bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
AVO analysis aids in differentiation between false and true amplitude responses: a case study of El Mansoura field, onshore Nile Delta, Egypt
Authors: Hussein Mohamed , El-Ata Ahmed Abu , El-Behiry Mohamed 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe seismic amplitude versus offset (AVO) analysis has become a prominent in the direct hydrocarbon indicator in last decade, aimed to characterizing the fluid content or the lithology of a possible reservoir and reducing the exploration drilling risk. Our research discusses the impact of studying common depth point gathers on Near, Mid and Far-offsets, to verify the credibility of the amplitude response in the prospect evaluation, through analyzing a case study of two exploratory wells; one has already penetrated a gas-bearing sandstone reservoir and the second one is dry sand, but drilled in two different prospects, using the AVO analysis, to understand the reservoir configuration and its relation to the different amplitude response. The results show that the missing of the short-offset data is the reason of the false anomaly encountered in the dry sand, due to some urban surface obstacles during acquiring the seismic data in the field, especially the study area is located in El Mansoura city, which it is a highly cultivated terrain, with multiple channels and many large orchards on the edge of the river, and sugar cane and rice fields. Several lessons have been learned, which how to differentiate between the gas reservoirs and non-reservoirs, by understanding the relation between the Near and Far-offset traces, to reduce the amplitude anomalies to their right justification, where missing of Near-offset data led to a pseudo-amplitude anomaly. The results led to a high success of exploration ratio as the positives vastly outweigh the negatives.
Emergency department resource optimisation for improved performance: a review
Authors: Ahsan Kazi Badrul , Alam M. R. , Morel Doug Gordon , Karim M. A. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractEmergency departments (EDs) have been becoming increasingly congested due to the combined impacts of growing demand, access block and increased clinical capability of the EDs. This congestion has known to have adverse impacts on the performance of the healthcare services. Attempts to overcome with this challenge have focussed largely on the demand management and the application of system wide process targets such as the “four-hour rule” intended to deal with access blocks. In addition, EDs have introduced various strategies such as “fast tracking”, “enhanced triage” and new models of care such as introducing nurse practitioners aimed at improving throughput. However, most of these practices require additional resources. Some researchers attempted to optimise the resources using various optimisation models to ensure best utilisation of resources to improve patient flow. However, not all modelling approaches are suitable for all situations and there is no critical review of optimisation models used in hospital EDs. The aim of this article is to review various analytical models utilised to optimise ED resources for improved patient flow and highlight benefits and limitations of these models. A range of modelling techniques including agent-based modelling and simulation, discrete-event simulation, queuing models, simulation optimisation and mathematical modelling have been reviewed. The analysis revealed that every modelling approach and optimisation technique has some advantages and disadvantages and their application is also guided by the objectives. The complexity, interrelationships and variability of ED-related variables make the application of standard modelling techniques difficult. However, these models can be used to identify sources of flow obstruction and to identify areas where investments in additional resources are likely to have most benefit.
Advances in Epigenetics and Epigenomics in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Xanthopoulos Charalampos , Kostareli Efterpi 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Purpose of Review
The development and progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a highly heterogenous B cell malignancy, are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Environmental factors, including pharmacological interventions, can affect the epigenetic landscape of CLL and thereby determine the CLL phenotype, clonal evolution, and clinical outcome. In this review, we critically present the latest advances in the field of CLL epigenomics/epigenetics in order to provide a systematic overview of to-date achievements and highlight the potential of epigenomics approaches in light of novel treatment therapies.

Recent Findings
Recent technological advances have enabled broad and precise mapping of the CLL epigenome. The identification of CLL-specific DNA methylation patterns has allowed for accurate CLL subtype definition, a better understanding of clonal origin and evolution, and the discovery of reliable biomarkers. More recently, studies have started to unravel the prognostic, predictive, and therapeutic potential of mapping chromatin dynamics and histone modifications in CLL. Finally, analysis of non-coding RNA expression has indicated their contribution to disease pathogenesis and helped to define prognostic subsets in CLL.

Summary
Overall, the potential of CLL epigenomics for predicting treatment response and resistance is mounting, especially with the advent of novel targeted CLL therapies.
Investigating market power in the Belgian pork production chain
Authors: Maes Dries , Vancauteren Mark , Van Passel Steven 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBelgian pork production has faced stagnating prices for decades. It remains unclear whether excessive market power from slaughterhouses or meat retailers has played a role in this trend. While market power studies can reveal some of the market dynamics in this setting, this type of research has not yet been applied to the Belgian pork market. The present paper investigates oligopolies and oligopsonies in the pork production sector. We build a new model that focuses on market power dynamics in the market for live pigs and distinguishes horizontal and vertical market power parameters, both for pig farmers and for slaughterhouses. The results follow from an empirical application using unique slaughterhouse data for 2001–2015. The results indicate that the farmers benefit from a significant power advantage in the live pig market, when very modest price demands are taken as a reference. The final market price of live pigs approaches the price requested by the farmers. On the other hand, the measured vertical market power also suggests that a pig farmer does not receive the (modest) full-wage-based salary. The market power of the slaughterhouses is also limited. Market power as a result of collusion—that is, horizontal market power—is present, but is not strong. However, there are significant differences between the slaughterhouses in terms of mark-up on the input prices. These differences reflect differences in company strategy, and this diversity further reduces the possibility to create sector-wide collusive behaviour.
The Chronostratigraphy of the Aurignacian in the Northern Carpathian Basin Based on New Chronometric/Archeological Data from Seňa I (Eastern Slovakia)
Authors: Chu Wei , Kaminská Ľubomíra , Klasen Nicole , Zeeden Christian , Lengyel György 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe northern Carpathian Basin has important geological, paleoenvironmental, and archeological records that are key to our understanding of the first modern human occupation of Europe. However, the nature and timing of hominin settlements in the region during the Late Pleistocene remain poorly understood. New fieldwork at Seňa I, Slovakia, has identified the only known stratified open-air Aurignacian site in the region and assigned the assemblage to at least 33.5 ± 2.4 ka ago through infrared-stimulated luminescence dating. Additionally, new archeological and geoscientific data are presented. This paper discusses the Seňa I findings in the context of the regional archeological record and shows how they contribute to the establishment of clear time constraints for the Aurignacian in eastern central Europe.
In-Home Strategic National Stockpile Dispensing by Means of Home Health Agencies: An Alternative Means of Dispensing to Vulnerable Populations
Authors: McNeill Charleen , Milburn Ashlea Bennett 
Published: November 2019

ABSTRACTThe Federal Emergency Management Agency prescribes a 48-h timeline between the declaration of an emergency and the treatment of the last person with Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) medical countermeasures (MCM). Many states struggle to meet the 48-h window. Issues surrounding adequate staffing, critical to maintaining necessary Points Of Dispensing (POD) throughput, are noted in the literature. The use of public and private partnerships in the health-care sector may improve POD throughput. This study describes a novel strategy for partnering with home health agencies (HHAs) to augment MCM distribution. The HHA In-Home Dispensing Model we propose authorizes HHAs to act as Closed PODs following a head of household model. Here, we evaluate the effectiveness of the model using a case study. First, we provide an overview of the methods used to estimate the duration of in-home nurse dispensing shifts. We then present the results for our case study area. Next, we discuss how the model can be used and its limitations. We conclude that the HHA In-Home SNS Dispensing Model shows promise and should receive further consideration, as it can decrease demand at open PODs and increase the reach of MCMs to vulnerable populations who might otherwise have difficulty receiving them.
Avoiding long Berge cycles: the missing cases k = r + 1 and k = r + 2
Authors: Ergemlidze Beka , Győri Ervin , Methuku Abhishek , Salia Nika , Tompkins Casey , Zamora Oscar 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThe maximum size of an r-uniform hypergraph without a Berge cycle of length at least k has been determined for all k ≥ r + 3 by Füredi, Kostochka and Luo and for k < r (and k = r, asymptotically) by Kostochka and Luo. In this paper we settle the remaining cases: k = r + 1 and k = r + 2, proving a conjecture of Füredi, Kostochka and Luo.
Experience of nurses who work with children with palliative care needs: A mixed-method systematic review
Authors: Atout Maha 
Published: November 2019

AbstractObjectiveThe importance of palliative care education for nurses has been recognized worldwide. The study aims to explore the experiences of nurses working with children with palliative care needs and to identify any related educational needs.MethodsThe electronic databases of CINAHL, Cochrane, PubMed, OVID, Social Care Online, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest were searched for the period 2000–2015.ResultsFinding revealed that working with children with palliative care needs is an emotionally struggling job for nurses, especially when they try to manage the transition of pediatric patients from curative to palliative care. Staffing level and time constraints comprise a major obstacle in pediatric palliative care. Focusing on invasive treatment and technology in spite of the feelings that it will not improve patients' health status intensifies the feeling of guilt and helplessness for nurses. Finally, nurses asserted the importance of receiving pediatric palliative care education, especially how to communicate with children with palliative care needs and their families.Significance of resultsFurther research is recommended with regard to nurses' experience in communication with children with palliative care needs. Nursing education in pediatric palliative care is significantly important, especially how to communicate with children with palliative care needs and their families.
Radiation Exposure of Patient and Operating Room Personnel by Fluoroscopy and Navigation during Spinal Surgery
Authors: Bratschitsch G. , Leitner L. , Stücklschweiger G. , Guss H. , Sadoghi P. , Puchwein P. , Leithner A. , Radl R. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIntraoperative radiography imaging is essential for accurate spinal implant placement. Hazards caused by ionizing radiation raised concern on personnel’s work life long exposure in the operating room (OR). To particularize a cumulative risk estimation of radiation of personnel and patient, depending on used methods (C-arm fluoroscopy, O-arm navigation) and patient characteristics during spinal surgery, detailed investigation of radiation exposure in a clinical setting is required. Lumbosacral dorsal spinal fusion was performed in 37 patients (19 navigated, 18 fluoroscopy) during this prospective study. Radiation exposure was measured on several body regions with thermoluminescent dosimeters on patient and OR personnel (surgeon, assistant, sterile nurse, radiology technologist). Comparison between patient characteristics and radiation exposure was included. The highest patients values were measured in the surgery field and gonads area during navigation (43.2 ± 19.4 mSv; fluoroscopy: 27.7 ± 31.3 mSv; p = 0.02), followed by the thoracic region during fluoroscopy (7.7 ± 14.8 mSv; navigation: 1.1 ± 1.0 mSv; p = 0.06), other measured regions can be considered marginal in comparison. Amongst OR personnel exposure of the surgeon was significant higher during fluoroscopy (right hand: 566 ± 560 µSv and thoracic region: 275 ± 147 µSv; followed by thyroid and forehead) compared to navigation (right finger: 49 ± 19 µSv; similar levels for all regions; p < 0.001 in all regions). When compared to the surgeon, other OR personnel had significantly lower radiation doses on all body regions using fluoroscopy, and similar dose during navigation. The highest eye’s lens region value was measured during fluoroscopy for the patient (185 ± 165 µSv; navigation: 205 ± 60 µSv; p = 0.57) and the surgeon (164 ± 74 µSv; navigation: 92 ± 41 µSv; p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between patient BMI and radiation exposure to the surgery field during fluoroscopy. To our knowledge, these data present the first real life, detailed comparison of radiation exposure on OR personnel and patients between clinical use of navigation and fluoroscopy. Although patient’s radiation dose is approximately 3-fold during navigation compared to the fluoroscopy, we found that a spinal surgeon could perform up to 10-fold number of surgeries (10.000 versus 883) until maximum permissible annual effective radiation dose would be reached. Especially for a spinal surgeon, who is mainly exposed amongst OR personnel, radiation prevention and protection must remain a main issue.
Synthesis and performance evaluation of PES/chitosan membranes coated with polyamide for acid mine drainage treatment
Authors: Machodi Mathaba J. , Daramola Michael O. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIn this article, performance evaluation of PES membrane infused with chitosan and coated with polyamide layer for treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD) is reported. PES/chitosan membranes were fabricated by varying chitosan concentration (0, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 wt%) using phase inversion method. PES/chitosan membranes were coated with polyamide (PA) via co-solvent assisted interfacial polymerization technique (CAIP). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and contact angle analysis show that chitosan and polyamide could enhance permeability without affecting rejection of the membrane. The permeability was improved with increasing chitosan content. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) was used to quantitatively determine cations in the permeate and the sulphate ions were analysed using ultraviolet and visible (UV-VIS) spectrophotometer. Pure water flux of PES/PA membrane was significantly improved from 56 to 93 l/m2.hr with 1 wt% chitosan addition. Cation rejection (90.4, 88.3, 89.3 and 75.7% for Mn2+,Fe2+, Mg2+ and Ca2+, respectively) was observed to be higher than anion rejection (56.33% for SO42−), when chitosan content was 0.75 wt%. These results indicate that the positively charged membranes under acidic condition had strong repulsive forces with the cations than attractions forces with anions. Polyethersulphone membrane modified with chitosan and coated with polyamide layer displayed potential for application in treatment of AMD.
The Effect of Strict Volume Control Assessed by Repeated Bioimpedance Spectroscopy on Cardiac Function in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Hong Yu Ah , Yoon Hye Eun , Choi Bum Soon , Shin Seok Joon , Kim Yong-Soo , Lee So Young , Lee Sang-Ho , Kim Su Hyun , Lee Eun Young , Shin Sug Kyun , Kwon Young Joo , Kim Jeong Ho , Chang Yoon Kyung , Kim Suk Young , Kim Ji Eun , Ahn Shin Young , Ko Gang Jee 
Published: November 2019

AbstractAdequate fluid management plays an important role in decreasing cardiovascular risk in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. We evaluated whether strict volume control monitored by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) affects cardiac function in PD patients. This study is a secondary analysis of a multicentre, prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Fluid overload was assessed by the average overhydration/extracellular water (OH/ECW) at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. Patients were categorized as time-averaged overhydrated (TA-OH/ECW ≥15%) or normohydrated (TA-OH/ECW <15%), and echocardiographic parameters were compared between groups. Among a total of 151 patients, 120 patients exhibited time-averaged normohydration. Time-averaged overhydrated patients had a significantly higher left atrial (LA) diameter and E/e′ ratio and a lower left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction at 12 months than time-averaged normohydrated patients. LA diameter, end-systolic volume and end-diastolic volume were decreased at 12 months compared to baseline in time-averaged normohydrated patients only. TA-OH/ECW was independently associated with ejection fraction at 12 months (β = −0.190; p = 0.010). TA-OH/ECW, but not OH/ECW at 12 months, was an independent risk factor for LV dysfunction (odds ratio 4.020 [95% confidence interval 1.285–12.573]). Overhydration status based on repeated BIS measurements is an independent predictor of LV systolic function in PD patients.
Changes in human walking dynamics induced by uneven terrain are reduced with ongoing exposure, but a higher variability persists
Authors: Kent Jenny A. , Sommerfeld Joel H. , Stergiou Nicholas 
Published: November 2019

AbstractDuring walking, uneven terrain alters the action of the ground reaction force from stride to stride. The extent to which such environmental inconsistencies are withstood may be revealed by the regulation of whole-body angular momentum (L) during walking. L quantifies the balance of momenta of the body segments (thigh, trunk, etc.) about their combined center of mass, and remains close to zero during level walking. A failure to constrain L has been linked to falls. The aim of this study was to explore the ability of young adults to orchestrate their movement on uneven terrain, illustrated by the range of L (LR) and its variability (vLR). In eleven male adults, we observed significant increases in sagittal plane LR, and vLR in all three planes of motion during walking on an uneven in comparison to a flat surface. No reductions in these measures were observed within a 12-minute familiarisation period, suggesting that unimpaired adults either are unable to, or do not need to eliminate the effects of uneven terrain. Transverse plane LR, in contrast, was lower on immediate exposure, and then increased, pointing to the development of a less restrictive movement pattern, and would support the latter hypothesis.
G-CSFR antagonism reduces neutrophilic inflammation during pneumococcal and influenza respiratory infections without compromising clearance
Authors: Wang Hao , Aloe Christian , Wilson Nick , Bozinovski Steven 
Published: November 2019

AbstractExcessive neutrophilic inflammation can contribute to the pathogenesis of pneumonia. Whilst anti-inflammatory therapies such as corticosteroids are used to treat excessive inflammation, they do not selectively target neutrophils and may compromise antimicrobial or antiviral defences. In this study, neutrophil trafficking was targeted with a granulocyte-colony stimulating factor receptor monoclonal antibody (G-CSFR mAb) during Streptococcus pneumoniae (serotype 19F) or influenza A virus (IAV, strain HKx31) lung infection in mice. Firstly, we demonstrated that neutrophils are indispensable for the clearance of S. pneumoniae from the airways using an anti-Ly6G monoclonal antibody (1A8 mAb), as the complete inhibition of neutrophil recruitment markedly compromised bacterial clearance. Secondly, we demonstrated that G-CSF transcript lung levels were significantly increased during pneumococcal infection. Prophylactic or therapeutic administration of G-CSFR mAb significantly reduced blood and airway neutrophil numbers by 30–60% without affecting bacterial clearance. Total protein levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid (marker for oedema) was also significantly reduced. G-CSF transcript levels were also increased during IAV lung infection. G-CSFR mAb treatment significantly reduced neutrophil trafficking into BAL compartment by 60% and reduced blood neutrophil numbers to control levels in IAV-infected mice. Peak lung viral levels at day 3 were not altered by G-CSFR therapy, however there was a significant reduction in the detection of IAV in the lungs at the day 7 post-infection phase. In summary, G-CSFR signalling contributes to neutrophil trafficking in response to two common respiratory pathogens. Blocking G-CSFR reduced neutrophil trafficking and oedema without compromising clearance of two pathogens that can cause pneumonia.
Impact of green manures of Vernonia amygdalina and Chromolaena odorata on growth, yield, mineral and proximate composition of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.)
Authors: Aboyeji Christopher Muyiwa 
Published: November 2019

AbstractField experiments were carried out during the 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons at the Teaching and Research Farm, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State (latitude 8.9°N and longitude 50°61 E.), Nigeria, to study the effect of some green manures as an alternative to inorganic fertilizer on growth, yield, mineral and proximate composition of radish. Green manure composed of leaves of Vernonia amygdalina and Chromolaena odorata and were applied as follows: 10 tonnes ha−1 vernonia + 0 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T1), 7.5 tonnes ha−1 vernonia + 2.5 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T2), 5.0 tonnes ha−1 vernonia + 5.0 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T3), 2.5 tonnes ha−1 Vernonia + 7.5 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T4), 0 tonnes ha−1 vernonia + 10 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T5) while in-organic fertilizer (NPK 20:10:10) was applied at 200 kg NPK ha−1 (T6) and there was a control plot (T7). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated four times. Vegetative, yield and quality parameters of radish were taken. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using Statistical Analysis Software (S.A.S), 2000. Treatment means were compared using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 0.05 level of probability. The study showed that application of green manures increased vegetative, yield and yield parameters and were comparable with application of NPK fertilizer while there was a significant increase in the nutritional composition of radish with application of green manures when compared with NPK and control. It can therefore be concluded that application 10 tonnes ha−1 vernonia + 0 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T1) as green manure increased vegetative, yield and yield parameters while application 7.5 tonnes ha−1 vernonia + 2.5 tonnes ha−1 chromolaena (T2) improved radish quality.