bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A SEQUENCE STRATIGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF THE LOWER MIOCENE, WEST AND EAST CAMERON AREAS, GULF OF MEXICO
Authors: Wagner John B. , Kofron Bruce M. , Morin Ronald W. , Ford David W. , Mathur Vinod R. , Mauro Richard T.
Published: April 2012

A sequence stratigraphic analysis of the nearshore West Cameron and East Cameron blocks, central Gulf of Mexico, was developed for Lower Miocene age strata. Interpretation of each depositional sequence included delineation of paleoshelf/slope breaks, isopach, seismic facies, and paleogeography maps. Sequence development and sedimentation patterns were influenced by two prominent structural styles, growth faulting and salt/shale deformation. Two depositional sequences A and B, were identified and interpreted to consist of depositional environments ranging from submarine fan to coastal and shallow marine deltaics.

Sequence A is the oldest Lower Miocene sequence and is divided into two depositional packages, a lowstand portion and a condensed interval. Because the paleo-shelf break was landward of our study area, there is an absence of well-developed shelfal facies in this sequence, and the condensed interval represents the distal transgressive and highstand portion of the sequence. The lowstand portion suggests a north to northwest source direction and has a maximum thickness of 2200 feet. The axis of maximum thickness, derived from isochron mapping, integrated with paleogeographic interpretation, indicates that the thickness or aggradation is related to mass-wasting processes and channel systems characteristic of submarine fan environments. The influence of pre-existing topography and basin configuration on sequence development and stratal architecture is evident where the axes of maximum thickness are separated by thin intervals of little to no deposition, related to a paleostructural high.

Sequence B is better developed than Sequence A because of its location within the axis of the depocenter and can be subdivided into the following depositional environments: well-developed prograding submarine fan and slope deposits (associated primarily with falling sea-level) that are capped updip by an erosional surface associated with a marine transgression; an overall transgressive unit composed of localized regressive deltaic deposits; and aggradational fluvial/deltaic and shallow marine sediments associated with a continued rise in sea-level. Sequence B has a maximum thickness of 3200 feet and, like Sequence A, this aggradation within the basin is attributed to mass-wasting and channel development within a slope envronment. The variation in location of thickness trends, combined with evidence of erosional channels from different source directions, indicates the migration of sediment supply through time from a more westerly to a more northerly direction.
SEQUENCE STRATIGRAPHY OF NEOGENE TURBIDITE SYSTEMS, NORTHERN GREEN CANYON AND EWING BANK, NORTHERN GULF OF MEXICO
Authors: Weimer Paul , Varnai Peter , Acosta Zurilma M. , Budhijanto Fadjar M. , Martinez Rafael E. , Navarro Alonso F. , Rowan Mark G. , Mcbride Barry C. , Villamil Tomas
Published: April 2012

The Ncogene turbidite systems of Green Canyon and Ewing Bank lease areas in the northern Gulf of Mexico are amajor exploration play. The regional sequence stratigraphy for this area has been interpreted to help define the potential areas for future exploration. Data base consists of 6300 miles of 2-D multifold seismic data well log data for 175, wells, and biostratigraphy from 180 wells.

Four main intervals have been identified, which reflect different kinds of turbidite systems based upon lithologies and seismic facies. Exploration concepts must be different in each of the four intervals because of the different nature of the turbidite systems. Paleoecology data indicate that deposition of these turbidite systems occurred in bathyal water depths. Lower Pliocene sediments (5.5 to 3.0 Ma) include the 5.5, 4.2 and 3.8 sequence boundaries. The interval consists of sandrich turbidite systems. The upper Pliocene interval (3.0 to 1.4 Ma) comprises the 3.0, 2.6, 2.4, 1.9 sequence boundaries. The interval is thin in the eastern portion of the area and becomes thicker to the west. Sands develop only in the western portion of the area. The interval corresponds to when the Mississippi River avulsed to farther in the western Gulf of Mexico and sediment supply decreased significantly.

The lower Pleistocene interval (1.4 to 0.7 Ma) includes the 1.4, 1.1 and 0.8 Ma sequence boundaries. The interval is predominantly shale-rich with localized sands developing in channel-levee systems and unchannelized sands. The upper Pleistocene interval (0.7 Ma to Present) consists of shale-dominated turbidite systems. Notable submarine canyons develop in this interval to the east.
DELINEATION OF AN OIL AND GAS FIELD WITHIN A TURBIDITE SYSTEM: BREDASDORP BASIN, SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: WINTERS S.J. , KUHLMANN S.
Published: April 2012

A sequence stratigraphic approach applied to the central Bredasdorp basin has delineated a eustatic third-order Aptian sequence in which several hydrocarbon discoveries have been made to date. The sequence consists of a lowstand sequence set within which higher-order sequences are developed, a transgressive systems tract with a thick marine condensed section, and a progradational highstand systems tract. The fourth-order simple sequences within the lowstand sequence set are associated with basin floor fans which have been deposiited retrogradationally within the confines of a fault-controlled erosional valley. The basin floor fans are characterized by stacked deep-marine channel deposits and form combination traps through stratigraphic pinch-outs and local inversion tectonics.

The channel-fill sandstones comprise the primary reservoirs and are characterized by high amplitude seismic anomalies. Mapping of these anomalies, facilitated by a 3-D seismic survey, forms a critical part of the interpretation process as the amplitude variations signify changes in sandstone thickness, porosity, net-to-gross ratios, and fluid content Seismic modelling has been applied in an attempt to calibrate these amplitude responses.

Appraisal drilling has confirmed the sequence stratigraphic model of two retrogradationally stacked basin floor fans which contain significant oil and gas accumulations.
TECTONIC CONTROLS ON THE SEQUENCE STRATIGRAPHY OF UPPER JURASSIC FAN SYSTEMS IN THE BARROW-DAMPIER RIFT, NORTHWEST SHELF, AUSTRALIA
Authors: WULFF KEIRAN , BARBER PETER
Published: April 2012

Upper Jurassic syn-rift strata in the Barrow-Dampier Rift can be subdivided into at least nine depositional sequences. Sequence boundary development is closely related to major tectonically-induced changes in basin architecture associated with progressive continental breakup of Eastern Gondwana. Episodic crustal extension and transtension in the Barrow-Dampier Rift created a series of terraces along the posterior peri-rift margin. Rapid changes in the rate of creation of accommodation space related to syndepositional tectonism, in association with changes in sediment supply and eustatic sea level fluctuations, influenced the type and geometry of submarine fan complexes which subsequently developed within each depositional sequence.

Deposition of Callovian to Oxfordian sequences occurred whilst the Barrow and Dampier sub-basins were two distinct structural entities separated by a complex intra-basinal arch. In this context, early Callovian to Oxfordian basin-floor sand cycles were locally confined to the rift margins and peri-rift terraces, forming mixed channel lobe and fan mound forms. Kimmeridgian to Tithonian depositional sequences, however, are more widespread. These followed marked submergence of the intra-basinal arch, allowing widening of the sub-basins into one tectonic entity, giving rise to deposition of thick detached non-channellized lobes. In the Dampier Sub-basin where a more complete and thicker Kimmeridgian to Tithonian interval exists, identified sequences demonstrate an apparent synchroneity with the world-wide global eustasy curve, especially with third-order cycles. This may be a function of the effect of the breakup of Eastern Gondwana on accommodation space and eustasy on a global scale.
SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL VARIATIONS IN THE FACIES ASSOCIATIONS OF DEPOSITIONAL SEQUENCES ON THE SLOPE: EXAMPLES FROM THE MIOCENE-PLEISTOCENE OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
Authors: YEILDING CINDY A. , APPS GILLIAN M.
Published: April 2012

There is a systematic spatial and temporal distribution of facies associations within deepwater depositional systems of the northern Gulf of Mexico. The building blocks that make up deepwater depositional sequences include turbidite, debris flow, slump, and pelagic deposits. These building blocks combine in a variable, yet systematic and predictive, assemblage of facies. Through time, a deepwater depositional sequence stacks in an overall fining-upward succession of higher-energy to lower-energy deposits.

Sequence mapping illustrates an overall evolution of the deposy stem from updip to downdip. The active slope deposystem is characterized by a progradational shelf margin, which is often extensively slumped or bypassed. The upper slope is dominated by bypass, erosional channel systems, and/or small-scale leveed-channel systems. The middle and lower slope is prone to deposition of debris flows, lobate (unconfined flow) turbidite sand bodies, and larger-scale leveed-channel systems. In general, the best sand development is observed in the middle and lower slope, directly downdip of the major delta system. Outside of the areas of active deposition, slope sedimentation is minimal, and the time-equivalent section is represented primarily by condensed strata.

The base of each depositional sequence is interpreted to represent the fall of relative sea level, and highest energy processes. These processes include shelf margin failure, bypass, erosional channels, which feed sediments into downdip lobate bodies. In the middle and lower slope, high net sand leveed channels also appear to supply sediment to downdip lobate bodies. Sediments of the upper part of the lowstand are focused in the upper slope and shelf margin, with deltas and smaller scale, low net sand leveed channels. Downdip, the equivalent section is characterized primarily by hemipelagic sedimentation. The final stages of the depositional sequence are the transgressive, condensed section and highstand systems tract This interval represents the most time, and slowest sedimentation rates (primarily muds and marls) in the deep-water deposystem.
Advanced Visualization Techniques in the Geosciences
Authors: Loftin R. Bowen , Harding Chris , Chen Dave , Lin Ching-Rong , Ugray Adrian , Gordon Peter , Nesbitt Keith , Chuter Chris , Acosta Mark
Published: April 2012

This paper describes the development of applications for the interactive investigation of three-dimensional seismic data and geological surfaces interpreted from that data (using a projective workbench, or the CAVE™). This approach enables geoscientists to more fully exploit threedimensional seismic data by providing them with a truly three-dimensional display of data that can be shared (locally or remotely) with others. In addition, the threedimensional interactivity of this technology can support more productive interpretation of the seismic data and more efficient verification of the resulting interpretations. The result is an enhanced process for characterizing a hydrocarbon reservoir.
Behind-Outcrop Borehole Imaging for Improved Characterization of Turbidite Reservoirs
Authors: Slatt R. M. , Hurley N. F. , Witton E.M. , Clemenceau G. R. , Homann H. , Davis R. J. , Browne G.H.
Published: April 2012

To bridge the sometimes large conceptual gap between what is observed in outcrop and what occurs in the subsurface, outcrop information ideally should be placed into the more familiar format used for exploration and development, that is, well logs, seismic, cross sections, and 3-D models. Borehole imaging logs from behind an outcrop, when calibrated to the outcrop (and core), can be particularly useful for identifying image log criteria that can be used for predicting stratigraphic (and structural) features away from the borehole, and sometimes for predicting well performance.

Since the mid-1990’s, there have been a number of behind-outcrop borehole imaging projects. In this paper we discuss two such projects involving turbidite and related strata, one in the Miocene Mount Messenger Formation of New Zealand, and the other in the Cretaceous Lewis Shale of Wyoming.

In the Mount Messenger Formation, two boreholes were drilled 450 ft (150 m) apart and 360 ft (100 m) back from a well-exposed coastal cliff face. One borehole cored 140 ft (47 m) of strata, and the other borehole cored 315 ft (105 m). Both boreholes were logged using Schlumberger’s FMI™ and Platform Express™ log suites. By comparing the borehole images to the cores and outcrops, we were able to develop borehole-image criteria for a variety of sedimentary structures and stratification styles, and from these, to identify depositional facies. These recognition criteria were applied to the Ram-Powell “L” Sand reservoir in the offshore Gulf of Mexico and were found to be useful for identifying the character of the producing interval.

In the Lewis Shale, a development well drilled 8 mi (13 km) west of Lewis Shale outcrops was logged through the same stratigraphic interval using Baker Atlas’ STAR™ acoustic and electrical borehole images, as well as conventional log suites using the ECLIPS™ acquisition and processing system. Again, a variety of sedimentologic features and bedding styles observed in the outcrop were identified on the image logs. In particular, laterally continuous and discontinuous sandstones could be differentiated from borehole image attributes, which allowed prediction of attributes away from the wellbore.

Behind-outcrop borehole images from these two turbidite outcrops demonstrate their value for interpreting individual sedimentologic features, facies, and attributes away from the wellbore. These interpretations could not be made using conventional gamma-ray logs. Such observations and interpretations provided by borehole images are critical for improved volumetric calculations, well placement, and prediction of well performance.
Reservoir Characterization of a Reefal Carbonate for Crestal CO2 Flood, Reinecke Field, West Texas
Authors: Saller Arthur H. , Walden Skip , Robertson Steve , Steckel Merle , Schwab Joe , Hagiwara Hiroshi , Mizohata Shigeharu
Published: April 2012

Reinecke field is a carbonate buildup in the southern part of the Horseshoe Atoll. Since discovery in 1950, it has produced more than 82 million barrels of oil. The south dome of Reinecke field has been characterized with core, wireline logs, 3D seismic, crosswell tomography, and 3D cellular models of porosity, permeability, and fluid saturations. Four main depositional sequences, approximately 60-80 ft (18-24 m) thick, were identified in the Upper Pennsylvanian reservoir interval. Nine depositional facies were recognized, including mudstones, wackestones, packstones, grainstones, and boundstones. The reservoir is approximately 70 percent limestone and 30 percent dolomite. Porosity is widespread in both lithologies. Most depositional facies have average porosities of 9-13 percent where still limestone. Important pore types in limestones include intercrystalline microporosity, molds, intergranular pores, fractures, and vugs. Limestones dominated by microporosity have low permeability, commonly 1-30 mD. Limestones with fractures and vuggy pores commonly have permeability greater than 100 md. Lime mudstones are rare but have distinctly lower porosity (average of 1.4 percent) and permeability (average of <1 mD). Average limestone porosity is 11.2 percent, and average limestone permeability is 165 mD. In contrast, dolomite has generally lower porosity (average of 8.3 percent) but much higher permeability (average horizontal of 894 mD). Discontinuous shales compose less than 1 percent of the gross reservoir. Discontinuous lime mudstones and shales in the lower part of sequences form low-permeability baffles. Therefore, the south dome of Reinecke is characterized by relatively continuous vertical and horizontal porosity and permeability with high-permeability streaks and discontinuous low-permeability baffles. Excellent reservoir continuity and water injection into the underlying aquifer have allowed a good bottom water-drive and excellent primary and secondary recovery (55 percent of the original oil in place). Pore systems that are well connected throughout the reservoir have allowed a crestal CO2 flood to be designed for Reinecke field. CO2 is being injected into the top of the structure to mobilize residual oil and push an oil bank down through the reservoir to recover residual and bypassed mobile oil.
Refining Well Log Correlation in the Greater Enchilada Area, “Mexican Buffet Region,” Ne Garden Banks, Gulf of Mexico, Using High-Resolution Nannoplankton Biostratigraphy
Authors: Ladner Bryan C. , Dunn Therese M. , George Richard A. , Styzen Michael J.
Published: April 2012

In the Mexican Buffet Region most of the pay sands are subsalt, which complicates and reduces the resolution of seismic surveys. This makes it necessary to look for other methods to make correlations of pay sands between wells. Using nannofossil data collected since the discovery well was drilled in 1994 from Enchilada, Chimichanga, and Salsa, a way has been developed to identify nannofossil field markers. This method was tested in three wells in Enchilada, Garden Banks 128, in the NP 2.9 objective zone and agreed well with the foraminiferal field markers and seismic correlations. Subsequently this method was used to identify and correlate a nannofossil field marker in the NP 3 zone of Chimichanga (Garden Banks 127), Enchilada (Garden Banks 128), and Salsa (Garden Banks 172). This field marker, used in conjunction with a fora-miniferal field marker in the same section, provided a new correlation scheme for the P 3 pay sands previously thought to be discontinuous stringers. This correlation indicates that the sands are continuous through the Enchilada and Chimichanga fields. This pay interval is now thought to contain a significant amount of oil reserves.
Estimating the carbon footprint of the municipal water cycle
Authors: Bakhshi Ali A. , Demonsabert Sharon M.
Published: April 2012

This research investigated the embodied energy associated with municipal water use. The feasibility of using a geographic information system model as a framework for sustainability planning was evaluated using data from Loudoun County, Va. The model spatially displays the embodied energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with municipal water and wastewater service. The embodied energy associated with water service depends on the topographic characteristics of the municipality, the efficiency of the water and wastewater treatment systems, and the efficiency of the pumping stations. GHG emissions varied with the embodied‐energy and energy‐generation characteristics of the power company. Within the study area, the embodied energy associated with customer water use ranged from 4.4 to 7.2 MW·h/mil gal. Customer carbon footprints ranged from 0.01 to 17.93 tons of carbon dioxide per year. The results of this study contribute to the development of a standardized approach for estimating the GHG impact of the municipal water cycle.
UV disinfection implementation status in US water treatment plants
Authors: Dotson Aaron D. , Rodriguez Caitlin E. , Linden Karl G.
Published: April 2012

The implementation of ultraviolet light (UV) disinfection in drinking water applications in the United States has gained momentum in recent years. An online survey and field sampling of full‐scale drinking water treatment plants (WTPs) were performed with a focus on evaluation of sequenced disinfection (UV and chlorine/chloramines). Twenty‐seven WTPs responded to the survey. Nearly all of these WTPs were treating an impaired water source (subject to upstream agricultural or wastewater discharges) and using UV with a design dose of 40 mJ/cm2 installed as part of a plant retrofit. The majority (n = 16) of the disinfection systems used polychromatic mediumpressure UV. Twelve WTPs applied all or part of their secondary disinfectant (free chlorine or chloramines) upstream of the UV reactor. The majority of the WTPs reported no effect on chlorine residual or formation of disinfection by‐products. Full‐scale sampling indicated minimal (±3 μg/L) change in trihalomethane formation resulting from UV disinfection during multiple sampling events.
Encouragement Germination of Potato Seed Cultivars (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: A.A. Kandil  , Sharief A.E. , Abd El-Atif A.M.Y.
Published: April 2012

A greenhouse experiment were conducted to study encouragement germination capacity of some potato tuber cultivars. The mean aim of this experiment was to assess the effect of some plant growth regulators treatments i.e. IAA and GA3, soaking time i.e. at (10 minutes, 20 minutes and 30 minutes on some germination and vegetative parameters of some potato cultivars i.e. Cara, Draga and Spunta. The results showed that Cara cultivar recorded highest germination index followed by Cv. Spunta without significant differences between them. Draga cultivar recorded tallest plant, highest fresh weight and dry weight in gm/plant followed by Cv. Cara for plant height only and followed by Cv. Spunta for fresh and dry weight without significant differences between them. Highest germination index percentage, tallest plants and highest fresh and plant dry weight were obtained from soaking tubers in GA3 at 10 ppm plus IAA at 6 ppm. While, soaking tubers in GA3 at concentration of 10 ppm produced highest mean of germination time. Results clearly indicated that soaking tubers for 30 minutes produced highest fresh weight followed by soaking for 20 minutes without significant differences between them. The interaction among cultivars and growth regulator treatments recorded significant differences on mean germination time, fresh weight and dry weight. Within this context, it is important to recognize the role of some growth regulators, soaking times and their interactions on encouragement germination capacity of some potato tuber cultivars.
Early rheumatoid arthritis in Latin America: Low socioeconomic status related to high disease activity at baseline
Authors: Massardo Loreto , Pons‐Estel Bernardo A. , Wojdyla Daniel , Cardiel Mario H. , Galarza‐Maldonado Claudio M. , Sacnun Mónica P. , Soriano Enrique R. , Laurindo Ieda M. , Acevedo‐Vásquez Eduardo M. , Caballero‐Uribe Carlo V. , Padilla Oslando , Guibert‐Toledano Zoila M. , da Mota Licia M. , Montufar Rubén A. , Lino‐Pérez Leticia , Díaz‐Coto José F. , Achurra‐Castillo Angel F. , Hernández Jaime A. , Esteva‐Spinetti María H. , Ramírez Luis A. , Pineda Carlos , Furst Daniel E.
Published: April 2012

Objective

To determine the influence of socioeconomic factors on disease activity in a Latin American (LA) early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) multinational inception cohort at baseline.

Methods

Clinical evaluation, ethnicity, socioeconomic status (SES), 4‐variable Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28‐ESR), Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) disability index (DI), and erosions were recorded in 1,093 patients with early RA (<1 year from onset). Multivariate analyses evaluated influences of sex, age, marital status, education, medical coverage, SES, and ethnicity on HAQ DI, DAS28‐ESR, and presence of erosions.

Results

Ethnicities included 43% Mestizo, 31% Caucasian, 19% African LA, 4% Amerindian, and 3% other. Fifty‐eight percent were of low/low‐middle SES, 42% had <8 years of education, 21% had no medical coverage, median disease duration was 6 months (25th, 75th percentiles 4, 9 months), median HAQ DI score was 1.25 (25th, 75th percentiles 0.63, 2.00), median DAS28‐ESR score was 6.2 (25th, 75th percentiles 4.9, 7.2), and 25% had erosions. Women and Mestizos, African LA, and Amerindians had earlier onset than men or Caucasians (P < 0.01). When adjusted by country, the analysis of covariance model showed that low/low‐middle SES, female sex, partial coverage, and older age were associated with worse HAQ DI scores; only low/low‐middle SES was associated with higher DAS28 scores. Statistically significant differences were found in HAQ DI and DAS28 scores between countries. When excluding country, low/low‐middle SES, female sex, and no coverage were associated with worse HAQ DI and DAS28 scores, whereas separated/divorced/widowed status was associated with worse HAQ DI scores and age was associated with worse DAS28 scores. Logistic regression showed that older age, no coverage, and the Amerindian and other ethnic groups were associated with erosions.

Conclusion

We compared early RA patients from the main LA ethnic groups. Our findings suggest that low/low‐middle SES is important in determining disease activity. A more genetic‐related background for erosions is possible.
Dyslipidemia and changes in lipid profiles associated with rheumatoid arthritis and initiation of anti–tumor necrosis factor therapy
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R. , John Ani , Baser Onur
Published: April 2012

Objective

To investigate the frequency of lipid testing in clinical practice and to explore the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis (RA), dyslipidemia, and other cardiovascular (CV) risk factors with RA treatment.

Methods

Patients in this retrospective database study were ages ≥18 years and had ≥2 physician diagnoses for RA or osteoarthritis (OA; comparator group) between March 2004 and March 2008. Outcomes of interest included the percentage of RA and OA patients receiving lipid tests, lipid profiles (total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol) of RA versus OA patients, and lipid profiles of RA patients before and after initiation with a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor. We used multivariable regression to control potential confounders between the cohorts.

Results

Over a median ≥2‐year followup, fewer RA patients than OA patients had ≥1 lipid test (62.0% [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 61.5–62.5] versus 69.8% [95% CI 69.5–70.1]). Mean total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol were each 4 mg/dl lower in the RA cohort (P < 0.0001); HDL cholesterol was similar between the cohorts. Across the RA cohort, 25.2% of patients had suboptimal LDL cholesterol levels (≥130 mg/dl). Among RA patients not receiving lipid‐lowering therapy who initiated TNF inhibitor therapy (n = 96), mean total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol increased by 5.4 and 4.0 mg/dl, respectively.

Conclusion

Patients with RA were less likely to be tested for hyperlipidemia and had more favorable lipid profiles than patients with OA. TNF inhibitor therapy modestly increased all lipid parameters. Additional studies are needed to determine the effect of traditional CV risk factors and inflammation and the impact of biologic agents on CV outcomes in RA patients.
Children's experiences of living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: A thematic synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Tong Allison , Jones Julie , Craig Jonathan C. , Singh‐Grewal Davinder
Published: April 2012

Objective

To describe the experiences and perspectives of children and adolescents living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of qualitative studies that explored the experiences of children living with JIA. We searched electronic databases (to week 2 of July 2011) and reference lists of relevant articles.

Results

Twenty‐seven studies that reported the experiences of more than 542 participants were included. Six major themes were identified: aversion to being different (unrelenting and unpredictable pain, disablement, internal disfigurement, differential treatment, and forced dependency on others); striving for normality (preserving social identity, resourcefulness, sense of community, focus on remission, and mastery over body and pain); stigma and misunderstanding (trivialization of disease, invisible pain, and discrimination); suspension in uncertainty (control versus powerlessness, hope versus disappointment); managing treatment (benefits of taking medicines, respect and involvement in health care, and motivation for physical therapy); and desire for knowledge (medical treatment and advances, lifestyle management).

Conclusion

JIA disrupts a child's sense of normality and impairs his or her capacity for social participation. Children with JIA have a sense of being misunderstood and stigmatized, and they feel perpetually caught between having hope and control over their bodies and overwhelming pain and despair. To increase their confidence, the ability to manage pain, and their resourcefulness for self‐management, children need ongoing information about treatments and lifestyle management, strong social support, community advocacy, and active involvement in their own health decision making.
Near‐Infrared Electric Power Generation Through Sub‐Energy‐Gap Absorption in an Organic–Inorganic Composite
Authors: Ng Tsz‐Wai , Lo Ming‐Fai , Yang Qing‐Dan , Fung Man‐Keung , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: April 2012

Exploitation of energy from the near‐infrared (NIR) region is one strategic approach for enhancing the performance of organic photovoltaic devices (OPVs). While effort has been mostly put toward developing materials with narrow energy gaps, here, a simple approach for harvesting NIR photons with wide‐energy‐gap materials by making use of their interactive charge‐transfer complex (CTC) is shown. It is shown using photoemission studies that the interface between molybdenum (VI) oxide and 5,6,11,12‐tetraphenylnaphthacene (MoO3/rubrene) possesses an abrupt discontinuity in the vacuum level (VL), resulting in significantly overlapped electron wavefunctions and CTC formation. The CTC induces an intermediate state within the original energy gap of rubrene with energy of ≈1.3 eV, suggesting the feasibility of a charge transfer (CT) exciton generated upon NIR excitation. This is confirmed by generation of electric power OPVs with an active layer of MoO3:rubrene composite under excitation with a NIR light source.
Enantioselective Synthesis of (−)‐CP‐55940 via Ruthenium‐ Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Ketones
Authors: Cheng Li‐Jie , Xie Jian‐Hua , Wang Li‐Xin , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: April 2012

A new and efficient catalytic asymmetric synthesis of the potent cannabinoid receptor agonist (−)‐CP‐55940 has been developed by using ruthenium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of racemic α‐aryl ketones via dynamic kinetic resolution (DKR) as a key step. With RuCl2‐SDPs/diamine [SDPs=7,7′‐bis(diarylphophino)‐1,1′‐spirobiindane] catalysts the asymmetric hydrogenation of racemic α‐arylcyclohexanones via DKR provided the corresponding cis‐β‐arylcyclohexanols in high yields with up to 99.3% ee and >99:1 cis‐selectivities. Both ethylene ketal group at the cyclohexane ring and ortho‐methoxy group at the phenyl ring of the substrates 6 have little effect on the selectivity and reactivity of the hydrogenations. Based on this highly efficient asymmetric ketone hydrogenation, (−)‐CP‐55940 was synthesized in 13 steps (the longest linear steps) in 14.6% overall yield starting from commercially available 3‐methoxybenzaldehyde and 1,4‐cyclohexenedione monoethylene acetal.
Nanoscale Compositionally Graded Thin‐Film Electrolyte Membranes for Low‐Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Kerman Kian , Lai Bo‐Kuai , Ramanathan Shriram
Published: April 2012

Controllable fabrication of compositionally graded Gd0.1Ce0.9O2‐δ and Y0.16Zr0.84O2‐δ electrolytes using co‐sputtering is demonstrated. Self‐supported membranes were lithographically fabricated to employ the new electrolytes into thin film solid oxide fuel cells. Devices integrating such electrolytes demonstrate performance of over 1175 mW cm−2 and 665 mW cm−2 at 520 °C using hydrogen and methane as fuel, respectively. The results present a general strategy to fabricate nanoscale functionally graded materials with selective interfacial functionality for energy conversion.
Epoxidation of styrene with molecular oxygen catalyzed by a novel oxovanadium(IV) catalyst containing two different kinds of ligands
Authors: Li Zhifang , Liu Lulu , Hu Jing , Liu Heng , Wu Shujie , Huo Qisheng , Guan Jingqi , Kan Qiubin
Published: April 2012

A novel type of oxovanadium(IV) 8‐hydroxyquinoline (8‐Q) complex and oxovanadium(IV) acetylacetonate (acac) complex were synchronously anchored on to amino‐modified SBA‐15 (named VO(acac:8‐Q)‐SBA‐15) and examined as a catalyst for styrene oxidation. The structure of the synthesized catalyst was characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), FT‐IR, diffusion reflection UV–visible, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP‐AES), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). Characterizations with FT‐IR, diffusion reflection UV‐visible, ICP‐AES and TG suggested the incorporation of oxovanadium(IV) complex in amino‐modified SBA‐15. XRD and SEM results indicated that SBA‐15 remained intact throughout the grafting procedure. It was found that VO(acac:8‐Q)‐SBA‐15 catalyst was more active than single‐ligand catalysts VO(acac)2‐SBA‐15 and VO(8‐Q)2‐SBA‐15 and that the product selectivity varied in cases of different oxidants. The catalyst VO(acac:8‐Q)‐SBA‐15 with two different ligands showed high yield of styrene oxide (45.8%) and good recoverability when using air as oxidant. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of biodegradable composites based on wood waste flour and thermoplastic starch
Authors: Agnantopoulou E. , Tserki V. , Marras S. , Philippou J. , Panayiotou C.
Published: April 2012

Biodegradable composites were prepared from wood flour of sawmill residues and a thermoplastic starch (Mater‐Bi™ and glycerol). For the preparation of the composites flour from sawmills of four wood species (spruce, pine, beech and poplar), three particle sizes (<150, 150–250, and 250–750 μm) and in six proportions (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60% wt) was used. The composites were characterized by means of mechanical property measurements, scanning electron microscopy, water absorption, thermal stability and biodegradation studies. Addition of wood flour to thermoplastic starch increased significantly tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, elongation and thermal stability and decreased water absorption and biodegradation rate of the composites. Almost all the properties of the composites increased with increasing wood flour content and decreasing particle size of the flour. Tensile strength increased up to 50% wt but decreased at 60% wt content of wood flour. The softwood species (spruce, pine) gave better mechanical, thermal and water absorption properties, but lower biodegradation rate than the hardwood species (beech, poplar). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Copper particles/epoxy resin thermosetting conductive adhesive using polyamide resin as curing agent
Authors: Dang Zhi‐Min , Zhang Bo , Li Jinge , Zha Jun‐Wei , Hu Guo‐Hua
Published: April 2012

Thermosetting conductive adhesive (TCA) comprised of epoxy resin E‐51 as matrix, Cu microparticles and nanoparticles modified by silane coupling KH550 as conductive fillers, polyamide resin with low molecular weight as curing agent, and some other additives. It was reported creatively a new liquid curing agent, which solved successfully some difficult problems during preparation of TCA, such as limit of quantity of conductive fillers. Therefore, application of this liquid curing agent decreased greatly the resistivity of TCA under the condition of keeping enough adhesion strength. Antioxidized and mixed Cu particles were developed as conductive fillers in place of expensive Ag. The results showed that optimum conditions of conductive adhesive composed of 16 wt % of epoxy resin E‐51, 8 wt % polyamide resin, 65 wt % of Cu microparticles and nanoparticles, 1.3 wt % of silane coupling agent, and 9 wt % of other additives with curing time for 4 h at 60°C. The adhesion strength reached 16.7 MPa and the bulk resistivity was lower than 3.7 × 10−4 Ω cm. The variation of bulk resistivity was less than 15% at high temperature (100°C). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The synthesis of SiCON ceramics through precursor method
Authors: Luo Jing , Zhang Zongbo , Liu Wei , Wang Xiujun , Peng Zhijian , Luo Yongming , Xu Caihong
Published: April 2012

A polymeric precursor, polysiloxazane (PSON), for SiCON ceramics has been synthesized by the partial hydrolysis of MeViSiCl2, MeHSiCl2, and MeSiCl3 followed by ammonolysis reaction of the hydrolyzed intermediates with NH3. The structure and thermal properties of the polymeric precursor were investigated by means of Fourier transfer infrared spectra (FTIR), 1H‐NMR, 29Si‐NMR, gel permeation chromatography, and thermogravimetric analysis. The structure of the SiCON ceramics derived from the pyrolysis of PSON was characterized by FTIR and X‐ray diffraction. The as‐synthesized PSON produced mainly α‐Si3N4 crystalline phase during pyrolysis at 1500°C under N2 atmosphere, whereas when pyrolyzed at 1500°C under Ar atmosphere, crystalline phases of α/β‐SiC and/or α‐Si3N4 were detected. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J fAppl Polym Sci, 2012
Polyoxymethylene orientation by equal‐channel multiple angular extrusion
Authors: Beloshenko V. A. , Varyukhin V. N. , Voznyak A. V. , Voznyak Yu V.
Published: April 2012

The effect of conditions and routes of deformation in the course of equal‐channel multiple‐angular extrusion (ECMAE) on physical and mechanical properties of polyoxymethylene (POM) have been studied. As deformation routes, Route C (shear planes are parallel, and the simple shear direction of every deformation zone is changed through 180°) and Route E (shear planes are turned through ±45° around the extrusion axis and the normal to the axis, and simple shear direction is changed through 180° or ±90° with respect to the deformation zone) were selected. It has been shown that ECMAE provides the increase of modulus of elasticity E more than twice, tensile strength σT increases in four times. At the same time, strain at break εb is reduced by 1.5%. The value of the achieved effects depends on the accumulated deformation and the selected deformation route. The best set of physical and mechanical characteristics was observed in the case of Route E. According to SEM data, Route C results in partial pore healing and E provides total pore healing both in longitudinal and transversal direction. The observed effects are related to orientation order formation, increase of cristallinity degree and reduction of structure imperfection of extrudates. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Applying the Publication Power Approach to Artificial Intelligence Journals
Authors: Rokach Lior
Published: April 2012

This study evaluates the utility of a publication power approach (PPA) for assessing the quality of journals in the field of artificial intelligence. PPA is compared with the Thomson‐Reuters Institute for Scientific Information (TR) 5‐year and 2‐year impact factors and with expert opinion. The ranking produced by the method under study is only partially correlated with citation‐based measures (TR), but exhibits close agreement with expert survey rankings. A simple average of TR and power rankings results in a new ranking that is highly correlated with the expert survey rankings. This evidence suggests that power ranking can contribute to evaluating artificial intelligence journals.
Calcium Phosphate Nanocarriers Dual‐Loaded with Bovine Serum Albumin and Ibuprofen: Facile Synthesis, Sequential Drug Loading and Sustained Drug Release
Authors: Zhao Xin‐Yu , Zhu Ying‐Jie , Chen Feng , Wu Jin
Published: April 2012

A simple and green strategy is reported for the preparation, drug loading, and release properties of a drug delivery system consisting of calcium phosphate (CP) nanocarriers dual‐loaded with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and hydrophobic drug ibuprofen (IBU). The sequential loading of BSA and IBU in calcium phosphate nanocarriers and in vitro simultaneous release of BSA and IBU are realized and investigated. In this method, BSA, which is used as a model protein drug, is encapsulated in situ in calcium phosphate nanocarriers. Subsequently, the typical hydrophobic drug IBU is loaded in the BSA/CP drug delivery system, forming the IBU/BSA/CP dual drug delivery system. The experiments reveal that the preloaded BSA not only reduces the cytotoxicity of calcium phosphate nanocarriers but also significantly improves the IBU drug loading capacity in calcium phosphate nanocarriers and greatly extends the duration of drug release. Thus, the as‐prepared IBU/BSA/CP dual drug delivery system is promising for drug delivery applications.
Multimodal Interventional Molecular Imaging of Tumor Margins and Distant Metastases by Targeting αvβ3 Integrin
Authors: Bunschoten Anton , Buckle Tessa , Visser Nils L. , Kuil Joeri , Yuan Hushan , Josephson Lee , Vahrmeijer Alexander L. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B.
Published: April 2012

αvβ3 Integrin is involved in (tumor‐induced) angiogenesis and is a promising candidate for the specific visualization of both primary tumors and of their distant metastases. Combination of radioactive and fluorescent imaging labels in a single multimodal, or rather hybrid, RGD‐based imaging agent enables integration of pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative angiogenesis imaging. A hybrid imaging agent targeting the αvβ3 integrin—111In‐MSAP‐RGD (MSAP=multifunctional single‐attachment‐point reagent), which contains a targeting moiety, a pentetic acid (DTPA) chelate, and a cyanine dye—was evaluated for its potential value in combined lesion detection and interventional molecular imaging in a 4T1 mouse breast cancer model. SPECT/CT and fluorescence imaging were used to visualize the tumor in vivo. Tracer distribution was evaluated ex vivo down to the microscopic level. The properties of 111In‐MSAP‐RGD were compared with those of 111In‐DTPA‐RGD. Biodistribution studies revealed a prolonged retention and increased tumor accumulation of 111In‐MSAP‐RGD relative to 111In‐DTPA‐RGD. With 111In‐MSAP‐RGD, identical features could be visualized preoperatively (SPECT/CT) and intraoperatively (fluorescence imaging). As well as the primary tumor, 111In‐MSAP‐RGD also enabled detection and accurate excision of distant metastases in the head and neck region of the mice. Therefore, the hybrid RGD derivative 111In‐MSAP‐RGD shows potential in preoperative planning and fluorescence‐based surgical intervention.
Key Amino Acid Residues for Reversed or Improved Enantiospecificity of an ω‐Transaminase
Authors: Humble Maria Svedendahl , Cassimjee Karim Engelmark , Abedi Vahak , Federsel Hans‐Jürgen , Berglund Per
Published: April 2012

Transaminases inherently possess high enantiospecificity and are valuable tools for stereoselective synthesis of chiral amines in high yield from a ketone and a simple amino donor such as 2‐propylamine. Most known ω‐transaminases are (S)‐selective and there is, therefore, a need of (R)‐selective enzymes. We report the successful rational design of an (S)‐selective ω‐transaminase for reversed and improved enantioselectivity. Previously, engineering performed on this enzyme group was mainly based on directed evolution, with few exceptions. One reason for this is the current lack of 3D structures. We have explored the ω‐transaminase from Chromobacterium violaceum and have used a homology modeling/rational design approach to create enzyme variants for which the activity was increased and the enantioselectivity reversed. This work led to the identification of key amino acid residues that control the activity and enantiomeric preference. To increase the enantiospecificity of the C. violaceum ω‐transaminase, a possible single point mutation (W60C) in the active site was identified by homology modeling. By site‐directed mutagenesis this enzyme variant was created and it displayed an E value improved up to 15‐fold. In addition, to reverse the enantiomeric preference of the enzyme, two other point mutations (F88A/A231F) were identified. This double mutation created an enzyme variant, which displayed substrate dependent reversed enantiomeric preference with an E value shifted from 3.9 (S) to 63 (R) for 2‐aminotetralin.
Highly Concentrated Aqueous Dispersions of Graphene Exfoliated by Sodium Taurodeoxycholate: Dispersion Behavior and Potential Application as a Catalyst Support for the Oxygen‐Reduction Reaction
Authors: Sun Zhenyu , Masa Justus , Liu Zhimin , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Muhler Martin
Published: April 2012

A high‐yielding exfoliation of graphene at high concentrations in aqueous solutions is critical for both fundamental study and future applications. Herein, we demonstrate the formation of stable aqueous dispersions of pristine graphene by using the surfactant sodium taurodeoxycholate under tip sonication at concentrations of up to 7.1 mg mL−1. TEM showed that about 8 % of the graphene flakes consisted of monolayers and 82 % of the flakes consisted of less than five layers. The dispersions were stable regardless of freezing (−20 °C) or heat treatment (80 °C) for 24 h. The concentration could be significantly improved to about 12 mg mL−1 by vacuum‐evaporation of the dispersions at ambient temperature. The as‐prepared graphene dispersions were readily cast into conductive films and were also processed to prepare Pt/graphene nanocomposites that were used as highly active electrocatalysts for the oxygen‐reduction reaction.
Scaffold‐Inspired Enantioselective Synthesis of Biologically Important Spiro[pyrrolidin‐3,2′‐oxindoles] with Structural Diversity through Catalytic Isatin‐Derived 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloadditions
Authors: Shi Feng , Tao Zhong‐Lin , Luo Shi‐Wei , Tu Shu‐Jiang , Gong Liu‐Zhu
Published: April 2012

Catalytic asymmetric construction of the biologically important spiro[pyrrolidin‐3,2′‐oxindole] scaffold with contiguous quaternary stereogenic centers in excellent stereoselectivities (up to >99:1 d.r., 98 % ee) has been established by using an organocatalytic 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of isatin‐based azomethine ylides. This protocol represents the first example of catalytic asymmetric 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions involving azomethine ylides generated in situ from unsymmetrical cyclic ketones. In addition, theoretical calculations were performed on the transition state of the reaction to understand the stereochemistry. Preliminary bioassays with these spiro[pyrrolidin‐3,2′‐oxindole] revealed that several compounds showed moderate cytotoxicity to SW116 cells.
Synthesis, Anti‐HIV Activity Studies, and in silico Rationalization of Cyclobutane‐Fused Nucleosides
Authors: Figueras Antoni , Miralles‐Llumà Rosa , Flores Ramon , Rustullet Albert , Busqué Félix , Figueredo Marta , Font Josep , Alibés Ramon , Maréchal Jean‐Didier
Published: April 2012

The present work describes some recent approaches to novel 3‐oxabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane‐type nucleosides structurally similar to the potent anti‐HIV agent stavudine (d4T). To gain knowledge at the molecular level relevant for further synthetic designs, the lack of activity of these compounds was investigated by computational approaches accounting for three main physiological requirements of anti‐HIV nucleosides: their drug‐likeness, their activation process, and their subsequent interaction with HIV reverse transcriptase (HIV‐RT). Our results show that the inclusion of the fused cyclobutane at the 2′‐ and 3′‐positions of the sugar portion provides drug‐like compounds. Nonetheless, the presence of this cyclobutane moiety prevents binding orientations consistent with the catalytic activation for at least one of the enzymes known to activate d4T. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to explicitly consider the simulation of the entire activation process to rationalize anti‐HIV activities.