bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hillock formation and thermal stresses in thin Au films on Si substrates
Authors: Sauter Linda , Balk T. John , Dehm Gerhard , Nucci Julie A. , Arzt Eduard
Published: December 2012

The wafer curvature technique was used to analyze stresses in fine-grained, 50 nm to 2 μm thick Au films on silicon substrates between room temperature and 500°C. The microstructural evolution was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), focused ion beam (FIB) microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In situ heating experiments inside a scanning electron microscope provided a comparison between the morphological development and the stress-temperature behavior of the film. Hillock formation was observed, but it can only partially account for the stress relaxation measured by the wafer curvature technique.
Macroinvertebrates under stochastic hydrological disturbance in Cerrado streams of Central Brazil
Authors: Saito Victor S. , Mazão Gustavo R.
Published: December 2012

In the Cerrado vegetation, where the seasonal is well defined, rainfall has an important role in controlling the flow of streams and consequently on the structure of macroinvertebrates community. Despite the effects of rainfall associated with seasonality are well studied, little is known about the effects of stochastic rains on the community. In the present study we evaluated the structure and faunal composition of four first-order streams in Central Brazil during the dry season in two years, with and without stochastic rains. Community sampling was done by colonization of boards of high density polyethylene (HDPE), removed after one month submerged in streams. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) performed indicated no difference in rarefied richness between the two periods, different from numeric density of organisms that was higher in the period without disturbance; moreover, the Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) revealed differences in faunal composition between the two periods. Our results indicate that stochastic rainfall is an important factor in structuring the macroinvertebrates community in studied region.
O enfermeiro e a avaliação na gestão de Sistemas de Saúde
Authors: Chaves Lucieli Dias Pedreschi , Tanaka Oswaldo Yoshimi
Published: December 2012

Este artigo teve como objetivo refletir criticamente acerca da avaliação, enquanto ferramenta gerencial que favorece a inserção do enfermeiro no processo de gestão de sistemas de saúde. Em decorrência de sua formação, que engloba conhecimentos da área assistencial e gerencial, tendo como centralidade o cuidado, o enfermeiro tem potencial para assumir postura diferenciada na gestão e condições de tomar posições decisórias e de proposição de políticas de saúde. Entretanto, ainda há que se construir e consolidar inserção expressiva em níveis decisórios nos espaços de gestão. A avaliação é um componente da gestão, cujos resultados podem contribuir para tomada de decisão mais objetiva que possibilite a melhoria das intervenções de saúde e a reorganização das práticas de saúde, dentro de um contexto político, econômico, social e profissional; é também uma área de aplicação de conhecimentos que tem potência para mudar o panorama atual da inserção do enfermeiro na gestão.
Estratégia para erradicação de focos da Doença de Aujeszky em suínos no Estado de São Paulo
Authors: Oliveira Luís Guilherme de , Oliveira Maria E.F. , Alexandrino Bruna , Samara Samir I.
Published: December 2012

Este trabalho teve como objetivo a avaliação de duas estratégias para erradicação de focos da doença de Aujeszky (DA) em suínos criados comercialmente no estado de São Paulo. Foram identificados dois focos da enfermidade, no município de Cerqueira César, um apresentando somente animais sororreagentes (Foco 1) e outro, casos clínicos da doença (Foco 2). Foram avaliadas duas estratégias de erradicação, uma por eliminação dos sororreagentes e outra por despovoamento gradual, com acompanhamento durante 12 meses. A erradicação por eliminação dos sororreagentes foi aplicada no Foco 1 e compreendeu na identificação por exame sorológico, isolamento e abate dos positivos; vacinação dos negativos e reposição no plantel com animais provenientes de propriedade livre. No início dos trabalhos, 68% do plantel era positivo e ao final 51%. No Foco 2 utilizou-se o despovoamento gradual, onde todos os animais foram enviados ao abate sanitário, realizado vazio sanitário nas instalações, seguido pelo repovoamento com animais livres. Esta última estratégia, nas condições desse trabalho, mostrou-se a mais eficaz, pois erradicou a DA.
Type C botulism in swine fed on restaurant waste
Authors: Raymundo Djeison L. , Gomes Danilo C. , Boabaid Fabiana M. , Colodel Edson M. , Schmitz Milene , Correa André M.R. , Dutra Iveraldo S. , Driemeier David
Published: December 2012

The paper addresses the epidemiologic data of the death of pigs during the period of 2002 to 2009 following the ingestion of botulinum neurotoxin type C. This neurotoxin was present in food residues originating from restaurant and hotel kitchens, stored in barrels without shelter from the sun and administered in a collective trough without prior thermal treatment. Animals which died at different ages showed clinical signs of botulism characterized by flaccid paralysis, weight loss, anorexia, weakness, lack of coordination, locomotion difficulties with the evolution of lateral recumbency with involuntary urination and defecation. No alterations were observed at postmortem and histological examination. The bioassay with serum neutralization in mice was carried out on samples of intestinal contents from pigs affected and revealed the presence of large quantities of botulinum toxin type C.
O papel das redes de transformação no processo de inovação: estudos de caso sobre a descoberta e a comercialização da inovação
Authors: Vitoreli Marinez Cristina , Gobbo Junior Jose Alcides
Published: December 2012

A importância da inovação é algo reconhecido. Nesse contexto, as redes de inovação ganham importância nos estudos acadêmicos, uma vez que uma organização, isoladamente, nem sempre tem acesso a todos os recursos necessários. Gobbo Junior e Olsson (2010) apresentam um modelo de inovação em rede segundo o qual as redes de transformação seriam as estruturas presentes entre as de exploração e aplicação. Nesse contexto, este artigo apresenta dois estudos de caso de inovação em redes, tendo como objetivo aumentar a compreensão sobre as redes de transformação. Busca-se entender como elas interligam as redes de exploração e aplicação, os principais atores presentes nessa interface e avaliar se esses atores podem atuar como agentes aceleradores do processo de inovação. Foi possível verificar como as redes de transformação interligam as redes de exploração e aplicação, bem como identificar suas práticas e principais atores.
Questionário de percepção dos pais: evidências de uma medida de estilos parentais
Authors: Pasquali Luiz , Gouveia Valdiney Veloso , Santos Walberto Silva dos , Fonsêca Patrícia Nunes da , Andrade Josemberg Moura de , Lima Tiago Jessé Souza de
Published: December 2012

Os estilos parentais são investigados há várias décadas, sendo considerados preditores de comportamentos dos jovens. O presente estudo teve como objetivo principal elaborar uma versão reduzida de uma medida brasileira que pode ser empregada para avaliar tais estilos, isto é, o Questionário de Percepção dos Pais - QPP. Participaram 386 estudantes do ensino fundamental, com idade média de 12,7 anos (DP = 1,60), que responderam duas versões do QPP, cada uma com 20 itens, que avaliavam a percepção dos jovens em relação ao seu pai (QPP-20-P) e sua mãe (QPP-20-M). Por meio de análise de componentes principais, identificou-se uma estrutura com dois componentes (responsividade e exigência) para ambas as versões, explicando cerca de 40% da variância total. Tais componentes apresentaram Alfas de Cronbach superiores a 0,70. Concluiu-se que existem evidências de validade fatorial e consistência interna desta medida.
Integridade familiar: especificidades em idosos pobres
Authors: Marques Filipa Daniela , Sousa Liliana
Published: December 2012

A construção da integridade familiar constitui um desafio desenvolvimental normativo para o idoso, influenciado por fatores dos sistemas familiar e social. Este estudo teve por objetivo analisar as trajetórias de vida de pessoas idosas que viveram pobres ao longo da vida e como elas influenciaram as suas rotas no sentido da integridade ou da desconexão familiar. Foi aplicada uma entrevista semiestruturada, centrada na integridade familiar, a 12 participantes com mais de 64 anos (seis de cada sexo), sendo que três em cada grupo foram considerados como vivendo situação de integridade ou desconexão familiar. Os principais resultados sugerem que algumas circunstâncias comuns na vida de famílias pobres, tais como: conflito e/ou distância familiar, violência doméstica e/migração, múltiplas doenças crônicas severas, emprego temporário e baixos rendimentos, podem dificultar a conquista da integridade familiar e promover a desconexão familiar. Contudo, os participantes que reenquadraram os acontecimentos negativos de forma positiva evoluíram no sentido da integridade familiar.
Yakubinsky e o Círculo de Bakhtin: aproximações
Authors: Oliveira Robson Santos de , Lyra Maria da Conceição Diniz Pereira de
Published: December 2012

O presente artigo teve por objetivo discutir a contribuição de Yakubinsky para o estudo da linguagem e a sua influência sobre o Círculo de Bakhtin. Descrevemos aspectos de sua formação acadêmica e do ambiente no qual estava inserido. Analisamos suas contribuições, relacionando-as com os pensadores do Círculo de Bakhtin. Analisamos, particularmente, o texto "Sobre a fala dialógica", ressaltando aspectos de suas propostas como a naturalidade do diálogo e a exigência do contexto social, a concepção do diálogo e do monólogo e o automatismo da linguagem nas interações com o outro. Destacamos, por fim, a importância de Yakubinsky para a compreensão do dialogismo e a sua atualidade.
Tele-educação para educação continuada das equipes de saúde da família em saúde mental: a experiência de Pernambuco, Brasil
Authors: Novaes Magdala de Araújo , Machiavelli Josiane Lemos , Verde Filipe Cesário Villa , Campos Filho Amadeu Sá de , Rodrigues Tereza Roberta Castro
Published: December 2012

Estudos demonstram que são escassas as ações relacionadas à saúde mental na Estratégia da Saúde da Família, requerendo sensibilização e capacitação dos profissionais. A Telessaúde assume um papel importante, pois favorece a criação de serviços colaborativos entre profissionais de saúde e especialistas trabalhando remotamente. Este artigo apresenta as estratégias para a implementação e a avaliação dos Seminários por Webconferência em Saúde Mental, oferecidos pela RedeNUTES para as equipes de saúde da família de Pernambuco, Brasil. Os seminários síncronos têm frequência semanal e são apresentados por teleconsultores da rede assistencial ou de ensino. As sessões são gravadas e disponibilizadas para consulta na Biblioteca Virtual. Em 2009, ocorreram 39 seminários. A avaliação geral dos seminários, o grau de compreensão dos temas abordados, o material didático utilizado e o tempo de duração tiveram bons resultados. Conclui-se que esse serviço oportuniza um bom espaço para educação continuada em saúde mental.
Atividade microbiana em solos, influenciada por resíduos de algodão e torta de mamona
Authors: Capuani Silvia , Rigon João P. G. , Beltrão Napoleão E. de M. , Brito Neto Jósé F. de
Published: December 2012

A atividade microbiana não se constitui apenas como bom indicador da qualidade do solo, mas é influenciada pela adição de carbono no sistema, o qual serve como substrato aos micro-organismos que aumentam sua atividade e a liberação de CO2, compreendendo a respiração edáfica do solo. Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, avaliar a atividade microbiana em diferentes tipos de solo com a adição de torta de mamona e resíduo têxtil de algodão. O trabalho foi conduzido em casa de vegetação na sede da Embrapa Algodão, em delineamento de blocos casualisados em esquema fatorial 4 x 3, com quatro repetições. A intervalos predeterminados de 4 dias os recipientes foram abertos e a solução de NaOH foi titulada com HCl 2 N na presença de indicador ácido/base fenolftaleína. Após a leitura a mesma quantidade de NaOH foi reposta e os recipientes novamente fechados. A diferença entre a quantidade de ácido necessária para neutralizar o hidróxido de sódio no recipiente testemunha e nos tratamentos equivale à quantidade de gás carbônico produzido pelos micro-organismos do solo. Constatou-se que os resíduos influenciaram significativamente a atividade microbiana nos diferentes tipos de solo, sobretudo nas primeiras determinações, apresentando-se como boas fontes para mineralização e fornecimento de nutrientes, tendo a torta de mamona proporcionado maior liberação acumulada de CO2 pelos micro-organismos.
Kinetics of drying of basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum L.) in the infrared
Authors: Reis Renata C. dos , Devilla Ivano A. , Ascheri Diego P. R. , Servulo Ana C. O. , Souza Athina B. M.
Published: December 2012

The objective of this paper was to model the drying curves of the leaves of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in the infrared at temperatures of 50, 60, 70 and 80 ºC and to evaluate the influence of drying temperature on the color of dried leaves. Drying was conducted in infrared dryer with temperature and greenhouse air circulation. Experimental data were fitted to eight mathematical models. The magnitude of the coefficient of determination (R²), the mean relative error (P), the estimated mean error (SE) and chisquare test (χ2) were used to verify the degree of fitness of the models. From the study it was concluded that: a) the behavior of the drying curves of basil leaves was similar to most agricultural products, the drying times in the infrared were less than the drying times in an oven with air circulation, b) the mathematical drying model proposed by Midilli et al. (2002) was the one which best adjusted to the experimental data, c) the diffusion coefficient ranged from 9.10 x 10-12 to 2.92 x 10-11 m² s-1 and d) the color of the samples was highly influenced by drying, becoming darker due to loss of chlorophyll with increasing temperature.
Efeito do BAP no cultivo in vitro de Ocimum selloi Benth
Authors: Monfort L.E.F. , Pinto J.E.B.P. , Bertolucci S.K.V. , Rossi Z.T.T. , Santos F.M.
Published: December 2012

Visando promover a proliferação de brotações em segmentos apicais e nodais de Ocimum selloi em diferentes concentrações de BAP, plantas jovens de 60 dias serviram de doadoras de segmentos apicais e nodais. Os segmentos foram inoculados em meio MS preparado com a metade da concentração dos sais, e acrescido de 1,5% de sacarose e diferentes concentrações de BAP. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento fatorial, 3 x 4, sendo 3 as posições dos segmentos de O. selloi (segmento apical, primeiro e segundo segmentos nodais) e 4 concentrações de BAP (0 - controle; 2; 4 e 6 mg L-1). Aos 30 dias, foram avaliados o número, comprimento e biomassa fresca e seca de brotos e raízes. Os primeiros e segundos segmentos apresentaram melhores resultados na indução de brotos de O. selloi, 7 e 8 brotos/explante, nas diferentes concentrações de BAP; porém, não houve formação de raízes na presença da citocinina. Nas condições testadas, recomenda-se o uso do primeiro e segundo segmento nodal suplementando o meio de cultivo com BAP para a proliferação in vitro de brotações de O. selloi.
Controle microbiológico de drogas vegetais comercializadas na região central do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Gindri A. L. , Laporta L. V. , Santos M. R.
Published: December 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a qualidade microbiológica de 40 amostras de matérias-primas de fitoterápicos coletadas de farmácias de manipulação da região central Rio Grande do Sul. Foram realizados os testes de contagem de microrganismos viáveis e pesquisa e identificação de patógenos, ambos de acordo com a Farmacopéia Brasileira. Os resultados obtidos mostraram que há presença de microrganismos nas amostras, entretanto, em nenhuma delas, o valor de UFC g-1 ultrapassou o limite estabelecido para fitoterápicos na Farmacopéia Britânica, tanto para bactérias como para fungos. No teste de pesquisa e identificação de patógenos comprovou-se que não havia a presença de Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella sp, Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli, nas amostras analisadas. As amostras estão aptas a serem comercializadas, pois todas estavam dentro dos limites especificados, e foram aprovadas pelo teste de controle de qualidade microbiológico.
Influência da idade no comportamento da frequência cardíaca na transição repouso-exercício: uma análise por deltas e regressão linear
Authors: Beltrame Thomas , Karsten Marlus , Chacon-Mikahil Mara Patrícia Traina , Madruga Vera Aparecida , Silva Ester da , Borghi-Silva Audrey , Gallo Junior Lourenço , Catai Aparecida Maria
Published: December 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: As modificações da frequência cardíaca (FC) durante a transição repouso-exercício podem ser caracterizadas por meio da aplicação de cálculos matemáticos simples, como: deltas 0-10 e 0-30s para inferir sobre o sistema nervoso parassimpático, e delta e regressão linear aplicados no intervalo 60-240s para inferir sobre o sistema nervoso simpático. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi testar a hipótese de que indivíduos jovens e de meia-idade apresentam diferentes respostas da FC em exercício de intensidade moderada e intensa, com diferentes cálculos matemáticos. MÉTODOS: Homens aparentemente saudáveis, sendo sete de meia-idade e 10 jovens, foram submetidos a testes de carga constante de intensidade moderada e intensa. Foram calculados os deltas da FC nos períodos de 0-10s, 0-30s e 60-240s e a regressão linear simples no período de 60 a 240s. Os parâmetros obtidos na análise de regressão linear simples foram: intercepto e inclinação angular. Utilizou-se o teste Shapiro-Wilk para verificar a distribuição dos dados e o teste t não pareado para comparação entre os grupos. O nível de significância estatística considerado foi 5%. RESULTADOS: O valor do intercepto e do delta 0-10s foi menor no grupo meia-idade nas duas cargas e a inclinação do ângular foi menor no grupo meia-idade no exercício moderado. CONCLUSÃO: Os indivíduos jovens apresentam retirada vagal de maior magnitude no estágio inicial da resposta da FC durante exercício dinâmico em carga constante nas intensidades analisadas e maior velocidade de ajuste da resposta simpática em exercícios moderados.
Análise do controle do equilíbrio em surfistas durante a postura ereta
Authors: Alcantara Cristina Porto Alves , Prado Janina Manzieri , Duarte Marcos
Published: December 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: O surfe é uma modalidade que tem crescido bastante, aumentando o interesse nas pesquisas interessadas nos aspectos que podem influenciar no desempenho desses atletas, como, por exemplo, lesões, aptidão aeróbia e tempo de reação. Devido ao ambiente em constante mudança e de alta instabilidade exigido na prática do surfe, é necessário que os surfistas desenvolvam habilidades neuromusculares (agilidade, equilíbrio, força muscular e flexibilidade) para obter um melhor desempenho nesta atividade esportiva. No entanto, ainda são escassos os trabalhos científicos que se preocupam em investigar tais capacidades motoras em surfistas. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o controle do equilíbrio em surfistas amadores em relação aos praticantes de outras atividades físicas. MÉTODOS: Os participantes permaneceram sobre uma plataforma de força enquanto realizavam tarefas que envolviam privação visual (olhos abertos ou fechados) e perturbação somatossensorial (superfície firme ou uso de espuma), com covariação das condições experimentais. As seguintes variáveis foram analisadas: velocidade e raiz quadrática média (RMS) do deslocamento do centro de pressão nas direções anteroposterior (AP) e mediolateral (ML). RESULTADOS: Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença entre os grupos, durante as condições experimentais, isto é, tanto surfistas quanto grupo controle oscilaram mais nas condições de olhos fechados e sobre espuma. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de o surfe exigir, por parte do esportista, uma grande capacidade em controlar o equilíbrio, os resultados não revelaram relação entre a prática deste esporte e um melhor desempenho no controle do equilíbrio. Porém, devemos considerar o reduzido tamanho da amostra e o fato de a modalidade exigir um equilíbrio dinâmico, enquanto o estudo avaliou o equilíbrio estático.
Mechanical properties of terrestrial isopods
Authors: Grossmann Jan Nils , Schmitz Helmut
Published: December 2012

Terrestrial isopods have developed a lightweight exoskeleton to the demands of different predation possibilities, for example fast escaping behavior (runner) to rolling into a ball to withstand external forces. However, detailed mechanical investigations onto them are not available yet. Therefore, the aim of this study is the characterization of the mechanical properties of different terrestrial isopods to create new biomimetic impact materials. Pill bugs and woodlice show a gradual change of the mechanical properties from the outer to the innermost part of the cuticle, which was measured by nanoindentation. These tests showed a young’s modulus of 10–30 GPa and a hardness from 0·1 GPa to more than 2·0 GPa in Porcellio scaber and a higher hardness in Armadillidium vulgare. These results will serve as basis for further biomimetic investigations.
Ontogenetic functional diversity: Size structure of a keystone predator drives functioning of a complex ecosystem
Authors: Rudolf Volker H. W. , Rasmussen Nick L.
Published: December 2012

A central challenge in community ecology is to understand the connection between biodiversity and the functioning of ecosystems. While traditional approaches have largely focused on species‐level diversity, increasing evidence indicates that there exists substantial ecological diversity among individuals within species. By far, the largest source of this intraspecific diversity stems from variation among individuals in ontogenetic stage and size. Although such ontogenetic shifts are ubiquitous in natural communities, whether and how they scale up to influence the structure and functioning of complex ecosystems is largely unknown. Here we take an experimental approach to examine the consequences of ontogenetic niche shifts for the structure of communities and ecosystem processes. In particular we experimentally manipulated the stage structure in a keystone predator, larvae of the dragonfly Anax junius, in complex experimental pond communities to test whether changes in the population stage or size structure of a keystone species scale up to alter community structure and ecosystem processes, and how functional differences scale with relative differences in size among stages.

We found that the functional role of A. junius was stage‐specific. Altering what stages were present in a pond led to concurrent changes in community structure, primary producer biomass (periphyton and phytoplankton), and ultimately altered ecosystem processes (respiration and net primary productivity), indicating a strong, but stage‐specific, trophic cascade. Interestingly, the stage‐specific effects did not simply scale with size or biomass of the predator, but instead indicated clear ontogenetic niche shifts in ecological interactions. Thus, functional differences among stages within a keystone species scaled up to alter the functioning of entire ecosystems. Therefore, our results indicate that the classical approach of assuming an average functional role of a species can be misleading because functional roles are dynamic and will change with shifts in the stage structure of the species. In general this emphasizes the importance of accounting for functional diversity below the species level to predict how natural and anthropogenic changes alter the functioning of natural ecosystems.
Enhanced Oil Recovery: A Future for Pakistan
Authors: Shuker Muhannad Talib , Buriro Muhammad Ali , Hamza Malik Muhammad
Published: December 2012

Pakistan's production to date is characterized by large oil and gas reservoirs undergoing natural depletion with the help of strong natural aquifer drives. In a few fields, natural aquifer support is supplemented by pattern or peripheral water flood. However, there has been no systematic attempt to define the Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) potential within the country.

This study is an attempt to extrapolate the potential lies in Pakistani reservoir using Enhanced Oil Recovery methods. This study revisits the screening criteria for the selection of Enhanced Oil Recovery method published by several authors. This study also defines the methodology to screen the Enhanced Oil Recovery method for particular reservoir. Screening criteria is then applied to Pakistani reservoirs. The approach has been integrated into the software in order to make repetitive analysis in an easy way. Finally, after the best selection of Enhanced Oil Recovery Method, the future directions are set and cost analysis is shown in order to proceed the project. The methods considered in this analysis were: water injection, Water alternating Gas injection (miscible and immiscible), polymer, and surfactant – polymer, steam (cyclic and continuous).

This study helps to select the optimum Enhanced Oil Recovery method to improve the recovery factor in a quick and efficient way. This is beneficial for the companies that are planning to initiate Enhanced Oil Recovery Project.
Improvement of Cementing in Deep Wells
Authors: Ilyas Muhammad , Sadiq Nauman , Mughal Muhammad Ali , Pardawalla Hassan , Noor Sameer Mustafa
Published: December 2012

This research work "Improvement of Cementing in Deep Wells" was carried out with the collaboration of Mari Gas Company Limited (MGCL), Pakistan and Schlumberger Pakistan, to recommend the designs and practices by which future cementing operations for zonal isolation in deep Wells may be improved.

Mari Gas Company Limited had successfully drilled, tested and completed Halini Well - 1 (Total Depth = 5350 m) in the Karak Block. The Karak Block is located in Northern Region of Pakistan which is known for its challenges, such as high pressure water influxes and weak zones, which led to a number of cementing challenges in this Well. The Cementing related problems that were faced on this Well were: 1-Sustained Casing Annulus Pressure in 13 3/8" × 9 5/8" Casing Annulus2-Poor CBL-VDL results in 13 3/8" and 9 5/8" Casing

The scope of the project was to investigate the root cause of cementing challenges faced at Halini Well-1 and to propose recommendations for improving future cementing in deep Wells.

In regards to the above, the cementing of Halini Well- 1 was thoroughly analyzed along with similar case histories and problems in offset fields. On the basis of observations made, various recommendations have been proposed, mostly related to areas of fluid rheology, fluid contamination, fluid channeling, density and friction pressure hierarchy between fluids, fluid loss, temperature differential, and setting of casing slips etc. The idea for this project is to serve as a guideline for cementing the future deep Wells.
Effects of Economic Analysis on Re-Developent of a Gas Field – Lessons Learned from a Reservoir Simulation Study
Authors: Akram Agha Hassan , Majeed Arshad , Ashraf Zaid , Khan Waqar A. , Rahman Shah Abdur
Published: December 2012

The subject Gas Field is located in the Sulaiman Fold Belt (SFB) in Pakistan. A realistic 3D static model was constructed for the challenging multiple reservoirs in the Field which included both clastics and carbonates. Four main reservoir horizons were modeled.

The steps involved in the Reservoir engineering analyses were: analyze PVT, well test, Static Pressure Data, and Core. The static pressure analysis helped define hydraulic compartmentalization in the field.

WHFP measurements were not available in the desired accuracy and density. A surface network model was used with plant inlet pressure as the primary constraint in order to obtain the required information. Satellite based elevation information was used to establish an accurate model with respect to pressure drop due to liquid hold up in pipelines.

The History Match in the field was performed on a Zone by Zone basis. In the absence of a 3D seismic cube, many of the faults in the field could not be interpreted, yet their presence was predicted by a closely matching Sand Box Model. This was an important clue which led to a useful approach regarding the location of simulation faults distributed in the entire field. An innovative approach was used in order to calibrate the size of sand lenses in one of the zones.

The final step was the forecasting and development of Optimal Scenario using Economic analysis. Many scenarios were tested, and the optimal scenario was identified. Maximum use was made of existing wellbores through re-completion, and new drilling was minimized. Furthermore, the impact of increasing the currently low Gas Price was tested. It was concluded that doubling of the gas price of the field would increase the NPV 3 times delay abandonment by 6 years.
Energy Generation & Coal Bed Methane Recovery via Co2- N2 Sequestration and their Environmental Consequences
Authors: Memon Asadullah , Memon Bilal Shams , Soomro Sania , Unar Froze , Bano Seema
Published: December 2012

Nowadays the energy demand has become tripled resulting in advancingof the development activities in the petroleum industry to enhance hydrocarbon recoveries. It is reviewed from the literature that the current worldwide facts of research and technical observations have proved that the coal containing methane gas is not much efficient in terms of power, cost and environment friendly energy source. The objective of this research is to determine the technical and economic feasibility of carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen gas (N2). Moreover, sequestration in coal seams and their environmental consequences for coal based methane recovery project. This research study is also covers the effective and efficient methodologyforextraction of methane gas from coal, which is coupled with the injection of CO2 and N2 into the coal seam complex structure. Moreover, this methodology is applied individually and simultaneously, along with the after effects of injection of CO2 and N2 on Coal bed methane (CBM) recovery. The results of this research study suggestsa method for generation of electric power in which CBM gas is used as an input source whilst the combustion gas, CO2 emissions are sequestrated into coal seams for environmental protection, extending the CBM recovery and reducing CO2 availability cost.
Fluid Characterization of a Retrograde Gas Condensate Reservoir for the Simulation Study
Authors: Khan M. Noman , Bilal Hafiz M. , Shoaib M. , Manzoor Abdul-Ahad , Shaukat Wasif , Shakil Talha
Published: December 2012

Correct selection of Equation of State (EOS) model is required for proper fluid characterization of retrograde gas condensate fluid so that PVT behavior in the simulation model can be correctly defined. This paper describes the methodology used for establishing the criteria for selecting the most representative PVT laboratory analysis when several PVT analyses are available. The steps for Equation of State (EOS) modeling from the selected PVT report of a retrograde gas condensate fluid sample, which will be used in compositional reservoir simulation model, are also presented in the paper.

One of the important steps in the proposed methodology is to examine the available PVT analysis results for accuracy, consistency and validity. The Whitson Torp (K-value flash) method which is based on mass balance has been used for evaluating experimental data by calculating percentage difference between reported values and calculated values of oil composition, molecular weight of C7+ and specific gravity of C7+ at abandonment pressure. EOS models have been developed using two well- known PVT analyses software. Three parameter Peng-Robinson EOS was selected for EOS modeling. The EOS model was tuned by regressing the Binary Interaction Coefficients and other critical properties of pseudo components. After regression, the fluid composition was lumped into five components to reduce simulation time while preserving the inherent nature of the EOS model. The developed EOS model has been used for material balance and simulation studies.
Understanding Perceptions of Economic Status among Centenarians
Authors: Garasky Steven , Martin Peter , Margrett Jennifer A. , Cho Jinmyoung
Published: December 2012

Centenarians are often concerned with outliving their accumulated resources. Yet, research consistently finds that older adults, despite low incomes, are more financially satisfied than younger adults. This “satisfaction paradox” has been attributed to psychological accommodation to poor financial circumstances and lower expectations. As a result, scholars differentiate between objective levels of need and subjective perceptions. Missing is an understanding of whether feeling economically secure is associated with physical, mental, and/or psychological well-being and whether it varies by institutionalization status. This study examined data from 152 centenarians who participated in the first wave of the Iowa Centenarian Study. Analyses examined six perceived economic status variables (sufficiency of financial resources, ability to meet expenses, finances compared to others, meeting needs, ability to purchase extras, and having enough money for the future) and measures derived from activities of daily living, the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (Pfeiffer, 1975) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (Yesavage, Brink, Rose, Lum, Huang, Adey, et al., 1983). Findings indicated that most centenarians do not feel able to handle their finances, yet believe that they are doing relatively well financially. Perceived economic status was positively associated with ability to complete daily living activities, cognitive ability, and psychological well-being with results differing by institutional status. In the end, we agree with other scholars that these relationships are rarely simple and require future exploration.
The influence of montmorillonite content on the kinetics of curing of epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Jovicic Mirjana , Bera Oskar , Pavlicevic Jelena , Simendic Vesna , Radicevic Radmila
Published: December 2012

In this work, the attention was paid at the investigation of montmorillonite
dispersion in epoxy/amine systems due to improved final properties of the
nanocomposites. The influence of different montmorillonite content on the
kinetics of curing of epoxy/Jeffamine D-230 systems was followed by
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The curing of epoxy nanocomposites
was performed using dynamic regime at three different heating rates: 5, 10
and 20?C/min. Three isoconversional methods were applied: two integral
(Ozawa-Flynn-Wall and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose methods) and one differential
(Friedman method). The presence of montmorillonite (MMT) causes the beginning
of curing at lower temperatures. The shape of the DSC curves has been changed
by the addition of MMT, supporting the hypothesis of a change in the reaction
mechanism. For hybrids with 3 and 5 wt.% of MMT, the E? dependence is very
similar to those found for the reference system (epoxy/Jeffamine D-230) for
the curing degree less than 60%. The hybrid with 10 wt.% of MMT has lower
energy activation in regard to the referent system without montmorillonite.
Greater differences are observed in the second part of the reaction, where it
is known that the curing process is more controlled by diffusion (?>0.60).
The Ea value increases at the end of the reaction (??1), which was observed
for all systems, and is more pronounced in the presence of montmorillonite.
Isolation of Candida rugosa lipase isoforms
Authors: Trbojevic Jovana , Dimitrijevic Aleksandra , Velickovic Dusan , Gavrovic-Jankulovic Marija , Milosavic Nenad
Published: December 2012

Convenient source of lipases for science and industry is yeast Candida
rugosa. Crude preparation of Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) consists of several
extracellular lipases. Isoenzyme profile depends on the culture or
fermentation conditions. All isoforms are coded by lip pseudogene family;
they are monomers of 534 amino acids and molecular weight of about 60 kDa.
They share the same catalytic mechanism and interfacial mode of activation.
Isoenzymes differ in isoelectric points, post-translational modifications,
substrate specificity and hydrophobicity. The presence of different lipase
isoforms and other substances (i. e. inhibitors) in crude preparation leads
to lack of their productivity in biocatalytic reactions. Purification of
specific isoform improves its overall performance and stability. This paper
provides an overview of different methods for purification of CRL isoenzymes
up to date, their advantages and disadvantages.
Assembly Instructions to Build your own Attractive Chemistry Platform: Experiences from the Chimiscope
Authors: Perret Didier
Published: December 2012

Taking into consideration the gap between the decreasing interest of teenagers for careers in science, and the ever-increasing need for top-ranked scientists and engineers to maintain wealthy economies, it has become of the utmost importance for governments and public institutions to
devise new initiatives that bring attractive insights and fascination of modern science to the general audience and in particular to pupils. This paper is targeted toward academic institutions engaged in the process of building incentive programmes in the broad field of molecular science.
It describes the step-by-step creation of the Chimiscope, the discovery and experimentation platform inaugurated in 2011 by the University of Geneva, which proposes captivation and take-home messages on the intriguing world of molecules to visitors aged 7 to 107.
Executive Function Skills and School Success in Young Children Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Masten Ann S. , Herbers Janette E. , Desjardins Christopher David , Cutuli J. J. , McCormick Christopher M. , Sapienza Julianna K. , Long Jeffrey D. , Zelazo Philip David
Published: December 2012

The authors examined the role of executive function (EF) skills as a predictor of kindergarten or first-grade adjustment in 138 children living in shelters for homeless families. During the summer, children completed a battery of six EF tasks and three IQ measures. Teachers later rated children’s school adjustment in five domains of achievement and social conduct. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the construct validity of EF as distinct from the general factor in IQ tests. The differential predictive validity of EF scores for school adjustment was tested by hierarchical regression analysis in relation to IQ. Results supported the hypothesis that EF has unique predictive significance for homeless children. Findings also corroborate the feasibility and validity of EF assessments in community settings and contribute to growing evidence that EF skills are important for school success. Implications are discussed for addressing educational disparities for homeless and highly mobile children.
Education Research on Homeless and Housed Children Living in Poverty
Authors: Buckner John C.
Published: December 2012

This commentary on articles by Masten, Fantuzzo, Herbers, and Voight (and their colleagues) summarizes the findings of each study and discusses their respective contributions. The author of this comment relates his own experiences in conducting similar research with homeless and other low-income youths and reports lessons he has learned that can be relevant to these investigations. Future research in this area, whether in the educational sphere or in other realms, would benefit from a clearer definition of key terms, an expanded awareness of contextual factors that influence study findings, and the taking of additional steps to refine and analyze explanatory variables that are presumed to influence outcomes.
The Unique and Combined Effects of Homelessness and School Mobility on the Educational Outcomes of Young Children
Authors: Fantuzzo John W. , LeBoeuf Whitney A. , Chen Chin-Chih , Rouse Heather L. , Culhane Dennis P.
Published: December 2012

This study examined the unique and combined associations of homelessness and school mobility with educational well-being indicators, as well as the mediating effect of absenteeism, for an entire cohort of third-grade students in Philadelphia. Using integrated archival administrative data from the public school district and the municipal Office of Supportive Housing, multilevel linear models were estimated to test these associations while adjusting for nesting of students within schools. Findings demonstrated that homelessness had a unique association with problems in classroom engagement, school mobility was uniquely related to both academic achievement and problems in classroom engagement, and experiencing both homelessness and school mobility was the most detrimental for both forms of educational well-being. Absenteeism was found to partially mediate the relations between homelessness, school mobility, and problems in task engagement. Results provide support for the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and the need for educational policies for mobile children.
Project Financing in Laos’ Hydropower for Export of Electricity to Thailand
Authors: Phomsoupha Xaypaseuth
Published: December 2012

Laos, a mountainous and landlocked country, continues to exploit its hydropower potential for export of electricity to neighboring countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. Despite the great development potential and market opportunities both inside and outside the country, the scarcity of finance for public investment in the power generation sector has been a bottleneck for Lao hydropower. Private investment has therefore been sought and promoted through an independent power producer (IPP) approach which relies on the availability of project funds from the private sector. Currently, six privately-financed hydropower projects operated by private companies are exporting electricity to the grids of Laos’ neighbors. Ten additional hydropower projects developed with private financing are now under construction, and several other projects now under consideration as to their technical feasibility are planned to achieve power-on by 2020.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v10i0.7096 Hydro Nepal Vol.10 January 2012 7-10
Lessons from Paraguay’s 14,000 MW Itaipu Project vis-à-vis Nepal’s 6,720 MW Pancheshwar Project
Authors: Pun Sant Bahadur
Published: December 2012

If due diligence is not undertaken on the ambiguities prevailing in the Mahakali Treaty and Letters of Exchange of 1996, then Nepal may well end up in a ‘no option trap’ like Paraguay on her 14,000 MW Itaipu, a bi-national hydropower project with Brazil. Twenty-five years after the commissioning of Itaipu, Paraguay is still battling with Brazil on such elementary but vital issues like fair energy price, third party access, parity in project management, etc. Nepal could and should learn lessons from Paraguay’s Itaipu experiences. While Itaipu is primarily a hydropower project, Pancheshwar encompasses wider multipurpose applications. This article, however, limits itself only to the hydropower component of the two projects.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v10i0.7098 Hydro Nepal Vol.10 January 2012 20-23
Enhancing Water Productivity in Agriculture at Fokshingkot Lift Irrigation System
Authors: Rajouria Dinesh , Aryal Padma Prasad
Published: December 2012

Ranibas village of Foksingkot Village Development Committee (VDC), Palpa District, Nepal is a severe water scarce area. The nearest water source is spring water about 2.5 hours walk downhill (to and fro) to fetch a vessel of water and it is three hours for the farthest household of the area. A lift pumping system consisting of three stages, each of 100m lift and the fourth of 30m lift was (with total lifting of 330m), was constructed to deliver 1.94 liters per sec (l/sec) water for drinking purpose as well as for irrigation of five hectare of land. Despite failures of several lift pumping schemes for irrigation in Nepal, this high head lifting/pumping system has been successful. The 102 households are benefitted with easy availability of drinking water and also for irrigation with drip and sprinkler systems. The lift water supply system has helped in saving time of children and women for fetching water and also increased household income by farming supported by irrigation. The virtual labor saving value of one year surpasses the investment of the project.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v10i0.7100 Hydro Nepal Vol.10 January 2012 32-35
The Potential Role of Water Hyacinth in Wastewater Treatment in Nepal
Authors: Maharjan Ram Bahadur Singh , Ming Chou Loke
Published: December 2012

River pollution is one of the significant environmental problems in Nepal. It is primarily due to the direct discharge of sewage from semi-urban and urban areas. The situation is widespread in Kathmandu Valley where the few wastewater treatment facilities are either inefficient or abandoned and modern wastewater treatment facilities are too expensive. The water hyacinth is known as the world’s most unwelcomed flora due to its invasive nature. However, numerous studies revealed many beneficial aspects of the plant species. The plants have already been widely used for different purposes like composting, substrate for mushroom farming, nutritious food for cattle, feed for biogas generation, protein synthesis, fibres for furniture, and for wastewater treatment, etc.This study investigates the possibility of water hyacinths in wastewater treatment in Nepal. Concentration reduction in BOD5, TN, TP, FC were analyzed weekly for four weeks, and the reduction efficiencies compared with systems without water hyacinth. The experiment resulted in a clear reduction of pollutants/nutrients in the water hyacinth treatment system compared to the system without water hyacinth. In addition, the water hyacinth treatment system was able to remove odour and colour completely, which made the system comparatively advantageous over the system without water hyacinth. It will be beneficial to upgrade existing sewage lagoons in Nepal into water hyacinth systems.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v10i0.7101 Hydro Nepal Vol.10 January 2012 36-41
Tea Plantations in the Darjeeling Hills Geo-Ecological Impact and Livelihood Implications
Authors: Tirkey Lalit P. , Nepal Padam
Published: December 2012

The geo-ecological stability of a place has an important role in contributing to the livelihood security of its people. A disturbance to the geo-ecology of a region jeopardizes the livelihood resources of the population and creates pressures for livelihood security. Human interventions in the form of destruction of forests and degradation of land significantly alter the geo-ecology of a region. Moreover, interventions with forests result in several other forms of degradations of the geo-ecology of a region. In the light of this understanding, the present study evaluates the impact of tea plantations on the geo-ecology of Darjeeling Hills, Inia and the consequent impact on the livelihood security of the people in the region.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v10i0.7104 Hydro Nepal Vol.10 January 2012 53-59