bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Oil and Gas Reserves and Resources of the Mediterranean Countries
Authors: Alazard N. , Laherrere J. , Perrodon A. 
Published: January 2017

The littoral States of the Mediterranean belong to very different geographic and geological units, giving rise to a wide variety of landscapes and petroleum potentials. The provinces of the European margin, deeply marked by the Alpine orogeny, exhibit a wide variety of Secondary and Tertiary basins, often richer in gas than in oil, especially in Italy. Those of the African margin, which advanced to varying degrees into this continent, display stages from the Primary to the Tertiary, with rich basins in the Sahara, Algerian Tunisia, Libya and Egypt. On the eastern margin, Syria has several petroleum zones at the periphery of the large Mid-East Basin. These basins, and particularly those of the northern margin, have been the subject of intensive prospecting. This has allowed the discovery of some 11.4 Gt of oil and 8400 G.m3 of gas, with the share of the countries of the African margin accounting for 86% and 82% of the total respectively. The future discoveries that can be reasonably anticipated can be expected mainly in the African margin, and the Syrian basins. On the whole, oil and condensate reserves of about 3 Gt and gas reserves of some 4000 G.m3 appear probable. The deep offshore Mediterranean does not appear likely to contribute a significant share of these future discoveries at least in the medium term, given the extreme water depths. These prospects of future discoveries, slightly less than present proved reserves, would help to raise the number of years of production at the present rate from 26 to about 40 for oil and condensate, and to double the years of production of gas, which would be increased to slightly over a century. Although these figures appear fairly significant, they are still far below those of the Middle East.
Accounting Conservatism and the Valuation of Accounting Numbers: Evidence on the Feltham-Ohlson (1996) Model
Authors: Ahmed Anwer S. , Morton Richard M. , Schaefer Thomas F. 
Published: January 2017

We empirically investigate the effects of accounting conservatism on (1) the stock market valuation of operating assets in the context of the Feltham-Ohlson (1996) model and (2) the weight on operating assets in the Feltham-Ohlson abnormal operating earnings dynamics (hereafter referred to as the LIM conservatism parameter). Consistent with the Feltham-Ohlson (1996) model, we find that accounting-based conservatism proxies are positively related to the valuation weight on operating assets. Furthermore, the accounting-based conservatism proxies have incremental explanatory power even after controlling for (1) size, (2) book value (or sales) growth, and (3) leverage. These results are robust with respect to alternative empirical specifications of the valuation model and the choice of proxies for accounting conservatism. We also find, consistent with prior research but not with the Feltham-Ohlson model, that the sign of the LIM conservatism parameter is on-average negative. We provide evidence on the types of firms for which the linear information dynamics appears to hold better or worse. More specifically, the firms with negative values of the parameter are significantly smaller, less profitable and experiencing lower growth rates than firms with positive values of the parameter. Moreover, the relation between accounting-based conservatism proxies and the LIM conservatism parameter is fairly strong for the subsample of firms with high levels of profitability.
Collaborative Networks Are The Organization: An Innovation in Organization Design and Management
Authors: Shuman Jeffrey , Twombly Janice 
Published: January 2017

In August 2000, Peter Drucker made a startling prophesy: “The corporation as we know it is unlikely to survive the next 25 years. Legally and financially, yes. But not structurally and economically.” Nine years later, the business world is witnessing the realization of Drucker's prediction. Firms are slowly embracing the power of openness and innovation—not just products and services, but also processes and business models. This is a new way of being for businesses, to pursue opportunities while managing risks that come with globalization. In this in-depth article, the authors dive deeply into what it means to collaborate, moving far beyond simplistic ideas of working together or having a strategic alliance. As the authors explain, collaboration happens in a network, as organizations open themselves up to a variety of stakeholders and communities. The network is dynamic and “fit for purpose,” with the agility to change the components and how they relate to each other legally and operationally as purpose and context evolves. Harnessing the strength of contributors, the network benefits and connects all parties in new and innovative ways. In short, the collaborative network is the organization. The authors draw upon research findings, case studies, and examples from their consulting and operational experience with many different organizations and industries, including government entities, oilfield producers, pharmaceutical alliances, and basic science collaborations. The article illustrates, using real-world examples, the benefit of collaboration, the five factors of a successful network collaboration, the value proposition of the collaborative network, and the role of the network choreographer.
Impact of Task Types and CMC Technology on Exchange Quality: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Mehra Payal 
Published: January 2017

While globally, computer-mediated communication (CMC) has emerged as a powerful and a more satisfying medium to facilitate organizational communication, its increased use, particularly in emerging economies, raises concerns relating to its efficacy particularly when compared to the more ‘natural’ face-to-face communication. This paper examines the impact of CMC on the quality of organizational communication at the workplace. Analysing economic and relational dimensions of task performance, the paper investigates whether CMC enhances or debases the quality of interaction (exchange quality). Measured in terms of perceived satisfaction on economic and relational dimensions of task performance, the quality of exchange is examined with respect to three type of tasks — information generation, information sharing, and decision-making. The five independent variables under study are: frequency of media use, media familiarity, media choice (to facilitate task/social interaction), quality of information sharing, and the strength of relational tie among the team members. These five variables are examined with respect to two configurations —e-mail and instant messaging (IM). The dependent variable is the quality of the interaction (exchange quality). The results show that: the frequency of e-mail communication is a significant factor in facilitating effective communication. Frequent e-mail communication leads to media familiarity. Familiarity with CMC positively impacts satisfaction on task dimensions and results in improved communication. Satisfaction scores vary on the basis of the mode of communication. Users used e-mail as a rich medium to exchange task-related information, for analytical and judgmental tasks and as a lean medium for building relationships (especially at the brainstorming or information generation stage). In comparison to e-mail, IM is not as effective both on economic as well as relational dimensions of task performance. Though a synchronous medium with a higher perceived social presence than the e-mail, it rated low on familiarity and information sharing aspects. The strength of the relational ties shared by the group had a positive impact on the quality of social interaction. A large majority of the respondents opted for the FtF mode for information gathering task and the CMC mode for information exchange and decision-making tasks.
Study of an Active Vibration Isolation System
Authors: Takagami Teruo , Jimbo Yasuo 
Published: January 2017

Improvements of performance of a vibration isolation table supported by an air-spring are attempted. A servo-control mechanism regulates the air in the air-spring so that the table can always remain immobile in spite of the vibrations of the floor. The principle of this servo-control is as follows. At the instant of upward movement of the table, the air in the air-spring is impelled to flow out. At the instant of downward movement of the table, the air is pushed to flow in. In this paper, a method of determining an optimal control-signal, which regulates the air in the air-spring, is discussed from a learning control standpoint by a microcomputer. For periodic disturbances, adjustment of control signal for both amplitude and phase is applied. For random disturbances, adjustment of control gain only is applicable.
Eyelid Ptosis following Botulinum a Exotoxin Injections Reversed with Apraclonidine
Authors: Herron Joel Bain , Walz Sara , Khan Azim J. , Bisaccia Emil , Scarborough Dwight A. 
Published: January 2017

Introduction: While use of botulinum A toxin (Botox Allergan, Inc, Irvine, Calif) injections for cosmetic use is generally considered safe and efficacious, uncommon side effects can occur. We present the case of a 52-year-old woman that experienced eyelid ptosis following botulinum toxin injections in the glabellar and forehead regions. Materials and Methods: The patient received botulinum toxin injections in a standard fashion to the glabellar, forehead, and lateral canthal regions. A total of 32 units (0.8 mL of botulinum A toxin diluted to 40 units/mL) was used. Results: Five days following botulinum toxin injections, the patient experienced unilateral eyelid ptosis, which was successfully treated with apraclonidine 0.5% eyedrops (Iopidine, Alcon Labs, Ft Worth, Tex) to the affected side. Resolution of the ptosis occurred within 1 week of initiating treatment. Conclusion: Although eyelid ptosis can be an undesirable sequela of botulinum toxin injections for cosmetic purposes, measures can be undertaken to avoid this adverse effect. Fortunately, unintended effects from botulinum toxin are temporary. Ptosis can be ameliorated with apraclonidine eyedrops.
Earlobe Restoration for a Patient with Pixie Ear Preference
Authors: Herron Joel Bain , Sachdeva Mandi , Khan Azim J. , Bisaccia Emil , Scarborough Dwight A. 
Published: January 2017

Introduction: The pixie ear is usually considered an undesired outcome following cervicofacial rhytidectomy procedures, and several techniques for prevention and correction have been previously described in the literature. However, on occasion a patient may prefer the aesthetics of the pixie ear and request it be restored or created. We present the case of a 68-year-old woman who desired restoration of bilateral pixie ears. Materials and Methods: Described is a simple technique that can be rapidly performed in the office under local anesthesia to achieve the pixie ear look. Results: A favorable aesthetic outcome recreating pixie ears was accomplished to the satisfaction of the patient without complication. Discussion: It is imperative to discuss the desired final cosmetic appearance of the ears in preoperative consultation for cervicofacial rhytidectomy. Although a pixie ear is not the typically desired aesthetic result, some patients may prefer it to the more traditional free-hanging earlobe.
Aminoglycoside Nephrotoxicity following Single-Dose Cystoscopy Prophylaxis
Authors: Weir Brian A. , Mazumdar Debesh C. 
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE: To report a case of gentamicin-associated acute tubular necrosis following single-dose exposure. SETTING: Central-city, university-affiliated teaching hospital. PATIENT: An 82-year-old man, admitted for evaluation of shortness of breath, appetite reduction with weight loss, and stable renal insufficiency, developed urinary retention, which prompted a urologic evaluation followed by a cystoscopy. INTERVENTIONS: A single 1.6-mg/kg (actual body weight) dose of gentamicin was administered as prophylaxis prior to this procedure. RESULTS: A significant decline in renal function was observed 48 hours following gentamicin administration. A nephrology evaluation excluded pre- and postrenal causes and attributed this episode of nonoliguric acute tubular necrosis to a single dose of gentamicin. CONCLUSIONS: Although not consistent with currently proposed mechanisms and reported onset of aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity, an etiology other than that concluded by this case report appears unlikely.
Use of Multiple-Dose Activated Charcoal in Phenytoin Toxicity
Authors: Howard Carol E. , Roberts R. Shane , Ely Daniel S. , Moye Robert A. 
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE: To report a case of phenytoin toxicity successfully treated with multiple-dose activated charcoal. CASE SUMMARY: A 36-year-old man was first admitted with chronic phenytoin toxicity secondary to hepatitis and was treated symptomatically. His serum phenytoin concentration was 149.8 μmol/L on admission and decreased slowly over his 6-day hospitalization to 134.8 μmol/L. Upon readmission approximately 24 hours later, his phenytoin concentration was 186.7 μmol/L. Because of acute phenytoin toxicity, he was treated with multiple-dose activated charcoal. His phenytoin concentration after four doses of activated charcoal returned to the therapeutic range within 36 hours and his symptoms abated quickly, thus decreasing his hospital stay. DISCUSSION: The exact mechanism of action of multiple-dose activated charcoal to decrease serum phenytoin concentrations is unknown. Several mechanisms of action have been reported in the literature and are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple-dose activated charcoal was used successfully in treating acute phenytoin toxicity in our patient. Based on his previous admission for chronic phenytoin toxicity, his hospital stay was reduced by three days. The use of multiple-dose activated charcoal in acute phenytoin toxicity has potential therapeutic and financial implications.
Investigation of Blood Flow During Intermittent Pneumatic Compression and Proposal of a New Compression Protocol
Authors: Lee Wonhee , Seo Jong Hyun , Kim Hyun Beom , Chung Seung Hyun , Lee Seung Hoon , Kim Kwang Gi , Kang Hyun Guy 
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is now a widely used therapy for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. In general, the IPC sequence is composed of sequential compression and simultaneous deflation. Typically, veins are considered to be squeezed and emptied during the compression phase and to be refilled during the deflation phase. However, because the stop or sudden increase in blood flow can be dangerous, a further investigation is needed with respect to the blood flow. Materials and Methods: We demonstrated a new compression protocol based on the investigation results of venous blood flow during IPC. This new compression protocol involves successive compression without the deflation phase; thus, the expelled blood volume flow during a given period can be maximized. To investigate the blood flow during IPC, sonography movie clips and in-laboratory developed blood flow analysis software was used. Results: The increases in the peak volume flow during IPC were 49% (±24%) and 25% (±29%) with the conventional protocol and the new protocol, respectively, whereas the total volume flow (TVF) was not significantly changed (−1.0% and −13.0%, respectively). With the new protocol, the peak velocity (PV) was 49% lower than that with the conventional protocol. Thus, the new protocol has an effect of maintaining TVF without resulting in a sudden large increase or decrease in PV. Conclusion: The new suggested protocol might improve safety because it can maintain the stability of blood flow by reducing the risk of blood stasis and a rapid change in blood flow.
Uric acid therapy improves the outcomes of stroke patients treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator and mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Chamorro Ángel , Amaro Sergio , Castellanos Mar , Gomis Meritxell , Urra Xabier , Blasco Jordi , Arenillas Juan F , Román Luis S , Muñoz Roberto , Macho Juan , Cánovas David , Marti-Fabregas Joan , Leira Enrique C , Planas Anna M ,   URICO-ICTUS Investigators
Published: January 2017

Background Numerous neuroprotective drugs have failed to show benefit in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, making the search for new treatments imperative. Uric acid is an endogenous antioxidant making it a drug candidate to improve stroke outcomes. Aim To report the effects of uric acid therapy in stroke patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy. Methods Forty-five patients with proximal vessel occlusions enrolled in the URICO-ICTUS trial received intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator within 4.5 h after stroke onset and randomized to intravenous 1000 mg uric acid or placebo (NCT00860366). These patients also received mechanical thrombectomy because a brain computed tomogaphy angiography confirmed the lack of proximal recanalization at the end of systemic thrombolysis. The primary outcome was good functional outcome at 90 days (modified Rankin Score 0–2). Safety outcomes included mortality, symptomatic intracerebral bleeding, and gout attacks. Results The rate of successful revascularization was >80% in the uric acid and the placebo groups but good functional outcome was observed in 16 out of 24 (67%) patients treated with uric acid and 10 out of 21 (48%) treated with placebo (adjusted Odds Ratio, 6.12 (95% CI 1.08–34.56)). Mortality was observed in two out of 24 (8.3%) patients treated with uric acid and one out of 21 (4.8%) treated with placebo (adjusted Odds Ratio, 3.74 (95% CI 0.06–226.29)). Symptomatic cerebral bleeding and gout attacks were similar in both groups. Conclusions Uric acid therapy was safe and improved stroke outcomes in stroke patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis followed by thrombectomy. Validation of this simple strategy in a larger trial is urgent.
Relationship between prescribed psychotropic medications and co-ingested alcohol in intentional self-poisonings
Authors: Chitty Kate M. , Dobbins Timothy , Dawson Andrew H. , Isbister Geoffrey K. , Buckley Nicholas A. 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundAcute alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for suicide, therefore investigating factors associated with alcohol-related self-harm warrant attention.AimsTo investigate the influence of prescribed psychotropic medications on the odds of co-ingesting alcohol preceding or during intentional efforts to self-poison.MethodA cross-sectional analysis of consecutive hospital presentations following intentional self-poisoning was conducted. A total of 7270 patients (4363 women) aged 18–96 were included.ResultsThe odds of alcohol co-ingestion were increased in those not prescribed any medication (odds ratio (OR) = 1.27, 99% CI 1.10–1.46, P50.001) and in impulsive self-poisonings (OR= 1.39, 99% CI 1.11–1.74, P50.001). Odds were decreased in those prescribed anticonvulsants (OR = 0.69, 99% CI 0.51–0.93), antipsychotics (OR = 0.55, 99% CI 0.45–0.66) and antidepressants (OR = 0.87, 99% CI 0.77–0.99).ConclusionsFindings indicate that being medicated for a psychiatric illness may reduce the likelihood of alcohol consumption during times of acute distress, hence perhaps may reduce the risk of intentional self-poisoning.
Cerebral blood flow alterations specific to auditory verbal hallucinations in schizophrenia
Authors: Zhuo Chuanjun , Zhu Jiajia , Qin Wen , Qu Hongru , Ma Xiaolei , Yu Chunshui 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundAuditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) have been associated with deficits in auditory and speech-related networks. However, the resting-state cerebral blood flow (CBF) alterations specific to AVHs in schizophrenia remain unknown.AimsTo explore AVH-related CBF alterations in individuals with schizophrenia.MethodIn total, 35 individuals with schizophrenia with AVHs, 41 individuals with schizophrenia without AVHs and 50 controls underwent arterial spin labelling magnetic resonance imaging. The CBF differences were voxel-wise compared across the three groups.ResultsWe found AVH-specific CBF increase in the right superior temporal gyrus and caudate, and AVH-specific CBF decrease in the bilateral occipital and left parietal cortices. We also observed consistent CBF changes in both schizophrenia subgroups (i.e. those with and without AVHs) including decreased CBF in the bilateral occipital regions, the left lateral prefrontal and insular cortices, and the right anterior cingulate cortex and increased CBF in the bilateral lateral temporal regions and putamen, the left middle cingulate cortex and the right thalamus.ConclusionsThe AVH-specific CBF increases in the auditory and striatal areas and CBF reductions in the visual and parietal areas suggest that there exists a CBF redistribution associated with AVHs.
Pharmacological treatment and risk of psychiatric hospital admission in bipolar disorder
Authors: Joas Erik , Karanti Alina , Song Jie , Goodwin Guy M. , Lichtenstein Paul , Landén Mikael 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundClinical trials have examined the efficacy of drugs to prevent relapse in patients with bipolar disorder, however, their design often limits generalisation to routine clinical practice.AimsTo estimate the effectiveness of drugs used for maintenance treatment in bipolar disorder.MethodWe used national registers to identify 35022 individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder and information on lithium, valproate, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, quetiapine and olanzapine treatment from 2006 to 2009. The main outcome was psychiatric hospital admissions. We used stratified cox regression to compare periods on and off medication within the same individual.ResultsMedication with lithium, valproate, lamotrigine, olanzapine and quetiapine was associated with reduced rates of admission to hospital. Lithium was more effective than quetiapine and olanzapine. The effects of specific drugs depended on the polarity of the mood episode.ConclusionsOur findings complement results from randomised controlled trails, but suggest that lithium is more effective than both quetiapine and olanzapine in routine clinical practice.