bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Polymorphisms correlated with the clinical outcome of locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated with ALIRI vs. FOLFIRI
Authors: Barcelos Ana , Giovannetti Elisa , de Jonge Robert , Maftouh Mina , Griffioen Pieter , Hanauske Axel R. , Peters Godefridus J. 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Leucovorin-modulated 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) plus irinotecan (FOLFIRI) is the most common treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). 5-FU inhibits thymidylate synthase (TS) and irinotecan topoisomerase I, leading to inhibition of DNA replication and repair. FOLFIRI efficacy suggested that other TS inhibitors might synergize with irinotecan, and Phase I/II studies for second-line treatment showed promising results of combinations with the multitargeted antifolate pemetrexed (PMX), which exerts its effects primarily via TS inhibition. However, a randomized Phase II trial of PMX + irinotecan (ALIRI) showed similar efficacy and safety, but significantly shorter progression-free survival (PFS) compared with FOLFIRI in locally advanced or metastatic CRC. In our previous aCGH study, we evaluated genome-wide copy number variations, whereas in the current study we evaluated relationships between functional polymorphisms and PFS. Candidate polymorphisms were studied by restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction (RFLP-PCR) (TSER-2R/3R) or Taqman-PCR (MTHFR-1958G>A, MTR-2756A>G, MTHFR-1298A>C, SHMT1-1420C>T, ATIC-347C>G, AMPD-134C>T, MTRR-66A>G and SLC-19A180G>A) in 84 patients (40 FOLFIRI, 44 ALIRI). The Kaplan-Meier method was used to plot PFS, and the log-rank test to compare curves. At univariate analysis the homozygous variants of both MTR-2756A>G and SHMT1-1420C>T were associated with significantly shorter PFS. Conversely, a significantly longer PFS (7.3 months) was observed when ATIC-347C>G CC+CG genotypes were grouped vs. GG. At multivariate analysis the genotypes MTR-2756A>G AA+AG, SHMT1-1420C>T TT+CT and ATIC-347C>G CC+CG emerged as significant predictors for PFS. Because MTR, SHMT1 and ATIC are all involved in folate pathways, we further explored the effect of a combination of their risk genotypes on PFS, showing that patients carrying two risk genotypes had a significantly shorter PFS (3.9 months, p<0.001). The correlations of polymorphisms in genes with clinical outcome underscore the importance of a candidate gene-based approach. Ultimately, the validation of the role of these polymorphisms in prospective multicenter trials might optimize currently available treatments in selected CRC patients (e.g., FOLFIRI) or PMX-based treatments in other tumor types.
Does extracellular proteolysis control mammalian cognition?
Authors: Tamura Hideki , Ishikawa Yasuyuki , Shiosaka Sadao 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Recent advances in neuroscience techniques for analyzing synaptic functions, have revealed that even in a fully developed nervous system, dynamic structural changes in synapses can modify a variety of interactions between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neuron. Accumulating evidence suggests that extracellular proteases are involved in the structural modification of synapses through various pathways, including proteolytic cleavage at specific amino acid residues of the extracellular matrix proteins, cell adhesion molecules, and neurotrophic factors. Limited proteolysis induces changes in the properties of substrate proteins or releases functional domains (such as ligands) of the substrate proteins, which activate a signal transduction cascade, and hence could serve to initiate a variety of physiological functions. Such morphological and functional synaptic plasticity might underlie cognitive processes, including learning and memory in animals and humans. Here, we review potential molecular mechanisms of cognition-related focal proteolysis in the hippocampus. In addition, we developed a novel screening method to identify the physiological substrate for proteases.
Hybridization effect on mechanical properties of short basalt/jute fiber-reinforced polyester composites
Authors: Amuthakkannan Pandian , Manikandan Vairavan , Jappes Jebbas Thangaiah Winowlin , Uthayakumar Marimuthu 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Mechanical properties of fiber reinforcement that can be obtained by the introduction of basalt fibers in jute fiber-reinforced polyester composites have been analyzed experimentally. Basalt/jute fiber-reinforced hybrid polymer composites were fabricated with a varying fiber percentage by using compression molding techniques. The fabricated composite plates were subjected to mechanical testing to estimate tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength of the composites. The effect of fiber content on basalt/jute fiber in the composites has been studied. Addition of jute fiber into basalt fiber composite makes it a cost-effective one. Incorporation of basalt fiber into the composites was at approximately 10%, 20%, up to 90%, and the jute fiber percentage was reduced from 90%, 80%, to 10% correspondingly. Mechanical properties were investigated as per ASTM standards. Tensile and flexural strengths were tested by using a computer-assisted universal testing machine, and impact strength by using an Izod impact tester. It has been observed that the addition of jute fiber to the basalt fiber polyester composites enhanced the mechanical properties. Water absorption of hybrid composites was also analyzed and was found to be proportional to fiber percentage.
„Ein unglaubliches Schriftbild, von Rechtschreibung oder Interpunktion ganz zu schweigen“
Authors: Brommer Sarah 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The writing skills of today's youth often make great waves when mentioned in the public media. The following article is based on 671 comments made about the writing skills of young people in selected newspapers and magazines from 1994 to 2005. The opinions and criteria presented will be analysed and patterns of reasoning which repeat themselves in their structure will also be identified. In addition to descriptions of discourse content, their structure will be presented and their connection with related discourses considered. This empirical study distinctly shows in which context and manner the subject of writing skills in young people is broached by the media. However, it also shows which image of writing skills in young people dominates in the public mind, as well as presenting to what degree this image is based on objective criteria or just a cliché
Schriftlichkeit und kommunikative Distanz
Authors: Koch Peter , Oesterreicher Wulf 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The fundamental distinction between the medial problem of 'phonic' vs. 'graphic' realisation of discourses, on the one hand, and the conceptional problem of their 'spoken = informal' vs. 'written = formal' character (denominated 'communicative immediacy' vs. 'distance' in the following) not only constitutes a sound theoretical basis for investigation into orality and literacy, but also leads to a better understanding of a wide range of synchronic and diachronic phenomena concerning language. The medial-conceptional distinction accounts, for example, for important problems on the level of discourse typology, comprising, for instance, 'elaborated' types of primary orality, communicative dynamics in medieval societies, modern types of electronic communication (e-mail, SMS message, chat), etc. Once it is to clearly tell the medial from the conceptional aspect of language, it is, of course, legitimate to observe the most interesting interactions between these two. The idea of a conceptional continuum between communicative 'immediacy' and 'distance' constitutes also an important contribution to variational linguistics and sociolinguistics. It can be shown that this continuum is not only one dimension of linguistic variation, but the central principle underlying the organisation of variational spaces (within one language) and of communicative spaces (involving more than one language). Moreover, the medial-conceptional distinction reveals to be of paramount importance to a modern conception of language history as observing the transformation of whole variational spaces. The questions that can be dealt with here comprise the way to literacy, processes of elaboration, Überdachung, standardization, codification, reorganization of variational spaces, etc. as well as several types of language change. Finally, a clear conceptualization of medial and conceptional problems is indispensable for a sound methodology in corpus linguistics.
Characterization of cordierite-mullite ceramics prepared from natural raw materials
Authors: Albhilil Abdulmula Ali , Palou Martin , Kozánková Jana 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Series of six cordierite-mullite ceramics were synthesized via solid state reaction at various temperatures from 1250 °C for pure cordierite to 1500 °C for pure mullite. Then the samples were submitted to the test of thermal shock resistance based on cycling heating-quenching procedure. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Mercury intrusion porosimeter (MIP) have been used to characterize the samples before and after cycling heating-quenching method. Sample 6 was broken after 35 heating-quenching cycles, while the five other reminded stable. The refractoriness of samples is found to be higher than that of commercial ones. XRD shows that heating-quenching procedure has led to crystallization of cordierite and mullite phases. Apart from sample 6, the pore structure is stable with slight consolidation. The microstructure images confirm the results of XRD and MIP showing crack in sample 6 only, but compact and larger particles resulting from crystal growth in other samples due to the repeated action of heating.
Preparation and NMR properties of derivatives of arylamino-methylidene malonic acid and pentane-2,4-dione
Authors: Tarabová Denisa , Milata Viktor , Hanusek Jiří 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
A set of 22 anilinomethylidene derivatives (13 new ones) of di(m)ethyl malonate, malononitrile and pentane-2,4-dione with various substituents in position 4- and 3-, respectively were prepared to study the characteristic influence of these substituents and solvents on chemical shifts in 13C NMR spectra and like reference compounds for kinetic measurements.
Inhibition of pathophysiological proteases with novel quercetin derivatives
Authors: Danihelová Martina , Veverka Miroslav , Šturdík Ernest 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Novel quercetin derivatives were prepared to change its physicochemical properties and effects on activity of proteolytic enzymes. For them preparation, the selective protection procedures some of the quercetin hydroxyl groups and acylation of the others with acylchlorides were used. The ability of these compounds to inhibit the activity of serine proteases e.g. trypsin, thrombin, urokinase and elastase was studied. In micromolar range, tested derivatives were the most potent inhibitors of thrombin. There was estimated better inhibition of thrombin for prenylated, acetylated, feruloyl and caffeoyl quercetin esters. Slight inhibitory effect of all quercetin derivatives on elastase was found. Among tested derivatives only diquercetin displayed better inhibiton. Trypsin and urokinase were inhibited by quercetin at comparable level. Slight improvement in inhibitory effect of trypsin and urokinase was seen for chloronaphtoquinone quercetin that revealed enhanced inhibiton of thrombin, too. However, no influence on elastase activity was determined for this compound. Obtained results indicate that certain modifications of quercetin structure could improve its biological properties.
Analysis of natural aroma and flavor of MD2 pineapple variety (Ananas comosus [L.] Merr.)
Authors: Žemlička Lukáš , Fodran Peter , Kolek Emil , Prónayová Nadežda 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Aroma and flavor profile of MD2 pineapple variety was investigated. Fruits imported from different geographical regions (Costa Rica, Puerto Rico) were labeled as an organic food. Characteristic volatile and non-volatile compounds obtained by hydro-distillation and direct percolation were identified and quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). At least 22 components in percolated extract (or 17 in distillate) were detected according to their mass spectra and retention time. Relative concentration of identified substances varied from 547.7 to 1110.0 μg.kg-1. Analysis showed dominance of esters and furanone-derived compounds as major aroma constituents. Most abundant volatiles identified in all samples were methyl 2-methylbutanoate and methyl hexanoate. Relationships between volatile and non-volatile compounds were also studied.
A new pathway of preparation and refined structure of (NH4)2[FeCl5(H2O)]
Authors: Lacková Darina , Ondrejkovičová Iveta , Koman Marián 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The title compound, (NH4)2[FeCl5H2O] has been prepared by reaction between iron(III) chloride and ammonium chloride which was formed by hydrolysis of isonicotinamide or thionicotinamide in ethanol. The characterization was based on elemental analysis and infrared spectra. The crystal structure of the title compound has been refined by single crystal X-ray diffraction method at 293 K. Crystals are orthorhombic, Pnma, with unit cell parameters: a = 13.760(1) A, b = 9.960(1) A, c = 7.060(1) A, Z = 4 and R = 3.5 %. The iron(III) atom in [FeCl5(H2O)]2- ion is approximately octahedrally coordinated by five Cl atoms and one O atom of H2O molecule. This distortion is caused by the extensively hydrogen-bonded lattice. Structural parameters and IR spectra of similar compounds are compared and discussed.
Invited Article: The Future of CRM is UX
Authors: Crnkovic Jakov (Yasha) 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Background: This paper connects several sides of the web and mobile usages in business. The idea is to utilize Customer Relations Management (CRM) as the vehicle to establish connection from Web one and Web two into Web three. Objectives: This paper has the main purpose combine efforts in developing business strategies into general path of future Web development. Methods/Approach: Using the extensive literature, business cases and software trends in the area, the paper is focused on predicting the future in the area of the business trends in Information Technology (IT). Results: After discussion of the development using selected milestones: CRM is supported by the Social Networks (SN) and is enabled by Cloud Computing (CC), we were able to achieve the predictions. Conclusions: The final conclusion is in the convergence of the business efforts and SN methods on the new paradigm called the User eXperience (UX).
An Empirical Evaluation of GARCH Models in Value-at-Risk Estimation: Evidence from the Macedonian Stock Exchange
Authors: Bucevska Vesna 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Background: In light of the latest global financial crisis and the ongoing sovereign debt crisis, accurate measuring of market losses has become a very current issue. One of the most popular risk measures is Value-at-Risk (VaR). Objectives: Our paper has two main purposes. The first is to test the relative performance of selected GARCH-type models in terms of their ability of delivering volatility estimates. The second one is to contribute to extend the very scarce empirical research on VaR estimation in emerging financial markets. Methods/Approach: Using the daily returns of the Macedonian stock exchange index-MBI 10, we have tested the performance of the symmetric GARCH (1,1) and the GARCH-M model as well as of the asymmetric EGARCH (1,1) model, the GARCH-GJR model and the APARCH (1,1) model with different residual distributions. Results: The most adequate GARCH family models for estimating volatility in the Macedonian stock market are the asymmetric EGARCH model with Student’s t-distribution, the EGARCH model with normal distribution and the GARCH-GJR model. Conclusion: The econometric estimation of VaR is related to the chosen GARCH model. The obtained findings bear important implications regarding VaR estimation in turbulent times that have to be addressed by investors in emerging capital markets
A Simple Discrete Approximation for the Renewal Function
Authors: Brezavšček Alenka 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Background: The renewal function is widely useful in the areas of reliability, maintenance and spare component inventory planning. Its calculation relies on the type of the probability density function of component failure times which can be, regarding the region of the component lifetime, modelled either by the exponential or by one of the peak-shaped density functions. For most peak-shaped distribution families the closed form of the renewal function is not available. Many approximate solutions can be found in the literature, but calculations are often tedious. Simple formulas are usually obtained for a limited range of functions only. Objectives: We propose a new approach for evaluation of the renewal function by the use of a simple discrete approximation method, applicable to any probability density function. Methods/Approach: The approximation is based on the well known renewal equation. Results: The usefulness is proved through some numerical results using the normal, lognormal, Weibull and gamma density functions. The accuracy is analysed using the normal density function. Conclusions: The approximation proposed enables simple and fairly accurate calculation of the renewal function irrespective of the type of the probability density function. It is especially applicable to the peak-shaped density functions when the analytical solution hardly ever exists.
Academic Mobility in the Western Balkans
Authors: Bošnjović Jasna , Trivun Veljko 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Background: With the aim of encouraging mobility between higher education institutions in the Western Balkan countries and those in the European Union (EU), the European Commission initiated a series of measures to increase the share of students primarily from the Western Balkans who spend at least one semester away from their home institutions, but also the share of young people from EU member states who come to Western Balkan (WB) countries. Objectives: Aim of the paper is to determine the degree of representation of internationalisation strategy and policy elements in the internal documents of higher education institutions and its direct impact on the development of mobility. Methods/Approach: An electronic survey has been created and sent to representatives of 9 EU and 11 WB universities. Respondents were mainly international relations officers or management representatives. Mann-Whitney test was applied in order to test differences between EU and WB universities. Results: The conducted Mann-Whitney nonparametric tests show that the degree of representation of internationalisation strategy and policy elements in the internal documents of a higher education institution has a direct impact on the development of mobility. Conclusions: By 2020, the European Commission aims to have 20% of all students acquiring an academic degree within the European Higher Education Area participate in mobility. This paper sheds light on this segment and indicates possible directions for actions aimed at developing mobility at institutions in Western Balkan countries
Some Results on Point Set Domination of Fuzzy Graphs
Authors: Vimala S. , Sathya J. S. 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Let G be a fuzzy graph. Let γ(G), γp(G) denote respectively the domination number, the point set domination number of a fuzzy graph. A dominating set D of a fuzzy graph is said to be a point set dominating set of a fuzzy graph if for every S⊆V-D there exists a node d∈D such that 〈S ∪ {d}〉 is a connected fuzzy graph. The minimum cardinality taken over all minimal point set dominating set is called a point set domination number of a fuzzy graph G and it is denoted by γp(G). In this paper we concentrate on the point set domination number of a fuzzy graph and obtain some bounds using the neighbourhood degree of fuzzy graphs.
AC-DC Converter with Asymmetrical Higher Harmonics Compensation Function in Sustainable AC Grid
Authors: Wrona Grzegorz , Jasinski Marek 
Published: May 2013

AbstractIn this paper the grid current higher harmonic compensation method for two level AC-DC converters in sustainable AC grid is described. The algorithm is based on Direct Power Control with Space Vector Modulator (DPC-SVM), which was extended by additional Higher Harmonics Compensation (HHC) module. The HHC block is composed of several resonant filters tuned to appropriate frequencies. Both, symmetrical and asymmetrical types of grid currents distortions are analyzed. Operation of the HHC module in stationary αβ coordinates and rotating dq coordinates is discussed. Selected waveforms illustrating operation of the developed algorithm are presented. It is shown that in dq coordinates asymmetrical voltage distortions needs additional effort for its compensation in comparison to symmetrical higher harmonics. The subject is important because in practice asymmetrical higher harmonics usually can appear when one phase nonlinear load is connected to the grid. Even within such conditions the grid connected ACDC converter (GCC) should provide sinusoidal-like current. This assumption provides the reduction of negative impact of the GCC in power quality in Point of Common Coupling (PCC) in sustainable AC grid
Utilization of Electric Vehicles Connected to Distribution Substations for Peak Shaving of Utility Network Loads
Authors: Mägi Marek 
Published: May 2013

AbstractUse of modern electric vehicles and their effective integration into power grids depends on the technologies applied around distribution substations. Distribution substations equipped with energy storing and V2G capability enable peak load shaving and demand response, which will reduce the need to make new investments into building new power sources or power grids to meet peak demand. This paper presents a distribution substation topology for utilizing electric vehicles as energy resource units for peak shaving of utility network loads. The topology allows bidirectional energy exchange among electric vehicles, battery pack energy storage devices and utility networks. The substation acts as a service provider in a microgrid. Functions of a microgrid application were simulated with MATLAB. The evaluation of the results has shown that electric vehicles can be effectively utilized for peak shaving of utility network loads. The results of the modelling and simulation were used for the development of a microgrid prototype. Assessment of capacities of electric vehicles showed that electric vehicles can provide short term support for the utility network.
Plant Communities of Travertine Outcrops of the Saturnia Area in Southern Tuscany (Central Italy)
Authors: Viciani Daniele , Maffei Barbara , Selvi Federico 
Published: May 2013

AbstractA phytosociological survey was carried out in a poorly known travertine area of southern Tuscany harbouring a rich vegetation mosaic with chamaephytic garrigues, species-rich xerophytic grasslands, chasmophytic coenoses, annual species-dominated communities, shrublands and thermophilous deciduous forests. Field sampling and data analysis allowed to identify and characterize several community types, some of which of significant interest due to their ecological specificity and rarity in peninsular Italy. In particular, our data confirm the associations Pistacio terebinthi-Paliuretum spinosae and Pistacio terebinthi-Quercetum pubescentis, respectively a shrub and forest community type previously unknown for Tuscany. In addition, a new therophytic association of travertine debris named Sedetum hispanico-caespitosi and placed in the Hypochoerion achyrophori alliance (Brachypodietalia distachyi order, Tuberarietea class) is also described. Finally, dynamic relationships between the vegetation types are highlighted and the presence of conservation priority habitats in the area are pointed out.