bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Truly Selective Underreaming: Adaptation of a Field Proven, Hydraulically Actuated, Concentric Underreamer Allows for Multiple Unlocking/Locking Cycles in a Single Run
Authors: McCarthy John P. , Martin William H.
Published: February 2010

This paper introduces a concentric underreamer incorporating a drop ball mechanism that allows the tool to be unlocked and relocked multiple times without tripping from the well. The rapid implementation strategy and field trials will be presented. Along with a general description of the new technology, new underreaming applications, significant gains in efficiency and increases in cost savings will be discussed.

Concentric underreaming tools have been rapidly developed along with the industry-wide acceptance of closed loop rotary steerable systems. Enormous gains in reliability and performance have been made, allowing consistent shoe-to-shoe drilling and underreaming while executing complex trajectories. Well configurations that were actively avoided several years ago, like drilling long sections of salt, are now commonly drilled with rotary steerable tools and concentric underreamers.

Most concentric underreamers in use today can be configured to reliably remain locked in the undergauge position until underreaming is required. Some tools can also be relocked after underreaming is completed. Once these tools are relocked they cannot be unlocked again while still in the hole. This is certainly beneficial for circulating at high flow rates, but locking a tool after underreaming has been completed does not allow a tight spot to be re-reamed during the trip out of the hole. Additionally, having a single unlock/lock cycle does not offer the opportunity to underream selected intervals in a hole section and drill with only the bit in others.

To enable the well planner to achieve selective underreaming and to retain the ability to lock the tool at the end of the run, a multi-cycle locking/unlocking mechanism was required. There was also an operational need for rapid introduction into the industry with central focus on leveraging existing technology to minimize risk. Rather than starting with a clean sheet of paper and designing an entirely new tool, a field proven, hydraulically actuated, concentric underreamer was adapted to provide for full selectiveness.

By adapting an established, field proven tool, the primary challenges involved the cycling mechanism itself. This allowed for more rapid introduction to the industry as the risk to the operator was significantly reduced when compared to running a completely new tool. The operating characteristics of the underreamer were already well understood and the emphasis was placed on the cycling system. The result was a fully selectable, concentric underreamer that offered the flexibility to underream selectively, lock the tool at the end of the run, and finally cycle the tool if necessary during the trip out of the hole.
Drilling Machine Control – Making it Simpler and More Robust
Authors: Stangeland Kjell Magne , Carnegie Graham , Aanesland Svein Ove
Published: February 2010

The purpose of this paper is to alert the industry of a potential issue on variable frequency driven, large powered machines such as top drives, mud pumps, and drawworks when interfacing this equipment control with a third party power system.

In some cases the third party power system provider will insert a control device between the equipment controller and the drive, which can introduce performance and possible safety issues.

When systems are configured in this manner there are many challenges in the interface definition / implementation and also with who has overall system responsibility and what actions one system takes based on the actions of the other.

We believe a drive should be treated as a means of powering the equipment prime movers and that this drive should be under the complete control of the equipment controller with no influences from another source. The equipment controller should also be responsible for executing power limiting so the machine is brought to a safe condition / limit under control to prevent a blackout from occurring.

In summary, the introduction of a third party controller between the equipment controller and the drive introduces engineering/design challenges, possible performance and safety issues which all introduce unnecessary risk.
Drilling Riser VIV – Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Tognarelli Michael A. , Campbell Mike , Deka Dhyan
Published: February 2010

Vortex induced vibration (VIV) of deepwater drilling risers due to steady current flow does occur. This has been demonstrated by BP, who have collected a large amount of drilling riser field measurements over the last 10 years [3].

Whilst the field measurements have shown that VIV does occur there have been few, if any, examples of drilling riser fatigue failure due to VIV. The lack of documented failures conflicts somewhat with software predictions which often predict low fatigue lives due to VIV in high current environments such as West of Shetland and Gulf of Mexico loop currents. So how should the industry deal with this?

Work has already been conducted to develop an approach to reconcile the disparity between VIV software predictions, field measured VIV and the likelihood of fatigue failure [1]. Using the statistical relationship between software predictions and actual VIV response a worked example is considered that results in design factors of safety substantially lower than the typical values used in design of 10 to 20.

The paper will document the occurrence and implications of drilling riser VIV in the field and demonstrate a novel approach that can be used to minimize the over conservatism that is currently present in VIV design tools whilst maintaining the required level of safety in accordance with industry design codes and standards.
Oppression of the Bereaved: A Critical Analysis of Grief in Western Society
Authors: Harris Darcy
Published: February 2010

Bereaved individuals often experience profound social pressure to conform to societal norms that constrict the experience of grief rather than support it. This article explores grief in Western society1 through an analysis of the underlying structures and values that are a part of this social system, utilizing the lens of critical theory. Critical theory examines social norms and conditions in order to identify and expose oppression in various contexts. This article examines the social rules that govern the expression of grief, the role of attachment, social pain, and shame as potent forces that promote compliance with social rules, and the ways that the underlying assumptions and values in Western society shape how bereaved individuals are expected to react. Implications for clinicians who work with terminally ill or bereaved individuals are then reviewed.
Obituaries Online: New Connections with the Living—and the Dead
Authors: Hume Janice , Bressers Bonnie
Published: February 2010

This study examines online obituary pages at nine major U.S. daily newspapers seeking to understand how these sites use new technologies, and how they publicly portray people's lives and deaths. These mainstream dailies provide a forum, and potentially large audiences, for mourners who send messages to the dead, express emotion, and tell stories. They also facilitate connections between readers and build new kinds of virtual communities. This represents a departure from traditional obituary content. Indeed, the “cyber obit” now allows the bereaved to help frame the death stories and build the memorials, liberated from the linear, non-interactive formats of the past. This study builds on work of bereavement scholars as well as literature in journalism and mass communication.
Population-based study in Lithuania: lifestyle factors and risk of metabolic syndrome
Authors: Luksiene Dalia , Baceviciene Migle , Tamosiunas Abdonas
Published: February 2010

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between lifestyle characteristics and the probability of metabolic syndrome in the Lithuanian middle-aged population of Kaunas city. Study sample was comprised of 1403 individuals aged 35–64 years. Metabolic syndrome was defined by International Diabetes Federation definition. Lifestyle habits were evaluated using frequency questionnaires. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was identified in 29.7% of men and 35.1% of women. In men only alcohol intake increased the risk of metabolic syndrome: wine intake daily or several times a week increased the risk of metabolic syndrome in men aged 35–49 years by 3.8-fold whereas intake of spirits once a week or more often increased the risk of metabolic syndrome in men aged 50–64 years by 2.8-fold. In women aged 50–64 years beer intake daily or several times a week (OR=11.9; p=0.015) and some unhealthy nutrition habits — intake of cakes 4 times a week or more often (OR=5.49; p=0.005) and slather spread butter on bread (OR=2.09; p=0.028) increased the odds of metabolic syndrome. Our findings indicated that frequent intake of wine and spirits increased the risk of metabolic syndrome in men; frequent intake of beer, cakes, slather spread butter on bread and low education level increased the risk of metabolic syndrome in women.
Temporal variation in prevalence and cercarial development of Echinostephilla patellae (Digenea, Philophthalmidae) in the intertidal gastropod Patella vulgata
Authors: Prinz Katrin , Kelly Thomas , O’Riordan Ruth , Culloty Sarah
Published: February 2010

The trematode Echinostephilla patellae is an abundant but scarcely investigated parasite found in coastal ecosystems of the British Isles. Redial and cercarial stages of the digenean occur in the digestive gland and gonads of common limpets Patella vulgata. Here, we present data on the temporal distribution of E. patellae infections in P. vulgata from an intertidal site on the Irish south coast as well as on the intramolluscan development of the cercariae over a period of one year. Prevalence of infection showed temporal variation with a distinct peak in September, possibly related to an increase in the abundance of bird final hosts coinciding with comparatively high temperatures at the study locality during the summer months. Maturation of cercarial stages was strongly correlated with water temperature. Whilst fully developed cercariae were present in the rediae from May to November, large numbers of infective stages occurred in the limpets’ mantle blood vessels — where they accumulate prior to release — between June and September, suggesting this period of time to be the main transmission window for E. patellae cercariae.
An accidental attachment of Elthusa raynaudii (Isopoda, Cymothoidae) in Etmopterus sp. (Squaliformes, Etmopteridae)
Authors: Williams Ernest , Bunkley-Williams Lucy , Ebert David
Published: February 2010

A female Elthusa raynaudii was found attached on the roof of the mouth facing inward in a lantern shark, Etmopterus sp. in Taiwan. This was backwards to all known cymothoid attachments in the mouths of fishes. This isopod naturally occurs in the gill chamber of fishes. The attachment must have occurred accidentally. This is only the fourth time this isopod has been collected in the northern hemisphere and the first for Taiwan and this host.
Ovarian abnormality in a pathological case caused by Myxidium sp. (Myxozoa, Myxosporea) in onespot snapper fish Lutjanus monostigma (Teleostei, Lutjanidae) from the Red Sea
Authors: Al-Jahdali Mohammed , Hassanine Reda
Published: February 2010

To date, Myxidium elmatboulii Ali, Abdel-Baki et Sakran, 2006 (Myxozoa, Myxosporea) is the only species of the genus known from the Red Sea, and was originally described as a coelozoic parasite in the gall bladder of the belonid fish, Tylosurus choram. A Myxidium sp. closely similar to M. elmatboulii is described herein for the first time as a histozoic parasite in the ovary of the onespot snapper fish, Lutjanus monostigma (Teleostei, Lutjanidae) from the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. The infected ovary was morphologically abnormal, with two protruding digitiform black cysts at its distal end, densely packed with mature plasmodia suspended in a mucoid liquid. Histological examination revealed that the cysts were extended deeply within the ovary, and each was surrounded by a capsule consisting of a relatively thick layer of fibrous connective tissues of host origin (host tissue reaction), and followed internally by a distinct black layer composed of melanomacrophages encircling the parasite mass; this layer clearly indicates the ability of this myxosporean parasite to induce a strong immune inflammatory response in the ovary of L. monostigma. Many small or developing cysts with the same characteristics were seen scattered in the connective tissue between the ovarian follicles. Plasmodia or spores of the parasite were not seen within the oocytes or within its developmental stages. The cysts occupied a considerable part of the ovary, and some areas of the ovarian tissues appeared to be vacuolated or degenerated. Thus, the typical ovarian structure of L. monostigma was greatly affected and lost its normal architecture. Therefore, the infection caused by this Myxidium sp. is presumed to negatively affect the reproductive capacity of the fish host.
Occurrence of anisakid nematodes in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and Greenland cod (Gadus ogac), West Greenland
Authors: Mouritsen Kim , Hedeholm Rasmus , Schack Henriette , Møller Lone , Storr-Paulsen Marie , Dzido Joanna , Rokicki Jerzy
Published: February 2010

Anisakid nematodes commonly infect gadids, and are of economic and aesthetic importance to the commercial fishing industry in Greenland as some species are pathogenic to humans. However, very little is known about the occurrence of these parasites and their impact on the hosts in Greenland waters. During a survey in 2005, stomach sample of 227 Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and 64 Greenland cod (Gadus ogac) was collected in Godthaab and Sisimiut fiord systems in West Greenland waters. All cod were dissected for stomach contents and anisakid nematodes were removed from the visceral cavity. Third stage larvae (L3) of three anisakid species were found, including Contracaecum osculatum (Rudolphi, 1802), Anisakis simplex (Rudolphi, 1809) and Hysterothylacium aduncum (Rudolphi, 1802). Molecular identification by PCR-RFLP indicated the presence of A. simplex s.s. and the sibling species C. osculatum B and C. The prevalence of infection by C. osculatum was higher in Greenland cod (84.3%) than in Atlantic cod (73.9%) whereas the prevalence of A. simplex showed an opposite pattern (Greenland cod 8.3%; Atlantic cod 24.2%). Only one G. morhua (1.0%) was infected by H. aduncum. No gender specific difference in both nematode species regarding prevalence of infection and mean infection intensity was evident, and there was no relationship between fish condition and the intensity of nematode infections. Standardised for size, capelin-eating cod were in better condition and more heavily infected than fish subsisting on alternative prey at the point of collection. Hence, nematode infections in the two gadids seem governed in part by feeding behaviour, and capelin appears a significant source of larval anisakids.
Vivax malaria presenting with cerebral malaria and convulsions
Authors: Anvikar Anupkumar , Singh Dinesh , Singh Ruchi , Dash Aditya , Valecha Neena
Published: February 2010

A patient was admitted with fever, vomiting, restlessness and convulsions. He was febrile and unconscious. Laboratory tests showed a low platelet count and ruled out enteric fever and dengue. His peripheral blood smear was positive for Plasmodium vivax. The presence of P. vivax monoinfection was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. The report highlights the importance of considering the possibility of complications even in P. vivax malaria and formulation of strategies accordingly.
Translation Trouble: Gender Indeterminacy in English Novels and their French Versions
Authors: Schabert Ina
Published: February 2010

In English literature, characters of indeterminate sex created by novelists range from the ambi-gendered narrators in Victorian novels to the protagonists of Virginia Woolf's Orlando, Brigid Brophy's In Transit, Angela Carter's The Passion of New Eve, and Jeanette Winterson's Written on the Body. A unique experiment in French is Anne Garréta's Sphinx. Translating such texts from one language into the other is a challenge; different strategies of ‘degendering’ have to be used in Germanic and Romance languages respectively. This essay discusses examples of translations which successfully preserve gender indeterminacy, but also translations which ignore authorial intentions and reintroduce gender markings. Typical strategies are observed as well as imaginative solutions for special situations.
Interactive Compression of Digital Data
Authors: Carpentieri Bruno
Published: February 2010

If we can use previous knowledge of the source (or the knowledge of a source that is correlated to the one we want to compress) to exploit the compression process then we can have significant gains in compression. By doing this in the fundamental source coding theorem we can substitute entropy with conditional entropy and we have a new theoretical limit that allows for better compression. To do this, when data compression is used for data transmission, we can assume some degree of interaction between the compressor and the decompressor that can allow a more efficient usage of the previous knowledge they both have of the source. In this paper we review previous work that applies interactive approaches to data compression and discuss this possibility.
Challenges – An Open Access Scientific Journal for Research Proposals and Open Problems
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: February 2010

One of the unique features of several journals launched by me is that manuscripts regarding research proposals and research ideas are particularly welcomed for presentation. Now, a journal Challenges is created for this purpose. [...]
Nutritionist’s Variation in Counseling Style and the Effect on Weight Change of Patients Attending a Community Based Lifestyle Modification Program
Authors: Lok Kris Y. W. , Chan Ruth S. M. , Sea Mandy M. M. , Woo Jean
Published: February 2010

Information concerning the nature of nutritionist-patient relationships is very limited. This qualitative and quantitative study examined nutritionist’s skills, attributes, and beliefs towards nutrition counseling during a lifestyle modification intervention program, and whether this affected the patient’s weight outcome. 24 nutrition consultations were observed during the program and the nutritionists were interviewed for their perception on practice (n = 4). A statistically significant difference was observed between the nutritionists in regard to patient’s weight change after adjustment for age and baseline weight (p < 0.001). Key nutritionist skills identified that influenced weight outcome were meticulous investigation of the underlying obesity cause, identification of the subject’s stage of change, and psychological support.
Biological Activities of Phenolic Compounds Present in Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Cicerale Sara , Lucas Lisa , Keast Russell
Published: February 2010

The Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower incidence of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases and certain types of cancer. The apparent health benefits have been partially ascribed to the dietary consumption of virgin olive oil by Mediterranean populations. Much research has focused on the biologically active phenolic compounds naturally present in virgin olive oils to aid in explaining reduced mortality and morbidity experienced by people consuming a traditional Mediterranean diet. Studies (human, animal, in vivo and in vitro) have demonstrated that olive oil phenolic compounds have positive effects on certain physiological parameters, such as plasma lipoproteins, oxidative damage, inflammatory markers, platelet and cellular function, antimicrobial activity and bone health. This paper summarizes current knowledge on the bioavailability and biological activities of olive oil phenolic compounds.
Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Ceramics for Bone Regeneration and Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Lobo Sonja Ellen , Livingston Arinzeh Treena
Published: February 2010

Biphasic calcium phosphates (BCP) have been sought after as biomaterials for the reconstruction of bone defects in maxillofacial, dental and orthopaedic applications. They have demonstrated proven biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, safety and predictability in in vitro, in vivo and clinical models. More recently, in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that BCP can be osteoinductive. In the field of tissue engineering, they represent promising scaffolds capable of carrying and modulating the behavior of stem cells. This review article will highlight the latest advancements in the use of BCP and the characteristics that create a unique microenvironment that favors bone regeneration.
EDTA-Reduction of Water to Molecular Hydrogen Catalyzed by Visible-Light-Response TiO2-Based Materials Sensitized by Dawson- and Keggin-Type Rhenium(V)-Containing Polyoxotungstates
Authors: Kato Chika Nozaki , Hara Kazunobu , Kato Masao , Amano Hidekuni , Sato Konomi , Kataoka Yusuke , Mori Wasuke
Published: February 2010

The synthesis and characterization of a Keggin-type mono-rhenium(V)-substituted polyoxotungstate are described. The dimethylammonium salt [Me2NH2]4[PW11ReVO40] was obtained as analytically pure homogeneous black-purple crystals by reacting mono-lacunary Keggin polyoxotungstate with [ReIVCl6]2- in water, followed by crystallization from acetone at ca. 5 °C. Single-crystal X-ray structural analysis of [PW11ReVO40]4- revealed a monomeric structure with overall Td symmetry. Characterization of [Me2NH2]4[PW11ReVO40] was also accomplished by elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, TG/DTA, FTIR, UV-vis, diffuse reflectance (DR) UV-vis, and solution 31P-NMR spectroscopy. Furthermore, [PW11ReVO40]4- and the Dawson-type dirhenium(V)-oxido-bridged polyoxotungstate [O{ReV(OH)(α2-P2W17O61)}2]14- were supported onto anatase TiO2 surface by the precipitation methods using CsCl and Pt(NH3)4Cl2. With these materials, hydrogen evolution from water in the presence of EDTA⋅2Na (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid disodium salt) under visible light irradiation (≥400 nm) was achieved.
A New Flavone C-Glycoside from Clematis rehderiana
Authors: Du Zhi-Zhi , Yang Xian-Wen , Han Hao , Cai Xiang-Hai , Luo Xiao-Dong
Published: February 2010

A new flavone C-glycoside, isovitexin 6″-O-E-p-coumarate (1) and two known flavonoid glycosides—quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucuronopyranoside (2) and isoorientin (3)—were isolated from an ethanol extract of aerial parts of Clematis rehderiana. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods. The antioxidant effects of the two flavone C-glycosides were evaluated by both the MTT and DPPH assays. Compound 1 showed potent activities against H2O2-induced impairment in PC12 cells within the concentration range tested, whereas compound 3 scavenged DPPH radical strongly, with an IC50 value of 13.5 μM.
A Comparative Identification of Ochratoxin A in Longan Fruit Pulp by High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Fluorescence Detection and Electron Spray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Li Jing , Xie Haihui , Yang Bao , Dong Xinhong , Feng Linyan , Chen Feng , Jiang Yueming
Published: February 2010

Harvested longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) fruit are susceptible to decay caused by both bacterial and fungal infections. Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a kind of mycotoxin produced by a number of fungi. In this study, OTA was extracted from longan fruit pulp by 80% methanol and then loaded on C-18 solid-phase extraction columns. The extract solution was then analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography - fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD) and an electron spray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), respectively. The HPLC-FD analysis showed that a compound similar to OTA might exist in longan fruit pulp, but further analysis by the ESI-MS method demonstrated that OTA was not present in the longan pulp, indicating that the presence of OTA in longan fruit pulp detected by the HPLC-FD analysis needed to be confirmed by the ESI-MS method.
Chemical Composition and Antigerminative Activity of the Essential Oils from Five Salvia Species
Authors: De Martino Laura , Roscigno Graziana , Mancini Emilia , De Falco Enrica , De Feo Vincenzo
Published: February 2010

The chemical composition of the essential oils of Salvia africana L., Salvia elegans Vahl, Salvia greggii A. Gray, Salvia mellifera Green and Salvia munzii Epling, cultivated in Eboli (Salerno, Southern Italy), was studied by means of GC and GC-MS analyses. In all, 88 compounds were identified, 54 for S. africana, accounting for 95.4% of the total oil, 55 for S. elegans (92.9%), 50 for S. greggii (96.9%), 54 for S. mellifera (90.4%) and 47 for S. munzii (97.5%), respectively. In S. africana,the amount of monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids is very similar. For other species, the monoterpenoid percentage is greater than the amount of sesquiterpenoids. The oils of S. elegans, S. greggii and S. munzii were active inhibitors of germination and radical elongation of Raphanus sativus L. and Lepidium sativum L.
Catalytic Performance of Ceria Nanorods in Liquid-Phase Oxidations of Hydrocarbons with tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide
Authors: Macedo Andreia  G. , Fernandes Sílvia E.  M. , Valente Anabela  A. , Ferreira Rute. A.  S. , Carlos Luís  D. , Rocha João
Published: February 2010

The CeO2 nanorods (CeNR) promote the oxidation of ethylbenzene (PhEt) and cyclohexene with t-BuOOH, at temperatures as low as 55 ºC. For both substrates the saturated C-H bonds are preferentially activated over the unsaturated ones. The catalyst seems fairly stable towards leaching phenomena. The liquid-phase oxidation catalysis may be associated with the Ce3+/Ce4+ inter-conversion in the one-electron redox processes mediating the formation of tert-butyl-(per)oxy radicals. CeNR is very effective in H2O2 disproportionation. Pre-treatment of CeNR with H2O2 or t-BuOOH prior to the catalytic reaction enhances the reaction rate of PhEt with t-BuOOH in comparison to CeNR. Textural characterization and spectroscopic studies suggest that catalytic activation is associated to defect sites.
Interannual Changes of Fire Activity in the Protected Areas of the SUN Network and Other Parks and Reserves of the West and Central Africa Region Derived from MODIS Observations
Authors: Grégoire Jean-Marie , Simonetti Dario
Published: February 2010

Time series of fire occurrence, derived from MODIS data, have been used to characterise the spatio-temporal distribution of fire events during the 2004–2009 period in 17 protected areas (PAs) of West and Central Africa, with particular attention to those of the SUN network in Senegal, Burkina Faso, Benin and Niger. The temporal distribution of the fire activity and the number of fire occurences are quite different inside the PAs and in their surrounding area. A progressive increase of the length of the burning season is observed in the West Africa PAs. Quantitatively, the general trend over the last five years is an increase of the fire density (+22%) inside the PAs and a decrease (−27%) outside. The results indicate that the capacity of the PAs to maintain the biological diversity of the region is probably decreasing due to the combined effects of the anthropic pressure inside the PAs and of an on-going isolation process.
Assessing Plant Diversity in a Dry Tropical Forest: Comparing the Utility of Landsat and Ikonos Satellite Images
Authors: Nagendra Harini , Rocchini Duccio , Ghate Rucha , Sharma Bhawna , Pareeth Sajid
Published: February 2010

While high expectations have been raised about the utility of high resolution satellite imagery for biodiversity assessment, there has been almost no empirical assessment of its use, particularly in the biodiverse tropics which represent a very challenging environment for such assessment challenge. This research evaluates the use of high spatial resolution (IKONOS) and medium spatial resolution (Landsat ETM+) satellite imagery for assessing vegetation diversity in a dry tropical forest in central India. Contrary to expectations, across multiple measures of plant distribution and diversity, the resolution of IKONOS data is too fine for the purpose of plant diversity assessment and Landsat imagery performs better.
Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture in Developing Countries Studied using Remote Sensing and In Situ Methods
Authors: Appeaning Addo Kwasi
Published: February 2010

Urban farming, practiced by about 800 million people globally, has contributed significantly to food security and food safety. The practice has sustained livelihood of the urban and peri-urban low income dwellers in developing countries for many years. Its popularity among the urban low income is largely due to lack of formal jobs and as a means of adding up to household income. There is increasing need to sustainably manage urban farming in developing nations in recent times. Population increase due to rural-urban migration and natural, coupled with infrastructure developments are competing with urban farming for available space and scarce resources such as water for irrigation. Lack of reliable data on the extent of urban/peri-urban areas being used for farming has affected developing sustainable policies to manage urban farming in Accra. Using ground based survey methods to map the urban farmlands are inherently problematic and prohibitively expensive. This has influenced accurate assessment of the future role of urban farming in enhancing food security. Remote sensing, however, allows areas being used as urban farmlands to be rapidly established at relatively low cost. This paper will review advances in the use of remote sensing technology to develop an integrated monitoring technique for urban farmlands in Accra.
A Finite Element Model of a MEMS-based Surface Acoustic Wave Hydrogen Sensor
Authors: EL Gowini Mohamed M. , Moussa Walied A.
Published: February 2010

Hydrogen plays a significant role in various industrial applications, but careful handling and continuous monitoring are crucial since it is explosive when mixed with air. Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) sensors provide desirable characteristics for hydrogen detection due to their small size, low fabrication cost, ease of integration and high sensitivity. In this paper a finite element model of a Surface Acoustic Wave sensor is developed using ANSYS12© and tested for hydrogen detection. The sensor consists of a YZ-lithium niobate substrate with interdigital electrodes (IDT) patterned on the surface. A thin palladium (Pd) film is added on the surface of the sensor due to its high affinity for hydrogen. With increased hydrogen absorption the palladium hydride structure undergoes a phase change due to the formation of the β-phase, which deteriorates the crystal structure. Therefore with increasing hydrogen concentration the stiffness and the density are significantly reduced. The values of the modulus of elasticity and the density at different hydrogen concentrations in palladium are utilized in the finite element model to determine the corresponding SAW sensor response. Results indicate that with increasing the hydrogen concentration the wave velocity decreases and the attenuation of the wave is reduced.
Lentiviral Vectors and Cystic Fibrosis Gene Therapy
Authors: Castellani Stefano , Conese Massimo
Published: February 2010

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic autosomic recessive syndrome, caused by mutations in the CF Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene, a chloride channel expressed on the apical side of the airway epithelial cells. The lack of CFTR activity brings a dysregulated exchange of ions and water through the airway epithelium, one of the main aspects of CF lung disease pathophysiology. Lentiviral (LV) vectors, of the Retroviridae family, show interesting properties for CF gene therapy, since they integrate into the host genome and allow long-lasting gene expression. Proof-of-principle that LV vectors can transduce the airway epithelium and correct the basic electrophysiological defect in CF mice has been given. Initial data also demonstrate that LV vectors can be repeatedly administered to the lung and do not give rise to a gross inflammatory process, although they can elicit a T cell-mediated response to the transgene. Future studies will clarify the efficacy and safety profile of LV vectors in new complex animal models with CF, such as ferrets and pigs.
Heterologous Prime-Boost HIV-1 Vaccination Regimens in Pre-Clinical and Clinical Trials
Authors: Brown Scott A. , Surman Sherri L. , Sealy Robert , Jones Bart G. , Slobod Karen S. , Branum Kristen , Lockey Timothy D. , Howlett Nanna , Freiden Pamela , Flynn Patricia , Hurwitz Julia L.
Published: February 2010

Currently, there are more than 30 million people infected with HIV-1 and thousands more are infected each day. Vaccination is the single most effective mechanism for prevention of viral disease, and after more than 25 years of research, one vaccine has shown somewhat encouraging results in an advanced clinical efficacy trial. A modified intent-to-treat analysis of trial results showed that infection was approximately 30% lower in the vaccine group compared to the placebo group. The vaccine was administered using a heterologous prime-boost regimen in which both target antigens and delivery vehicles were changed during the course of inoculations. Here we examine the complexity of heterologous prime-boost immunizations. We show that the use of different delivery vehicles in prime and boost inoculations can help to avert the inhibitory effects caused by vector-specific immune responses. We also show that the introduction of new antigens into boost inoculations can be advantageous, demonstrating that the effect of ‘original antigenic sin’ is not absolute. Pre-clinical and clinical studies are reviewed, including our own work with a three-vector vaccination regimen using recombinant DNA, virus (Sendai virus or vaccinia virus) and protein. Promising preliminary results suggest that the heterologous prime-boost strategy may possibly provide a foundation for the future prevention of HIV-1 infections in humans.
PEGylated Adenoviruses: From Mice to Monkeys
Authors: Wonganan Piyanuch , Croyle Maria A.
Published: February 2010

Covalent modification with polyethylene glycol (PEG), a non-toxic polymer used in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations for over 60 years, can profoundly influence the pharmacokinetic, pharmacologic and toxciologic profile of protein and peptide-based therapeutics. This review summarizes the history of PEGylation and PEG chemistry and highlights the value of this technology in the context of the design and development of recombinant viruses for gene transfer, vaccination and diagnostic purposes. Specific emphasis is placed on the application of this technology to the adenovirus, the most potent viral vector with the most highly characterized toxicity profile to date, in several animal models.
HIV Genetic Diversity and Drug Resistance
Authors: Santos André F. , Soares Marcelo A.
Published: February 2010

Most of the current knowledge on antiretroviral (ARV) drug development and resistance is based on the study of subtype B of HIV-1, which only accounts for 10% of the worldwide HIV infections. Cumulative evidence has emerged that different HIV types, groups and subtypes harbor distinct biological properties, including the response and susceptibility to ARV. Recent laboratory and clinical data highlighting such disparities are summarized in this review. Variations in drug susceptibility, in the emergence and selection of specific drug resistance mutations, in viral replicative capacity and in the dynamics of resistance acquisition under ARV selective pressure are discussed. Clinical responses to ARV therapy and associated confounding factors are also analyzed in the context of infections by distinct HIV genetic variants.
Development of anti-CD30 radioimmunoconstructs (RICs) for treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Börner S. M. , Fischer T. , Hansen H. , Schnell R. , Zimmermanns B. , Tawadros S. , Engert A. , Staak O. , Pogge von Strandmann E. , Kobe C. , Schicha H. , Schomäcker K. , Dietlein M.
Published: February 2010

Objectives: Comparison of the binding affinity to a CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) cell line and biodistribution in HL bearing mice of new anti-CD30 radioimmunoconjugates (RICs) of varying structure and labelling nuclides. Methods: The antibodies Ki-4 and 5F11 were radioiodinated by the chloramine T method or labelled with 111In via p-NCSBenzyl- DOTA. In addition, the Ki-4-dimer was investigated in the iodinated form. The RICs were analyzed for retained immunoreactivity by immunochromatography. In-vitro binding studies were performed on CD30-positive L540 cell lines. For in-vivo biodistribution studies, SCID mice bearing human HL xenografts were injected with the various radioimmunoconjugates. After 24 h, activities in the organs and tumour were measured for all 5 RICs. Tumour-free animals were studied in the same way with 131I- Ki-4 24 h p. i. The three RICs with the highest tumour/background ratios 24 h p.i. (131I-Ki-4, 131I–5F11, 111In-bz- DOTA-Ki-4) were analysed further at 48 h and 72 h. Results: All the RICs were successfully labelled with high specific activities (28–47 TBq/ mmol) and sufficient radiochemical yields (> 80%). Scatchard plot analysis proved high tumour affinity (KD = 20–220 nmol/l). In-vivo tumour accumulation in % of injected dose per g tissue (%ID/g) lay between 2.6 (131I-5F11) and 12.3 % ID/g (131I-Ki-4) with permanently high background in blood. Tumour/blood-ratios of all RICs were below one at all time points. Conclusions: In-vitro tumour cell affinities of all RICs were promising. However, in-vivo biokinetics tested in the mouse model did not meet expectations. This highlights the importance of developing and testing further new anti-CD30 conjugates.
Methodological Considerations when Mapping Tourist Movements in a Destination
Authors: McKercher Bob , Lau Gigi
Published: February 2010

The aim of this article is to discuss some of the operational challenges involved in conducting a broad-based study tracking the movements of tourists within a destination. The authors report on their experiences in conducting a study of tourist movements in Hong Kong. In particular,
the article discusses the merits of using different emerging digital tracking technologies and trialing the use of tracking through the mobile phone system. The trial failed due primarily to a lack of cooperation from tourists. They found this technology too invasive. The article concludes
with a discussion of factors that others may want to consider when considering conducting similar research.
Building a Mobile Tourist Guide based on Tourists' On-Site Information Needs
Authors: Rasinger Joerg , Fuchs Matthias , Beer Thomas , Höpken Wolfram
Published: February 2010

Mobile information services are gradually supplementing and may in the future even replace traditional information sources to support tourists during on-site stay. The scope of the article is to identify mobile information services, already in the preprototype phase, types and functionalities
of which are most relevant to tourists during their urban destination stay. For this aim a user-centered approach using both focus groups and expert surveys is proposed. In addition, multiple regression based on acceptance data gathered from 705 tourists allows the deduction of potentially
accepted mobile information services targeted to the specific destination use. Finally, by drawing on these results, the architectural framework as well as the various building and implementation steps of a mobile tourist guide called innsbruck.mobile are discussed.
Beyond Ecotourism: The Environmentally Responsible Tourist in the General Travel Experience
Authors: Dolnicar Sara , Long Patrick
Published: February 2010

Ashift of attention from the dominant product orientation in environmentally sustainable tourism to a demand orientation has been suggested as a way of minimizing the effects of the inherent trade-offs the tourism industry faces between maximization of profits and investment in environmental
sustainability. The success of such an approach depends on the existence of a class of tourists who are not only motivated to take care of the natural surroundings of the host destination, whether they are traveling in an ecotourism or general tourism context, but also represent an economically
attractive market segment. The aim of this study is to investigate whether there is empirical evidence for the existence of such a segment among the wider tourism population and, if so, how can it be characterized and thus marketed to. Willingness to pay is used as a criterion to define this
segment, as it implicitly accounts for the trade-off that suggests environmental protection comes at a price. Results from the empirical survey study conducted in Australia indicate that environmentally responsible tourists who are willing to pay for environmental initiatives taken on by their
tour operator can be characterized by a distinct profile with respect to travel information seeking, destination preferences, travel behavior, and willingness to pay—indicating that targeting such a segment of tourists in the general tourism context represents an attractive supplementary
strategy to traditional supply-sided measures of sustainable destination management.
Prognostic Survival Factors in Elderly Renal Failure Patients Treated with Peritoneal Dialysis: A Nine-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Genestier Sandrine , Meyer Nicolas , Chantrel François , Alenabi Farideh , Brignon Pierre , Maaz Mehadji , Muller Sandrine , Faller Bernadette
Published: February 2010

Background

Few studies specifically investigating elderly patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) have been conducted and great uncertainty remains on the factors involved in the vital prognosis. The objective of this study was to describe our population of patients aged 75 years or older at the time PD was initiated and to study their survival in terms of the relevant nephro-geriatric criteria inventoried at the beginning of treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of all the elderly patients that began first-line PD in our center between 1 January 1997 and 31 July 2006 ( n = 112).

Results

Mean duration of survival on PD was 19.6 ± 13.9 months; by the end of the study 87 patients had died and 7 had been transferred to hemodialysis. The Cox model multivariate analysis of survival allowed us to select 5 independent predictive variables that had a considerable impact on survival: absence of nephrologic care before dialysis, associated comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index), loss of physical and/or mental autonomy (AGGIR group), and polymedication. Above and beyond the weight of these clinical variables, institutionalization or, more generally, social isolation was a determining factor for the duration of survival in PD.

Conclusion

Any patient considered for peritoneal dialysis should be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team in collaboration with geriatric specialists for both the overall medical situation and the social and family environment.
Who Should Place Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters?
Authors: Crabtree John H.
Published: February 2010

Background

Nephrologists are often thwarted in their attempts to grow their peritoneal dialysis programs because of suboptimal surgeon performance in placing catheters. A rallying call is heard among nephrologists to step up to the role of dialysis access providers.

Objective

What factors influence the practicability of nephrologists becoming primary dialysis access providers? Why have surgeons failed their task and can anything motivate them to change their performance and improve outcomes?

Methods

While the issues are universal, this analysis focuses on current practice data from the United States. Evidence reviewed includes dialysis center size and annual new starts, profile of specialties performing catheter placement, nephrology workforce capacity, catheter implantation methodology, resource utilization for peritoneal access, and surgeon performance.

Results

The current nephrology workforce is running at maximum capacity and fellowship training programs will struggle to meet additional demands. Nephrology training programs are often deficient in providing adequate experience in peritoneal dialysis management. Only 2.3% of peritoneal catheters are placed by nephrologists. The best catheter outcomes are produced by laparoscopic methods used by surgeons. Compared to other catheter placement techniques, laparoscopy enables a larger candidate pool of patients. Nonetheless, suboptimal surgical performances are related to inadequate training, low procedure volume, and poor reimbursement.

Conclusions

It is improbable that nephrologists can expand the scope of their practice to assume the additional role of dialysis access providers. The performance of the existing surgical workforce can be enhanced through medical society-sponsored educational activities, channeling access procedures to designated surgeons, and improved remuneration through outcomes-based incentive programs.
Recognition properties of receptors consisting of imidazole and indole recognition units towards carbohydrates
Authors: Mazik Monika , Hartmann André
Published: February 2010

Compounds 4 and 5, including both 4(5)-substituted imidazole or 3-substituted indole units as the entities used in nature, and 2-aminopyridine group as a heterocyclic analogue of the asparagine/glutamine primary amide side chain, were prepared and their binding properties towards carbohydrates were studied. The design of these receptors was inspired by the binding motifs observed in the crystal structures of protein–carbohydrate complexes. 1H NMR spectroscopic titrations in competitive and non-competitive media as well as binding studies in two-phase systems, such as dissolution of solid carbohydrates in apolar media, revealed both highly effective recognition of neutral carbohydrates and interesting binding preferences of these acyclic compounds. Compared to the previously described acyclic receptors, compounds 4 and 5 showed significantly increased binding affinity towards β-galactoside. Both receptors display high β- vs. α-anomer binding preferences in the recognition of glycosides. It has been shown that both hydrogen bonding and interactions of the carbohydrate CH units with the aromatic rings of the receptors contribute to the stabilization of the receptor–carbohydrate complexes. The molecular modeling calculations, synthesis and binding properties of 4 and 5 towards selected carbohydrates are described and compared with those of the previously described receptors.