economic crisis, offered new connotations to this phenomenon. These price movements reverberated across internal markets all over the world, affecting their statuses. As Central Eastern European countries, due to the processes they have undergone in recent decades, manifest an increased responsiveness to external shocks, Romania experienced the international turmoil in a severe manner. This paper calculates and presents, by comparison, the food price volatility experienced at the international level and on the Romanian market during the years of the crisis and immediately after its appeasement.
The Role of Gender and Situational Factors in Wine Consumption of Generation Y
Authors: Dlačić Jasmina , Kadić-Maglajlić Selma 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors influencing wine consumption of Generation Y consumers in the context of two countries from South-Eastern Europe (Bosnia -Herzegovina, and Croatia). Analysis reveals that self-expression, sociability, tradition and food are significant predictors of wine consumption. Multivariate regressions have been applied in order to explain the influences of the abovementioned factors on wine consumption. Research findings show that specific gender and situational differences exist in the wine consumption behaviour of Generation Y. This paper discusses theoretical, empirical and practical implications, and offers ideas for further research
Overview of Biotope Types of Socotra Island
Authors: Habrová Hana , Buček Antonín 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
The study describes main biotopes of Socotra Island. The biotopes were distinguished and described during complex field observations on more than 250 localities of Socotra between years 1999-2004. Classification of biotopes is based on differences in physiognomy, structure and species composition of the vegetation component of present biocoenoses. Groups of biotope types differ, above all, in the physiognomy and structure of vegetation. Biotope types are divided according to composition of dominant species. In this manner, 13 groups of biotopes and 39 biotope types were distinguished and described
Geological And Morphological Evolution of The Socotra Archipelago (Yemen) from the Biogeographical View
Authors: Culek Martin 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Some misunderstandings persist in the biological literature, concerning the geological evolution of the Socotra Archipelago. The aim of this paper is to interpret new information about the Gulf of Aden geology, from the view of possible methods of terrestrial biota species migration to the Socotra Islands. An overview of the Socotra Platform with the Socotra Archipelago topography is given. Present-day geological publications are mostly oriented towards tectonic structure of the Gulf and its tectonic evolution, and thus information concerning the elevation of the land surface and the sea level was necessary to deduce. The first biogeographically relevant emergence of a land mass in the area of present-day Socotra Archipelago commenced during the late Eocene Epoch (38-34 Ma BP). Some islands persisted after later transgressions of the sea, before the time of the opening of the Gulf of Aden rift (ca 20-17 Ma), accompanied by substantial uplift and large-scale uplift of the land. This was the last time when terrestrial biota could, relatively easily, reach the area of the Socotra Archipelago on land from the African mainland, and also with medium probability from present-day Arabia. The total evaporation of the Red Sea from 11-5 Ma BP enabled the migration of terrestrial species from and to Arabia via Somalia. Nevertheless, channels in Guardafui and Brothers basins made important, but perhaps nonfatal, barriers. The last and most important uplift of Haggier Mts. on Socotra occurred at the end of the Miocene Epoch (9-6 Ma BP). That was probably the time of the last Tertiary emergence of the Socotra Platform, potentially enabling some species to migrate across narrowed abovementioned channels. Great changes in sea level occurred during the Quaternary Period, periodically exposing the surface of the Socotra platform. Two channels persisted, preventing the invasion of modern species onto the Socotra Archipelago. Channels within the Brothers basin between Abd al-Kuri Isl. and other islands of the Archipelago formed some barriers to dispersal, and probably led to important biota differences in the scope of the Archipelago. Finally, a scenario of the “facilitation” provided by tsunami and sea currents for the immigration of biota onto the Archipelago is presented.
Audiological profiling of 198 individuals with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder
Authors: Narne Vijaya Kumar , Prabhu Prashanth , Chandan Hunsur Suresh , Deepthi Mahadeva 
Published: August 2014

Objective:
The study aimed at exploring the audiological characteristics and the relationship between speech identification scores with cortical evoked potential measures and hearing aid benefit in individuals with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD).

Study design:
We initiated a retrospective study of patients who were diagnosed as having ANSD. In 198 patients with ANSD, patient history, risk factors, degree and configuration of hearing loss, speech identification scores in quiet and noise, otoacoustic emissions (OAE), immittance evaluation, auditory brainstem responses (ABR), long latency responses (LLR) and hearing aid benefit were assessed.

Results:
The results showed that the majority of the patients had bilateral ANSD with a female to male ratio of 1.25:1 with the majority having a rising configuration of hearing loss. OAEs were present in most with absent stapedial reflexes and ABR. The study also showed that individuals with ANSD do obtain benefit from hearing aids and it is related to the presence of LLR. Conclusions: The present study emphasizes the audiological characteristics of a large group with ANSD. Among the management options, hearing aids were found to be useful in only a few of the patients and other rehabilitation options, such as cochlear implants, need to be explored in future studies. Currently, the determining factors for benefit with hearing aid are speech identification scores and cortical auditory evoked potentials.
A neotropical Miocene pollen database employing image‐based search and semantic modeling
Authors: Han Jing Ginger , Cao Hongfei , Barb Adrian , Punyasena Surangi W. , Jaramillo Carlos , Shyu Chi‐Ren 
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: Digital microscopic pollen images are being generated with increasing speed and volume, producing opportunities to develop new computational methods that increase the consistency and efficiency of pollen analysis and provide the palynological community a computational framework for information sharing and knowledge transfer.• Methods: Mathematical methods were used to assign trait semantics (abstract morphological representations) of the images of neotropical Miocene pollen and spores. Advanced database‐indexing structures were built to compare and retrieve similar images based on their visual content. A Web‐based system was developed to provide novel tools for automatic trait semantic annotation and image retrieval by trait semantics and visual content.• Results: Mathematical models that map visual features to trait semantics can be used to annotate images with morphology semantics and to search image databases with improved reliability and productivity. Images can also be searched by visual content, providing users with customized emphases on traits such as color, shape, and texture.• Discussion: Content‐ and semantic‐based image searches provide a powerful computational platform for pollen and spore identification. The infrastructure outlined provides a framework for building a community‐wide palynological resource, streamlining the process of manual identification, analysis, and species discovery.
Separating morphologically similar pollen types using basic shape features from digital images: A preliminary study1
Authors: Holt Katherine A. , Bebbington Mark S. 
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: One of the many advantages offered by automated palynology systems is the ability to vastly increase the number of observations made on a particular sample or samples. This is of particular benefit when attempting to fully quantify the degree of variation within or between closely related pollen types.• Methods: An automated palynology system (Classifynder) has been used to further investigate the variation in pollen morphology between two New Zealand species of Myrtaceae (Leptospermum scoparium and Kunzea ericoides) that are of significance in the New Zealand honey industry. Seven geometric features extracted from automatically gathered digital images were used to characterize the range of shape and size of the two taxa, and to examine the extent of previously reported overlap in these variables.• Results: Our results indicate a degree of overlap in all cases. The narrowest overlap was in measurements of maximum Feret diameter (MFD) in grains oriented in polar view. Multivariate statistical analysis using all seven factors provided the most robust discrimination between the two types.• Discussion: Further work is required before this approach could be routinely applied to separating the two pollen types used in this study, most notably the development of comprehensive reference distributions for the types in question.
Perspectives of Unlicensed Assistive Personnel on Career Development
Authors: Akaragian Salpy , Crooks Heidi , Pieters Huibrie C. 
Published: August 2014

Background:
An equivalency program, Method 3, is a viable but underused option for unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who pursue licensure. This study describes the perceptions of UAP on opportunities for career development.

Methods:
Eighteen UAP participated in three focus groups. Thematic analysis was conducted with verbatim transcription.

Results:
Three major themes represented the lively discussions that occurred: core driving forces, processes of career development, and anticipated and desirable outcomes. Various subthemes described these major themes.

Conclusion:
Method 3 provides a realistic approach to help UAP persevere with career development. Collaboration with management and peers, encouragement, and effective communication contributed to the success of participants, despite obstacles and challenges. Camaraderie and flexible scheduling were critical elements in participants’ pursuit of first licensure. Taking small steps was described as an effective approach for UAP to persevere with career development. Support for informal career development is essential. Nursing leaders should consider an equivalency approach to accommodate individual preferences and learning needs for career development.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2013;44(9):415–423.
Neurocognitive Decline in HIV Infection
Authors: Goodkin Karl , López Enrique , Hardy David J. , Hardy W. David 
Published: August 2014

CME Educational Objectives

1.
Understand the impact of the diagnostic entities that comprise HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) on cognitive function and on associated activities of daily living and to understand how to differentiate these entities.

2.
Understand the current clinical issues related to the changes in the incidence and prevalence of HAND, as well as the changes in its risk factors and actual clinical manifestations.

3.
Understand the advantages and disadvantages of the methods currently available to screen for the diagnostic entities that comprise HAND.

More than 34 million people worldwide are currently estimated to live with HIV infection. (Note: Although there are two types of HIV, only one is endemic in the United States — HIV type 1 [HIV-1], which is denoted throughout simply as “HIV.”) Nearly 7,000 people worldwide are newly infected with HIV on a daily basis, which is about 300 people per hour.
1
In the United States, there have been dramatic declines in the annual number of new HIV infections, from a peak of about 130,000 in the mid-1980s to a low of approximately 50,000 in the early 1990s. The rate of new infections increased in the late 1990s, followed by a leveling-off pattern since 2000 to about 55,000 new cases per year. The United States incidence figure had been previously estimated at 40,000 per year until a revision for those who were unknown to be seropositive was included.
2
This figure has remained stable for more than a decade despite the ongoing attempts of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to reduce it.