bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlation of B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) with Left Ventricle Systolic Function Echocardiographic Parameters in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Authors: Prohic Nejra , Resic Halima , Spasovski Goce , Masnic Fahrudin , Beciragic Amela , Spasovska Jelka Masin , Coric Aida 
Published: April 2015

Abstract

Introduction. BNP plasma levels are significantly increased in heart failure and have an excellent negative predictive value for left ventricular dysfunction. Measurement of BNP level is useful for “screening” in high-risk populations. It is suitable for detection of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and/or dysfunction and risk assessment in the sub-acute phase of acute myocardial infarction in hypertensive patients. The aim of our study was to find whether BNP may correlate with the left ventricular systolic function, i.e. its echocardiographic parameters in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

Methods. In a prospective study performed at the Department of Nephrology and Clinic for hemodialysis at the Clinical Center in Sarajevo we followed-up 80 patients stratified in three separate groups according to CKD stage (Stage III, IV and V) for two years, regardless of their cardiovascular symptoms. We analyzed levels of BNP before and after diuretic therapy or hemodialysis and echocardiographic characteristics of the left ventricle.

Results. There was a strong negative correlation between BNP values and the size of the EF before (rho=−0.692, p<0.0001) and after diuretic therapy (rho=−0.683, p<0.0001) for patients in CKD stage III, stage IV (rho=−0.314, p>0.05) and after diuretic therapy (rho=−495, p<0.05) Similarly, a negative correlation was found for BNP and EF values before (rho=−0.432, p<0.05) and after hemodialysis (rho=−0.556, p<0.01) for stage V CKD.

Conclusions. Our study confirmed that the value of BNP in CKD patients may represent a measure of left ventricular systolic function with a strong negative correlation with ejection fraction. BNP measurement is a reliable parameter for further follow-up and prognosis in patients with established left ventricular dysfunction, acute coronary syndrome and for estimation of the left ventricular dysfunction.
Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis Type 1 Secondary to an Infected Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt: a Case Report
Authors: Paliouras Christos , Lamprianou Foteini , Ntetskas Georgios , Mattas Georgios , Karvouniaris Nikolaos , Aperis Georgios , Alivanis Polichronis 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
Ventricular shunting is the usual method for treatment of congenital or acquired hydrocephalus. Immune-mediated glomerulonephritis (shunt nephritis) is a rare but life-threatening complication of this neurosurgical technique. Intraglomerular deposition of circulating immune complexes and the subsequent activation of the classical pathway of serum complement’s cascade result in glomerular inflammation. Membranoproliferative gomerulonephritis is the most common histologic pattern observed in renal biopsy. The diagnosis needs high suspicion and is based on clinical and laboratory findings. Deterioration of renal function in association with signs of infection and low levels of serum complement’s proteins C3 and C4 make the diagnosis possible. The prognosis is variable and depends on the time of diagnosis after the onset of glomerular injury. The optimal treatment includes timely removal of the infected shunt in combination with aggressive antibiotic therapy. In this paper we present the case of a membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 1 in a patient with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Although this type of shunting is considered safer than the ventriculoatrial one, the risk of complications such as an immune-mediated glomerulonephritis still exists.
Drusen Formation in Type II Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Milinkovic Marija , Jovicic-Pavlovic Svetlana , Golubovic-Arsovska Milena , Naumovic Radomir 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
Type II membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is a systemic disease that almost invariably recurs in renal allografts. This is a case of a 45-year-old woman with biopsy proven type II MPGN that led to renal failure 10 years after diagnosis. During the fifth month after cadaveric transplantation she was treated with pulse doses of methylprednisolone owing to acute T-cell mediated rejection without pathohistological signs of type II MPGN recurrence. One month later the patient was hospitalized due to acute bilateral vision deterioration. Ophthalmoscopy showed bilateral, multifocal drusen, concentrating in the posterior pole, and exudative ablation of the retinal pigment epithelium. Ocular coherence tomography (OCT) revealed focal retinal pigment epithelial elevation and detachments. The patient was treated with methylprednisolone (1 mg/kg) for 3 days. Therapy led to regression of exudation and flattening of the pigment epithelial detachments with discrete subjective visual improvement. Type II MPGN almost invariably recurs and leads to graft failure in 50% of cases. Our patient had evident chronic eye changes due to type II MPGN leaving allograft function intact during the first year of follow-up. Considering these potentially devastating effects of the disease, type II MPGN patients should be observed carefully from both the renal and eye point of view, because the severity of ocular changes, like in our case, is not always in line with allograft function.
Baseline Prevalence and Emergence of Protease Inhibitor Resistance Mutations following Treatment in Chronic HCV Genotype-1-Infected Individuals
Authors: Nguyen Linh Thuy , Gray Emma , Dean Jonathan , Carr Michael , Connell Jeff , Gascun Cillian De , Nguyen Lan Anh , O'Leary Aisling , Bergin Colm , Hall William , Norris Suzanne 
Published: April 2015

Background The HCV NS3/4A serine protease inhibitors (PIs) boceprevir (BOC), telaprevir (TVR) and simeprevir (SMV) are approved for treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection in combination with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. The present study investigated the prevalence of HCV NS3 drug resistance mutations (DRMs) associated with HCV genotype-1-infected individuals at baseline and in viral breakthrough following BOC and TVR treatment. Methods HCV genotype-1-infected individuals were enrolled in a multicentre, prospective outcomes study. The HCV NS3 viral protease was analysed for DRMs at baseline ( n=164) and at viral breakthrough ( n=18) following BOC/ TVR treatment. Results Viral NS3 protease subtype analysis showed 65.2% (107/164) were HCV subtype-1a and 34.8% (57/164) were HCV subtype-1b infections. Naturally occurring PI DRMs in NS3 (V36L, T54S, V55A, Q80K/R and I132V) were identified in 57.3% (94/164) cases at baseline. The NS3 Q80K polymorphism was found in 43/107 (40.2%) of HCV subtype-1a and exclusively in clade 1 (43/82; 52.4%) versus clade 2 viruses (0/25; 0%, P<10-6). The pretreatment I132V variant was found in 78.9% (45/57) of subtype-1b. Of 18 patients who had viral breakthrough, the majority was subtype-1a (77.8%, 14/18). BOC/TVR-associated DRMs were detected in 94.4% (17/18), of which 64.7% (11/17) emerged on-treatment. Conclusions To ensure the most appropriate direct-acting antiviral-based treatment regimen is employed, baseline reporting of clade and resistance mutations for HCV sub-type-1a using nucleotide sequence-based analysis is warranted prior to commencement of therapy.
A preliminary inventory of the catfishes of the lower Rio Nhamundá, Brazil (Ostariophysi, Siluriformes)
Authors: Collins Rupert , Duarte Ribeiro Emanuell , Nogueira Machado Valéria , Hrbek Tomas , Farias Izeni 
Published: April 2015

The Rio Nhamundá is a poorly-known clearwater river draining the southern Guiana Shield of Brazil. In this study we report the findings of a preliminary ichthyological survey, focusing on catfishes (Siluriformes). We identify a total of 36 species (31 genera, seven families) from the Nhamundá, including 11 species already recorded from the river. Overall, our survey results show that even rapid surveys can provide important information on Amazon fish biodiversity, suggesting potential new species, providing range extensions for nominal species, and additionally highlighting taxa in need of taxonomic revision and genetic study. As well as the traditional forms of data collected on biodiversity surveys (i.e. preserved specimen vouchers), our study also provides "new" types of data in the form of DNA barcodes and images of fishes exhibiting colouration in life, information that will be invaluable in future work addressing difficult groups.
O Rio Nhamundá é um rio de água clara, pouco conhecido, que drena parte do Escudo das Guianas em território brasileiro. Nesse estudo, nós reportamos os resultados de um levantamento ictiofaunístico preliminar dessa área, tendo como foco os bagres (Siluriformes). Nós identificamos um total de 36 espécies (31 gêneros, sete famílias) provenientes de nossa coleta, e adicionamos 11 espécies já conhecidas para o rio. De maneira geral, os resultados de nossa pesquisa mostram que mesmo levantamentos rápidos podem gerar informações importantes sobre a biodiversidade de peixes amazônicos, sugerindo potenciais espécies novas, ampliando a área de distribuição de espécies, além de apontar a necessidade de revisões taxonômicas e estudos genéticos para alguns taxa. Para além das formas tradicionais de dados coletados em pesquisas de biodiversidade (i.e. espécimes preservados), nosso estudo fornece "novas" formas de dados, como DNA barcodes e imagens com o padrão de coloração dos espécimes vivos, informações essas que serão de valor inestimável para futuros estudos que abordem grupos taxonômicos difíceis.
Être éboueur-e à Paris
Authors: Le Lay Stéphane 
Published: April 2015

Le métier d’éboueur-e à Paris, bien que classé dans la catégorie d’ouvrier non qualifié, ne peut être compris sans l’analyse de dimensions mal prises en compte dans les qualifications professionnelles, alors qu’elles renseignent le « drame social du travail » d’activités enserrées dans le cadre du service (au) public. Pourtant, ces dimensions relationnelles et affectives font l’objet d’une attention renforcée de la part de la municipalité, sous l’effet de deux grandes dynamiques politiques. La première est liée au recrutement de femmes, ouverture ayant entraîné des changements dans le travail. La seconde provient d’un renforcement des exigences en matière de nettoiement : il est attendu de la part des agents une meilleure qualité de service et une attention plus marquée à l’« image de la ville ». Ainsi, le métier d’éboueur-e interroge à sa manière le processus de déségrégation de la classe ouvrière, formant une figure d’« ouvrier-e de service » typique des classes populaires actuelles.
Tribological Properties of MWCNTs Strengthened Aluminum Composite Fabricated by Induction Melting
Authors: Mansoor Muhammad , Shahid Muhammad 
Published: April 2015

<span><p>Aluminum-Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (Al-CNTs) composite was fabricated using air induction melting technique. The nanotubes were dispersed in molten aluminum using innate string action of induction heating at 760 °C. A heavy fluxing condition was used to avoid oxidation of the nanotubes and molten aluminum. The nanotubes were satisfactorily dispersed in the matrix as observed during metallographic examination using scanning electron microscope.<br /> <br /><span style="font-size: 10px;"> The tribological properties (i.e. coefficient of friction and wear rate) of the Al-CNTs composite were investigated using ball-on-disk machine under dry wear condition at 2 cm/sec speed and 3N load. It was observed that both of the tribological parameters exhibited decreasing trends with increasing contents of the nanotubes, which was due to the self lubricating and structural features of the nanotubes. Improved tribology of the composite was the attribute of appreciable dispersion of the nanotubes in the matrix besides their exceptional mechanical properties and reinforcement.</span></p>
Age-stage, two-sex life history of the golden twin spot moth,Chrysodeixis chalcites(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), on six commercial tomato cultivars under laboratory conditions
Authors: Nouri-Ganbalani Gadir , Mardani-Talaee Mozhgan , Haji-Ramezani Mohamad Reza 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThe tomato looper,Chrysodeixis chalcites(Esper) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a major pest that feeds on some fodder crops, vegetables, and ornamental plants in diverse plant families. We studied the effect of different cultivars of tomato including: Cal.JN3, Hed Rio Grande, Rio Grande UG, SUN 6108 f1, Super crystal, and Super strain B on the life history ofC. chalcitesunder laboratory conditions (25±1 °C, 65±5% relative humidity, and 16:8 (light:dark hours). Data were analysed using the age-stage, two-sex life table method. Tomato cultivars had significant effects on developmental time of larvae, pupae, and total preadult stages ofC. chalcites. The longest (17.39 days) and the shortest (13.93 days) larval period were observed on Hed Rio Grande and SUN 6108 f1, respectively. The longest pupal period was observed on Cal.JN3 (12.16 days) and Hed Rio Grande (12.11 days) compared with other cultivars. The lowest amount of larval growth index and rate of ovipositon days was observed on Cal.JN3. The results of this study revealed that Cal.JN3 and Hed Rio Grande were the less suitable cultivars toC. chalcitescompared with other cultivars studied and can be used in integrated pest management programme of this pest.
Riser Solutions for Turret-Moored FPSOs With or Without Disconnectable Turret
Authors: Seguin Blaise , Karunakaran Daniel , Legras Jean-Luc 
Published: April 2015

AbstractTurret-Moored FPSOs are more and more used for deepwater developments worldwide, with consideration of disconnectable turrets for harsh environment applications. This trend makes the interactions between FPSO and riser system, and the optimized selection of the riser system, of greater importance.The paper provides a review of the various riser systems that can be considered for turret-moored FPSOs: proven systems, both coupled (flexibles and rigid risers) and uncoupled systems (hybrid single and multiple riser systems), and new riser concepts. These systems are described in terms of design and functionalities; fabrication and installation methods are presented.Pros and Cons for these riser systems are discussed, with consideration of the particular challenges brought by turret-moored FPSOs (e.g. large floater motions, riser hang-off geometry constraints at turret, hang-off loads, riser interferences, riser pre-installation, turret disconnection constraints). Elements for selection of the most appropriate riser system are proposed, considering a range of project specificities.
Pipeline Repair Using Epoxy Technology
Authors: Bryson Kenneth , Fowkes Mick , Booth Paul , Mock Christopher 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
"Pipeline Repair with Epoxy Technology"; an economic permanent solution
Mechanical connectors have long been the accepted methodology for subsea pipeline repairs in benign waters accessible by divers. However, as the requirement to undertake repairs in increasingly deep and challenging environments has increased and infrastructures become ever more mature, the need for an economic deep water repair solution has become critical.
The current mechanical connector technology present issues such as size, weight and the requirement for fine alignment. These become critical parameters in the design of a repair system, especially on larger diameter lines. These fundamental issues can also have a detrimental effect on the choice of installation vessels and suitable weather window to perform the repair.
A new pipeline repair approach using Epoxy technology developed by Subsea7 addresses all of these issues. A specially formulated epoxy, injected into the annulus formed between the pipeline outer diameter and the repair connector provides both the axil and hoop strength necessary to provide a long term repair. Repair connectors no longer require highly technical sealing arrangements that rely upon tight diametrical control and precise ovality checks, consequently they are much smaller, lighter and far easier to install than conventional mechanical connectors.
This paper will illustrate the Epoxy technology itself, the qualification process and the many types of applications it is suited for. Critically, it will demonstrate the technical, schedule and installation advantages of Epoxy technology over conventional mechanical connector pipeline repair solutions.
Mooring System Integrity Challenges and Repair Experience of South China Sea Floating Production Units
Authors: Yiyong Liu , Jiayou Mao 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
This paper is written to provide working experience for mooring integrity works done in South China Sea. The relevant statistical data and repair methods of floater permanent mooring systems are to provide the industry with more references and insides.
There are total 10 floating units operating in South China Sea (9 FPSOs and 1 FPS). Half of them were initially installed in mid to late 90's. The rest were put in production after year 2000. All FPSO moorings are permanent internal turret type. During the operation period, there have been various mooring system integrity issues. In the past 20 years, there have been 3 major mooring system incidents and other 5 with various integrity issues. For the total 8 cases, various mooing system remediation actions have been taken to bring them back to standard. Considerations for mooring system design, installation and inspection have been put in place for existing system continuous safe operation or new systems to be installed in this area. A mooring system integrity management system is also under development by CNOOC. This article tries to review all the mooring integrity issues we have faced in the past 20 years at South China Sea. The repair solutions for each case are briefed. Guide lines for improvements in design, installation and inspection for future systems are given.
Mooring system integrity issues in South China Sea oil fields are related to areas of design, maintenance and inspection etc. The findings provide good information for new designs and help for better management of existing installations. It will also provide some shared learning on mooring system integrity management to other operators.
In Situ Radiographic Inspection for Non-Destructive Examination of Subsea Flexible Risers
Authors: Lyons G. J. , Sood J. , Ferguson H. 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
One of the most significant subsea inspection issues has been the inability to date to obtain high resolution images of the internal layers of complex products such as flexible risers, in situ. This has significant implications for asset integrity, life, and resultant review of design. The radiographic technology, and riser integrity expertise, of CIT and BPP, have been combined with the subsea inspection design and development capabilities of Subsea 7 to develop a groundbreaking subsea NDE inspection service. This allows operators to detect a wide range of riser issues for the first time by providing high resolution images of all the various flexible riser layers (not just the outermost tensile armour). The technology being developed can unambiguously and practicably identify defects on in-service flexible risers and thereby assist resolution by intervention. This paper describes the radiographic technology used and how it is integrated into the subsea NDE tool.
Technical aspects discussed compare the technology as implemented with what has otherwise been available to date. It is now possible with the radiographic technology developed to readily measure breakage of metallic layers, corrosion even when unflooded, as well as detecting loss of interlock. Fine control can also be applied to usefully view the non-metallic layers. Reference is made to Ultrasonic, Eddy Current, MAPS, and Acoustic Emission NDE techniques, and considers how these can most reasonably be used with existing and future assets.
The Agbami Digital Oilfield Solution and Reliability Assessment of Intelligent Well Completions
Authors: Ibeh Chijioke , Awotiku Oluwabiyi , Ledergerber Alan , Ugah Ibrahim , Awonuga Kunle 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
As at the time the Agbami field came on stream in July 2008, the Digital Oilfield (DOF) solution and indeed the Intelligent Well Completion (IWC) technology were still not widely accepted in the oil and gas industry as a cost-effective, reliable and sustainable method of completing and operating deepwater wells. Agbami development was indeed the first full-scale adoption of this technology for StarDeep Water Petroleum Limited (an affiliate of Chevron Corporation) and since then several other deepwater field developments have leveraged the best practices and lessons learned from the Agbami deployment.
Suffice to say that effective cost management is critical to the success of any business especially in the deepwater environment where rig rates and associated costs are high. Most operators tend to adopt a "lean" completions design and cost philosophy since drilling costs will typically not vary much especially in a "post-Macondo" world. One area of immediate completions cost savings is usually the elimination of jewelries like IWC equipment in the completions design. And if you try asking a good old company man, the most likely answer will be "just keep it simple". Though "keeping it simple" will minimize the installation risks and costs in the short term, this has to be balanced with long term surveillance requirements and non-intrusive well optimization and intervention opportunities.
This paper discusses the Agbami digital oilfield solution architecture with emphasis on the reliability of the IWC technology deployed. This reliability assessment focuses primarily on analyses of the downhole IWC equipment (sensors and control valves) installed in both producer and injector wells using statistical methods. With over 6 years after first oil, results confirm that most of the Agbami IWC equipment still have high reliability except for a few wells were we have observed failure of the metal-to-metal seal in the interval control valves. The full DOF solution implementation in Agbami has been a critical success factor in guaranteeing the reliability of the wells over the years thus minimizing intervention costs. The cross-functional collaboration within the Agbami team and ongoing engagements with the vendors to identify and implement equipment design improvement opportunities continues to deliver tremendous value.
Deriving Value from Integrating Engineering Design and Automation with Offshore Operations
Authors: Wiley Livia 
Published: April 2015

Abstract
Given the recent fluctuation in oil prices, companies are presented with a dichotomy—while they've cut 2015 capital expenditures (CAPEX) by 25-40%, production levels for existing operations are likely to remain at 2014 levels, or higher. The challenge now lies in improving operational efficiency and productivity, reducing costs, and mitigating risk to remain profitable in this tough oil market. It's a delicate balance of return on invested capital with operations excellence. This paper will present the value a single solution for simulating, operating, and optimizing operations offers the upstream oil and gas business. The outlined real-time performance-based solution for complete performance modeling provides operators a single continuous view of their assets, thus empowering them to plan, manage, and optimize current and future oil and gas production.