bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Coiled Tubing Deployed Expandable Technology in Sidetrack Drilling Operations
Authors: Caccialupi A. , Benzie S. , Filippov G.
Published: March 2012

During sidetracking operations in re-entry wells, unstable formations significantly reduce the probability of success. A typical solution to mitigate the problem is to set conventional casing across the trouble zone. The casing would serve as a mechanical barrier to prevent the collapse of the borehole.

In many cases, the tubing or casing used for re-entry operations is small diameter, e.g., 4-1/2". Due to the small diameter, limited equipment is currently available for completion of these wells. Furthermore, due to the limited size of the production conduit after completing the re-entry with conventional equipment, the well becomes uneconomical.

As a solution to the limitations of conventional casing, solid expandable casing has been identified as a viable option to enable the completion of such directional wells. This technology provides mechanical stability in situations where conventional casing strings cannot be installed in the well due to geometrical restrictions.

The geometrical restrictions encountered in these re-entry wells coupled with the relatively large drift diameter needed to effectively complete the pay zone, calls for an expandable system with relatively large expansion ratios up to 30%. These high expansion ratios constitute a technological step-out with respect to off-the-shelf expandable systems.

Due to basic system limitations, these high expansion ratios cannot be achieved with hydraulic expansion systems. Therefore, a mechanical system which transmits no internal pressure to the expandable pipe during expansion is the most suitable solution.
First Successful HP/HT Coiled Tubing Milling Job in the Norwegian Continental Shelf Deployed With Telemetry: Kvitebjoern Case Study and Lessons Learned
Authors: Ridene Mohamed , Stragiotti Stephen , Holst Tor Kristian , Baardsen Johnny , Effiong Godwin
Published: March 2012

Kvitebjoern is a Statoil operated gas and condensate field that lies in block 34/11 in the Norwegian North Sea. The reservoir lies about 4,000 meters down, and features high pressure and temperature conditions (770 bar and 160 deg C).

34/11-A-9 T2 well was drilled as a gas producer by end of October 2009 and completed in February 2010. During the final completion phase, it was not possible to open the High Pressure/High Temperature (HP/HT) isolation ball valve set in the 9 7/8" liner at 6245.7 m MD / 3795.8 m TVD through pressure cycling.

After several failed attempts to open the isolation ball valve with wireline using mechanical override tools, it was decided to punch above it to allow well production passing the outside of the valve through the annulus between 9 7/8" liner and the 5 ½" tail pipe. However, the production performance was poor. A feasibility study was carried out to evaluate available methods for opening or milling out the valve with the objective to improve the production characteristics. Thewell is an exploration well and an important objective for the operation was also to allow access forfuture production logging tools.

The decision was then taken to mill the stuck-closed isolation ball valve using Coiled Tubing (CT).

The operation presented several critical challenges. Statoil had not performed any HP/HT CT operations and the available experience was limited.

To minimize uncertainty relating to depth determination during the milling operation, it was decided to use a telemetry system run at its operational pressure and temperature limits to provide real time Casing Collar Locator (CCL) reading in addition to downhole pressure and temperature data.

The paper covers the detailed planning phase for this first successful HP/HT CT milling job in theNorwegian Continental Shelf including experience with use of telemetry system. It illustrates the relevant well and reservoir data, operational steps, well control stack up configuration, operational risk analysis and lessons learned during the job execution leading up to successfully milling out the isolation ball valve with a 4" dome mill.
Slickline DTS Measurements Provide Useful Information for Well Integrity Diagnostic, Stimulation Treatments, and Water Injector Wells Performance: North America Land Case Studies
Authors: Gonzalez Y. J. , Brown G. A , Friese A. , Padilla A. , Sanchez A. , Ward L.
Published: March 2012

Distributed Temperature Measurements (DTS) have been used in the oilfield now for over 10 years, with the majority of applications requiring the fiber to be installed permanently in the well, either inside a 1/4-in control line or as part of an electrical gauge cable. A slickline 1/8-in diameter wire has now been developed with an optical fiber embedded inside it so that DTS measurements can be performed during a conventional slickline operation.

This new approach to temperature monitoring means that the optical fiber can now be deployed temporarily in a producer or injector well only when needed, using a conventional slickline unit which can also run a bottomhole pressure gauge or a production log at the same time. The ability to monitor the whole well with DTS using a slickline intervention installation allows the operator to use this technology to resolve a range of well integrity, production and stimulation problems.

This paper highlights the use of fiber-optic slickline monitoring in Texas and New Mexico over the past two years by discussing a number of field cases that show the application of this technology for monitoring well integrity and diagnosing well problems, how the DTS can be used to evaluate the fracture height created by a fracture job, determining the effectiveness of the stimulation in acid stimulation operations and also how the data can be used to monitor water injection in low rate injector wells.

Because the fiber is deployed and data is acquired on a "when needed" basis, it is proving much more economical than a permanently installed optical fiber, and can bring the benefits of this monitoring technology to a greater number of wells.
Using Coiled Tubing as Sucker Rods for SRP
Authors: Flores-avila F. S. , Riano J. M. , Javier-Martinez M. , Hammond T. , Cantu J. , Ramos J.
Published: March 2012

Sucker rod Pumping (SRP) has been among the most efficient artificial lift systems. This method has proven to be one of the most popular ones while having some modifications in the prime mover systems, using hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical devices. However, one of the most frequently encountered problems with this system is that while the well is being produced, sand is dragged from the formation to the well. Whether it comes from the fracture (propant) or the formation itself, this interferes with the pumping system and the fluid flow to the surface.

In SRP, fluid flow velocity is not enough to maintain sand suspended so that it could be brought up to the surface, ending up precipitated and being deposited on top of the pump causing a reduction in efficiency and premature wear of the pump components, if not stocking the pump at all.

Due to this effect, the well must be scheduled for work over in order to remove the sand. This implies to move and de-move a work over rig which can take several days with the associated cost and deferred production.

Using Coiled Tubing instead of a sucker rod string, maintenance can be achieved to the well through pumping and circulating fluids without having to remove the string and bottom hole pump, taking just about a couple of hours to perform the job.

Production can be restored in few hours, reducing down time, maximizing well production. It also can be used in a preventive mode by pumping chemicals that will help fluid flow by preventing scale build up and viscosity reduction in the case of heavy and viscous crude oils.

Coiled tubing string is designed to fit specific needs such as depth, pressure, and loads expected during the operation. It may vary in diameter, wall thickness, and stiffness. This paper describes the first time application in México for this technology which offers a great potential in mature fields. It also describes coiled tubing design criteria as well as string evaluation after the trial test performed.
The Common School and Intercultural Education: Failed Ideals and the Parameters of Curricular Possibility
Authors: Coulby David
Published: March 2012

This article assesses two educational ideals: the common school and intercultural education. It considers their implementation and achievement in several states, and concludes this to be far from successful. It then questions whether these two aims are themselves reconcilable. In particular, it examines the curricular overcrowding that would be exacerbated by the implantation of intercultural education. It concludes with questions that itemise the pragmatic difficulties of such implementation.
The Case for Values in Economics Education
Authors: Brant Jacek
Published: March 2012

Milton Friedman, in his essay ‘The Methodology of Positive Economics’, states that positive economics is in principle independent of any particular ethical or normative judgements, and he further argues that economics is an objective science in the same way as the natural sciences. School economics has been taught in this way for a number of decades. This article argues for values in economics education and explains how school economics has been based on the discredited philosophy of positivism which is in contrast to social-constructivist understandings of knowledge. After two decades of falling numbers of students taking up economics at Advanced level in England, 2010 saw a rise of students sitting examinations in the subject. A possible explanation is students' desire to understand a fast-changing economic landscape. Teachers have the opportunity to challenge previously held assumptions and to critically explore explanations in a way that is of relevance to students' lives.
The Intersubjective Turn and its Consequences for Economics Education
Authors: Remmele Bernd
Published: March 2012

In some fields of social science research, there is evidence for an intersubjective turn. While, as a social science, economics was dealing with social phenomena which were expressions of intersubjectivity, it has often been interpreted in accordance with mainstream modern thinking in individualistic terms. Taking this intersubjective turn seriously, a normative dualism of intersubjective and individualistic attitudes shows up, which calls for a deeper analysis of situational, cultural and individual traits in order to explain social behaviour. This is not only because learning is influential in this respect, but also because economics education has — as a kind of value education — to reflect on the issue, and students have to be orientated towards this complex and dynamic field. This refers to the practical learning target of competent economic conduct as well as to theoretical learning targets of better general understanding with its socio-political implications.
The Erosion of the Public Good: The Implications of Neo-Liberalism for Education for Democracy
Authors: Broom Catherine
Published: March 2012

This article describes the meaning, history and significance of the concept of the ‘public good’. It begins by theorising the ‘public good’ in relation to literature in the field, particularly Dewey. The public good is understood as an imagined and communal space in which goods valued by society become collectively owned and shared through respectful and open contestation and negotiation. The argument is then made that schools are both part of the public good as well as involved in the development of this concept in students, but that the ability of schools to do this is being damaged by new discourses. Current research and literature in the field of education is used to demonstrate how neo-liberal ideology is eroding this democratic idea. For example, neo-liberal ideology incorrectly positions all goods (including education) as private goods, with damaging consequences for society generally. Its controlling policies negatively affect the ability of schools to educate students about and for the public good, within a democratic conception of society. The article concludes with recommendations that aim to reinvigorate education for the and as a public good in schools. These recommendations are focused on teaching pedagogies.
Using a Fox to Guard the Geese? A German Debate on the Purposes of Economic Education in Relation to Sustainability and the Role of Values
Authors: Seeber Günther , Birke Franziska
Published: March 2012

What is the purpose of economic education? What role do values play in economic education? These questions have been deliberated on in a German debate on the role of economic education within education for sustainability. The authors draw on this discussion in order to specify the purpose of economic education in the field of education for sustainability and to examine the role of values in economic knowledge. They claim, first, that values education is an important part of economic education; second, that values that are important for environmental sensitisation must be discussed as ‘controversial’; and third, that economic knowledge is a basic requirement in this field.
Global Social Capitalism: Using Enterprise to Solve the Problems of the World
Authors: Ball Stephen J. , Olmedo Antonio
Published: March 2012

We are experiencing a global paradigmatic change in the relationships between government(s), education, philanthropy and business. The ways in which social and educational problems are being organised and addressed, nationally and globally, are changing in response to the methods of ‘new’ philanthropy and the privileging of ‘market-based’ solutions to these problems. The new sensibilities of giving and social ‘investment’ have led to increasing use of commercial and enterprise models of practice as a new generic form of philanthropic organisation, practice and language — venture philanthropy, philanthropic investments and portfolios, due diligence, entrepreneurial solutions, etc. New philanthropy is bringing new players into the field of social and education policy, repopulating and reworking existing policy networks. The first part of the article explores succinctly some key concepts involved in the ongoing changes in the roles and methods of philanthropy, configuring what the authors refer to as ‘philanthropic governance’. The second part focuses on the identification of sets of new actors within new networks of policy, of which philanthropy is a part. More concretely, the authors analyse here specific ‘generative nodes’, such as the Clinton Global Initiative, which connect and facilitate the creation of partnerships between actors from the public and the private sector. The article concludes by highlighting how the shifts and moves involved here are made up of and driven by a complex set of advocacy networks, business interests, ‘new’ philanthropy, and changes in the form and modalities of the state.
Comparison of the analgesic efficacy of oral ABT-116 administration with that of transmucosal buprenorphine administration in dogs
Authors: Niyom Sirirat , Mama Khursheed R. , De Rezende Marlis L.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To evaluate the analgesic efficacy of ABT-116, a transient receptor potential cation channel vanilloid subfamily V member 1 antagonist, and compare it with that of buprenorphine by measurement of mechanical and thermal nociceptive thresholds in dogs.

Animals—Six 7- to 8-month-old dogs (3 males and 3 females).

Procedures—In a crossover study design, all dogs received ABT-116 (30 mg/kg, PO) and buprenorphine (0.03 mg/kg, orotransmucosally), with each treatment separated by 1 week. Physiologic variables were recorded prior to and 1, 6, and 24 hours after drug administration. Thermal (thoracic) and mechanical (dorsolateral aspect of the radius [proximal] and dorsopalmar aspect of the forefoot [distal]) nociceptive thresholds were assessed prior to (baseline) and 15 minutes and 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours after treatment.

Results—Buprenorphine administration resulted in higher overall thermal and proximal mechanical nociceptive thresholds, compared with ABT-116. Distal mechanical nociceptive thresholds after treatment were higher than baseline values for both treatments, but the magnitude of change was greater for buprenorphine at 1 hour after administration. Whereas HR and RR sporadically differed from baseline values after ABT-116 administration, rectal temperature increased from a baseline value of 39 ± 0.2°C (mean ± SD) to a peak of 40.6 ± 0.2°C at 6 hours.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs without inflammation or nerve injury, PO administration of ABT-116 did not consistently result in an increase in nociceptive thresholds. However, clinically relevant increases in rectal temperature were identified after ABT-116 administration.
Effect of kennel noise on hearing in dogs
Authors: Scheifele Peter , Martin Doug , Clark John Greer , Kemper Debra , Wells Jennifer
Published: March 2012

Objective—To evaluate the degree of noise to which kenneled dogs were exposed in 2 typical kennels and to determine whether a measurable change in hearing might have developed as a result of exposure to this noise.

Animals—14 dogs temporarily housed in 2 kennel environments.

Procedures—Noise levels were measured for a 6-month period in one environment (veterinary technical college kennel) and for 3 months in another (animal shelter). Auditory brainstem response testing was performed on dogs in the veterinary kennel 48 hours and 3 and 6 months after arrival. Temporal changes in the lowest detectable response levels for wave V were analyzed.

Results—Acoustic analysis of the kennel environments revealed equivalent sound level values ranging between 100 and 108 dB sound pressure level for the 2 kennels. At the end of 6 months, all 14 dogs that underwent hearing tests had a measured change in hearing.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of the noise assessments indicated levels that are damaging to the human auditory system. Such levels could be considered dangerous for kenneled dogs as well, particularly given the demonstrated hearing loss in dogs housed in the veterinary kennel for a prolonged period. Noise abatement strategies should be a standard part of kennel design and operation when such kennels are intended for long-term housing of dogs.
Clinical, behavioral, and pulmonary changes in calves following inoculation with Mycoplasma bovis
Authors: White Brad J. , Anderson David E. , Renter David G. , Larson Robert L. , Mosier Derek A. , Kelly Lindsey L. , Theurer Miles E. , Robért Brad D. , Walz Michelle L.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To characterize clinical and behavioral changes in calves following inoculation with Mycoplasma bovis and evaluate relationships between those changes and pulmonary disease.

Animals—22 healthy Holstein steers.

Procedures—20 calves were inoculated intranasally with < 108 CFU or > 109 CFU of M bovis. Calves were assigned a clinical illness score (CIS) on a scale of 1 through 4 twice daily on the basis of severity of cough, labored breathing, and lethargy. For each calf, distance traveled and time spent near the waterer, feed bunk, or shelter were determined via a remote location monitoring device. Calves were euthanized and necropsied 22 days after inoculation.

Results—13 calves became clinically ill after challenge inoculation; 3 calves were euthanized within 20 days. Among all calves, consolidation was evident in 0% to 79.9% of the lungs; extent of lung consolidation did not differ between the challenge dose groups. Distance traveled and percentages of time spent in proximity to the feed bunk and shelter were associated with CIS; calves with more severe disease traveled less distance and spent less time at the feed bunk and more time in the shelter. Distance traveled by calves was negatively associated with extent of lung consolidation (< or ≥ 10% of lungs affected); this effect was modified by trial day.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Following inoculation with M bovis, calf behavior patterns were associated with both CIS and severity of pulmonary disease. Use of behavior monitoring systems may aid in recognition of respiratory tract disease in calves.
Changes in heart rate, heart rate variability, and atrioventricular block during withholding of food in Thoroughbreds
Authors: Ohmura Hajime , Boscan Pedro L. , Solano Adrian M. , Stanley Scott D. , Jones James H.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To determine whether withholding of food affects autonomic nervous system balance by analysis of heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), and frequency of second-degree atrioventricular block in horses.

Animals—5 healthy Thoroughbreds.

Procedures—For two 24-hour periods in a crossover study, food was withheld from horses or horses were maintained on their regular feeding schedule (control conditions) in their stalls and Holter monitor ECG recordings were obtained. The ECGs were analyzed by use of fast-Fourier transformation, and power spectrum densities were calculated for low-frequency (0.01 to 0.07 Hz) and high-frequency (0.07 to 0.6 Hz) variations in HR. Serum cortisol and plasma ACTH, norepinephrine, and glucose concentrations were measured at predetermined time points.

Results—Withholding of food resulted in significantly lower HR and more frequent second-degree atrioventricular block (the frequency of which was inversely related to the HR), compared with findings for control conditions. Circadian rhythms were similar during food-withholding and control conditions; peak HR was detected from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and the lowest HR was detected in the early morning. During food-withholding conditions, the low-frequency and high-frequency components of HRV were significantly higher, and the low-frequency-to-high-frequency ratio was lower than during control conditions. Serum cortisol concentration was higher and plasma glucose concentration was lower at 6:00 pm in horses when food was withheld, compared with findings during control conditions.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Indices of HRV seemed to be sensitive to changes in autonomic nervous activity and may be useful as clinical indices of the neuroendocrine response to stressors in horses.
Changes in heart rate and heart rate variability during transportation of horses by road and air
Authors: Ohmura Hajime , Hobo Seiji , Hiraga Atsushi , Jones James H.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To determine the influence of transportation by road and air on heart rate (HR) and HR variability (HRV) in horses.

Animals—6 healthy horses.

Procedures—ECG recordings were obtained from horses before (quarantine with stall rest [Q]; 24 hours) and during a journey that included transportation by road (RT; 4.5 hours), waiting on the ground in an air stall (W; 5.5 hours), and transportation by air (AT; 11 hours); HR was determined, and HRV indices of autonomic nervous activity (low-frequency [LF; 0.01 to 0.07 Hz] and high-frequency [HF; 0.07 to 0.6 Hz] power) were calculated.

Results—Mean ± SD HRs during Q, RT, W, and AT were 38.9 ± 1.5 beats/min, 41.7 ± 5.6 beats/min, 41.5 ± 4.3 beats/min, and 48.8 ± 5.6 beats/min, respectively; HR during AT was significantly higher than HR during Q. The LF power was significantly higher during Q (3,454 ± 1,087 milliseconds2) and AT (3,101 ± 567 milliseconds2) than it was during RT (1,824 ± 432 milliseconds2) and W (2,072 ± 616 milliseconds2). During Q, RT, W, and AT, neither HF powers (range, 509 to 927 milliseconds2) nor LF:HF ratios (range, 4.1 to 6.2) differed significantly. The HR during RT was highly correlated with LF power (R2 = 0.979), and HR during AT was moderately correlated with the LF:HF ratio (R2 = 0.477).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In horses, HR and HRV indices during RT and AT differed, suggesting that exposure to different stressors results in different autonomic nervous influences on HR.
Effect of hypothyroidism on insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in dogs
Authors: Hofer-Inteeworn Natalie , Panciera David L. , Monroe William E. , Saker Korinn E. , Davies Rebecca Hegstad , Refsal Kent R. , Kemnitz Joseph W.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To determine the effects of hypothyroidism on insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and concentrations of hormones counter-regulatory to insulin in dogs.

Animals—8 anestrous mixed-breed bitches with experimentally induced hypothyroidism and 8 euthyroid control dogs.

Procedures—The insulin-modified frequently sampled IV glucose tolerance test and minimal model analysis were used to determine basal plasma insulin and glucose concentrations, acute insulin response to glucose, insulin sensitivity, glucose effectiveness, and disposition index. Growth hormone response was assessed by stimulation and suppression tests. Additionally, basal serum growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentrations and urine cortisol-to-creatinine concentration ratios were measured and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry was performed to evaluate body composition.

Results—Insulin sensitivity was lower in the hypothyroid group than in the euthyroid group, whereas acute insulin response to glucose was higher. Glucose effectiveness and disposition index were not different between groups. Basal serum GH and IGF-1 concentrations as well as abdominal fat content were high in hypothyroid dogs, but urine cortisol-to-creatinine concentration ratios were unchanged.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Hypothyroidism appeared to negatively affect glucose homeostasis by inducing insulin resistance, but overall glucose tolerance was maintained by increased insulin secretion in hypothyroid dogs. Possible factors affecting insulin sensitivity are high serum GH and IGF-1 concentrations and an increase in abdominal fat. In dogs with diseases involving impaired insulin secretion such as diabetes mellitus, concurrent hypothyroidism can have important clinical implications.
Fluorophotometric determination of aqueous humor flow rates in red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis)
Authors: Jones Michael P. , Ward Daniel A.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To determine aqueous humor flow rate (AHFR) in an avian species by use of anterior segment fluorophotometry.

Animals—9 healthy red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis; 4 males and 5 females) that ranged from 8 months to 8 years of age.

Procedures—A protocol was developed for fluorophotometric determination of AHFR. Topical administration of 10% fluorescein was used to load the corneas, and corneal and aqueous humor fluorescein concentrations were measured approximately 5, 6.5, and 8 hours later. Concentration-versus-time plots were generated, and slopes and cornea-to-aqueous humor concentration ratios from these plots were used to manually calculate flow rates.

Results—Mean ± SD AHFRs for the right eye, left eye, and both eyes were 3.17 ± 1.36 μL/min (range, 1.67 to 6.21 μL/min), 2.86 ± 0.88 μL/min (range, 2.04 to 4.30 μL/min), and 2.90 ± 0.90 μL/min (range, 1.67 to 4.42 μL/min), respectively. The AHFRs were similar for right and left eyes. These flow rates represented a mean aqueous humor transfer coefficient of 0.0082/min, which is similar to that of mammalian species.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The AHFR in red-tailed hawks was similar to that of most mammalian species, and the fractional egress was almost identical to that of other species. This information will allow a greater understanding of aqueous humor flow in avian eyes, which is crucial when evaluating diseases that affect avian eyes as well as medications that alter aqueous humor flow.
Dose determination of fondaparinux in healthy cats
Authors: Fiakpui Nonya N. , Hogan Daniel F. , Whittem Ted , Green III Henry W. , Shipley Eryn A. , Sederquist Kimberly A.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To establish practical doses and administration frequencies of fondaparinux for cats that would approximate human therapeutic peak and trough plasma anti–factor Xa activities for thromboprophylaxis (TP) and thrombosis treatment (TT) protocols.

Animals—6 healthy adult purpose-bred cats.

Procedures—Dosage protocols for TP and TT were selected on the basis of a single compartment pharmacokinetic model incorporating data from humans but modified to account for the higher body weight–normalized cardiac output of cats. Fondaparinux was administered at 0.06 mg/kg, SC, every 12 hours (TP) for 7 days in one session, and 0.20 mg/kg, SC, every 12 hours (TT) for 7 days in another, with a minimum of 1 week separating the sessions. Plasma anti–factor Xa activity was measured before fondaparinux administration (day 1) and at 2 (peak) and 12 (trough) hours after drug administration on days 1 and 7. Platelet aggregation and thromobelastographic (TEG) parameters were also measured 2 hours after drug administration on day 7.

Results—Peak plasma anti–factor Xa activities on day 7 for TP (median, 0.59 mg/L; range, 0.36 to 0.77 mg/L) and TT (median, 1.66 mg/L; range, 1.52 to 2.00 mg/L) protocols were within therapeutic ranges for humans. However, only the TP protocol achieved trough anti–factor Xa activity considered therapeutic in humans (median, 0.19 mg/L; range, 0.00 to 0.37 mg/L) on day 7. There were significant changes in the TEG parameters at peak for the TT protocol, suggesting a hypocoagulable state. No significant changes in platelet aggregation were evident for either protocol.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A fondaparinux dosage of 0.06 or 0.20 mg/kg, SC, every 12 hours, was sufficient to achieve a peak plasma anti–factor Xa activity in cats that has been deemed therapeutic in humans. This study provided preliminary data necessary to perform fondaparinux dose-determination and clinical efficacy studies.
Pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and adverse effects of selamectin following topical administration in flea-infested rabbits
Authors: Carpenter James W. , Dryden Michael W. , KuKanich Butch
Published: March 2012

Objective—To determine pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and adverse effects of topically administered selamectin in flea-infested rabbits.

Animals—18 healthy 5-month-old New Zealand White rabbits.

Procedures—On day 0, rabbits (n = 6/group) received topically applied selamectin at doses of 10 or 20 mg/kg or received no treatment. Each rabbit was infested with 50 fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) on days −1, 7, and 14. Live and dead flea counts were performed on days 2, 9, and 16, and treatment efficacy was calculated. Blood samples were collected prior to drug administration and at 6 and 12 hours and 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28 days after treatment for determination of plasma selamectin concentrations via high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined.

Results—On day 2, efficacy of selamectin against flea populations of rabbits in the 10 and 20 mg/kg treatment groups was 91.3% and 97.1%, respectively, but by day 9, these values decreased to 37.7% and 74.2%, respectively. Mean terminal half-life and maximum plasma concentrations of selamectin were 0.93 days and 91.7 ng/mL, respectively, for rabbits in the 10 mg/kg group and 0.97 days and 304.2 ng/mL, respectively, for rabbits in the 20 mg/kg group. No adverse effects were detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Selamectin was rapidly absorbed transdermally and was rapidly eliminated in rabbits. Results suggested that topical administration at a dosage of 20 mg/kg every 7 days is efficacious for treatment of flea infestation in rabbits. Further studies are needed to assess long-term safety in rabbits following repeated applications.
Pollen Counts in Slavonski Brod, Croatia During the Pollination Period 2008 to 2010
Authors: Nadih Martina , Knežević Zvonimira , Josipović Renata , Grgić Ivanka , Cvitković Ante
Published: March 2012

Pollen Counts in Slavonski Brod, Croatia During the Pollination Period 2008 to 2010

Hay fever or pollinosis is the allergic reaction of the human body to allergic pollen grains and is a seasonal phenomenon. Pollen concentrations depend on the climate, geographic features, and vegetation. Trees, grass, and weed pollinosis is frequent in Croatia, common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisifolia L.) pollinosis in particular. Continuous monitoring of pollen air concentrations can provide timely information to the general public and can help sensitised patients and their physicians to prevent or alleviate allergic reactions. This is the task of health ecology services such as our Public Health Institute of the Brod-Posavina County. This article reports pollen concentrations in Slavonski Brod measured in March 2008 to November 2008, March 2009 to October 2009, and April 2010 to October 2010 and discusses the increasing exposure to ragweed and ways to control it.
The Use of Mercury-Based Medical Devices Across Croatian Healthcare Facilities
Authors: Holcer Nataša , Maričević Marija , Miočić-Juran Anamarija
Published: March 2012

The Use of Mercury-Based Medical Devices Across Croatian Healthcare Facilities

In 2009, we conducted a survey to assess the use of mercury-based thermometers and sphygmomanometers and their disposal in Croatian healthcare facilities. The questionnaire addressing the use of mercury-based medical devices, waste management, preferences between mercury-based and electronic devices, and the knowledge on mercury toxicity was filled by ward nurses affiliated with 40 (71.4 %) out of 56 contacted healthcare facilities. Only one of these facilities had given up the use of mercury-containing medical devices at the time. As many as 84.6 % of the nurses believed that broken devices did not increase the risk of mercury exposure, even though 90 % claimed they were aware of mercury toxicity. In fact, 69.4 % of the nurses preferred mercury-containing devices on account of their precision and reliability and because they received little training in the use of electronic devices.

Breaking of thermometers and sphygmomanometers is common in healthcare facilities. The number of broken thermometers and sphygmomanometers was estimated to 278 and five per month, respectively. Only 18 (46.2 %) of the surveyed healthcare facilities claimed to have had a proper disposal procedure for mercury from broken devices. Nurses, who most often handle these devices and collect mercury spills, are primarily exposed to mercury vapours via inhalation. Croatia has adopted the EU Directive 76/769/EEC intended to reduce mercury exposure in the living and working environment. Our survey suggests that all healthcare professionals need training in proper management of broken mercury-based medical devices, nurses in particular. To reduce the risk of exposure, all Croatian healthcare facilities should implement guidelines for staff protection and programmes to gradually replace mercury-based with electronic devices.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (DPP IV/CD26)
Authors: Pučar Lara , Detel Dijana , Varljen Jadranka
Published: March 2012

Dipeptidil-peptidaza IV (DPP IV/CD26) i upalne bolesti crijeva

Upalne bolesti crijeva (Crohnova bolest, ulcerozni kolitis, nedeterminirani kolitis) skupina su kroničnih autoimunosnih upalnih bolesti obilježenih ponavljanim upalama različitih dijelova gastrointestinalnog trakta koje su važan javnozdravstveni problem današnjice. Unatoč brojnim temeljnim i kliničkim istraživanjima etiologija ovih bolesti, kao i sama patogeneza upale ostaju nedovoljno razjašnjene. Dosadašnja su istraživanja potvrdila uzročno-posljedičnu vezu između medijatora upalnog odgovora i molekula uključenih u regulaciju njihove biološke aktivnosti, osobito proteaza. Cilj ovoga preglednog rada jest sažeti prikaz dosadašnjih saznanja o različitim aspektima upalnih bolesti crijeva, s posebnim naglaskom na potencijalnu ulogu i uključenost dipeptidil-peptidaze IV, odnosno molekule CD26 (DPP IV/CD26) u mehanizme nastanka upalnih procesa u probavnom sustavu. Dan je i pregled životinjskih modela kolitisa koji su znatno pridonijeli razumijevanju i terapiji ovih bolesti, s osobitim naglaskom na mišji model ulceroznog kolitisa (DSS-kolitis) te Crohnove bolesti (TNBS-kolitis).
Effects of Myosmine on Antioxidative Defence in Rat Liver
Authors: Simeonova Rumyana , Vitcheva Vessela , Gorneva Galina , Mitcheva Mitka
Published: March 2012

Effects of Myosmine on Antioxidative Defence in Rat Liver

Myosmine [3-(1-pyrrolin-2-yl) pyridine] is an alkaloid structurally similar to nicotine, which is known to induce oxidative stress. In this study we investigated the effects of myosmine on enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidative defence in rat liver. Wistar rats received a singlei.p.injection of 19 mg kg-1of myosmine and an oral dose of 190 mg kg-1by gavage. Nicotine was used as a positive control. Through either route of administration, myosmine altered the hepatic function by decreasing the levels of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities on one hand and by increasing malondialdehyde, catalase, and glutathione reductase activity on the other. Compared to control, both routes caused significant lipid peroxidation in the liver and altered hepatic enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidative defences. The pro-oxidant effects of myosmine were comparable with those of nicotine.
Cryptanalysis and security enhancement of Chen et al.’s remote user authentication scheme using smart card
Authors: Kumari Saru , Gupta Mridul , Kumar Manoj
Published: March 2012

Recently (2011) Chen et al. found that Wang et al.’s scheme (2007) is vulnerable to impersonation attacks and parallel session attacks; and then proposed a security enhancement of Wang et al.’s scheme. Chen et al. claimed to inherit the merits and eradicate the flaws of the original scheme through their improved scheme. Unfortunately, we found that Chen et al.’s scheme inherits some flaws of the original scheme, like the known-key attack, smart card loss attack and its serious consequences. In addition, Chen et al.’s scheme is not easily reparable and is unable to provide forward secrecy. Thus Chen et al.’s scheme still has scope for security enhancement. Finally, we propose an improved scheme with better security strength. Moreover, we analyze the performance of our scheme and prove that ours is suitable for applications with high security requirements.
Analysis of swarm behavior using compound eye and neural network control
Authors: Kramper Wolfgang , Wanker Ralf , Zimmermann Karl-Heinz
Published: March 2012

The emergent collective intelligence of groups of simple agents known as swarm intelligence is a new exiting way of achieving a form of artificial intelligence. This paper studies a formal model for swarm intelligence inspired by biological swarms found in nature. Software agents are used to model the individuals of a swarm. Each agent is controlled by a neural network that processes position data from the others in its visible zone given by a compound eye and in this way navigates in 3D space. An additional input parameter is used to represent the agent’s motivation to form a swarm. Simulations with different motivation parameters exhibit remarkable agent formations that can be considered as biologically plausable. Several ways to improve the model are discussed.
Area-efficient programmable arbiter for inter-layer communications in 3-D network-on-chip
Authors: Khan Mohammad , Ansari Abdul
Published: March 2012

The Network-on-Chip (NoC) is an emerging communication technique for System-on-Chip (SoC) communications. The NoC uses multiple processors, usually targeted for embedded applications and other applications [3, 13]. Performance of the bus is degraded by the increasing number of processing elements and transaction oriented model [13]. This has attracted much attention for applying wireless network protocols as CDMA, TDMA, and dTDMA in SoC. The TDMA systems use a fixed number of timeslots. This protocol wastes bandwidth when some timeslots are allocated but not used. The dynamic TDMA (dTDMA) bus arbiter dynamically grows and shrinks the number of timeslots to match the number of active transmitters [14]. In this paper, we present a design of area-efficient switch for inter-layer communications in 3-D NoC. The arbitration logic in the switch is based on a programmable priority encoder. A 640-bit message with uniform random destination data pattern was injected per IP per machine clock cycle. We have obtained the maximum clock frequency of 2.09 GHz for 96(4 × 8 × 3) IP cores connected in a mesh topology. The presented architecture demonstrates their superior functionality in terms of speed, latency, area, and power consumption as compared with the existing implementation [14]. The maximum power consumption of the proposed area-efficient programmable arbiter is 0.625 mW. The design is synthesized using 180nm TSMC Technology.
The Development of Agriculturein the Siberian Communities of Russia
Authors: Kalugina Zemfira , Fadeeva Olga
Published: March 2012

The Development of Agriculturein the Siberian Communities of Russia

Having many years' experience in rural studies, the authors propose their own understanding of the Siberian communities' future assuming the multifunctional character of rural communities and multiplicity in the rural economy and way of life as well as considering an objective to develop human resources as a priority. Three correlated issues are under study: is a rural territory homogeneous as a subject for strategic planning, what is the object for strategic planning in rural communities and should the paradigm of strategic development be inevitably changed from a medium-range perspective to a long-range one?
The Meanings and Experiences of Domestic Labour among Rural Women in Croatia
Authors: Šikić-Mićanović Lynette
Published: March 2012

The Meanings and Experiences of Domestic Labour among Rural Women in Croatia

Worldwide research has shown that women tend to devote a disproportionate amount of time to domestic labour that can be a barrier to gender equality and women's empowerment. The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which women's role in unpaid domestic labour has an effect on their well-being and whether this presents a barrier to their empowerment or their ability ‘to do and be’ what they value. The study is based on ethnographic research in six rural villages located at the very north-eastern part of Croatia in Slavonia. This article draws on rural women's (and men's) accounts of their meanings and experiences in unpaid domestic labour. Pertaining to this labour, it also reviews their contribution as well as their lack of access to well-being in the family and wider community. Findings show that women's engagement in domestic labour has both positive and negative effects on their well-being, as well as that of their families and the wider community.
Science excellence and its transfer to the application sphere
Authors: Žížalová Pavla
Published: March 2012

Vědecká excelence a její přenos do aplikační sféry

Jedním z významných faktorů konkurenceschopnosti a rozvoje ekonomiky je kvalita základního výzkumu. Je však spíše faktorem vstupním, resp. jedním z těchto faktorů. Její hodnocení je třeba doplnit o hodnocení aplikačního potenciálu a využití výsledků výzkumu a vývoje do praktických, komerčních aplikací. A právě na tento potenciál je zaměřen článek - hodnotí vazby, potenciální i skutečné, mezi silnými českými výzkumnými obory, výzkumnými pracovišti a samotnými výzkumníky a aplikační sférou. Hodnocení je provedeno prostřednictvím rozsáhlého terénního šetření, zahrnujícího celkem 76 strukturovaných rozhovorů s vybranými excelentními výzkumníky. Výsledky ukazují na poměrně dobrý potenciál, kdy naprostá většina výzkumníků má zájem nejen o teoretický výzkum, ale taktéž o praktické uplatnění svých výsledků. Skutečná spolupráce s aplikační sférou je však výrazně nižší. Konkrétní jednotlivé bariéry, které jsou důvodem tohoto rozdílu, nelze jednoznačně určit, spíše je lze spatřovat v jejich vzájemném působení ve fungování inovačního systému, samotných výzkumných organizací i v motivaci výzkumníků.
R&D infrastructures supported by the Operational Programme Research and Development for Innovation - regional structure and beneficiaries
Authors: Marek David , Žížalová Pavla
Published: March 2012

Infrastruktury pro výzkum a vývoj podpořené z Operačního programu Výzkum a vývoj pro inovace - udržitelnost v regionálním a individuálním pohledu

Dosavadní deficit výzkumné infrastruktury v Česku bude v následujících letech zčásti redukován 42 novými centry vznikajícími s podporou Operačního programu Výzkum a vývoj pro inovace. Dojde tak do značné míry k uměle vyvolanému snížení koncentrace výzkumných kapacit v hlavním městě, neboť Praha nepatří mezi cílové regiony tohoto operačního programu. Jsou však regiony připraveny využít nabízenou příležitost, mají dostatečné lidské zdroje na obsazení vzniklých pracovních míst novými výzkumníky a jsou místní ekonomiky schopny chytit se lana spleteného z evropských peněz a posunout se díky novým výzkumným infrastrukturám blíže znalostně založené ekonomice? První krok nutně podmiňuje ty další. Detailní pohled na dosavadní vývoj regionální zaměstnanosti ve VaV ukazuje, že v některých krajích nejsou v příslušném vědním oboru přítomny dostatečné lidské zdroje pro obsazení vznikajících center novými zaměstnanci, a hrozí tak částečné oslabení tohoto impulzu formálním přesunem stávajících výzkumníků z jedné instituce do druhé. V porovnávání se stávající strukturou zdrojů mateřských institucí se navíc ukazují jako neúměrně vysoké odhady podílu smluvního výzkumu a zahraničních grantů u budovaných center. Snížení některého z těchto zdrojů může mít za následek výrazné utlumení činnosti centra, neboť státní rozpočet nebude pravděpodobně schopný tento výpadek kompenzovat.
Summation by Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus)
Authors: Irie Naoko , Hasegawa Toshikazu
Published: March 2012

Recent empirical evidence for complex cognition in elephants suggests that greater attention to comparative studies between non-human primates and other animals is warranted. We have previously shown that elephants possess the ability to judge the difference between two discrete quantities, and unlike other animals, their choice does not appear to be affected by distance or overall quantity. In this study, we investigated Asian elephants’ ability to perform summation, as exemplified by the ability to combine four quantities into two sums and subsequently compare them. We presented two discrete sums (3–7) to the elephants by baiting two buckets; they were loaded sequentially with two discrete quantities (1–5 pieces) of food per bucket. All three elephants selected the larger grand sum significantly more often than the smaller grand sum. Moreover, their performance was not affected by either distance to the bait or the overall quantity evaluated. Studies report that the performance of other animal species on similar tasks declines as distance to the bait decreases and as the overall quantities evaluated increase. These results suggest that the numerical cognition of Asian elephants may be different from that of other animals, but further study is required to elucidate the differences precisely.