bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anestesia epidural cranial com lidocaína e morfina para campanhas de castração em cães
Authors: Tamanho Renato Batista , Oleskovicz Nilson , Moraes Aury Nunes de , Flôres Fabíola Niederauer , Dallabrida Ademar Luiz , Regalin Doughlas , Carneiro Ruiney , Pacheco Acácio Duarte , Rosa Ademir Cassiano da
Published: December 2009

A castração de machos e fêmeas tem sido preconizada como a principal técnica para redução do grande número de cães errantes. No entanto, vários são os entraves com relação à escolha do melhor protocolo anestésico, em relação à eficácia, segurança e redução de custos. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar os efeitos cardiorrespiratórios, hemogasométricos e analgésicos da utilização de lidocaína em um volume maior, associada à morfina, pela via epidural em cadelas submetidas à ovariosalpingohisterectomia (OSH), com ou sem suplementação de oxigênio. Utilizaram-se 12 cadelas, com peso médio de 11,5±3,7kg e idade de um a quatro anos. Os animais receberam como medicação pré-anestésica (MPA) acepromazina (0,1mg kg-1) e meperidina (5mg kg-1), pela via intramuscular. Após 15 minutos, administrou-se tiopental (10mg kg-1), por via intravenosa, seguido de intubação endotraqueal. Nesse momento, os animais foram alocados em dois grupos: o grupo GCO (com oxigênio, n=06) recebeu suplementação de oxigênio 100% e o grupo GSO (sem oxigênio, n=06) permaneceu intubado sem suplementação de oxigênio. Após a intubação, foi administrada, pela via epidural, em ambos os grupos, morfina (0,1mg kg-1) em volume final ajustado para 1mL 3,0kg-1 de peso com lidocaína 2% sem vasoconstritor. Imediatamente após a anestesia epidural, os animais foram posicionados em decúbito dorsal com a cabeça no mesmo plano do corpo, e iniciou-se o procedimento cirúrgico, o qual foi padronizado em 30 minutos. Em ambos os grupos, foi possível realizar a cirurgia sem a necessidade de complementação analgésica e sem resposta de dor. A pressão arterial média (PAM) foi menor no GSO em todos os momentos em comparação ao basal. No GCO, a PAM foi menor após MPA e após epidural. Houve redução da f de M1 até M6 no GSO. A SaO2 e PaO2 foram maiores no GCO em comparação ao GSO. O pH foi menor no GCO 15 minutos após MPA até 40 minutos após epidural, em comparação ao GSO. Conclui-se que a anestesia epidural lombossacra com morfina e lidocaína na dose e no volume propostos é efetiva para realização de OSH em cadelas, com mínimas alterações cardiovasculares e hemogasométricas, as quais são bem toleradas em animais hígidos. Essa prática é exequível em campanhas de castração em que não há possibilidade de oxigenação dos animais.
Estudo das habilidades adaptativas desenvolvidas por jovens com Síndrome de Down incluídos e não incluídos no mercado de trabalho
Authors: Gomes-Machado Maria Luiza , Chiari Brasilia Maria
Published: December 2009

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar a relação entre o desenvolvimento de habilidades adaptativas por pessoas portadoras de síndrome de Down (SD) e sua inclusão no mercado de trabalho. Este estudo analisou as habilidades desenvolvidas por pessoas incluídas e não incluídas no mercado de trabalho. A pesquisa revelou que as pessoas portadoras de habilidades adaptativas prévias são favorecidas na seleção para o trabalho, em detrimento das demais. Em seguida analisaremos tais resultados, confrontando-os com alguns fatores condicionantes do desenvolvimento de tais habilidades prévias, tais como o ambiente familiar, assim como as influências socioculturais. Por fim, apontaremos a necessidade de inclusão das demais pessoas com SD.
Violência simbólica no campo da saúde: relato de um caso de cura espiritual em um espaço terapêutico híbrido
Authors: Puttini Rodolfo Franco
Published: December 2009

À luz da teoria social de Pierre Bourdieu, saliento a violência simbólica concebida das relações de forças entre agentes e práticas médicas e religiosas no interior de uma instituição filantrópica voltada à assistência à saúde de portadores de deficiências múltiplas. Do trabalho etnográfico, descrevo detalhes do acordo entre administradores religiosos espíritas e profissionais de saúde durante a implementação de um projeto que incluía especificamente assistência espiritual. Um caso de cura aparece como bem simbólico e sobre ele concorreram duas versões explicativas sobre a abrupta recuperação do paciente assistido durante meses na UTI por caquexia: a versão religiosa, que entendeu a reabilitação como cura espiritual, e a versão médica, que compreendeu o restabelecimento do paciente como resultado das atividades e gerência médica.
Validity and reliability of self-reported weight and height measures for the diagnoses of adolescent's nutritional status
Authors: Enes Carla Cristina , Fernandez Priscila Maria Fúncia , Voci Silvia Maria , Toral Natacha , Romero Alexandre , Slater Betzabeth
Published: December 2009

PURPOSE: To assess the validity and reliability of self-reported height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI) to diagnose the nutritional status of adolescents. METHODS: The study included 360 public school students of both genders, with ages ranging from 10 to 15 years. Adolescents self-reported their weight and height, and these values were later obtained directly by interviewers. The validity of BMI based on self-reported measures was calculated using sensitivity and specificity indexes, and positive predictive value (PPV). Agreement between self-reported and measured BMI was evaluated using Kappa's weight coefficient, the Lin correlation coefficient, and Bland-Altman and Lin's plots. RESULTS: Both girls and boys underestimated their weight (-1.0 girls and boys) and height (girls - 1.2 and boys - 0.8) (p < 0.001). BMI presented moderate agreement between measured and self-reported values. Sensitivity of estimated BMI based on reported measures to classify obese subjects was higher for boys (87.5%) than it was for girls (60.9%), whereas specificity was higher for girls (92.7%) than it was for boys (80.6%). PPV was high only for classification of normal-weight adolescents. CONCLUSIONS: Self-reported measures of weight and height in adolescents do not present valid measures; therefore, they should not be used to replace measured values. Additionally, we observed that 10% of obese boys and 40% of obese girls could have remained unidentified if we had used only self-reported measures, emphasizing the effects of the low reliability of self-reporting.
A expansão rápida da maxila com haas e a fala na fissura labiopalatina transforame
Authors: Lazzari Christiane Moraes , Keske-Soares Márcia , Mezzomo Carolina Lisbôa
Published: December 2009

OBJETIVO: verificar os efeitos da Expansão Rápida da Maxila (ERM), com aparelho Haas, na fala do paciente com fissura labiopalatina (FLP) Transforame. MÉTODOS: 12 indivíduos entre sete e 14 anos, sendo seis meninos e seis meninas, divididos em dois grupos. O Grupo 1 (G1), submetido à ERM com protocolo de ativação convencional e, o Grupo 2 (G2), submetido à ERM com protocolo de ativação preconizado por Liou e Tsai (2005) com expansões e constrições alternadas. Realizou-se avaliação da fala, análise acústica com programa Praat e avaliação perceptivo-auditiva por julgadores fonoaudiólogos e leigos. RESULTADOS: a medição dos tempos de emissão das vogais por análise acústica mostrou diferença estatisticamente significante na avaliação pós-ERM da vogal /i/ no G1 e da vogal /a/ no G2. Na avaliação perceptivo-auditiva, não houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos nas avaliações de Nasalidade e Clareza na Articulação, porém, na medida em que os julgadores atribuíram melhora à Nasalidade, também atribuíram melhora à Articulação e, assim também em relação as variáveis "Melhor", "Igual" e "Pior". CONCLUSÃO: a diminuição dos tempos de emissão pós-ERM, indica que o aumento no escape aéreo nasal ocasiona menores tempos de emissão. A análise perceptivo-auditiva mostrou-se um instrumento eficaz de avaliação, havendo concordância entre julgadores leigos e fonoaudiólogos. Essa avaliação indicou também, que na medida em que a nasalidade diminui ocorre maior clareza na articulação.
Perception and attitudes towards epilepsy: point of view of professionals allied to medicine from Mobile Emergency Service in Campinas
Authors: Fernandes Paula T. , Noronha Ana Lúcia A. , Hansen José Roberto , Li Li M.
Published: December 2009

INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy is very prevalent in our society, but unfortunately lack of knowledge is still very common, contributing to psycho-social difficulties to people with epilepsy. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the epilepsy' perception and attitudes by professionals of emergency medical service in Campinas, Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was carried out with professionals of SAMU-192, who participated on the VII Stroke Workshop of Campinas in November 2007. RESULTS: One hundred-forty nine (149) professionals answered the questionnaire (49% women, average age of 37 years, range from 21 to 59 year). Ninety (60%) were professionals allied to medicine (nurses, health auxiliary, dentists), six (4%) were physicians and 53 (36%) were other professions (secretary, driver). In overall, a great majority of the subjects had an appropriate knowledge regarding epilepsy. But, some beliefs are still present. In relation to epilepsy' perception, some wrong ideas appeared, as epilepsy is a contagious disease, people with epilepsy can not practice physical exercise or to work. Also, the doubts regarding pregnancy and treatment of epilepsy were observed. Regarding attitudes during an epileptic seizure, some inadequate attitudes appeared: to put something in patient's mouth, to restrict the patients' movements or give something strong to smell (alcohol or vinegar) in order to stop the seizure. CONCLUSION: In this context, it is necessary a continuous education programs to the allied health professionals to improve the perception and attitudes, bringing epilepsy out of the shadows.
A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Peer-Based Interventions on Health-Related Behaviors in Adults
Authors: Webel Allison R. , Okonsky Jennifer , Trompeta Joyce , Holzemer William L.
Published: December 2009

We reviewed 25 randomized clinical trials that assessed the effect of peer-based interventions on health-related behaviors in adults. Effect sizes were calculated as odds ratios or standardized mean differences. We grouped most of the studies by 7 measured outcomes, with effect sizes ranging from −0.50 to 2.86. We found that peer-based interventions facilitated important changes in health-related behaviors, including physical activity, smoking, and condom use, with a small- to medium-sized effect. However, the evidence was mixed, possibly because of the heterogeneity we found in methods, dose, and other variables between the studies. Interventions aimed at increasing breastfeeding, medication adherence, women's health screening, and participation in general activities did not produce significant changes.
Effective use of Production Surveillance Tool in Forecasting Future Production
Authors: Aderemi Samuel , Akpara Kingsley
Published: December 2009

Decline curve analysis is a graphical procedure used for analyzing declining production rates, and forecasting future performance of oil and gas wells. This is achieved by curve fitting the past production performance using the rate-time data and extrapolating it to predict future performance, with the primary aim of estimating reservoir remaining reserves and/or remaining productive life.

The effective use of the forecast techniques: Empirical, Fetkovich, Locke & Sawyer, and Analytical Transient solutions for oil and gas wells/Reservoirs, using a production surveillance tool that manages multi-wells effectively in less time is discussed. The last three techniques-type-curves require good understanding of the reservoir model as well as the parameters controlling the well behaviour. To effectively use any of these techniques for forecasting future production, it is imperative to determine the dominant flow regime from the production data.

This paper focuses on concepts that enable engineers determine the dominant flow regime from diagnostic plots generated from rate-time data and/or numerical iterative method. Once we are able to establish the dominant flow regime, we can now decide which of these techniques to be used.

Finally, the concepts were applied to field rate-time data.
An Experimental Investigation on the Impact of Capillary Pressure, Diffusion Osmosis, and Chemical Osmosis on the Stability and Reservoir Hydrocarbon Capacity of Shales
Authors: Al-Bazali Talal M. , Zhang Jianguo , Chenevert Martin E. , Sharma Mukul M.
Published: December 2009

Wellbore instability in shales is the most challenging and costly issue in drilling operations. Wellbore instability in shales can be attributed to many factors some of which have been well studied and documented. However, the physicochemical and mechanical properties alterations in shales which eventually leads to wellbore failure have been largely ignored. Water and ions movement in and out of shales plays a major role in the alteration of the physicochemical and mechanical properties of shales thus leading to wellbore instability problems and possible hole collapse. Water and ions can move in and out of shales by many mechanisms including, but not limited to, diffusion osmosis, chemical osmosis convective flow and capillary suction.

This work presents experimental data analyzing the impact of chemical osmosis, and diffusion osmosis on water and ion movement when shale interacts with drilling fluids. The adopted experimental work minimized the effect of convective flow and capillary suction. Results show that water movement is not only controlled by chemical osmosis (water activity) as previously thought, but is also influenced by diffusion osmosis. This insight provides information and guidelines to optimize drilling fluids to effectively control and mitigate wellbore instability when drilling through troublesome shale.

Furthermore, pressure transmission tests were used to experimentally measure capillary entry pressures of various non-wetting fluids (oil-based mud, crude oil and Nitrogen gas) through shales. These capillary entry pressures are needed for the estimation of shales seal capacity (h).
Fluid Identification Challenges in the Near Critical Fluids: Case Studies in Malaysia
Authors: Kyi Ko Ko , Yahaya Norfadilah , Daungkaew Saifon , Hademi Noor Rohaellizza , Cheong Boon , Mohd Azam Mohd Nor Hisham , Yusuf Nora , Sinnappu Suresh , Anh Do Quoc , Wong Surianee Bt Rosli , Nguyen Hai Minh
Published: December 2009

Reservoir fluid identification plays a crucial role in reservoir characterization and hydrocarbon volume estimation. Gas condensate reservoir is well known for its complex behaviour due to the nature of a near critical fluid. The reservoir pressure and temperature in such reservoirs are very close to the critical point, and therefore, small changes in reservoir condition will result in a change of fluid properties considerably. As a result, there exists a broad spectrum of reservoir fluids in this reservoir condition.

Identifying reservoir fluid in the zones of interest is extremely challenging, especially when it is associated with overpressured low porosity shaly sandstone reservoir. It becomes difficult and at times impossible to definitively identify different types of formation fluids from the well logs alone. This paper presents challenges of fluid identification process during the exploration/appraisal campaign in such reservoirs, offshore Malaysia, where the operator needs to gather as much information and as quickly as possible to make immediate operation decisions and Field Development Plans (FDP).

First part of this paper demonstrates an integration of available data including mud logs, gas chromatography, gas wetness ratio, well logs, formation pressure and DST in order to determine fluid types in a well where an expected reservoir fluid is oil. The result from a systematic integrated reservoir characterization performed later, however, has found that the reservoir fluid is gas condensate.

The second part shows an extensive application of Downhole Fluid Analyzer (DFA) in the Wireline Formation Tester (WFT) tool to conclusively identify reservoir fluid types and their properties in-situ and in real time in the second well drilled in a different fault block. In this case, the use of WFT together with DFA has allowed identification and PVT property determination of a full range of downhole fluids including gas, retrograde gas, volatile oil and black oil. This suggests a number of compartments in such complex reservoirs.
A Generalized Predictive Control for Management of an Intelligent Well's Downhole, Interval Control Valves—Design and Practical Implementation
Authors: Yang Qing , Davies D. R.
Published: December 2009

This paper presents an advanced control method for online regulation of downhole Interval Control Valves (ICVs) to achieve optimal production via choke performance management. A Generalized Predictive Controller (GPC) has been shown to be capable of automatically controlling the area open to flow of multiple ICVs to achieve a specified production rate. A black box model was established using real-time, downhole, instrument data as a predictive model for the controller. The model parameters were updated in real-time using the Decay Recursive Least Squares (DRLS) method. A case study in which a multi-zone horizontal intelligent well was located in complex reservoir showed that the GPC operation is highly effective. The robustness of the technique was illustrated by its ability to operate effectively in the complex reservoir environment when the signal is perturbed by outliers or by random noise levels up to the control error limits. The value of these control error limits must be increased as the step size of each valve operation becomes larger.
Offshore Diving Safety—Challenges and Concerns
Authors: Sherman Chris
Published: December 2009

Commercial diving in the North Sea was once viewed as the ultimate example of a highly paid but very dangerous occupation. Regulation (both external and internal) and many hard lessons have resulted in great improvements in training, equipment and procedures. Diving is undoubtedly much safer than it was 30 years ago, but it remains one of the most hazardous activities in the offshore industry.

The paper will identify a number of challenges facing the offshore diving industry - some of which give cause for concern. For example, the sector continues to enjoy a worldwide boom which has resulted in a severe shortage of experienced divers, supervisors, support personnel and diving support vessels. These shortages are likely to worsen in the coming year, despite record numbers of divers passing through the diving schools and the ongoing construction of diving vessels and diving systems. The age profile of the offshore diving workforce (and much of the equipment in use) is likely to further exacerbate these problems.

Over the last 2 years, there has been a significant increase in diving related Dangerous Occurrences (near misses) reported to the United Kingdom's Health & Safety Executive (HSE). These include a number of incidents that could have resulted in fatalities or serious injuries. This situation is not limited to the North Sea and there have been a number of serious accidents reported from around the world. The paper will explore this trend. The paper will conclude that most diving accidents are not "new" and that the lessons from the past must not be forgotten. While adherence to current regulations and industry standards is generally the best way to reduce risks to acceptable levels, some new thinking may now be needed in areas such as training and competence assessment.
An Overview to Applicability of Multilateral Drilling in the Middle East Fields
Authors: Paiaman Abouzar Mirzaei , Moghadasi J.
Published: December 2009

There are several types of drilling methods to increase the productivity of a well, such as horizontal drilling, extended reach horizontal drilling and Multilateral (ML) drilling. It is thought that ML wells could be more economic with higher productivities than horizontal or extended reach horizontal wells. Advances in ML drilling promise reduced costs, greater flexibility and increased profit potential.

In the last 20 years, thousands of ML wells have been drilled worldwide, but only a small percentage of the total number of wells is multilateral. The probable reason may be lack of concise information and misconceptions surrounding the costs and perceived risks. However, recent advances in the capabilities of the systems and applications have proved ML drilling to be a truly revolutionary and cost effective solution for the industry.

This paper investigates the benefits of ML drilling as one of the highly expanded methods. Moreover, advantages, challenges, and priorities of the ML technology are highlighted. Since application of ML wells requires some improvement and development especially in the Middle East, therefore, two case studies from this region are presented. The first case study is the first Saudi Aramco's deep ML gas well, and the second is drilling a dual lateral well in Dukhan field in Qatar. For the first case study, productivity of ML wells is presented. Furthermore, a comparison is made between the productivity of a horizontal and dual ML in order to give a recommendation for one of them.
Jura Fast Track Project
Authors: Lesgent Jérôme , MacIntosh Jimmy , Simons Phil
Published: December 2009

This paper focuses on Total E&P UK strategy for the fast track development of the Jura Project and resultant challenges encompassing: ▪Contract strategy to maximise schedule efficiency and flexibility.▪Innovative design engineering for subsea application: –First use worldwide of subsea chemical injection metering.–Subsea hard HIPPS IL 3 rated with fibre optic control, first Subsea HIPPS in the Total Group.▪Bundle construction utilising controlled depth tow method with the heaviest ever installed lead towhead.▪Towhead design with multiple diver/ROV retrievable components (including complete piping and control modules).▪Adapting design and strategy to capture base parameter changes - addition of second well to project during main contract Tender negotiations.

Results/Conclusions

Dissertation on the challenges faced and overcome to deliver the Jura project: ▪Multiple contractors / vendors directly managed by Total E&P UK at diverse locations (USA, Germany, France, Holland, Norway, Ireland and UK multiple locations).▪Technical solutions achieved - HIPPS, Chemical Injection, and Towhead design.▪Logistical innovation for towhead transportation.
Development of a Thin Low Permeability Gas Field With Spiralling Dual Lateral Horizontal Wells: The Halfdan Northeast Field
Authors: Christiansen L. B. , Jeppesen M. W. , van Lingen P. , Rod M. H.
Published: December 2009

The Halfdan Northeast gas accumulation was discovered in 1968 and comprises a low permeability chalk of the Ekofisk formation. The thin reservoir interval has an effective permeability of about 1 mD in the best parts, segmented vertically by cm-thick layers of extreme low permeability and considerable lateral extent. As a result, the productivity is relatively poor. To overcome the challenges presented by the tight chalk reservoir, a stepwise approach to field development has been applied. Maximum reservoir exposure obtained in the most cost effective manner was from the beginning identified as a pre-requisite for a commercially attractive development.

The first development phase in 2004 comprised three long reach horizontal wells drilled from the nearby Halfdan field. These wells enabled early development of the gas utilising existing facilities. During this phase it was realised that despite reservoir sections of 15,000 ft production rates were disappointing.

Two long dual lateral wells were drilled during the second development phase showing that a doubling of the reservoir section could be achieved at 1.6 times the cost of a single lateral well while productivity increased proportionally with reservoir exposure.

An ambitious third development phase was planned with 6 dual and 2 single lateral wells covering the eastern part of the field. The wells were planned in a spiralling pattern which provides a uniform coverage of a large area in comparison with the traditional radiating well pattern. To date, 8 of the planned wells have been successfully drilled.

As a result of several novel ideas to maximise reservoir exposure while minimising costs, the development of the thin Ekofisk reservoir in the Halfdan Northeast field is well underway and production in line with expectations.
Safety Leadership: A View of the Senior Managers' Role
Authors: Roger I. , Flin R. , Mearns K. , Hetherington C.
Published: December 2009

Senior managers have been described as a ‘neglected species’ in safety research, yet their influence on organisational performance is frequently examined in relation to productivity and financial success. The Energy Institute is now sponsoring a research project on senior managers' safety leadership in the oil and gas industry. This paper presents early findings from a series of interviews with senior managers and safety experts from within the energy sector. The paper explores whether particular leadership styles influence senior managers' ability to promote safety within their organisations. Descriptions of effective safety leaders consistently included elements of transformational leadership, supporting findings from previous research. The interviews also revealed that elements of authentic leadership appear to be particularly crucial for safety leadership from the senior management level.
Exploring the Resource Potential of a Dormant Deepwater Tight Gas Condensate Accumulation Using Modern Seismic Technology—The Spanish Point Discovery, Main Porcupine Basin, Offshore Ireland
Authors: Pugliese S. G. , Davies D. J. , O'Sullivan J. M.
Published: December 2009

The Spanish Point gas condensate discovery is located in the Main Porcupine Basin, approximately 150 km off the west coast of Ireland in water depths of 300–400 m. The discovery well, which was drilled in 1981 by Phillips Petroleum, is situated near the crest of a number of NE–SW trending rotated fault blocks and encountered a gross c. 400 m hydrocarbon–bearing interval in a series of stacked over–pressured Upper Jurassic deep–water gravity flow sands. Drill stem testing yielded rates of 4.85 MMscf/D and 925 BOPD from the shallowest of four logged hydrocarbon–bearing intervals at a depth of c. 4,000 m. Individual sandstone units are medium to thick bedded with average sandstone units of 50 m which are separated by shales of the Kimmeridge Clay Formation. The well test data imply relatively low permeabilities (generally <1 mD), which may be due to the presence of clay minerals within the sands, or to secondary hydrothermal alteration as a result of local igneous intrusions. The latest geological model, which is based on modern rock–physics and seismic inversion has significantly increased the potential resource base and suggests a median un–risked recoverable contingent resource of 1.4 Tcf and 160 MMBO. Whilst the Spanish Point discovery is primarily a structural trap, mapping of its northern extent indicates that the spill point may be shallower than the gas–down–to seen in the 35/8–2 discovery well. This observation, together with the over– pressured reservoir regime, which is not seen in wells further to the north, raises the possibility of a stratigraphic component to the trapping mechanism. A 3D seismic survey acquisition programme is planned for 2009, which aims to further enhance our understanding of this accumulation as well as being of use for positioning of any potential future appraisal well locations.
Cost Effective Deepwater Well Construction - A Case for Managed Pressure Drilling with Casing
Authors: Oyeneyin M. Babs
Published: December 2009

Engineers now face increasing challenge of drilling in Ultra Deepwater environments which form the cornerstone of future field developments. The deepwater environments are characterised by complex temperature profiles and geological features such as High Pressure-High Temperature (HP-HT) with very narrow pore pressure-fracture pressure window; Shallow unconsolidated reservoirs with very high overburden; Combination of ‘'flexible" lithologies. In these environments the use of overbalanced drilling techniques becomes difficult as the tolerance between formation pressure, wellbore pressure and the pressure at which the formation will fracture becomes very small. This can lead to severe drilling problems with attendant increase in drilling costs to possible loss of well control itself. These deepwater environments can benefit from Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) when effectively combined with casing drilling technique but its uptake has been rather slow.

For the industry to develop a managed pressure drilling capability that will allow today's generation of complex wells to be drilled safely with casing, it is necessary to develop models that will accurately simulate the MPD process and to embed these models within an easy to use, intuitive well design package for pre-planning and as a real time tool to monitor, diagnose and optimise downhole operations and provide forward simulations based on rig and downhole data.

This paper presents the unique algorithms developed to simulate the MPD process and to analyse the effects of soft issues on the wellbore flow and pressure regimes and impact on torque/drag.

The algorithms developed have been validated with live well data including pump rates, fluid properties and especially PWD and pump pressure data. The predictions and actual data have been found to be in very close agreement.

The results of algorithm validation are presented to illustrate how the simulator can be utilised for real time design as well as process optimisation especially for casing drilling versus standard drillstring scenario.. Highlights of the effects of the complex relationships between eccentricity, rotation and fluid rheology at bottom hole and riser conditions are also presented to illustrate the drilling process optimisation. The paper is concluded with guidelines on MPD operating windows for different scenarios and a brief description of the system architecture of the MPD Simulator – The MPDEEP.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Expression in Murine Models and Humans with Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: A. Herzlich Alexandra , Ding Xiaoyan , Shen Defen , J. Ross Robert , Tuo Jingsheng , Chan Chi-Chao
Published: December 2009

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) play a role in oxidative stress and VEGF regulation,
which are closely related to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). PPAR γ expression and its downstream molecules
were examined in fat-1 mice (transgenic mice that convert n-6 to n-3 fatty acids), Ccl2-/-/Cx3cr1-/- mice (an AMD model),
ARPE19 cells (a human retinal pigment epithelial cell line, RPE, a cell type with a critical role in AMD), and human eyes
with and without AMD. PPAR α, β, and γ, VEGF and receptors were determined by immunohistochemistry in the mice
models, humans, and ARPE19 cells. Transcripts of PPARs, VEGF, MMP-9 and HO-1 were determined by RQ-PCR.
PPARs were constitutively expressed in normal neuroretina and RPE of humans and mice. PPAR γ expression was
increased in fat-1 and Ccl2-/-/Cx3cr1-/- mice. VEGF was decreased in fat-1 mice but increased in Ccl2-/-/Cx3cr1-/- mice.
VEGF receptors were stable. VEGF, MMP9 and HO-1 transcript levels were increased in ARPE19 cells under H2O2 -
induced oxidative stress. Human AMD retinas exhibited higher PPAR γ. The findings of increased expression of PPAR γ
and its downstream proteins (VEGF, MMP9, and HO-1) in H2O2-treated ARPE19 cells, Ccl2-/-/Cx3cr1-/- mice, and human
AMD eyes, but decreased VEGF in fat-1 mice, suggest that PPAR γ may play a role in AMD.
Anti-inflammatory effect of chitosan oligosaccharides in RAW 264.7 cells
Authors: Yang Eun-Jin , Kim Jong-Gwan , Kim Ji-Young , Kim Seong , Lee Nam , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: December 2009

We examined the effects of chitosan oligosaccharides (COSs) with different molecular weights (COS-A, 10 kDa < MW < 20 kDa; COS-C, 1 kDa < MW < 3 kDa) on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced production of prostaglandin E2 and nitric oxide and on the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in RAW264.7 macrophages. COS-A (0.4%) and COS-C (0.2%) significantly inhibited PGE2 production in LPS-stimulated macrophages without cytotoxicity. The effect of COS-A and COS-C on COX-2 expression in activated macrophages was also investigated by immunoblotting. The inhibition of PGE2 by COS-A and COS-C can be attributed to the blocking of COX-2 protein expression. COS-A (0.4%) and COS-C (0.2%) also markedly inhibited the LPS-induced NO production of RAW 264.7 cells by 50.2% and 44.1%, respectively. The inhibition of NO by COSs was consistent with decreases in inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein expression. To test the inhibitory effects of COS-A and COS-C on other cytokines, we also performed ELISA assays for IL-1β in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, but only a dose-dependent decrease in the IL-1β production exerted by COS-A was observed. In order to test for irritation and the potential sensitization of COS-A and COS-C for use as cosmetic materials, human skin primary irritation tests were performed on 32 volunteers; no adverse reactions of COSs usage were observed. Based on these results, we suggest that COS-A and COS-C be considered possible anti-inflammatory candidates for topical application.
Spermine and L-Name Pretreatment Effects on Polyamine and Nitric Oxide Metabolism in Rat Brain During Seizures
Authors: Stojanović Ivana , Jelenković Ankica , Vasiljević Ivana , Pavlović Dušica , Bjelaković Gordana
Published: December 2009

Spermine and L-Name Pretreatment Effects on Polyamine and Nitric Oxide Metabolism in Rat Brain During Seizures

In the CNS polyamines can exert opposite effects, depending on the concentration and conditions in the cell. Protective or neurotoxic polyamine effects were documented during seizures and repeated CNS excitation. Intensive research of exogenous polyamines effects during seizures induced by numerous agents did not clear up confusions about the duality of effects and the role of polyamines in seizures. In order to understand polyamine modulatory effects in seizures, the importance of NO and polyamine metabolism interdependence and the possible implication of changes of postulated NO and polyamine equillibrium in seizures, the effects of spermine alone and in combination with L-NAME (NOS inhibitor) on seizures induced by pentazol (PTZ) were investigated. To compare the obtained results, the effects of anticonvulsant midazolam on NO production during seizures were also investigated. Seizures were induced by i.p. application of pentazol (100 mg/kg b.w.). Spermine and L-NAME were administered i.p. before PTZ. In the striatum and hippocampus, spermine induced increased NO production (p<0.001) related to values in the group treated by PTZ. Application of L-NAME before spermine and PTZ caused decrease of NO production in comparison with animals treated only by PTZ or spermine and PTZ. L-NAME given before spermine exerts protective effects related to seizures induced by PTZ and to the group treated by spermine, extending the time of seizure symptoms appearance, thus confirming the NO signaling system involvement in spermine effects during seizures. Highly significant PAO activity increase caused by spermine points out the intensified interconversion of spermine into putrescine, in order to maintain the intracellular putrescine concentration. The obtained results prove a strong relationship between the NO signaling system and polyamine metabolism in the brain during seizures and the importance of their changes in this kind of CNS injury.
Mental Practice for Relearning Locomotor Skills
Authors: Malouin Francine , Richards Carol L.
Published: December 2009

Over the past 2 decades, much work has been carried out on the use of mental practice through motor imagery for optimizing the retraining of motor function in people with physical disabilities. Although much of the clinical work with mental practice has focused on the retraining of upper-extremity tasks, this article reviews the evidence supporting the potential of motor imagery for retraining gait and tasks involving coordinated lower-limb and body movements. First, motor imagery and mental practice are defined, and evidence from physiological and behavioral studies in healthy individuals supporting the capacity to imagine walking activities through motor imagery is examined. Then the effects of stroke, spinal cord injury, lower-limb amputation, and immobilization on motor imagery ability are discussed. Evidence of brain reorganization in healthy individuals following motor imagery training of dancing and of a foot movement sequence is reviewed, and the effects of mental practice on gait and other tasks involving coordinated lower-limb and body movements in people with stroke and in people with Parkinson disease are examined. Lastly, questions pertaining to clinical assessment of motor imagery ability and training strategies are discussed.
Similarity of Joint Kinematics and Muscle Demands Between Elliptical Training and Walking: Implications for Practice
Authors: Burnfield Judith M. , Shu Yu , Buster Thad , Taylor Adam
Published: December 2009

Background

People with physical disabilities often face barriers to regaining walking ability and fitness after discharge from rehabilitation. Physical therapists are uniquely positioned to teach clients the knowledge and skills needed to exercise on functionally relevant equipment available in the community, such as elliptical trainers. However, therapeutic use is hindered by a lack of empirical information.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine joint kinematics and muscle activation recorded during walking and elliptical training to provide evidence-based data to guide clinical decision making.

Design

This was a prospective, controlled laboratory study using a repeated-measures design.

Methods

Twenty adults free from impairments that might hinder gait participated. After familiarization procedures, subjects walked and trained on 4 elliptical devices while kinematic, electromyographic (EMG), and stride characteristic data were recorded.

Results

Movement similarities between elliptical training and walking were supported by the documentation of relatively high coefficients of multiple correlation for the hip (.85–.89), thigh (.92–.94), knee (.87–.89) and, to a lesser extent, the ankle (.57–.71). Significantly greater flexion was documented at the trunk, pelvis, hip, and knee during elliptical training than during walking. One of the elliptical trainers most closely simulated sagittal-plane walking kinematics, as determined from an assessment of key variables. During elliptical training, gluteus maximus and vastus lateralis muscle activation were increased; medial hamstring, gastrocnemius, soleus, and tibialis anterior muscle activation were decreased; and gluteus medius and lateral hamstring muscle activation were relatively unchanged compared with muscle activation of those muscles in walking. On the basis of EMG findings, no elliptical trainer clearly emerged as the best for simulating gait.

Limitations

To date, only 4 elliptical trainers have been studied, and the contributions of the upper extremities to movement have not been quantified.

Conclusions

Although one of the elliptical trainers best simulated sagittal-plane walking kinematics, EMG analysis failed to identify one clearly superior device. This research provides evidence-based data to help guide clinical decision making related to the use of elliptical trainers across the health care continuum and into the community.
How Does Explicit Prioritization Alter Walking During Dual-Task Performance? Effects of Age and Sex on Gait Speed and Variability
Authors: Yogev-Seligmann Galit , Rotem-Galili Yael , Mirelman Anat , Dickstein Ruth , Giladi Nir , Hausdorff Jeffrey M.
Published: December 2009

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that the performance of a secondary task during walking alters gait.

Objective

This study investigated the effects of task prioritization on walking in young and older adults to evaluate the “default” prioritization scheme used, the flexibility to alter prioritization and cortical resources allocated to gait and a secondary cognitive task, and any age-associated changes in these abilities.

Design

A cross-sectional study that explicitly altered the focus of attention was used to investigate the effects of prioritization in young and older adults who were healthy.

Methods

Gait speed and gait variability were evaluated in young adults (n=40) and older adults (n=17) who were healthy, both during usual walking and under 3 dual-task conditions: (1) no specific prioritization instructions, (2) prioritization of gait, and (3) prioritization of the cognitive task.

Results

Young adults significantly increased gait speed in the gait prioritization condition compared with gait speed in the no-instruction condition; a similar tendency was seen in the older adults. Gait speed was reduced when priority was given to the cognitive task in both age groups; however, this effect was less dramatic in the older adults. In the young adults, prioritization of gait tended to have different effects on gait speed among both men and women. In the older adults, but not in the young adults, all dual-task conditions produced increased gait variability, whereas prioritization did not alter this gait feature.

Limitations

The sample size and the relative homogeneity of the older adults could be considered as possible limitations of the study.

Conclusions

Even among young adults, the effects of secondary, cognitive tasks on gait speed are strongly influenced by prioritization. This finding was less significant in the older adults, suggesting that there is an age-associated decline in the ability to flexibly allocate attention to gait. Somewhat surprisingly, when prioritization was not explicitly instructed, gait speed in both young and older adults most closely resembled that of the condition when they were instructed to focus attention on the cognitive task.
Can Strength Training Predictably Improve Gait Kinematics? A Pilot Study on the Effects of Hip and Knee Extensor Strengthening on Lower-Extremity Alignment in Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Damiano Diane L. , Arnold Allison S. , Steele Katherine M. , Delp Scott L.
Published: December 2009

Background

Computer simulations have demonstrated that excessive hip and knee flexion during gait, as frequently seen in ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP), can reduce the ability of muscles to provide antigravity support and increase the tendency of hip muscles to internally rotate the thigh. These findings suggest that therapies for improving upright posture during gait also may reduce excessive internal rotation.

Objective

The goal of this study was to determine whether strength training can diminish the degree of crouched, internally rotated gait in children with spastic diplegic CP.

Design

This was a pilot prospective clinical trial.

Methods

Eight children with CP participated in an 8-week progressive resistance exercise program, with 3-dimensional gait analysis and isokinetic testing performed before and after the program. Secondary measures included passive range of motion, the Ashworth Scale, and the PedsQL CP Module. To identify factors that may have influenced outcome, individual and subgroup data were examined for patterns of change within and across variables.

Results

Strength (force-generating capacity) increased significantly in the left hip extensors, with smaller, nonsignificant mean increases in the other 3 extensor muscle groups, yet kinematic and functional outcomes were inconsistent. The first reported subject-specific computer simulations of crouch gait were created for one child who showed substantial benefit to examine the factors that may have contributed to this outcome.

Limitations

The sample was small, with wide variability in outcomes.

Conclusions

Strength training may improve walking function and alignment in some patients for whom weakness is a major contributor to their gait deficits. However, in other patients, it may produce no change or even undesired outcomes. Given the variability of outcomes in this and other strengthening studies in CP, analytical approaches to determine the sources of variability are needed to better identify those individuals who are most likely to benefit from strengthening.
Daily Stepping in Individuals With Motor Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Saraf Poonam , Rafferty Miriam R. , Moore Jennifer L. , Kahn Jennifer H. , Hendron Kathryn , Leech Kristan , Hornby T. George
Published: December 2009

Background

In individuals with motor incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI), ambulatory function determined in the clinical setting is related to specific measures of body structure and function and activity limitations, although few studies have quantified the relationship of these variables with daily stepping (steps/day).

Objective

The aim of this study was to quantify daily stepping in ambulatory individuals with SCI and its relationship with clinical walking performance measures and specific demographics, impairments, and activity limitations.

Design

A cross-sectional study was performed to estimate relationships among clinical variables to daily stepping in self-identified community versus non–community (household) walkers.

Methods

Average daily stepping was determined in 50 people with chronic, motor incomplete SCI. Data for clinical and self-report measures of walking performance also were collected, and their associations with daily stepping were analyzed using correlation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. Relationships between daily stepping and the measures of demographics, impairments, and activity limitations were identified using correlation and regression analyses.

Results

The ROC analyses revealed a significant discriminative ability between self-reported community and non–community walkers using clinical gait measures and daily stepping. Stepping activity generally was low throughout the sample tested, however, with an average of approximately 2,600 steps/day. Knee extension strength (force-generating capacity) and static balance were the primary variables related to daily stepping, with metabolic efficiency and capacity and balance confidence contributing to a lesser extent.

Limitations

The small sample size and use of specific impairment-related measures were potential limitations of the study.

Conclusions

Daily stepping is extremely limited in individuals with incomplete SCI, with a potentially substantial contribution of impairments in knee extension strength and balance.