bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Returning to work and driving after spinal surgery: A web-based survey investigating the opinions of UK spinal surgeons
Authors: Hiett James , Chan Daniel , Clarke Andrew , Challinor Helen , Hourigan Patrick
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims:

The UK spinal surgical community has no published recommendations advising when patients can return to driving or to work following spinal surgery. This article aimed to establish the advice given by UK spinal surgeons on these two issues to determine whether specific recommendations can be made.

Methods:

Members of the British Association of Spinal Surgeons were invited to complete a web-based survey examining the post-operative advice given to patients following: (i) lumbar spine discectomy for radicular leg pain; (ii) single level lumbar spinal fusion for mechanical back pain; (iii) anterior cervical decompression and fusion for radicular arm pain.

Results:

The opinions of 131 spinal surgeons were obtained, revealing a wide variation in the post-operative advice given. Following lumbar discectomy, an earlier return to driving and work is advised compared with patients who have had lumbar and cervical fusion, with 55% of respondents recommending returning to driving within two weeks. Returning to driving four weeks post-operatively was advised following discectomy, anterior or posterior lumbar fusion, or anterior cervical fusion by 83%, 60% and 68% of respondents, respectively. More than half of respondents recommended returning to work in a light manual capacity after four weeks following discectomy and anterior cervical spine and fusion, and after six weeks following lumbar fusion surgery. Longer time frames were indicated for manual and ‘heavy manual’ workers, with the majority of respondents recommending six to eight weeks following discectomy and 12 weeks following cervical and lumbar fusion surgery.

Conclusions:

Recommendations on when patients can resume driving and return to work following spinal surgery cannot be definitively made on the basis of this study. Limited evidence suggests that post-operative driving restrictions may not be justified based on driver reaction times and many patients may be safer immediately following surgery than pre-operatively. Advice on returning to work appears justified. This survey may be useful in providing empirical evidence for the post-operative advice for patients undergoing surgical interventions such as lumbar discectomy, posterior lumbar fusion, anterior lumbar interbody fusion, and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.
Sticky stuff
Authors: White Hilary
Published: April 2015

Introduce your children to stickiness and have fun exploring the many different ‘sticky things’ in our environment with the following activities.
Puzzle it out
Authors: Chalmers Debbie
Published: April 2015

From simple playtrays to complex jigsaws, the puzzles we make and buy come in many different shapes and sizes, but all offer numerous learning opportunities to contribute to children's development.
O serviço de saúde nos bombeiros. A sua importância, da Univítima à Medicina de Catástrofe
Authors: Bandeira Romero , Reis Ana Mafalda , Ponce Leão Rui , Gandra Sara , Gandra Romero
Published: April 2015

Desde 1951, os contornos do Serviço de Saúde evoluíram na medida em que as solicitações para socorro a pessoas aumentaram exponencialmente, ao mesmo tempo que os bombeiros concluíram que, para ser exercida com competência, a prestação de cuidados exigia que eles próprios tivessem tanto uma formação, como um perfil físico e psicológico adequados. Dada a vastidão do tema, os autores optaram por focalizar o seu trabalho nas vertentes que consideram de qualidade major - Medicina Ocupacional, Medicina no Terreno e Formação.
O risco de sedimentação na laguna de Aveiro: leitura actual de um texto de Amorim Girão (1922)
Authors: Rebelo Fernando
Published: April 2015

O risco de sedimentação na laguna de Aveiro é apresentado com base na leitura actual de um dos capítulos da tese de doutoramento de Amorim Girão (1922). Vários momentos da evolução da laguna são interpretados através das mais importantes mudanças climáticas conhecidas desde o período frio do Würm até hoje. A previsão do desaparecimento da laguna é fortalecida, agora, com o acelerar dos processos naturais pela intervenção do homem.
Comunicação do risco e gestão da ameaça pandémica
Authors: De Almeida Lúcio Meneses
Published: April 2015

A comunicação do risco é um processo interactivo de troca de informação sobre risco (natureza, gravidade e aceitabilidade) entre indivíduos, grupos e instituições relativo a situações que ameaçam a saúde, a segurança ou o ambiente. A comunicação do risco é um instrumento fundamental de gestão do risco quando inclui conselhos redutores do risco. A "gripe das aves", epizootia pelo vírus influenza A (H5N1) é um dos exemplos actuais da relevância dos comunicadores do risco na gestão de uma ameaça. Cabe aos médicos de saúde pública peritos em comunicação do risco promover a adequação do nível de consciencialização do público relativamente a este problema.
Editorial
Authors: Golembiewski Carlos
Published: April 2015

editorial
Protocolo de atendimento do núcleo de apoio à saúde da família do município de Itapema SC: uma contribuição para o processo de trabalho
Authors: De Souza Antonia Egidia , Alves Andressa
Published: April 2015

A proposta desse estudo consiste em apresentar a criação do Protocolo de Atendimento para a Equipe do Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família como um instrumento de organização do processo de trabalho. A decisão da criação do protocolo de atendimento surgiu na reunião de equipe NASF em 2012. Sua elaboração teórica foi iniciada em 2013 pelas profissionais de Educação Física e Nutrição, para posterior contribuição das profissionais de Psicologia, Fisioterapia, Fonoaudiologia e Farmácia. O Protocolo de Atendimento do Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família (PANASF) de Itapema (SC) foi elaborado devido à necessidade percebida pelas profissionais que o compõem, necessidade esta advinda da importância de ter respaldo nas atuações e de organizar o processo de trabalho e a rede de atendimento. Visou-se qualificar o serviço e evitar que a política de governo impere sobre as atuações da equipe. Por meio do PANASF objetivou-se ainda uma maior divulgação da composição da equipe NASF Itapema e facilitar a compreensão dos profissionais de saúde e população em geral acerca do que é o Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família, como solicitar/acessar este apoio e quais os serviços prestados pela equipe NASF.
PLANEJAMENTO ESTRATÉGICO EM UMA UNIDADE DE SAÚDE: RELATO DE EXPERIÊNICA
Authors: De Souza Antonia Egidia , Alexey Polidoro André
Published: April 2015

Inúmeras são as dificuldades de trabalho dentro de uma unidade de saúde. Além dos obstáculos normais relacionados ao convívio e ao relacionamento dentro da equipe de trabalho, também se devem considerar as dificuldades que transcendem a própria capacidade de transformação pelo gestor por problemas que vão além da abrangência de sua autonomia. O relacionamento constante com a população também é fonte de estresse e sobrecarga das pessoas envolvidas neste trabalho. O profissional médico, geralmente responsável apenas por aspectos técnicos, também está inserido nesta necessidade de gerenciamento em vários níveis, mas principalmente no da microgestão. Este trabalho parte do relato de uma experiência vivida por uma equipe de estratégia de saúde da família em uma unidade de saúde, pontuando aspectos de gestão participativa, transdisciplinaridade, planejamento e agrupamento em torno de objetivos comuns, todos obtidos por meio desta vivência e possibilitando a melhora da organização do trabalho e da qualidade do atendimento.
Is Twitter a Pedagogical Tool in Higher Education? Perspectives of Education Graduate Students
Authors: Bista Krishna
Published: April 2015

This study presents the perspectives of education graduate students of using Twitter as a pedagogical tool for 15 weeks as a required social media activity in class. The results indicated that each course participants reported a positive learning experience of using Twitter. Although this was their first experience with Twitter, participants reported that Twitter provided space and opportunities to engage in academic activities as a new pedagogical tool. Participants reported they used Twitter to receive immediate and frequent course information, ask questions to the mentor, update course assignment, and to share helpful information from outside the text book to their fellow classmates and mentor.  This study also highlights suggestions and implication of Twitter in personal and professional developments.
Death and the Limits of Truth in the Phaedo
Authors: Baima Nicholas
Published: April 2015

This paper raises a new interpretive puzzle concerning Socrates’ attitude towards truth in the
Major Landslides Stabilization on Orăştie-Sibiu Motorway
Authors: Chirică Anton , Danese Andrea , Russo Rosario , Sabini Lorenzo
Published: April 2015

Rezumat

Lucrarea prezintă strategia complexă utilizată pentru stabilizarea unei alunecări majore de teren produse în timpul unei lucrări de remodelare a unui deal pe traseul autostrăzii Orăştie-Sibiu. Litologia locală, împreună cu influenţa schimbării stării de eforturi şi comportamentul special al argilelor structurate, au condus la proiectarea şi implementarea unor măsuri de stabilizare din partea constructorului "Astaldi".

Se prezintă câteva investigaţii suplimentare in-situ şi de laborator, precum şi principalele tipuri de lucrări care au condus la stabilizarea taluzului, analizate atât în condiţii statice, cât şi dinamice.
Marian Movements and Secessionist Warfare in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Hermkens Anna-Karina
Published: April 2015

This article focuses on the enigma of Catholic Marian revolutionary movements during the decade-long conflict on the island of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea at the end of the twentieth century. These religious movements embody the legacy of a colonial history as well as people’s responses to poorly monitored resource extraction, social and economic displacement, regional factionalism, and years of fighting by Bougainvilleans against the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. At the same time, the movements’ popularity throve on leaders’ reputations for their religious knowledge and their mobilization of people based on religious faith. During the conflict Bougainville came to be seen by many residents as holy land (Me’ekamui). According to Francis Ona’s Marian Mercy Mission and Peter Kira’s Our Lady of Mercy movements, the covenant land of Bougainville had to be safeguarded from Satan, represented by Papua New Guinea and an Australian copper mining company, in the freedom struggle conceived as a Marian holy war.
Polynesians and Mormonism
Authors: Morris Paul
Published: April 2015

Polynesia has a particular place in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The region that heralded the Church’s first overseas missions includes seven of the world’s top ten nations in terms of the proportion of Mormons in the population, and it is home to six Mormon temples. The Polynesian Latter-day Saint population is increasing in both percentage and absolute numbers, and peoples in the Pacific “islands of the sea” continue to play a central role in the Mormon missionary imaginary. This article explores Polynesians in the LDS Church and critically evaluates different theories seeking to explain this growing religious affiliation. Scholars of Mormonism and commentators explain this growth in terms of parallels between Mormonism and indigenous Polynesian traditions, particularly family lineage and ancestry, and theological and ritual affinities. After evaluating these claims in light of scholarly literature and interviews with Latter-day Saints, however, I conclude that other reasons—especially education and other new opportunities—may equally if not more significantly account for the appeal of Mormonism to Polynesians.
Análise semiótica e formal do docudrama “Mulheres Assassinas”
Authors: Bonesi Ferreira Lucas , Zanetti Gomes Rogerio
Published: April 2015

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar o docudrama “Mulheres Assassinas”, transmitido no canal Discovery Channel, onde são recontadas histórias de mulheres que cometeram homicídios. Este docudrama será investigado em duas vertentes: em primeiro lugar, ele será analisado enquanto a sua forma, ou seja, quais os elementos visuais presentes no programa podem leva-lo a ser classificado como docudrama. Para esta pesquisa, serão utilizados, primordialmente, os conceitos de reprodução e representação apresentada por Bill Nichols (2012). Assim, depois de realizar este exame, serão retiradas do programa duas imagens e, a partir delas, será executada uma analise semiótica, considerando os diversos signos presentes nestas imagens. Este programa, que tem como tema central histórias de mulheres que cometerem assassinatos, também é dividido por temas, ou seja, em cada episódio se reproduz uma história diferente, apresentando motivos diversos que levaram à ocorrência do homicídio. Neste sentido, esta pesquisa irá analisar o episódio de mulheres que cometeram crimes devidoa fortes emoções como raiva, amor, desespero, ganância etc. Assim, também em virtude do mesmo episódio contar três histórias distintas, somente um caso será escolhido para ser examinado. Pretende-se, por meio deste trabalho, observar que existe uma liberdade cinematográfica no docudrama ao recontar a história de acordo com a visão do diretor e, entretanto, ainda mantém o desejo de ser fiel ao real. Portanto, para que isto seja possível, é necessário que o diretor utilize muitos signos indiciais para que o telespectador tenha a sensação de estar diante de uma história verdadeira, quando na verdade estas imagens são cridas.
El cronotopo patriarcal en el documental ¡Colombia Vive!
Authors: Flórez Franz
Published: April 2015

Algo de historia y algo de justificación del presente se pueden rastrear en un documental, cuando la narración se organiza a partir de un cronotopo patriarcal. El conflicto en Colombia, contado de manera melodramática por Caracol y Semana, se convierte en un relato de aventuras donde la emoción surge de las acciones de confrontación armada, o de la búsqueda y captura de criminales, más que de indagar la lógica de relaciones premodernas que caracterizan a la sociedad colombiana, y que se expresan de manera violenta y no sólo servil.
Categorías conceptuales para el estudio de la responsabilidad social organizacional
Authors: Tello Castrillón Carlos , Rodríguez Córdoba María del Pilar
Published: April 2015

El crecimiento del poder económico y político de las corporaciones multinacionales, junto a la interconexión entre mercados locales y el mercado global, ha erigido a la Responsabilidad Social Corporativa como elemento central en el control de sus actividades, especialmente aquellas que escapan a las regulaciones locales. No obstante, los conceptos alrededor del tema adolecen de vaguedades que los hacen difusos, y por tanto difíciles de aplicar y auditar. Éstas terminan por convalidar como responsabilidad social prácticas que bajo un análisis más detallado no corresponderían a su verdadero espíritu moral. Bajo un enfoque hermenéutico, partiendo del replanteamiento de la Responsabilidad Social Corporativa para entenderla como Responsabilidad Social Organizacional, este escrito estudia tales vaguedades conceptuales, sus limitaciones y contradicciones en la aplicación. En la parte final, se proponen algunos elementos teóricos, que se concentran en reducir la voluntariedad en la asunción de la Responsabilidad Social Organizacional. En su lugar, se promueven mayores regulaciones estatales, en tanto representaciones de la sociedad, y una mayor conciencia de las organizaciones para la revisión de sus procesos productivos. Se aboga por la inclusión, en todo momento, del concepto de ciclo de vida ambiental en los procesos productivos organizacionales, de tal manera que se conviertan en organizaciones socialmente responsables con un sentido claro de la sostenibilidad.
Calidad de vida y educación: mirada contextual de niños, niñas y adolescentes bogotanos
Authors: Riaño Arbeláez Paola Andrea
Published: April 2015

En este artículo se presentan los resultados de la investigación Prácticas discursivas sobre calidad de vida de niños, niñas y jóvenes en contextos multidiversos: caso Bogotá. Su objetivo principal fue comprender las prácticas discursivas sobre calidad de vida manifiestas en las narrativas de niños, niñas y adolescentes escolarizados de la localidad de Teusaquillo. Una investigación cualitativa de tipo histórico-hermenéutico, en la cual se utilizaron grupos focales y narrativas, develando principalmente cuatro temáticas: calidad de vida como deseo y expectativa de afecto de los maestros hacia los estudiantes; calidad de vida como educación integral; calidad de vida como la educación soñada, y educación como expectativa potenciadora del proyecto de vida.
Imagen país de Colombia desde la perspectiva estadounidense
Authors: Echeverry Lina María , Estay-Niculcar Christian , Parra José Hernán
Published: April 2015

La reputación de los países está vinculada a la percepción que
tengan los visitantes sobre un destino específico, se construye sobre sus experiencias y da como resultado el concepto de imagen de un país. Autores como Anholt, Dinnie y Kotler han logrado evaluar y analizar la importancia que está cobrando el contenido sobre imagen país en el diseño de estrategias de reputación territorial. En el caso de Colombia, el país tiene un posicionamiento polarizado, se asocia con narcotráfico y con café. El presente artículo expone los resultados de una investigación empírica aplicada en Estados Unidos, sobre las impresiones del país que tienen aquellos que han visitado y no han visitado a Colombia. La hipótesis planteada es que Colombia mantiene un posicionamiento histórico negativo, asociado al narcotráfico. Se eligió como ámbito geográfico a Estados Unidos, por ser el emisor más grande de viajeros hacia Colombia.
El populismo como lógica hegemónica: una mirada a la perspectiva teórica elaborada por Ernesto Laclau
Authors: López Bayona Álvaro Iván
Published: April 2015

En este artículo se presenta una reflexión acerca de la teoría del populismo elaborada por Ernesto Laclau, como una perspectiva analítica que permite restituir el carácter político del mismo. Para llevar a cabo esto, se rastrea y explica la importancia de categorías como hegemonía y articulación en el pensamiento de Laclau, su viraje en el análisis de la constitución de las identidades políticas, pasando del grupo a la demanda como unidad análisis y, por último, la centralidad del lenguaje y el discurso como elementos configurantes de la realidad social.
La intervención académica en la construcción de una sociedad con calidad: análisis del valor agregado en el proceso formativo colombiano
Authors: David Carlos-Hernán Isáziga , Coello Jesús Gabalán , Vásquez-Rizo Fredy-Eduardo
Published: April 2015

Este artículo presenta una propuesta metodológica basada en la prueba de porcentaje de efectividad máxima, tendiente a estimar el valor agregado existente en la diferencia entre los desempeños relativos de los estudiantes colombianos antes y después de un proceso formativo, tomando como referente las pruebas estatales Saber11 y SaberPRO, y haciendo un análisis comparativo por regiones. Se pone de manifiesto una serie de situaciones que evidencian la gran heterogeneidad, y en muchos casos disparidad, de las regiones y de los departamentos que las conforman, especialmente en el desarrollo de las competencias interpretativas, argumentativas y propositivas de sus estudiantes, con la intención de analizar la posible existencia o no de un nivel académico estudiantil predestinado, asociado a dichas pruebas.
Wage differentials and economic restrictions: Evidence from the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Authors: Fallah Belal , Daoud Yousef
Published: April 2015

The article examines the wage impact of Israel’s constraints on economic activities and infrastructure development in the West Bank’s Area C. We provide evidence to show that Area C workers suffer a wage penalty of about 8 percent relative to workers in Areas A and B. The results also show that when controlling for worker characteristics, the magnitude of the Area C wage differential drops by about half. We then extend our analysis to compare average wages between Area C workers and other rural workers and show that the wage difference is statistically insignificant. This indicates that the Area C wage differential we observe can be attributed primarily to a rural environment effect rather than to Israeli economic restrictions placed on Area C per se. This result indicates that the effect of Israeli restrictions on Area C wages is neutralized. We show that negative labor supply shocks (commuting) serve as a potential transmission mechanism. Specifically, we show that Area C residents are more likely to commute than their peers in other rural areas. [JEL codes: R11, J30, J61, J01]
A novel viscoplastic model of high-density polyethylene pipe material
Authors: Siddiquee M.S.A. , Dhar A.S.
Published: April 2015

ABSTRACT: A nonlinear three-component elastic viscoplastic strain-rate-dependent model was developed for a high-density polyethylene pipe material. In this model, the stress at any point is assumed to be a unique function of the instantaneous irreversible strain, its rate and acceleration, irrespective of any intermediate stress and strain history. However, a reference strain rate was assumed and below this the response was independent of the strain rate. Parameters of the model were determined using published data on strain-rate-dependent material responses. The model was developed within the elasto-viscoplastic framework so that it could be used in solving boundary value problems. The return mapping algorithm of strain-rate-dependent elasto-plastic material is described with the detailed derivation of the consistent tangent operator for quadratic convergence. The model was successfully implemented in an existing finite-element code. Finite-element analyses using this model were capable of simulating the strain-rate-dependent stress–strain relation, the response to a jump in the strain rate and an unloading–reloading response for a high-density polyethylene pipe material published in the literature.
Optimal design of external rings for confined CFST columns
Authors: Lai M. H. , Ho J. C. M.
Published: April 2015

Concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns are becoming increasingly popular in the construction of tall buildings due to their superior behaviour contributed by composite action. However, this composite action cannot be fully developed owing to the imperfect steel–concrete interface bonding that occurs in the elastic stage. To overcome this problem, external rings were adopted in this study. To further improve the efficiency of external rings, different configurations of steel rings were tested. In this study, 18 CFST columns with different concrete cylinder strengths and configurations of rings were tested under uniaxial load. The experimental results reveal that: rings can improve the strength, elastic stiffness and ductility of CFST columns; denser rings arranged near the mid-height can improve the uniaxial behaviour of CFST columns more effectively; external rings can restrain the lateral dilation of steel tube and concrete in the early elastic stage. Based on the experimental results, an analytical model, taking into account the confinement effect and ring configurations, is proposed to estimate the ultimate strength of CFST columns. The validity of the model was checked by comparing the predicted strengths with experimental strengths from this study and the authors' previous experimental results.
A novel delay line buffering architecture for asynchronous optical packet switched networks
Authors: Yang Shuna , Stol Norvald
Published: April 2015

Optical buffering is one major challenge in realizing all-optical packet switching. In this paper we focus on a delay-line buffer architecture, named a Multiple-Input Single-Output (MISO) optical buffer, which is realized by cascaded fiber delay lines (FDLs). This architecture reduces the physical size of a buffer by up to an order of magnitude or more by allowing reuse of its delay line elements. We consider the MISO buffers in a network scenario where the incoming packets are asynchronous and of fixed length. A novel Markov model is developed to analyze the performance of our buffering scheme, in terms of packet loss ratio, average packet delay and the output link utilization. Both simulation and analytical results show that the length value of basic FDL element will significantly affect the performance of this buffer. This paper gives clear guidelines for designing optimal basic FDL lengths under different network scenarios. It is noticeable that this optimal length value is independent of the buffer sizes for specific traffic load and pattern.
Increasing Wireless Adhoc Network Capacity through Simultaneous Transmissions
Authors: Hunjet Robert , Coyle Andrew
Published: April 2015

A great deal of research has been carried out regarding increasing the capacity of wireless networks. The general findings are that increasing the number of nodes in a wireless network decreases individual throughput, simultaneous transmissions cause interference and therefore hinder capacity, and that topology control can increase network power efficiency and reduce the interference within the network. This paper demonstrates that appropriately spaced simultaneous transmissions are beneficial to the capacity of shared spectrum wireless networks and that adding nodes to a wireless network can, in fact, increase its capacity if the nodes are intelligently placed and node transmission powers are appropriately set. In this paper we firstly discuss the inefficiency of high power transmission for networks which allow simultaneous transmissions. It is then demonstrated that if multiple transmitters are utilised simultaneously with uniform transmission power, the network capacity is a local maximum if the required spacing conditions between the receivers are met. In the presence of background noise one can determine that this configuration represents the maximum network capacity achievable. The required separation is defined for the general case and shown to decrease as the number of simultaneous transmissions increases. This result is verified through simulations which demonstrate the construction of high capacity networks. Simulations are also presented which show how existing networks can be augmented with additional nodes and a reduction of transmission power, to exhibit higher uniform average network capacities.
Evaluating the Cascade Effect in Interdependent Networks via Algebraic Connectivity
Authors: Tauch Sotharith , Liu William , Pears Russel
Published: April 2015

Understanding how the underlying network structure and interconnectivity impact on the robustness of the interdependent networks is a major challenge in complex networks studies. There are some existing metrics that can be used to measure network robustness. However, different metrics such as the average node degree interprets different characteristic of network topological structure, especially less metrics have been identified to effectively evaluate the cascade performance in interdependent networks. In this paper, we propose to use a combined Laplacian matrix to model the interdependent networks and their interconnectivity, and then use its algebraic connectivity metric as a measure to evaluate its cascading behavior. Moreover, we have conducted extensive comparative studies among different metrics such as the average node degree, and the proposed algebraic connectivity. We have found that the algebraic connectivity metric can describe more accurate and finer characteristics on topological structure of the interdependent networks than other metrics widely adapted by the existing research studies for evaluating the cascading performance in interdependent networks.
Mechanisms for QoE optimisation of Video Traffic: A review paper
Authors: Qadir Qahhar Muhammad
Published: April 2015

Transmission of video traffic over the Internet has grown exponentially in the past few years with no sign of waning. This increasing demand for video services has changed user expectation of quality. Various mechanisms have been proposed to optimise Quality of Experience (QoE) of end user's video. Studying these approaches are necessary for new methods to be proposed or combination of existing ones to be tailored. We discuss challenges facing the optimisation of QoE for video traffic in this paper. It surveys and classifies these mechanisms based on their functions. The limitation of each of them is identified and future directions are highlighted.
Challenges of Accurate Cost Estimation for Facilities
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Cost estimation for facilities depends on early concept selection and critical inputs, often complicated by uncertainty in one or more of the critical inputs. Empirical cost models and cost modeling methods using these inputs vary in degrees of scope, comprehensiveness, and robustness. Cost modeling is critical in developing project economics to determine if a project is a sound investment. Its importance extends from concept comparison and selection to use in planning and optimization of field development, and to benchmarking of projected and actual costs.

Although idiosyncrasies in projects and their required facilities drive cost estimations, differences in organizational capabilities further affect the validity and reliability of these estimations.

This article will examine the industry’s approach to cost estimation, highlighting challenges and sources of error, and then discuss models specific to the Arctic and offshore Gulf of Mexico (GOM) regions.
A Strategic Shift in Well Abandonment Services
Authors: Smith Ian , Shu Dominique
Published: April 2015

Once an oil or gas well has reached its economic limit, at which its most efficient production rate is insufficient to cover operating expenses, the well’s operator is typically tasked with safely and efficiently abandoning the well. While well abandonment has traditionally been viewed as a "necessary evil" - a nonrevenue operation to be done quickly and with minimal expense - changes in technology and the regulatory climate have caused operators to make some significant shifts in their attitude concerning these operations.
Definition of a Cutoff Natural Frequency for Smallbore Pipework Connections
Authors: McGhee Jim
Published: April 2015

Vibration induced fatigue failures (VIFFs) of pipework smallbore connections (SBCs) due to turbulent flow excitation continue to occur in process piping systems, resulting in elevated safety risks and costly interruptions to normal operations. One of the primary causes of these failures is poor design.
Lessons Learned as World’s First Cell Spar Laid to Rest
Authors: Furlow William
Published: April 2015

In 2004, the Red Hawk cell spar was installed in 5,300 ft of water in the US Gulf of Mexico (GOM). Then owner Kerr McGee heralded it as the world’s first cell spar. Ten years later, it remained the only cell spar fabricated, and it again made history as the deepest floating production unit (FPU) ever decommissioned in the GOM.
Decommissioning Challenges in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Driven partly by the US Department of the Interior’s (DOI) Notice to Lessees and Operators (NTL) 2010-G05 for decommissioning of idle wells and structures on active leases in the Gulf of Mexico’s (GOM) Outer Continental Shelf (OCS), decommissioning activities are outpacing historical levels (Fig. 1 and Table 1). The NTL, also known as the Idle Iron NTL, became effective in October 2010 and applies to the plugging of wells and decommissioning of offshore infrastructure, which includes fixed platforms, pipelines, wells, caissons, and well protectors.
Planning for Initial Startup Success
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

The ultimate success of a deepwater project depends on phases from early concept selection, design, construction, commissioning, and startup to operation. Commissioning begins when construction is completed. The constructed facilities and processes are tested, certified, and verified as ready for the introduction of hydrocarbons for fuel gas, final dynamical commissioning, and startup. The startup phase, defined as the period when hydrocarbons are produced for the first time, is a critical period bridging the transfer of care, custody, and control of the facilities from commissioning to operations. It is the first time that all processes and equipment work together as a system.
Outlook is Optimistic for Investment in Global Offshore Oil and Gas
Authors: Stokes Ian
Published: April 2015

There is plenty to be optimistic about in the upstream oil and gas oil sector. In this article, the Energy Industries Council (EIC) focuses on offshore opportunities globally, and identifies the hot spots of activity. It will also examine some of the key issues facing the sector and the energy supply chain today, such as the need to maximize oil and gas recovery from challenging environments and new offshore fields, and the need to reduce costs and innovate.
New Water-Treatment Technologies Tackle Offshore Produced-Water Challenges in EOR
Authors: Boysen Buddy , Henthorne Lisa , Johnson Holly , Turner Becky
Published: April 2015

The treatment of produced water can be challenging due to variability in both quality and quantity of the produced-water stream. Produced-water quality is dependent on the dynamics and constituents in the oil reservoir, including added injection chemicals and waterflood injection quality. As a consequence of the wide range of variability in both the produced-water quality and the final treated-water quality requirements, it is not easy to determine which technologies are most appropriate for effective treatment and handling—there is no "one size fits all" solution. Varying environmental and regulatory requirements for produced-water treatment as a function of region and location contribute added complexity in decision making. Finding the "best" treatment solution and wading through the multitude of emerging produced-water treatment technologies have become significant challenges for the upstream oil and gas industry.
Offshore Construction and Installation Innovations Aim for Deeper Waters
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Handling Increased Tensions in Deeper Water Depths

With ultradeep installations reaching deeper than 2000 m, laying pipe on the seafloor can present challenges, such as increased holding tensions on the pipe during installation. Proper tension must be maintained to prevent the buckling that can be caused by the hydrostatic pressures acting on the pipe.
Project Management With a Focus on Details
Authors: Dunnahoe Tayvis
Published: April 2015

With the complexity of most offshore facilities in today’s market, project management has become a process of drilling down to discover the smaller details hidden within the bigger picture. "If you get the little things right, the big things seem to disappear," said Donnie Sinitiere, vice president and managing director international EPC for Dynamic Industries.
The Value of Mentoring in Career Development
Authors: Nelson Brad
Published: April 2015

Mentoring: A Lost Skill Set?

Today, mentoring seems more commonly used as a human resources term instead of being practiced. I have asked colleagues for their thoughts and it appears I am not alone in my opinion. My suspicion is that the advent of the Internet and social media, and the “great crew change” (GCC) has contributed to the loss of the mentoring skill set.
Challenges in the Design of Separators
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Reliable separation is becoming an enabling technology to help develop remote location resources and more difficult applications, such as heavy oil, produced water, sand disposal, and back-produced fluids in enhanced oil recovery. However, dealing with the challenges inherent in the design, sizing, and effective and economical operation of separators is further complicated by the lack of shared learning, fundamental research, device qualification, and an organized network to discuss common problems.
Spar Innovations: Thinking Inside the Box Reaps Savings
Authors: Furlow William
Published: April 2015

When people think of innovative design, they picture improving an existing design based on lessons learned, or striking out in a new direction with a disruptive approach. For Anadarko, the secret of the "design one, build many" approach to offshore production facilities is to control its enthusiasm for change. The company’s experience with eight operated spars shows the benefits gained with this approach.
Two-Stage Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty in Cases of Periprosthetic Joint Infection: An Analysis of 50 Cases
Authors: Claassen Leif , Plaass Christian , Daniilidis Kiriakos , Calliess Tilman , Lewinski Gabriela von
Published: April 2015

Objectives: A periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a significant complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Still there is no agreement on a perfect diagnosis and treatment algorithm. The aim of this study was to evaluate the success and revision rates after two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and factors that affect the success rate.

Material and Methods:50 consecutive two-stage revision TKAs were performed between January 2011 and December 2012. We retrospectively reviewed study patient's charts including demographics, prior surgeries, comorbidities, incidence of persistent infection and revisions. At the final follow-up examination the patient's satisfaction, pain level and disorders were evaluated. A successful clinical outcome was defined as a functioning prosthesis without wound healing disorders, no sinuses tracts or other clinical evidence of a persistent infection.

Results: Re-implantation of prosthesis was performed in 47 cases; three patients received a septic arthrodesis. Twelve patients had a persistent infection despite two-stage re-implantation resulting in a success rate of 76.0%. In eight of these twelve patients an infecting germ was isolated during second-stage procedure. Three patients received another two-stage revision arthroplasty and one patient an above knee amputation. A revision was performed in 23 of 50 patients (46.0%). Factors that diminish the success rate were further operations after primary TKA (p = 0.048), prior revision arthroplasties after TKA (p = 0.045), nicotine abuse (p = 0.048), Charlson comorbidity index above a score of 2 (p = 0.031) and a mixed flora during first-stage procedure (p < 0.001). Age, sex, immune status, chronic anticoagulant use, rheumatoid arthritis, body mass index and the presence of multidrug resistant germs showed no significant effect on success rate (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: We found that patients who required surgery after the primary TKA, had a higher Charlson comorbidity index or were found to have mixed flora during explantation. The treatment of PJI remains difficult, both for the patient and for the treating surgeons.
The Effect of Obesity on Theatre Utilisation Time During Primary Hip and Knee Replacements
Authors: Sawalha Seif , Ralte Peter , Chan Carol , Chandran Prakash
Published: April 2015

Introduction :

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of body mass index (BMI) and body weight on theatre utilisation time during primary total hip (THR) and knee replacements (TKR).

Methods :

A total of 1859 cases were included (820 THR and 1039 TKR). Patients were divided into groups based on BMI and body weight. The time interval from ‘starting anaesthesia’ to ‘transfer back to recovery’ was used as total theatre time. Hierarchal regression analysis was then used to study the effect of BMI and body weight while controlling the effect of any confounding variables.

Results :

In THR cases, the median theatre time was significantly different between BMI and body weight subgroups (p=0.001). In TKR cases, the median theatre time was more significantly different between weight subgroups (p<0.001) than BMI subgroups (p=0.021). Regression analysis showed that only weight remained a significant predictor (p=0.018) of theatre time in THR cases after controlling for other variables. In TKR cases, body weight and BMI were not predictors of theatre time after controlling for other variables.

Conclusion :

Body weight is a significant predictor of theatre time during THR. Neither weight nor BMI predicted theatre time during TKR.
Gender Differences in Antecedents and Consequences of Trust in an Enterprise's Travel Blogs
Authors: Lee Chi-Lung , Hsiao Kuo-Lun , Lu Hsi-Peng
Published: April 2015

We developed a research model based on the trust literature to explore both the antecedents and consequences of users' trust in an enterprise's travel blogs, and gender differences in determinants of trust. Responses from 239 participants were used to test the research model hypotheses.
The causal model was validated using partial least squares regression analysis. The results showed that the visual appeal and information adequacy of the blog platform, as well as trust in travel experts' blogs, were the key factors influencing readers' trust, for both men and women. Contrary
to our expectations, trust for men was not significantly affected by the operational efficiency of the blog platform. Moreover, although trust was found to influence male and female users' intention to recommend travel services, it did not have a significant effect on female users' purchase
intention.
Development of the Children's Sport Locus of Control Scale
Authors: Tsai Jun-Jie , Hsieh Chen-Jung
Published: April 2015

We developed the Children's Sport Locus of Control Scale (CSLCS) based on Rotter's (1954) social learning theory. Participants were 750 fifth- and sixth-grade elementary school students. We developed the scale through a series of analyses, including item analysis, exploratory and confirmatory
factor analyses, simultaneous multigroup covariance analysis, and criterion-related validity analysis. The CSLCS comprises 12 items, of which 6 items measure ability and responsibility in the internal control dimension, and 6 items measure environment and chance in the external control dimension.
The results of the analyses confirmed that this scale has good reliability, validity, and measurement invariance, and that it also satisfies all fit measures. The 6 measures of internal locus of control in the CSLCS are suited for measuring children's sport locus of control, and the measurement
results will not differ across gender. Finally, we offer suggestions to future researchers.
Linamarase production by some microbial isolates and a comparison of the rate of degradation of cassava cyanide by microbial and cassava linamarases
Authors: Ogbonnaya Nwokoro
Published: April 2015

Production of linamarase and the effects of media composition on enzyme
production were studied. A total of eight linamarase-producing bacteria were
isolated from fermenting cassava tubers and soil samples. Selection of the
isolates was based on their high growth in media containing 800 mg/L
potassium cyanide solution. Eight of the isolates which showed very high
growth in the growth medium as demonstrated by increase in their optical
density readings to at least 0.6 in the cyanide containing media were
selected for further studies. The isolates were identified as Lactobacillus
plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus amylovorus, Lactobacillus
cellobiosus, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Bacillus
pumilus and Bacillus subtilis. All the isolates were grown in media
containing Tween 80 solution and in control media without the surfactant.
Best enzyme activity of 6.82 U/mL was obtained in the medium containing Tween
80 solution and Lactobacillus fermentum as the test bacterium. Comparatively,
linamarase production by the isolates in media without Tween 80 showed lower
enzyme productivity. Cassava endogenous and microbial enzymes were tested for
their abilities to hydrolyze cyanide in cassava flour samples pretreated to
either remove the endogenous or microbial enzyme. Residual cyanide in cassava
flour samples treated with linamarase of Lactobacillus plantarum was
undecteded in 30 h, while in contrast, the residual cyanide in cassava flour
samples treated with endogenous linamarase was 0.39 mg/10g cassava flour
after 80 h. Residual cyanide in the untreated control sample was 1.98 mg HCN
/10g cassava flour after 80 h. The results from this finding demonstrated
improved cassava cyanide degradation with microbial linamarase as compared to
endogenous cassava linamarase. Massive inoculation of fermenting cassava
tubers with the isolates reported in this study would enable better control
of the cassava fermentation process and may lead to the production of
standardized and non-toxic cassava food products.
Effect of Ni/Nb on structure, electrical and ferroelectric properties of 0.5PNN-0.5PZT ceramics
Authors: Gupta Rashmi , Verma Seema , Singh Deepa , Singh Karan , Bamzai Krishen
Published: April 2015

The solid solutions of lead nickel niobate (PNN) and lead zirconate titanate
(PZT), with general formula 0.5 Pb(NixNb1-x)O3-0.5 PZT, where x = 1/3, 1/2
and 2/3 and Zr/Ti = 50/50, were prepared by conventional solid state
reaction technique. The perovskite phase formation and morphology were
examined by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) techniques. From microstructure investigations, the grain size was
found to lie in the range of 0.2-1.1 ?m. Diffuse phase transition and
dielectric relaxation was obtained for all three compositions. The nature of
dielectric relaxation was investigated through complex plane Argand plot or
Cole-Cole plot. It was found that both grains as well as grain boundary
contribute to dielectric relaxation. A direct correlation between the grain
size and electrical properties was obtained. The remnant polarization and
grain size were found to follow the inverse relationship. The inverse
relationship between remnant polarization and grain size was established.
On invex programming problem in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Chatterjee Sandip , Mukherjee Rathindranath
Published: April 2015

In this paper we introduce the invex programming problem in Hilbert space.
The requisite theory has been established to characterize the solution of
such class of problems.
Model of Interactive System for Training in the Proper Use of Hearing Protection Devices
Authors: Górski Paweł
Published: April 2015

In 2011, over 520 thousand persons worked in hazardous conditions (according to the GUS). Among hazardous factors related to working environment noise was found to be the most common one, threatening 199,6 thousand people (52.9% threats-per-persons related to working environment). The prevalence of workplace noise and increasing awareness of effects of its impact on the human body causes increase of the demand for knowledge of the methods of noise reduction. Due to the lack of knowledge concerning the proper use of hearing protectors, effective noise exposure in the real world may be about a dozen dB higher than the declared assumed protection value. For this reason, in Central Institute for Labour Protection - NRI “The interactive system for learning the correct use of hearing protectors” has been developed. The system includes a multimedia guide on hearing protectors supplemented by video tutorials, training materials with training hearing protectors, and software for evaluation of the activities of the trainee.