bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polysulfonylamine Polysulfonylamine, CXXXVIII [1], 1.1-Di(organosu!fonyl)-3,3-diorganylharnstoffe: Synthese von acht Vertretern und Kristallstruktur des Prototyps (MeSO2)2N-C(O)-NMe2 / Polysulfonylamines, CXXXVIII [1]. 1.1-Di(organosulfonyl)-3,3-diorganylureas: Synthesis of Eight Representatives and Crystal Structure of the Prototype (MeSO2)2N-C(O)-NMe2
Authors: Dalluhn Jörg , Pröhl Hans-Heinrich , Blaschette Armand , Jones Peter G.
Published: February 2015

Eight compounds of the type (RSO2)2N-C(O)-NR'2 , where R = Me or 4-tolyl and R' = Me, Et, iPr or Ph, were obtained in good yields by treating the corresponding carbamoyl chlorides R'2NC(0)C1 with silver salts AgN (SO2R)2 in acetonitrile solution. The pronounced sensitivity of the compounds towards atmospheric moisture is indicative of a high degree of electrophilic activation at the carbonyl centre; bulk hydrolysis rapidly leads to carbon dioxide and the corresponding ammonium salt R'2NH+
2'N (SO2R)2. In the 1H and 13C NMR solution spectra, the R4N groups of the ureas give rise to distinct R' resonances at room temperature, reflecting unusually high barriers to rotation about the C(O)-NR'2 bonds. For ( MeSO2)2N-C(O)-NMe2 (1a) and the analogous ditosyl compound, the 1H NMR signals of the dimethylamino group were found to coalesce at 107 °C and 93 °C, respectively, which corresponds to a rotational barrier of ⊿G#
c ≈ 80 kJ mol-1. In the crystal of la (triclinic, space group P1̄, Z = 2; X-ray diffraction at -75 °C), the molecule possesses an essentially planar Me2N-C(O)-N moiety (except H atoms), whereas the C-NS2 grouping is pyramidalized to such an extent that N lies 27.8(2) pm out of the plane defined by the carbonyl C atom and the two sulfonyl S atoms [S-N-S 120.52(11)°, C-N-S 115.73(14) and 115.06(14)°]. The most remarkable features of the molecular structure are the exceedingly long C(O)-NS2 bond [148.6(3) pm] and the concomitantly short C-O and C(O)-NC2 bonds [121.4(3) and 132.2(3) pm]. The crystal packing of la is governed by a three-dimensional network of nine intermolecular C-H···O hydrogen bonds originating from the activated M e-S and M e -N donor groups (H···O 230-266 pm, C-H···O 123-173°).
Synthesis And Antiviral Activity Of 2'-Deoxy-2'-Fluoro-L-Arabinofuranosyl 1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives
Authors: Ölgen Süreyya , Chu Chung K.
Published: February 2015

The title compounds were prepared by building up the triazole ring at the anomeric position via the glycosyl azides 5 a,b. The anomeric configurations of these nucleosides were assigned by using 1H, 13C and NOESY NMR spectroscopy. The synthesized nucleosides were evaluated against HIV-1 and HBV
Three Reagents In One: Ammonium Permanganate In The Oxidation Of Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Kotai László , Kazinczy Béla , Keszler Ágnes , Holly Sándor , Gács István , Banerji Kalyan K.
Published: February 2015

The oxidation or consecutive ammoxidation reaction of benzyl alcohol with solid ammonium permanganate was studied. The first oxidation step leads to the formation of benzaldehyde, ammonia, and MnO2. The MnO2 is present in the system in a colloidal form which facilitates the reaction between aldehyde and ammonia, and this latter reaction then yields benzonitrile. All these products are formed in a heterogeneous system under relatively mild conditions. The yield of benzaldehyde has an optimum at room temperature and increases with increasing reaction time. At higher temperature (e.g. 80 °C) benzonitrile is formed together with minor amounts of benzyl benzoate
Drei Formen des Samarium(III)-Sulfidselenids Sm2S2-xSe1+x (0,1 ≤ x < 0,2) / Tree Types of the Samarium(III) Sulfide Selenide Sm2S2-xSe1+x (0,1 ≤ x < 0,2)
Authors: Lissner Falk , Weber Frank A. , Schleid Thomas
Published: February 2015

Single crystals of Sm2S2-xSe1+x (0.1 ≤ x < 0.2) have been obtained for the first time through the oxidation of KSm2Cl5 with an excess of sulfur and selenium in equimolar amounts at 850 °C after seven days in evacuated silica tubes. They emerged as almost black, in thin layers deep red, lath-shaped needles (A and U type, respectively) as well as red, bead-shaped polyhedra (C type) of the gross chemical composition Sm2S2Se according to X-ray structure analyses. A much simpler method of synthesis is based on the direct fusion of the elements (samarium, sulfur and selenium) in appropriate molar ratios (2:2:1) in the presence of NaCl as a flux under otherwise analogous conditions (silica tubes, 7 d, 850 °C). A-Sm2S1.82Se1.18 crystallizes orthorhombically (a = 753.1(3), b = 401.9(1), c = 1565.8(6) pm, Z = 4) in the space group Pnma with the α-Gd2S3-type structure. Two crystallographically different Sm3+ cations are coordinated by eight (Sm1) and seven (Sm2) Ch2- anions (S2- and Se2-) as biand monocapped trigonal prisms, respectively. C-Sm2S1.90Se1.10 adopts the cubic γ-Ce2S3-type structure (I4̅3d; a = 858.7(2) pm, Z = 5.333) with trigon-dodecahedrally coordinated Sm3+ cations (CN = 8 ). Finally, U-Sm2S1.84Se1.16 with the orthorhombic U2S3-type structure (Pnma; a = 1105.3(6), b = 399.2(1), c = 1074.0(5) pm, Z = 4) exhibits two crystallographically different Sm3+ cations again, which are coordinated by seven (Sm1) and seven plus one (Sm2) Ch2- anions, respectively. The preferential occupation of S _ and Se2- anions at only one in the C-type, but three anionic sites each in the A- and U-type crystal structures of Sm2S2-xSe1+x (0 .1 ≤ x < 0.2 ) is discussed.
New Coordination Compounds Derived from Nitrone Ligands: Copper(II) Complexes with 8-Hydroxyquinoline-2-carbaldehyde- and Pyridine-2-carbaldehyde-N-methylnitrones
Authors: Petkova Elena G. , Domasevitch Konstantin V. , Gorichko Marian V. , Zub Vera Y. , Lampeka Rostislav D.
Published: February 2015

New copper(II) complexes with 8-hydroxyquinoline-2-carbaldehyde-N-methylnitrone (HL1) (1) and pyridine-2-carbaldehyde-N-methylnitrone (L2) (2) have been synthesized. The crystal structure of compound 1 consists of binuclear molecules Cu2(L1)2(NO3)2 with the oxygen atoms of the hydroxy groups acting as bridges between the copper ions. The nitrone ligand in 1 is coordinated in a tridentate fashion forming five-and six-membered chelate rings, and the copper ions have a square-pyramidal environment with the bridging oxygen atoms in apical positions. In compound 2 Cu(L2)2(NO3)2, the copper atom adopts a distorted octahedral environment with bidentately coordinated nitrone ligands. In both cases the nitrone groups are involved in coordination via the oxygen atom. Compounds 1 and 2 have been studied by EPR, UV-VIS and IR spectroscopy. The free nitrone HL1 has also been studied by X-ray diffraction as well as by IR and UV spectroscopy.
Global Diversity Lines–A Five-Continent Reference Panel of SequencedDrosophila melanogasterStrains
Authors: Grenier Jennifer K , Arguello J Roman , Moreira Margarida Cardoso , Gottipati Srikanth , Mohammed Jaaved , Hackett Sean R , Boughton Rachel , Greenberg Anthony J , Clark Andrew G
Published: February 2015

Reference collections of multiple Drosophila lines with accumulating collections of “omics” data have proven especially valuable for the study of population genetics and complex trait genetics. Here we present a description of a resource collection of 84 strains of Drosophila melanogaster whose genome sequences were obtained after 12 generations of full-sib inbreeding. The initial rationale for this resource was to foster development of a systems biology platform for modeling metabolic regulation by the use of natural polymorphisms as perturbations. As reference lines, they are amenable to repeated phenotypic measurements, and already a large collection of metabolic traits have been assayed. Another key feature of these strains is their widespread geographic origin, coming from Beijing, Ithaca, Netherlands, Tasmania, and Zimbabwe. After obtaining 12.5× coverage of paired-end Illumina sequence reads, SNP and indel calls were made with the GATK platform. Thorough quality control was enabled by deep sequencing one line to >100×, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms and indels were validated using ddRAD-sequencing as an orthogonal platform. In addition, a series of preliminary population genetic tests were performed with these single-nucleotide polymorphism data for assessment of data quality. We found 83 segregating inversions among the lines, and as expected these were especially abundant in the African sample. We anticipate that this will make a useful addition to the set of reference D. melanogaster strains, thanks to its geographic structuring and unusually high level of genetic diversity.
Convergence of the Galerkin Method for Nonlinear Dynamics of the Continuous Structure
Authors: Hu Ding
Published: February 2015

The Galerkin truncation method is a powerful method for nonlinear dynamics analysis, and has been widely used to discretize the spatial differential operator. Due to more and more new fields of application, the research interest on the Galerkin method is still high today. In this paper, research on the convergence of Galerkin method for nonlinear dynamics of the continuous structure is thoroughly reviewed. At the beginning, the Galerkin method is briefly introduced. Then, the paper reviews the application of the truncation method. This paper also sums up the comparative study on the Galerkin method with other methods, such as the finite difference method (FDM), the finite element method (FEM), and the multiple time scales method. In the investigations concerning the convergence of the Galerkin method, this paper summarizes recent studies on nonlinear dynamics of the axially moving systems, the continua on the nonlinear foundation, and the belt-pulley systems. Finally, the truncation terms of Galerkin method for the continuous structure's nonlinear dynamics analysis is suggested for the future research applications.
Adhesion and Cell Viability of Normal Human Osteoblasts (NHOst) on Scaffolds of Poly (3-hydroxybutyrate)
Authors: Domínguez-Díaz Maraolina , Meneses-Acosta Angelica , Romo-Uribe Angel
Published: February 2015

Biodegradable Normal Human Osteoblast (NHOst) cells were inoculated into the polymer scaffolds of poly(β-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) obtained from a specially developed strain of Azotobacter vinelandii. Cell adhesion is essential to promote growth on scaffolds for tissue engineering. Thus, in this research we focused on the adhesion of osteoblast cells to PHB scaffolds produced by solution casting and electrospinning. Cell viability was also investigated up to 168 hrs. Water contact angle on the PHB scaffolds was determined prior to the cells inoculation. The contact angle is usually related to the ability of different cell strains to adhere to a given material. The as cast film exhibited a contact angle α=72° whereas for the electrospun membrane α=102°, thus in theory cell adhesion would be greater for the cast film. Biological testing was carried out on plates of 24 wells; cell viability was determined by Trypan Blue, cell morphology by optical microscopy, and cell nuclei integrity by staining with Acridine orange. Parallel studies were carried out on control (empty) wells. Microscopy observations 168 hrs after cell inoculation showed larger quantities of osteoblast cells in the wells containing PHB scaffolds and the cell nuclei were still active. Moreover, it was found that the cells grew inside the PHB scaffolds and the cell viability was slightly greater for the electrospun scaffold. Interestingly, the time to remove the cells from the scaffolds (film and membranes) was increasing function of the cell culture time, therefore suggesting that PHB promotes adhesion of Normal Human Osteoblast cells to its surface.
HVPE GaN with Low Concentration of Point Defects for Power Electronics
Authors: Reshchikov M. A. , McNamara J.D. , Usikov A. , Helava H. , Makarov Yu.
Published: February 2015

We have studied photoluminescence (PL) from undoped GaN films grown by HVPE technique on sapphire. Several defect-related PL bands are observed in the low-temperature PL spectrum. The concentrations of the defects responsible for these PL bands are determined from the dependence of PL intensity on excitation intensity. The RL band with a maximum at 1.8 eV is often the dominant PL band in HVPE GaN. It is caused by an unknown defect with the concentration of up to ∼1017 cm-3. The concentrations of defects responsible for other defect-related PL bands rarely exceed 1015 cm-3.
Incompatibility of Martensite Variant Clusters in Self-accommodation Microstructure in Ti-Ni-Pd High Temperature Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Teramoto Takeshi , Tahara Masaki , Hosoda Hideki , Inamura Tomonari
Published: February 2015

The formation frequency of habit plane variant (HPV) clusters in Ni-25Pd-50Ti shape memory alloy was analyzed using electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) on the basis of the geometrically nonlinear theory of martensite. Two types of cluster, diamond and wedge, were most commonly observed. The ratio of the formation frequency of the diamond to wedge clusters was approximately 1 : 3, whereas the rotation to keep the kinematic compatibility (KC) condition,θ*, was 3.9° and 0.0032°, respectively. The ratio of the formation frequency is quantified by the value ofθ* which is an indicator of the incompatibility of the cluster. The origin of the diamond cluster is discussed based on the degree of incompatibility.
Advancing the Use of Evidence-Based Decision-Making in Local Health Departments With Systems Science Methodologies
Authors: Li Yan , Kong Nan , Lawley Mark , Weiss Linda , Pagán José A.
Published: February 2015

Objectives. We assessed how systems science methodologies might be used to bridge resource gaps at local health departments (LHDs) so that they might better implement evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) to address population health challenges.

Methods. We used the New York Academy of Medicine Cardiovascular Health Simulation Model to evaluate the results of a hypothetical program that would reduce the proportion of people smoking, eating fewer than 5 fruits and vegetables per day, being physically active less than 150 minutes per week, and who had a body mass index (BMI) of 25 kg/m2 or greater. We used survey data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to evaluate health outcomes and validate simulation results.

Results. Smoking rates and the proportion of the population with a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or greater would have decreased significantly with implementation of the hypothetical program (P < .001). Two areas would have experienced a statistically significant reduction in the local population with diabetes between 2007 and 2027 (P < .05).

Conclusions. The use of systems science methodologies might be a novel and efficient way to systematically address a number of EBDM adoption barriers at LHDs.
Effect of Systems Change and Use of Electronic Health Records on Quit Rates Among Tobacco Users in a Public Hospital System
Authors: Moody-Thomas Sarah , Nasuti Laura , Yi Yong , Celestin Michael D. , Horswell Ronald , Land Thomas G.
Published: February 2015

Objectives. We examined electronic health records (EHRs) to assess the impact of systems change on tobacco use screening, treatment, and quit rates among low-income primary care patients in Louisiana.

Methods. We examined EHR data on 79 777 patients with more than 1.2 million adult primary care encounters from January 1, 2009, through January 31, 2012, for evidence of systems change. We adapted a definition of “systems change” to evaluate a tobacco screening and treatment protocol used by medical staff during primary care visits at 7 sites in a public hospital system.

Results. Six of 7 sites met the definition of systems change, with routine screening rates for tobacco use higher than 50%. Within the first year, a 99.7% screening rate was reached. Sites had a 9.5% relative decrease in prevalence over the study period. Patients were 1.03 times more likely to sustain quit with each additional intervention (95% confidence interval = 1.02, 1.04).

Conclusions. EHRs can be used to demonstrate that routine clinical interventions with low-income primary care patients result in reductions in tobacco use and sustained quits.
Trends and Characteristics of the State and Local Public Health Workforce, 2010–2013
Authors: Beck Angela J. , Boulton Matthew L.
Published: February 2015

Objectives. We assessed state and local public health workforce characteristics by occupational category from 2010 to 2013. We also examined health department characteristics to determine whether workforce size and composition varied across these domains.

Methods. We analyzed Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (2010, 2012) and National Association of County and City Health Officials (2010, 2013) profile study data, including 47 state health departments and 2005 and 1953 local health departments (LHDs) in 2010 and 2013, respectively. We determined number of workers and percentage of change by occupation, population size, geographic region, and governance structure.

Results. The LHD workforce remained stable between 2010 and 2013. In states, the workforce decreased by 4%, with notable decreases in public information (−33%) and public health informatics (−29%); state health departments in small (−9%), New England (−13%), and centralized (−7%) states reported the largest decrease in number of workers.

Conclusions. Study findings provide evidence of a shifting public health workforce profile, primarily at the state level. Future research should seek to explain changing workforce patterns and determine whether they are planned or forced responses to changing budgets and service priorities.
Building the Evidence for Decision-Making: The Relationship Between Local Public Health Capacity and Community Mortality
Authors: Schenck Anna P. , Meyer Anne Marie , Kuo Tzy-Mey , Cilenti Dorothy
Published: February 2015

Objectives. We examined associations between local health department (LHD) spending, staffing, and services and community health outcomes in North Carolina.

Methods. We analyzed LHD investments and community mortality in North Carolina from 2005 through 2010. We obtained LHD spending, staffing, and services data from the National Association of City and County Health Officials 2005 and 2008 profile surveys. Five mortality rates were constructed using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mortality files, North Carolina vital statistics data, and census data for LHD service jurisdictions: heart disease, cancer, diabetes, pneumonia and influenza, and infant mortality.

Results. Spending, staffing, and services varied widely by location and over time in the 85 North Carolina LHDs. A 1% increase in full-time-equivalent staffing (per 1000 population) was associated with decrease of 0.01 infant deaths per 1000 live births (P < .05). Provision of women and children’s services was associated with a reduction of 1 to 2 infant deaths per 1000 live births (P < .05).

Conclusions. Our findings, in the context of other studies, provide support for investment in local public health services to improve community health.
Local Health Department Food Safety and Sanitation Expenditures and Reductions in Enteric Disease, 2000–2010
Authors: Bekemeier Betty , Yip Michelle Pui-Yan , Dunbar Matthew D. , Whitman Greg , Kwan-Gett Tao
Published: February 2015

Objectives. In collaboration with Public Health Practice–Based Research Networks, we investigated relationships between local health department (LHD) food safety and sanitation expenditures and reported enteric disease rates.

Methods. We combined annual infection rates for the common notifiable enteric diseases with uniquely detailed, LHD-level food safety and sanitation annual expenditure data obtained from Washington and New York state health departments. We used a multivariate panel time-series design to examine ecologic relationships between 2000–2010 local food safety and sanitation expenditures and enteric diseases. Our study population consisted of 72 LHDs (mostly serving county-level jurisdictions) in Washington and New York.

Results. While controlling for other factors, we found significant associations between higher LHD food and sanitation spending and a lower incidence of salmonellosis in Washington and a lower incidence of cryptosporidiosis in New York.

Conclusions. Local public health expenditures on food and sanitation services are important because of their association with certain health indicators. Our study supports the need for program-specific LHD service-related data to measure the cost, performance, and outcomes of prevention efforts to inform practice and policymaking.
Public Health Accreditation: Rubber Stamp or Roadmap for Improvement
Authors: Carman Angela L. , Timsina Lava
Published: February 2015

Objectives. We identified the characteristics of local health departments (LHDs) that intended to seek accreditation, and also examined the association between that intent and a complete community health assessment (CHA), community health improvement plan, agency strategic plan, or other specific accreditation requirements.

Methods. We analyzed data from the 2010 profile survey of LHDs conducted by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (n = 267).

Results. Those LHDs that conducted a CHA (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.38, 1.00; P = .05) and developed a strategic plan (AOR = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.12, 0.74; P = .01) were less likely to have an intent to pursue accreditation in the first 2 years of the program. By contrast, those LHDs that were engaged in quality improvement (QI) activities were approximately 2.6 times more likely to pursue accreditation compared with those LHDs that did not have any QI activities (P < .001).

Conclusions. Based on our findings, national public health accreditation might be the vehicle LHDs could use to improve their operating environments, better manage their resources, and reap the rewards associated with meeting national industry standards.
Experience and Perspectives of Deepwater Smart Fields Management
Authors: Wilson Adam
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Special Publications Editor Adam Wilson, contains highlights of paper OTC 24078, ’Smart Fields Management in Deepwater Field: Experience and Perspectives,’ by Emmanuel Udofia, SPE, Olatunbosun Oni, Abdul Samad Chaker, and Ogbole Oghedegbe, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company, prepared for the 2013 Offshore Technology Conference, Houston, 6-9 May. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

Smart Fields, Shell’s version of the digital oil field, aims to provide an operating field with the capabilities to optimize production in the short term and maximize lifecycle value in the long term. This paper describes field experiences and perspectives on a Smart Fields implementation for the Bonga deepwater field and uses the results of a post-implementation study to evaluate the business effects and lessons learned after 5 years.

Introduction

The digital-oilfield process involves continuous production optimization of an asset or group of assets through integration of people, tools, and process.

Shell’s version of the digital-oilfield process is called Smart Fields. Smart Fields began with the installation and monitoring of control systems in wells. This has expanded to cover field management and has been formulated as a value loop, as shown in Fig. 1.

The value-loop concept describes how the respective components that make up the Smart Fields (technology, people, and process) are linked to meet business objectives. In the production and operation phase, Smart Fields covers diverse solutions. However, the standard solution comes in the form of the Smart Fields Foundation Mark 1, which forms the building blocks for smartness of the field for real-time well monitoring and optimization, data acquisition and model- based optimization, virtual metering, production allocation, and integrated-production-system modeling (IPSM).

The standard Smart Fields Foundation Mark 1 architecture (Fig. 2) gives a clear description of the structure that makes up this system. The architecture is divided into the process and office domains with the data-acquisition-and-control architecture (DACA), which is the cybersecurity system that provides the secure link between office and the field. Customized work flows guide the staff with the proper steps in executing the process and collaboration at the right moment and thereby assist the assets in obtaining the overall benefit of Smart Fields deployment.
Use of Dynamic Simulations To Prepare a Dual-Gradient-System Field Trial
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: February 2015

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 25360, ’Dynamic Simulations of New Well-Control Procedures Used To Prepare a Dual-Gradient-System Field Trial,’ by J.H. Cohen and R. Stave, Enhanced Drilling, and E. Hauge, J.M. Godhavn, and D.O. Molde, Statoil, prepared for the 2014 Offshore Technology Conference, Houston, 5-8 May. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

This paper reports results of a well-control study for a program to develop a dual-gradient- drilling (DGD) system known as controlled mud pressure (CMP). Conventional well control may not be possible when using dual-gradient systems, because a chokeline full of heavy mud may fracture the formation, making well control a major obstacle to implementing DGD offshore. The project developed several well-control methods, and one was selected for field testing after a risk-assessment process with the operator.

Introduction

While DGD solves many deepwater drilling problems relating to wellbore pressure (please see the complete paper for a discussion of the principles and applications of DGD), it may require new procedures for well control. This depends on water depth and how much the mud weight is increased. New well-control procedures will be necessary because the heavier drilling fluid in the well will exceed the formation’s fracture- pressure gradient if allowed to fill the chokeline and create a full column back to the surface. This potentially dangerous condition can result in formation breakdown and potential loss of well control.

It is also possible to apply DGD without extending casing depth. In this case, DGD will provide increased margins, and in some cases conventional well-control procedures may be applied.

DGD Well Control

Well-control procedures for DGD vary depending on the equipment and the exact nature of the DGD process, but for seafloor subsea-pump-based systems, the basics are well-documented in the literature. CMP uses a subsea pump to return drilling fluid and cuttings exiting the well to the surface.
Technology Focus: Oilfield Chemistry (September 2014)
Authors: Wylde Jonathan
Published: February 2015

Technology Focus

Sulfide scales are becoming more prevalent in the oilfield environment. There are several reasons for this, including higher-pressure and -temperature fields being developed, which can be associated with the formation of zinc and lead sulfide; fields maturing, with iron sulfide being often associated with old mature waterflooded fields; and sour production becoming more commonplace, resulting in more-challenging integrity management.

Little comprehensive research has been conducted on sulfide scales when compared to that concerning conventional carbonate- and sulfate-scale species. Perhaps this is partly because of the challenge of studying these materials in the laboratory and the perception that iron sulfide formation in the oil field is protective of tubulars and production equipment.

As the prevalence of these scales increases, so too does the focus being placed on them by the industry, academia, and independent research groups. However, a lot of space remains for innovation and understanding.

Today, the correct mitigation and cleanup methods can be selected most appropriately only on the basis of accurate root-cause-of-failure analysis. Generally, no single solution can be applied to all systems because the root causes differ from system to system. Commonality exists, however, insofar as a combination of dissolver/chelant and surfactant is nearly always needed for cleanup of the typically oil-wet scale.

Control methods have focused very much on indirect techniques of removing one of the scaling species, such as chelation and sequestration of either the metal cation or the sulfide in order to reduce supersaturation. However, as the formation environments become more severe, these methods are being found to be increasingly challenging as they typically involve stoichiometric amounts of preventive chemicals. More recently, however, threshold inhibitors are starting to be reported in the literature, including some very promising chemistry evaluations from several research groups. Critical to success here is the accurate testing in the laboratory that best approximates field conditions. Unlike with conventional scale types, this is very easy to get wrong, so great care must be taken when intending to realize conformity between laboratory testing and success in the field. One thing is certain: More work needs to be performed by the industry before it can be said that control of these scales is understood and is as easy to manage as it is for conventional scale species. JPT
Kinetics and Inhibition of Ferrous Sulfide Nucleation and Precipitation
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Dennis Denney, contains highlights of paper SPE 169748, ’Kinetics and Inhibition of Ferrous Sulfide Nucleation and Precipitation,’ by Qiliang Wang, Zhang Zhang, Amy Kan, SPE, and Mason Tomson, SPE, Rice University, prepared for the 2014 SPE International Oilfield Scale Conference and Exhibition, Aberdeen, 14-15 May. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

Ferrous sulfide (FeS) precipitation increases during shale-gas and -oil production because of increased biologically and thermally induced sulfide production. Although FeS scale is abundant, little is understood about its precipitation and inhibition properties. A plug-flow apparatus adds reliable data to the limited database of scaling kinetics in flowing pipes, and it provides a new method to study the effect of inhibitors in oil-production systems.

Introduction

During oil production, mineral-salt precipitation (scale) builds up inside wellbores. It is very difficult to study the formation and inhibition of FeS because the experiments must be performed under rigorous anoxic conditions and the induction time is very short. Compared with common oilfield scales, FeS scale has distinctive characteristics. FeS can cause galvanic corrosion in the presence of water. FeS has several crystalline forms with different sulfur/iron ratios that result in different solubilities of FeS. Additionally, FeS particles are oil-wet and can be coated easily with oil or hydrocarbons; these coatings can act as a diffusion barrier that retards acid reaction with the scale.

To evaluate the risk of scaling in pipes, a plug-flow apparatus was used to investigate CaCO3-scale precipitation on stainless-steel tubes. In the study of CaCO3, a precoated plug-flow reactor provided a constant composition at the tubing exit, including constant pH, saturation index (SI), ionic strength, and surface area. The plug-flow system provided a feasible approach to study the kinetics of initial attachment and crystal growth. FeS had not been studied with a plug-flow system; therefore, it was important to develop a plug-flow setup to investigate FeS formation and precipitation, enhancing the limited database of scaling kinetics in flowing pipes.

To eliminate the influence of scale on oil production, scale inhibitors often are needed to minimize the scale buildup. The controlling method of scale inhibitors is to delay, reduce, or prevent scale formation. Scale inhibitors can prevent further growth of scale crystals by adsorbing onto the surface of the crystals. In addition to scale inhibitors, dispersants and chelating agents are applied to sequester metal cations, preventing them from reacting with anions. The objectives of this research were to investigate the effects related to the driving force on FeS precipitation in batch and plug-flow systems, and to conduct a series of laboratory studies on scale-inhibition approaches for FeS by use of commercial scale inhibitors and chelating agents.
Estimation of local cyclic plasticity based on a coupled EBSD and TEM analysis*
Authors: Bouquerel Jeremie , Léaux Foriane , Vogt Jean-Bernard , Palleschi Frederic
Published: February 2015

In the present work, a novel approach is adopted to evaluate the low cycle fatigue (LCF) damage at a mesoscopic scale. The fatigue behavior of a ferritic steel has been studied and damage criteria were assessed by a metallurgical approach that combines two analysis techniques: transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). After characterizing the cyclic behavior of the material for different loading parameters at a total strain range varying from 0.3 % to 0.7 %, the microstructure evolution induced by the cyclic plasticity was studied in a multi-scale investigation. Here, TEM and SEM-EBSD give complementary information about the link between macroscopic fatigue behavior and microstructure changes. TEM shows a clear indication of the dislocations structures related to fatigue damage. SEM-EBSD completes the investigation by giving quantitative data associated to local deformation. This relation enables to determine plastic strain assessment, for example, of industrial components.
The Role of Cardiopulmonary Bypass on the Early Postoperative IgG levels, Effect on the Postoperative Outcome in Cardiac Surgery Patients - A Pilot Study
Authors: Artemiou Panagiotis , Mizakova Stefania , Lukacin Stefan , Pashalidis Ioannis
Published: February 2015

Objective: This study tried to elucidate the role of the cardiopulmonary bypass on the early postoperative immunoglobulin G levels and any probable effects on the postoperative outcome of the patients. Methods: 99 consecutive patients were studied. The evening after surgery the level of the immunoglobulin G was obtained. The postoperative course of each patient during the first three days was followed. One way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results: 20 (20.2%) patients had decreased early postoperative immunoglobulin G levels. 87 (87.87%) patients were operated with cardiopulmonary bypass and 17 (19.54%) of them had lower levels of postoperative immunoglobulin G without any significantly increased clinically adverse events. The statistical analysis between the two groups included: pulmonary infiltrations, leukocytosis >15x103/mm3, pulmonary dysfunction, mechanical ventilation >24h, renal and hepatic dysfunction, postoperative ileus, postoperative delirium, sternal wound infection, thrombocytopenia <60x103/ mm3 and sepsis. The statistical results were: p=0.815, p=0.88, p=0.93, p=0.30, p=0.67, p=0.13, p=0.84, p=0.38, p=0.76 respectively. Conclusion: In this pilot study we tried to explore the role of cardiopulmonary bypass on the early postoperative levels of immunoglobulin G and to establish any correlation with the postoperative outcome. The use of cardiopulmonary bypass and its duration did not prove to be risk factors for low early postoperative immunoglobulin G levels. In our opinion the prophylactic use of IVIG in this group of patients has no benefit. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v7i2.22247 Cardiovasc. j. 2015; 7(2): 79-84
Evaluation of Pulmonary Function after Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Patients Treated with Preoperative Bronchodilator
Authors: Chowdhury Muhammad Abdul Quaium , Hosain Nazmul , Maruf Mohammad Fazle , Rahman Md Mostafizur , Aftabuddin Md , Adhikary Asit Baran
Published: February 2015

Background: Bronchodilators, by dilatation of bronchial tree through relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle increases the vital capacity, tidal volume and total lung capacity and reduces gas trapping. This study was conducted to assess the pulmonary function after off-pump coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery between patients with impaired pulmonary function treated with or without preoperative bronchodilator. We also compared duration of mechanical ventilation and days spent in the surgical intensive care unit (ICU) after CABG in both group of patients. Methods: This prospective cohort study was carried out in the department of Cardiac Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2009 to April 2011. This study included 50 patients (25 patients in each group) with multi-vessels coronary artery disease with impaired pulmonary function who underwent off-pump CABG. Results: Spirometry was done in both groups of patients after admission, day before operation and on 7th post-operative day. The difference in Forced vital capacity (FVC) and Forced expiratory volume in 1st second (FEV1 ) between two groups were not statistically significant after admission (P>0.05). On the day before surgery the values of FVC and FEV1 were increased (more in Group-I who were treated with bronchodilator) and 7th postoperative day the values were decreased (more in Group-II who were not treated with bronchodilator). The results were found statistically significant in between groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Bronchodilator should be considered pre-operatively in all patients having impaired pulmonary function undergoing off-pump CABG for better preservation of postoperative pulmonary function. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v7i2.22260 Cardiovasc. j. 2015; 7(2): 123-127
Introducing a Semi-Coated Model to Investigate Antibacterial Effects of Biocompatible Polymers on Titanium Surfaces
Authors: Winkel Andreas , Dempwolf Wibke , Gellermann Eva , Sluszniak Magdalena , Grade Sebastian , Heuer Wieland , Eisenburger Michael , Menzel Henning , Stiesch Meike
Published: February 2015

Peri-implant infections from bacterial biofilms on artificial surfaces are a common threat to all medical implants. They are a handicap for the patient and can lead to implant failure or even life-threatening complications. New implant surfaces have to be developed to reduce biofilm formation and to improve the long-term prognosis of medical implants. The aim of this study was (1) to develop a new method to test the antibacterial efficacy of implant surfaces by direct surface contact and (2) to elucidate whether an innovative antimicrobial copolymer coating of 4-vinyl-N-hexylpyridinium bromide and dimethyl(2-methacryloyloxyethyl) phosphonate (VP:DMMEP 30:70) on titanium is able to reduce the attachment of bacteria prevalent in peri-implant infections. With a new in vitro model with semi-coated titanium discs, we were able to show a dramatic reduction in the adhesion of various pathogenic bacteria (Streptococcus sanguinis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis), completely independently of effects caused by soluble materials. In contrast, soft tissue cells (human gingival or dermis fibroblasts) were less affected by the same coating, despite a moderate reduction in initial adhesion of gingival fibroblasts. These data confirm the hypothesis that VP:DMMEP 30:70 is a promising antibacterial copolymer that may be of use in several clinical applications.
Analysis of Phenolic and Cyclic Compounds in Plants Using Derivatization Techniques in Combination with GC-MS-Based Metabolite Profiling
Authors: Rohloff Jens
Published: February 2015

Metabolite profiling has been established as a modern technology platform for the description of complex chemical matrices and compound identification in biological samples. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in particular is a fast and accurate method widely applied in diagnostics, functional genomics and for screening purposes. Following solvent extraction and derivatization, hundreds of metabolites from different chemical groups can be characterized in one analytical run. Besides sugars, acids, and polyols, diverse phenolic and other cyclic metabolites can be efficiently detected by metabolite profiling. The review describes own results from plant research to exemplify the applicability of GC-MS profiling and concurrent detection and identification of phenolics and other cyclic structures.
Nkrp1 Family, from Lectins to Protein Interacting Molecules
Authors: Rozbeský Daniel , Ivanova Ljubina , Hernychová Lucie , Grobárová Valéria , Novák Petr , Černý Jan
Published: February 2015

The C-type lectin-like receptors include the Nkrp1 protein family that regulates the activity of natural killer (NK) cells. Rat Nkrp1a was reported to bind monosaccharide moieties in a Ca2+-dependent manner in preference order of GalNac > GlcNAc >> Fuc >> Gal > Man. These findings established for rat Nkrp1a have been extrapolated to all additional Nkrp1 receptors and have been supported by numerous studies over the past two decades. However, since 1996 there has been controversy and another article showed lack of interactions with saccharides in 1999. Nevertheless, several high affinity saccharide ligands were synthesized in order to utilize their potential in antitumor therapy. Subsequently, protein ligands were introduced as specific binders for Nkrp1 proteins and three dimensional models of receptor/protein ligand interaction were derived from crystallographic data. Finally, for at least some members of the NK cell C-type lectin-like proteins, the “sweet story” was impaired by two reports in recent years. It has been shown that the rat Nkrp1a and CD69 do not bind saccharide ligands such as GlcNAc, GalNAc, chitotetraose and saccharide derivatives (GlcNAc-PAMAM) do not directly and specifically influence cytotoxic activity of NK cells as it was previously described.
Inter-Comparison between VIIRS and MODIS Radiances and Ocean Color Data Products over the Chesapeake Bay
Authors: Li Rong-Rong , Lewis Mark , Gould Richard , Lawson Adam , Amin Ruhul , Gallegos Sonia , Ladner Sherwin
Published: February 2015

Since the October 2011 launch of the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) instrument, a number of inter-sensor comparisons between VIIRS and MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) radiances have been reported. Most of these comparisons are between calibrated radiances and temperatures based on observations of the two sensors from simultaneous nadir overpasses (SNO). Few comparisons between the retrieved ocean color data products, such as chlorophyll concentration, from VIIRS and MODIS data have been reported. Retrievals from measured data at large solar zenith angles and large view zenith angles are excluded from these comparison studies. In this paper, we report the inter-sensor comparisons between VIIRS and MODIS data acquired over the Chesapeake Bay and nearby areas with relatively large differences in sensor view angles. The goal for this study is to check the consistency between MODIS and VIIRS ocean color data products in order to merge the products from the two sensors. We compare total radiances (Lt) at the top of atmosphere (TOA) and the ocean color (OC) data products derived with the automatic processing system (APS) from both VIIRS and MODIS data. APS was developed at the Naval Research Laboratory, Stennis Space Center (NRL/SSC). We have found that, although there are large differences between the measured radiances (Lt) of the two sensors when the sensor zenith angle differences are significant, the mean percent differences between the retrieved normalized water-leaving radiances are about 15%. The results show that the variation in satellite view zenith angles is not a main factor affecting the retrieval of ocean color data products, i.e., the atmospheric correction routine adequately removes the view-angle dependence.
Prolific Faltering in F. X. Svoboda’s Prose and Its International Context [Fertile questionnement dans la prose de F. X. Svoboda et le contexte international]
Authors: Pospíšil Ivo
Published: February 2015

Fertile questionnement dans la prose de F. X. Svoboda et le contexte international

L’auteur étudie les premiers textes en prose de F. X. Svoboda (1860-1943) situés à la frontière entre le réalisme et le modernisme, entre une présentation traditionnelle de la réalité et des tendances novatrices. Il attire l’attention sur leur orientation générique, marquée par l’influence des chroniques, et évoque des parallèles de ce genre de narration dans les littératures allemande, anglaise, scandinaves et slaves. Il prend en considération leur ouverture vers des réflexions psychologiques connues d’un réalisme tardif, mais parfois proches également du préroman- tisme et du sentimentalisme. L’oeuvre de Svoboda correspond à l’atmosphère de la littérature tchèque de l’époque, qui, en s’inspirant de divers courants littéraires européens, a pu rappeler la situation en Russie sous Pierre le Grand, où la littérature classique a commencé à se rattacher à la sphère culturelle occidentale. La fonction emblématique de Prague et de la campagne tchèque de même que la représentation de personnages complexes et neurasthéniques, avec la mise en valeur de motifs sexuels, aboutissent dans les premières chroniques de Svoboda, la Floraison (Rozkvět, 1898) et la Rivière

(Řeka, 1903-1905), à une conception de la vie plus ou moins décadente, caractéristique des contradictions de la littérature tchèque entre le Renouveau national et le modernisme. En même temps elles annoncent, quoique discrètement, un avenir artistique prometteur.
Embedding Topical Elements of Parallel Programming, Computer Graphics, and Artificial Intelligence across the Undergraduate CS Required Courses
Authors: Wolfer James
Published: February 2015

Traditionally, topics such as parallel computing, computer graphics, and artificial intelligence have been taught as stand-alone courses in the computing curriculum. Often these are elective courses, limiting the material to the subset of students choosing to take the course. Recently there has been movement to distribute topics across the curriculum in order to ensure that all graduates have been exposed to concepts such as parallel computing. Previous work described an attempt to systematically weave a tapestry of topics into the undergraduate computing curriculum. This paper reviews that work and expands it with representative examples of assignments, demonstrations, and results as well as describing how the tools and examples deployed for these classes have a residual effect on classes such as Comptuer Literacy.
Animation-Based Teaching of Semiconductor Devices: Long-Term Improvement in Students’ Achievements in a Two-Year College
Authors: Gero Aharon , Zoabi Wishah
Published: February 2015

The structure and operating principle of semiconductor devices are a central topic in teaching electronics, both in universities and in two-year colleges. Teachers teaching this subject normally run into substantial difficulties stemming from the fact that a major part of the concepts and processes that are relevant to understanding these devices are abstract. In light of the advantages of multimedia in illustrating dynamic processes, the chapter covering the field effect transistor (FET) has recently been taught through animation at a two-year college in Israel. The study presented here has examined, through quantitative tools, whether animation-based teaching of the FET had any effect on students’ achievements in the subject of basic electronic devices. Forty electronics students have participated in the study. Its findings indicate that in the short and long term alike, the achievements of students who studied the transistor through animation were significantly higher than those of their peers who studied it through a traditional method. Additionally, the effect size was very large.