bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Viscosity of Air, Water, Natural Gas, Crude Oil and Its Associated Gases at Oil Field Temperatures and Pressures
Authors: Beal Carlton
Published: June 2014

This paper presents useful charts for conversion of various viscosimeter unitsinto centipoises and graphically summarizes published investigations of theviscosity of air, water and natural gas at high temperatures and pressures.Where possible, charts and correlations were constructed to cover a range oftemperature (60'F. to 300'F.) and pressure (14.7 lb. per sq. in. abs. to 8000lb. per sq. in. gauge) encountered in oil fields.

Correlation charts, for the purpose of predicting crude oil viscosity andsolubility behavior at oil field temperatures and pressures, were constructedfrom an analysis and correlation of 1332 viscosity and solubility observationsfrom 953 crude oil samples taken from 747 oil fields. Of these fields, 501 arein the United States, including 75 in California. Of the 1332 observations,12I5 were viscosity values, including 786 of gas-free crude oil, 351 of oilsaturated with gas, and 78 undersaturated with gas at pressures above thebubble point.

Results show that crude oil viscosity at various reservoir conditions can bepredicted with average deviations varying from 24.2 per cent for gas-free crudeoil to as little as 2.7 per cent for under saturated crude oil "above thebubble point." The solubility of crude oil may be predicted from oilgravity and saturation pressure with an average deviation of 22.0 per cent fromobserved values. In conclusion, it is shown that the viscosity of a gas andgas-saturated crude oil may be predicted within the accuracy of most reservoircomputations.

Introduction

Viscosity is a measure of flow resistance; common units are in centipoises(cp.). The object of this report is to present conversion charts and simplifiedcorrelation charts showing the viscosity behavior of air, water, gas and crudeoil and gas-saturated crude oil under oil field temperatures and pressures, which have been known to be as high as 300'F. and 8000 lb. per sq. in. gaugeunder subsurface conditions.

The viscosity of a liquid or gas is important because it is a measure of itsfluidity, or its ability to flow through pipe lines or oil sands. Viscosity ofair has become important because it is being used in secondary recoveryprojects. The viscosity of natural gas and water at reservoir conditions isuseful because they are almost universally associated and produced with crudeoil. The viscosity of gas-saturated crude oil at reservoir pressures andtemperatures is of particular value in making estimates of oil reserves andrate of oil recovery from flush pools when production decline data arelimited.

Instruments Used to Measure Viscosity

There are many types of viscosimeters, and the instruments most commonly usedto measure the atmospheric viscosity of liquids at moderate temperatures andtheir practical working ranges have been described in detail.
Precision in Bottom-hole Pressure Measurement
Authors: Brownscombe E.R. , Conlon D.R.
Published: June 2014

Errors in measurement of reservoir pressure include:gauge errors, andinterpretation errors.

Gauge errors may be reduced by:reading charts with a comparatormicroscope,use of hard metal stylus points to give clear lines,insuring temperature equilibrium, andmaking multiple tests.

Checkcalibrations are equally as important as check well tests. A statisticalanalysis of such check runs shows quantitatively the advantages of astandardized "zero pressure line" and of the use of field calibrationsmade at bottom-hole temperature on the same chart run in the well.

Interpretation errors include:fluid heads, which should be corrected tothe top of the perforations on the basis of well-fluid gravity and from the topof the perforation to the datum level on the basis of reservoir-fluid gravity, andgradients around the well.

Conventional shut-in periods may be entirelyinadequate to overcome these, necessitating a reservoir study based on build-upcurve data, reservoir history, core analysis and any other availableinformation.

Interest in engineering studies of the pressure changes in oil and gasreservoirs is increasing. This type of work yields important information anddoubtless will be greatly extended in the future. One of the factors limitingthe work, however, is the accuracy with which the reservoir pressures can bedetermined; for if the inaccuracies in the pressure measurements represent anappreciable percentage of the pressure changes, the engineer is seriouslyhandicapped, and must delay the reservoir study until the reservoir pressurehas changed a relatively large amount. This delay can greatly reduce thebenefits of such studies, at least from the point of view of aiding theleasing, drilling and completion programs. Thus, from the point of view ofreservoir analysis, it is frequently important to obtain the most accuratepressure data possible early in the history of any field-particularly for thegasdistillate fields now being developed.

This paper deals with improvements in the measurement of bottom-hole pressuresthat permit pressures even as high as 4000 or 5000 lb. per sq. in. to bedetermined with gauge errors of only 1 to 2 lb. per sq. in. Since pressures outin the reservoir rather than in the bottom of the hole concern the reservoiranalyst, differences between bottom-hole pressures and actual reservoirpressures are also considered.

In general, errors in pressure measurement may be divided into:Gauge errors:Errors due to inaccuracies in reading the pressure charts.Errors due to irreproducibility of the pressure element and recordingsystem.Errors caused by failure to allow the gauge to reach temperatureequilibrium.Interpretation errors:Errors caused by a fluid head between the gauge position in tubing and thepressure' at the datum level in the reservoir.Pressure gradients in the reservoir.

T.P. 1942
Possibilities and Problems of Drilling beyond the Continental Shelves
Authors: Gross Henry Emmett
Published: June 2014

A plausible method of drilling beyond the continental shelves is set forth withlimitations of the method. The continental shelves comprise the water-coveredportions of land masses out to 600'Ft. of water, or 100'Fathoms. The problemsand possibilities of drilling beyond this depth are discussed in thispaper.

Introduction

Much attention is being given the problem of developing petroleum beneath theopen sea. Geophysical surveys have been made 26 miles offshore from thecontinental United States, and once offshore ownership is established it islikely that there will be drilling for oil on the continental shelves.

More than two? years ago the author presented the means for drilling in deepwater. at the fall meeting of the Petroleum Division of the AIME at LosAngeles. His concepts then were based on the use of rigid foundations suitablefor drilling in water up to 600'Ft. deep. The present paper suggests a methodfor drilling in deeper water.

Possibilities and Problems of Drilling Beyond the Continental Shelves

It being conceded that because restricted deep-water portions of thehydrosphere might contain oil in commercial quantities, and that at any rate itis pertinent to know more of the nature of the lithosphere beneath thehydrosphere, the possibilities and problems of drilling beyond the continentalshelves should be set forth.

Drilling in open water would offer few if any advantages over drilling on land.These are:The ocean transportation is available to deep-water drilling sites, andextensive pipe lines and roads are unnecessary.Refinery facilities and markets perhaps are established on the near-by shorewhere adjacent fields on land are nearing depletion.There is freedom from jungle pests and tropical diseases.Competitive drilling is less likely.Extensive areas attractive for development are not yet under lease orconcession.

Disadvantages are great and numerous:Storm hazards from wind and wave.Expensive foundations, either rigid or floating.Shutdown times because of weather.Marine Regulations of Federal Bureaus in addition to customary regulationson land.Frequent difficulty in moving men and materials to and from drillingplatforms.Extra precautions required in open sea.

T.P. 2095
A Radial Turbulent Flow Formula
Authors: Elenbaas Jack  R. , Katz Donald  L.
Published: June 2014

A radial turbulent flow formula has been developed which permits thecomputation of the pressure drop for radial flow in gas wells whether the flowis laminar, turbulent, or partially laminar and partially turbulent. Using theformula a complete back-pressure curve has been calculated and analyzed by acomparison with existing back-pressure curves. A procedure is presented forcomputing the permeability of the porous media when the porosity, sphericityand average particle diameter are known.

Introduction

Recent studies on the flow of fluids through porous media have provided newmethods for computing flow under turbulent conditions. The present study wasinitiated as an investigation of pressure-drop computations for flow throughporous sands in gas wells and as an analysis of present-day back-pressuretests.

Although laminar flow exists in the producing formation of gas wells undernormal flow rates, turbulent flow does take place adjacent to the well bore. Asthe flow rate is increased, turbulent flow exists further and further into theproducing formation and under open-flow conditions in relatively deep wells aconsiderable portion of the flow through the sand will be turbulent.

In order to calculate a complete backpressure curve for relatively deep wellswithout resorting to extrapolation of curves drawn from data obtained inback-pressure tests or calculations made in the completely laminar region, itwas necessary to have some means of calculating pressure drop for flow throughporous sands under turbulent conditions. As a result, a radial turbulent flowformula was derived from the equations recently presented by Brownell andKatz.

A rigorous solution of this equation involves a trial and error graphicalintegration. By making the assumptions of average viscosity, temperature andcompressibility factor of the flowing gas, it was possible to graphicallyintegrate the relation for the general case of radial flow of gases through theporous sand of gas wells. A chart has been prepared relating the value of theintegral to the radius of the well bore and to the Reynolds number of theflowing gas. The chart actually performs the graphical integration and thesolution of the formula is then reduced to a simple trial and errorcalculation. A typical back-pressure curve is calculated to show the transitionfrom laminar to turbulent flow.

This paper will briefly describe the procedures for computing flow throughporous media, including a method for predicting sand permeability from porosityand grain size and shape.

Flow Through Porous Media

Brownell and Katz recently reported a correlation for computing flow of fluidsthrough porous media by the use of an enlarged Reynolds number and frictionfactor in which the porosity of the bed is included as an additional primevariable.

T.P. 2304
Oil-Shale Processing
Authors: Lankford J.D. , Guthrie Boyd
Published: June 2014

A progress report on the oil-shale and shale-oil processing research programat the U.S. Bureau of Mines Oil-Shale Demonstration Plant. Legislationproviding for the program and aims are briefly noted. The remoteness and ruggednature of the terrain at the plant site are important factors in constructionand operations. Large-scale units now in operation are the crushing plant andtwo 40-ton N-T-U retorts. These are described in detail. Under construction areseveral retorting pilot plants and a 200 bbl per day refinery. The refineryincorporates several types of thermal operation, three-stage low-temperatureacid treating, doctor sweetening, and rerunning.

Data are presented on typical N-T-U retort runs. Yields of 90 to 100 pct ofassay are realized on 30 gal to the ton shale with a retort cycle time of 18hr. Data also are presented showing a comparison of a Mid-Continent petroleumand N-T-U shale oil. This comparison indicates that shale oil has a high pourpoint, low API gravity, and contains about 0.8 pct sulphur and 2 pct nitrogen.The naphtha fraction contains 3 pct tar acids, 9 pct tar bases and 50 pctolefins. The problems involved in refining shale oil into usable products arcdiscussed in detail.

Introduction

The Bureau of Mines oil-shale program now under way at Rifle, Colo., wasbegun in July 1944 under the provisions of the Synthetic Liquid Fuels Act, which was passed in the spring of that year under the sponsorship of SenatorJoseph C. O'Mahoney of Wyoming and Congressman Jennings Randolph of WestVirginia, aided by Michael W. Straus, former Assistant Secretary of theInterior, and others. The oil-shale plant is only a part of the Office ofSynthetic Liquid Fuels, Bureau of Mines, which has under way projects todevelop synthetic liquid fuels from coal and other solid materials atPittsburgh and Bruceton, Pa., Morgantown, W. Va., Louisiana, Mo., as well asthe Petroleum and Oil-Shale Experiment Station at Laramie, Wyo., and theoil-shale demonstration plant at Rif1e.

The oil-shale program is entirely experimental. It is not intended that oilwill be produced in great quantities. Production will be limited to the volumeobtained from plant-scale experimental operations, which will be kept to theminimum size needed to develop techniques and processes and to demonstratecosts.

After the passage of the enabling act in the summer of 1944 a survey of theoil-shale resources of the Nation was made to determine the most suitable general area inwhich to establish the demonstration plant. The most suitable area was found tobe in the Rifle-De Beque area in Garfield County, western Colorado.

T.P. 2360
Gravity Drainage Theory
Authors: Cardwell W.T. , Parsons R.L.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a theory for estimating the rate of gravity drainage ofa liquid out of a sand column. Account is taken of the variation inpermeability to the liquid as the saturation in the upper part of the sandbecomes less than 100 pct.

The theory is confirmed by previously published experimental data.

Introduction

Petroleum engineers have expressed the need for a theory of gravitydrainage. Brunner, in particular, has pointed out that some type ofmathematical theory is necessary to begin the application of laboratory data tofield problems.

Muskat and his associates have recently made contributions to the theory ofgas-drive behavior and have indicated an intention to apply their methods towaterdrive systems. No theory of gravity drainage rates has been developed, however, and it seems desirable to formulate one at this time.

Differential Equations of Capillary Flow

The flow of liquids in partially saturated porous media has been studied bymany investigators. Richards presented derivations of fundamental differentialequations governing two-phase capillary flow; and used simplified forms ofthose equations in solving a steady-state problem. Muskat and Meres presentedand used equations different from those of Richards. Their equations did notexplicitly involve capillary pressure gradients; but included, on the otherhand, terms expressing the effects of the evolution of gas from the liquidphase during flow.

Leverett stated in 1940 that "previous work on the flow of fluidmixtures in porous solids [had] failed adequately to account for all of thethree influences that cause motion of the fluids: capillarity, gravity, andimpressed external pressure differentials." Leverett's basic equations, however, were specialized forms of the general equations of Richards, which hadactually taken account of the three influences mentioned by Leverett, but hadnot been used in a problem involving all three.

The fact is that our knowledge of capillary flow and our ability to expressthis knowledge in differential equations exceed our ability to solve theequations except in a few cases. General differential equations have usuallybeen of little more than formal value. In solving practical problems, it hasbeen necessary to develop specific equations, preserving terms that involvedthe factors important in those problems, and purposefully neglecting otherterms that were not of predominating influence. This is the method followedhere. It is believed that the solution of the particular problem and the schemeof the solution itself are new.

T.P. 2464
Volumetric and Viscosity Studies of Oil and Gas from a San Joaquin Valley Field
Authors: Olds R.H. , Sage B.H. , Lacey W.N.
Published: June 2014

The volumetric behavior of five mixtures of black oil and natural gas and oftwo mixtures of condensate and natural gas from a field in the San JoaquinValley was experimentally established. This work was carried out at 100?, 190?and 250'F in the pressure interval between 400 and 5000 psi. The viscosity ofthe liquid phase of four mixtures of black oil and natural gas wasexperimentally measured in the above-indicated temperature and pressureintervals. The effect of methane upon the precipitation of bitumen from theblack oil was studied at 230'F.

Introduction

The solution of a number of the economical and technological problems whicharise in connection with petroleum production is dependent upon theavailability of the necessary quantitative information covering the materialsinvolved. This requires data concerning physical properties of naturallyoccurring hydrocarbon mixtures at the pressures and temperatures characteristicof underground petroleum reservoirs. The experimental determination of thedesired data for each situation encountered is relatively time-consuming.However, it is considered to yield results sufficiently more reliable thanthose obtained from correlations to justify the effort. For these reasons therewas undertaken a laboratory investigation of the viscosity of the liquid phaseand the volumetric and phase behavior of mixtures of oil and gas samplesobtained from wells in a field located in the San Joaquin Valley.

Terminology

The nomenclature of petroleum engineering is not at present entirelystandardized. Many commonly used technical terms are not everywhere given thesame meanings. For the purposes of this paper the following definitions will beadopted:

Black oil refers to the dark-colored, hydrocarbon liquid obtained when theproducing horizon of the well lies partly in the condensed hydrocarbon phase ofthe reservoir. Condensate is the term applied to the relatively volatile, paleyellow or amber-colored hydrocarbon liquid that is often obtained from thesurface separator system when the producing horizon of the well lies in the gascap of the reservoir. The gas obtained from the surface separator system iscalled natural gas regardless of whether the well is producing black oil orcondensate.

As might be expected from the multicomponent character of naturallyoccurring hydrocarbon materials, the compositions of black oil, condensate andnatural gas are subject to considerable variation depending upon thetemperatures and pressures prevailing in the surface separator system as wellas upon the overall composition of the material produced from thereservoir.

T.P. 2412
A Note on Well Cementing at Low Temperatures
Authors: Clark Roscoe C.
Published: June 2014

In October 1945. R. F. Farris, in an AIME paper entitled "Method ForDetermining Minimum Waiting on Cement Time," presented a method forcalculating the minimum WOC* time required in oil well cementing operations.Briefly, this method consisted of shutting in a well after the cement had beenplaced, and noting the time required for the wellhead pressure to reach amaximum. This time was then multiplied by a factor of 1.5 to determine when thecement had reached sufficient strength to support the weight of thecasing.

As a result of this work, a number of areas have reduced their WOC timerequirements with the subsequent saving of considerable rig time.

The tests conducted by Farris were for the most part, conducted under cementingtemperatures in excess of 70'F. This was done because in the overwhelmingmajority of cases, cementing temperatures are in excess of 70'F (only in thenorthern part of the country, primarily in the Rocky Mountain area, incementing surface casing are temperatures below 70'F. encountered, and suchtemperatures occur only during the winter months). The Stanolind ResearchLaboratory since that time has performed a number of tests both in thelaboratory and in the field to evaluate this WOC factor when cementingtemperatures are lower than 70'F. The results of these tests indicated theneed for greater WOC time in areas affected by abnormally low cementingtemperatures. These tests indicated that a WOC factor of 2 (Time from start tomix cement to maximum wellhead pressure x 2 = Time to drill plug) will allowsufficient time for the cement to develop adequate strength.

A field test under abnormally low cementing temperatures (surface temperature35'F, mud discharge temperature <70'F, and cementing depth 500'Ft.) in theRangely Field, Colorado, using the WOC factor of 2, indicated the time to drillthe plug as 45 hours. Well conditions preventing getting back into the welluntil a 48-hour WOC time had elapsed. At this time, the plug drilled firm tohard indicating that the cement had reached its final set.

It is contemplated that during next winter additional field tests will beperformed to further check the results of the laboratory and field testsconducted to date.

*WOC, abbreviation for "waiting on cement", indicates the time from when thecement is mixed to the time when sufficient strength has been obtained to allowthe drilling of the plug.
Implementing an Electronic Permit To Work System in Qatargas
Authors: Burrows R. I.
Published: June 2014

Qatargas is one of the pioneers in developing and implementing an electronic Permit to Work (PTW) System on a large scale. With generation of about 36000 PTWs per year currently and massive expansion of Qatargas to be world's leading LNG producer, Electronic PTW System was found to be a viable and preferred direction. The advantages outnumber disadvantages and returns are projected to be very rewarding. A team is in the final stages of reviewing the software design which will be followed by testing and implementation in near future. The paper describes development of PTW System from the paper-based to the electronic one in line with Qatargas Management System for Continuous Improvement. Author's address: SEQ Dept, P.O. Box 22666, Qatar
Development and Implementation of Process-Oriented Skin Safety Standards for the Mineral Oil Industry: A Pilot Study
Authors: Speiser-Rankine N. , Unterberger W. , Taibl R. , Payer-Neundlinger G. , Mittlböck M. , Strohal R.
Published: June 2014

Occupational skin diseases are among the most frequent causes for disablement. Although workers in the oil, gas and petrol industry are especially exposed to a variety of skin toxic/irritating substances, no data exists on the extent of the problem and how to define/introduce adequate skin protection measures. As a pilot, a 3 phase skin disease prevention and safety program was created for the Austrian OMV location at Gaenserndorf. Phase 1 (examination phase) showed that workers who substantially lacked information on dermal risk factors and behavior presented with irritant contact dermatitis of the hands at a rate of 55.4%. In addition, the company offered 27 different skin cleaning, protection and care products which were not clearly in line with workplace specific patterns of chemical skin burden. To specifically target these problems, phase 2 (realization phase) introduced new workplace adapted skin products with defined location specific sets of dispensers labeled for the role of its products, introduced skin safety plans at workplaces and a series of teaching courses based an a standardized newly developed education slide kit. By re-assessing (phase 3, evaluation phase) the most objective phase 1 parameters for the quality of skin protection measures, we found a decrease of the rate of irritant hand dermatitis from 55.4% to 19.7% and the rate of uninformed workers got down from about 60% to 20%. Taken together, the process oriented, skin safety standards herein presented have shown to specifically identify, analyze, target and unravel the relevant company related features of occupational skin diseases. The basic structure and design of this programme might be suggestive for its health supportive role in the oil, gas and petrol industry as a whole.
A New Approach to Stick-Slip Management Integrating Bit Design and Rotary-Steerable-System Characteristics
Authors: Niznik M. R. , Carson A. D. , Wise K. J. , Carson F.
Published: June 2014

North Sea fields continue to benefit from improvements in PDC bit and rotary steerable technology. There are, however, ongoing issues in these fields relating to very hard inter-bedded formations that result in stick-slip, bit and bottom hole assembly (BHA) wear, shocks / vibration, tool failures, and short run lengths.

Rotary steerable systems (RSS) are essential to drill the challenging well paths. Push-the-bit RSS tools were first employed along with early versions of point-the-bit systems; all suffered premature tool failures due to tool wear and extreme shocks and vibration attributable to excessive stick-slip. Tool and BHA modifications to increase ruggedness, have led to longer runs and reduced shocks / vibrations in the harsh drilling environments.

PDC bits are utilized and there has been an evolution in cutter technology and bit design. The PDC cutters have higher wear resistance and are able to drill formations that were previously not PDC drillable. Bit designs evolved as RSS tools have changed: point vs. push-the-bit systems. The new point-the-bit systems require modifications to bit gauge designs. High stickslip and vibration are the main constraints to performance but are greatly reduced by designing the bit to complement the RSS.

This paper will build on previously published data showing how modifications to bit designs (based on the steering characteristics of RSS tools), and modifications to operating parameters of the RSS tools (based on the characteristics of PDC bits) have been brought together for the first time to yield a significant improvement in drilling performance. Results from initial test runs in one field were then incorporated in the plans for another field yielding similar improvements in performance.

This paper will offer both the specific details of how the integration of the bit and RSS characteristics was achieved in this example as well as more generic principles for wider application.
Why are some latrines cleaner than others? Determining the factors of habitual cleaning behaviour and latrine cleanliness in rural Burundi
Authors: Sonego Ina L. , Mosler Hans-Joachim
Published: June 2014

Access to improved sanitation is fundamental for the prevention of diarrhoea and other diseases. However, for a sanitation facility to be safe, its cleanliness must be assured. The aim of the present study was, first, to assess how cleaning behaviour, household characteristics and infrastructural factors influenced latrine cleanliness and, second, to assess which psychological factors influenced cleaning behaviour. In a study in rural Burundi, 762 standardised household interviews with the primary household caregiver were carried out to assess habitual cleaning behaviour and psychological factors according to behaviour change models. In addition, the characteristics and cleanliness of the latrine were observed, and two multiple linear regressions were performed to analyse predictors of latrine cleanliness and of cleaning behaviour. Latrine cleanliness was determined by cleaning behaviour, the possibility of locking the door, the height of the superstructure, the material of the superstructure and the availability of an even slab. The number of households or people sharing the latrine was not influential. Commitment to cleaning, satisfaction with the cleanliness of the latrine and self-efficacy determined habitual cleaning behaviour. Interventions focussing on commitment, self-efficacy and satisfaction with a clean latrine like public commitment or guided practice interventions are recommended to promote cleaning behaviour.
10-year Follow-up of Natural Crown Bonding After Tooth Fracture
Authors: Reston EG , Reichert LA , Busato AL Stefanello , Bueno RPR , Zettermann J
Published: June 2014

The aim of this article is to discuss relevant considerations about crown bonding and describe a clinical case in which a tooth fragment and direct composite resin were used to successfully restore a fractured anterior tooth. Clinical examinations showed good esthetics and periodontal health after 10 years of follow-up.
Supervisor Security Provision: Correlates and Related Mechanisms
Authors: Lavy Shiri
Published: June 2014

Attachment security in relationships is associated with several positive outcomes. Recently, researchers have applied attachment theory to employee-supervisor relationships. Two studies examined associations of supervisors' provision of attachment-related security with work-related outcomes and related underlying mechanisms. Participants completed measures of their supervisors' security provisions and of their own job satisfaction, organizational commitment, burnout, and performance. Supervisors' security provisions were associated with positive work-related outcomes, which were mediated by closeness behaviors (Study 1; N = 150, M age = 33.3 yr., SD = 9.6). These associations were also mediated by employees' sense of meaning at work when the supervisor was of the same sex (Study 2; N = 120, M age = 26.5 yr., SD = 5.0). Findings supported attachment-related dynamics in employee-supervisor relationships and suggested psychological mechanisms underlying these effects.
Permeability Theory in a Social Environment: Comment on Stamps (2013)
Authors: Liu Yang , Zheng Rui , Sun Yan
Published: June 2014

Stamps (2013) reported that the visual permeability of a boundary strongly influenced perceived enclosure, while boundary depth had almost no effect. Specifically, Stamps found that perceived enclosure demonstrates a highly negative correlation with distal permeability, a moderately negative correlation with proximate permeability, and a very low positive correlation with distal distance. The present comment suggests that environmental properties may affect physical perception, mental processes, and human behavior – not only in a physical but also in a social environment.
Our Experiences With B Cell Clonality Analysis Using Multiplex Pcr Amplification in Paraffin-Embedded Tissue
Authors: Stanek L. , Llsova S. , Tvrdlk D.
Published: June 2014

The clonal determination of B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases by immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) rearrangement by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is widely used. In this study we report our experiences with B cell clonality analysis using multiplex PCR amplification followed by heteroduplex analysis, which was found to be essential for the efficient resolution of monoclonal bands within polyclonal backgrounds, in formalin-fixed paraffinembedded tissue.
Diversity and Antagonistic Activity of Actinomycete Strains From Myristica Swamp Soils Against Human Pathogens
Authors: Varghese Rlnoy , Jyothy S. , Hatha A.A. Mohamed
Published: June 2014

Under the present investigation Actinomycetes were isolated from the soils of Myristica swamps of southern Western Ghats and the antagonistic activity against different human bacterial pathogens was evaluated. Results of the present study revealed that Actinomycetes population in the soils of Myristica swamp was spatially and seasonally varied. Actinomycetes load was varied from 24×104 to 71×103, from 129×103 to 40×103 and from 31×104 to 84×103 in post monsoon, monsoon and pre monsoon respectively. A total of 23 Actinomycetes strains belonging to six genera were isolated from swamp soils. Identification of the isolates showed that most of the isolates belonged to the genus Streptomyces (11), followed by Nocardia (6), Micromonospora (3), Pseudonocardia (1), Streptosporangium (1), and Nocardiopsis (1). Antagonistic studies revealed that 91.3% of Actinomycete isolates were active against one or more tested pathogens, of that 56.52% exhibited activity against Gram negative and 86.95% showed activity against Gram positive bacteria. 39.13% isolates were active against all the bacterial pathogens selected and its inhibition zone diameter was also high. 69.5% of Actinomycetes were exhibited antibacterial activity against Listeria followed by Bacillus cereus (65.21%), Staphylococcus (60.86%), Vibrio cholera (52.17%), Salmonella (52.17%) and E. coli (39.13%). The results indicate that the Myristica swamp soils of Southern Western Ghats might be a remarkable reserve of Actinomycetes with potential antagonistic activity.
Ventilator „Chirana Aura V“ In Two Models Of Neonatal Acute Lung Injury - A Pilot Study
Authors: Tomclkova L. , Mokra D. , Plstekova H. , Petraskova M. , Javorka K. , Jurcek M. , Istona P. , Calkovska A.
Published: June 2014

In severe respiratory insufficiency, neonatal and pediatric patients should be ventilated artificially by a ventilator. Aim of this experimental study was to evaluate whether the newly developed ventilator Chirana Aura V may effectively ventilate the lungs of animals with two different models of acute lung injury: acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) induced by repetitive saline lavage and meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) induced by intratracheal instillation of neonatal meconium. The experiments were performed on 10 adult rabbits (New Zealand white). In ARDS group (n=5), the lungs were repetitively lavaged with saline (30 ml/kg) until partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) in arterial blood was under 26.7 kPa at inspiratory fraction of oxygen FiO2=1.0. In MAS group (n=5), animals were instilled 4 ml/kg of suspension of human meconium (25 mg/ml). When the model of acute lung injury was developed, animals were ventilated for additional 2 hours with pressure control ventilation (PCV) regime by ventilator Chirana Aura V. Ventilatory parameters, blood gases, acid-base balance, end-tidal CO2, O2 saturation of hemoglobin, oxygenation indexes, ventilation efficiency index, dynamic lung compliance, and right-to-left pulmonary shunts were measured and calculated in regular time intervals. In both experimental groups, used ventilatory settings provided acceptable gas exchange within the period of observation. Thus, the results indicate that ventilator Chirana Aura V might be suitable for ventilation of animal models of acute lung injury. However, further pre-clinical investigation is needed before its use may be recommended in neonatal and/or pediatric patients with acute lung injury.
Complications of Transrectal Prostate Biopsy
Authors: Cech P. , Luptak J.
Published: June 2014

Objective: The aim of our study is to evaluate complications In patients who underwent a Transrectal Ultrasound Guided Prostate Biopsy (TRUS BP) at the Department of Urology of JFM CU and UHM in 2007-2008 and at the Department of Urology in Bojnice Hospital in 2009-2012.

Methodology, disclosures: In our study, patients with positive digital rectal examination (DRE) and/or with hig- her prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels (>4 ng/ml) are included. We excluded patients with PSA levels greater than 50ng/ml. as well as patients with less than 8 biopsy cores. The number of examined patients fulfilling the criteria was 474. An average age of them was 66.3 years (SD±8.3years). As an antibacterial prophylaxis, the patients were given fluoroquinolons in a dose of 500mg twice a day during a 3-day course of antibiotics, while the first dose was given one day before the procedure. In high risk patients, we used a single intramuscular dose of gentamycin 160mg right before the procedure followed by fluoroquinolons for the next five days.

Results: The most severe complication was vasovagal reaction, which occurred in 9 (1.9%) cases. Haematuria occurred in 122 (25.7%) cases up to 3 days and in 10 (2.1%) patients up to 7 days. Six patients (1.3%) required hospital admission for severe haematuria. Dysuria occurred in 71 patients (15%). Rectal bleeding occurred in 90 (19%) cases with an average 2 days of bleeding, from which 7 patients were admitted to hospital and administered haemostyptics. From the mentioned count. 2 (0.4%) patients underwent a rectal tamponade and one (0.2%) patient with arterial bleeding underwent an arterial ligation of a stricken artery. Haemospermia occurred in 71 (15%) cases. 23 (4.9%) patients suffered fever above 38°C. within whom in 7 (1.5%) cases was microscopicaly proven uri- nary tract infection requiring hospitalisation lasting 7 days on average. Sepsis occurred in 3 (0.6%) patients, symp- tomatic bacterial prostatitis in 6 (1.2%) cases and urinary retention occurred in one (0.2%) patient. There was not arty significant higher amount of complications in between 8-core and 10-core biopsy (P=0.26), not even in betwe- en 8-core and 12-core biopsy (P=0.32).

Conclusion: TRUS PB is a sale procedure with quite a low risk of complications. An important moment is a close monitoring right after the procedure. The most of the complications may persist for around two weeks and are trea- ted conservatively without persistent effects. Prophylaxis with broad spectrum antibiotics may provide an adequa- te coverage and lowers the risk of infectious complications.
Minimal Access Spinal Technologies (Mast) Fusion Procedures For The Treatment Of The Degenerative Lumbar Spine (A Part Of Multicentral Prospective Study)
Authors: Khoshab A.H. , Dumy P. , Kolarovszkl B.
Published: June 2014

A prospective multicentral observational study of minimally invasive fusion to treat degenerative lumbar disorders, and to report outcomes of one or two level minimally invasive posterior lumbar interbody fusion (MLIF) for degenerative lumbar disorders in a multi-center 1-year prospective study. We prospectively studied a group of 32 patients, mostly female 24 ( 75% female ), and 8 males ( 25%). They underwent minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (mTLIF), 21 of them monosegmental and 11 bisegmental. Patients demographics, intraoperative data and complications were recorded. Time to first ambulation, time to study-defined recovery, surgical duration, blood loss, fluoroscopy time and adverse events were recorded. Visual analogue scale (VAS) of back and legs pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI) and health-related questionnaire (EQ-5D) were assessed preoperatively and at defined time points through 12 months postoperatively. Mean surgical duration, blood loss and intraoperative fluoroscopy time were 125 vs.175 minutes, 150 vs. 170 ml, and 105 vs. 145 seconds in one- and twolevel segments, respectively. Mean preoperative VAS back (6.5) and VAS leg (7.9) scores dropped significantly (p<0.0001) to 3.5 (2.6) and 2.1 (2.0) at discharge (6 weeks). At the end, this is the largest prospective multi-center observational study of MLIF to date, following routine local standard of practice and, MLIF demonstrated favourable clinical results with early and sustained improvement in patient reported outcomes and low major perioperative morbidity.
Fossil zygospores of Zygnemataceae and other microremains of freshwater algae from two Miocene palaeosinkholes in the Opole region, SW Poland
Authors: Worobiec Elżbieta
Published: June 2014

Algal microremains were encountered during palynological investigation of deposits filling two Miocene palaeosinkholes excavated in the Tarnów Opolski and Górażdże quarries. Algal microfossils of 40 species were identified, most of which are frequent non-pollen palynomorphs occurring in Neogene deposits. The microfossils most frequently found in all studied samples belong to the genera Sigmopollis and Botryococcus. Both algal assemblages contain a significant proportion of resting cells (zygospores = hypnozygotes) such as Cycloovoidites, Diagonalites, Megatetrapidites, Ovoidites, Stigmozygodites, and Tetrapidites, probably fossil zygospores of members of the Zygnemataceae family (Mougeotia, Spirogyra, Zygnema). Some specimens probably related to desmid zygospores (Closteritetrapidites, Monopunctites, Planctonites), freshwater dinoflagellate cysts, and Prasinophyceae (Leiosphaeridia) were found. Most of the identified fossilised remains of algae are often seen in sediments indicating meso- to eutrophic conditions and are characteristic for stagnant or slowly flowing shallow waters. Fossil algae of Pediastrum and Tetraedron genera were recorded in samples from the Górażdże palaeosinkhole, suggesting small differences in the aquatic habitat (e.g. water depth) between ponds in the sinkholes. Three new fossil species related to zygospores of the Zygnemataceae are described: Ovoidites vangeelii sp. nov., Tetrapidites grandis sp. nov., and Tetrapidites opolensis sp. nov
New Polymorphisms in Regulatory Region of CAPN3 Gene with no Effect on Gene Expression in Breast Muscle of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Piórkowska Katarzyna , Nowak Joanna , Połtowicz Katarzyna , Ropka-Molik Katarzyna
Published: June 2014

Calpains are enzymes that belong to calcium-dependent, non-lysosomal cysteine proteases. The CAPN3 gene encodes a major intracellular specific muscle protease with a high capacity for degradation of cytoskeletal and muscle fibre proteins. Therefore, they play an important role in fusion of myoblasts, proliferation, cell growth and migration. In chickens, the gene encoding for calpain 3 is localized on chromosome 5. Due to the function of encoded protein, the CAPN3 has beenchosen as a candidate gene for meat quality in chickens. Consequently, the aim of our study was to identify new polymorphisms in the regulatory region of CAPN3 gene and to investigate their impact on CAPN3 transcript abundance in breast muscles. The experiment used broilers of two genetic lines: fast- and slow-growing. The polymorphisms were identified by screening with High Resolution Melting (HRM) and sequencing based on the Sanger method. The CAPN3 gene expression was conducted by using succinate dehydrogenase complex, subunit A (SDHA) and 60S ribosomal protein L4 (RPL4) genes as endogenous controls. Four new polymorphisms were found: g.322176G>A in promoter region (GenBank: AADN03004661.1), c.176*C>T, c.144*G>C and c.137*_147*delCAGCCCTGCTT in 3`UTR sequence. The new polymorphisms were identified by using restriction enzymes ScrFI, BslI, AcuI, HpyAV, respectively. The frequency of polymorphisms found in 3`UTR region was similar in both lines. According to polymorphisms identified in 3`UTR region the alleles with deletion, C and C (c.137*_147*del, c.144*G>C and c.176*C>T) were rare. The polymorphism identified in the promoter region and 3`UTR regions changed a few binding sites for transcription factors, but did not alter any binding sites for the other important translation regulators such as miRNA. Analysis of the effect of new polymorphisms on CAPN3 gene expression showed that in fast-growing line the chickens with GG genotype according to polymorphism g.322176G>A inthe promoter region, were characterized by the highest CAPN3 transcript abundance. Other polymorphisms in 3>UTR region seem to have no effect on CAPN3 gene expression.
The image of Germany in Poland and its impact on development of Poles travelling tourism to Germany
Authors: Dębski Maciej , Niemczak Kinga
Published: June 2014

The country image tends to be a crucial element for supporting national products on foreign markets. This is also a case for tourist products. The Germany brand is one of the most powerful brands across the world. However, it seems, as highlighted in the research hypothesis, that in the case of tourism its impact on the Poles is not as strong as in the case of numerous other economic spheres. The poll research conducted on a selected group of respondents revealed the grounds for the hypothesis stated. Respondents evaluated relatively poorly both the attractiveness of Germany as well as their urge to visit that country compared to other European countries, they also rated poorly the selected highlights of the country. Another barrier related to perceived attractiveness of Germany is a not entirely positive stereotype of German people. The results reveal the need for changes of it, which are possible in the light of better ratings given by persons who previously visited Germany.
Evaluation of performance of local economic activity under an industrial cluster approach
Authors: Bednarek Mariusz , Buczacki Aleksander , Neri Guzmán Juan Carlos
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this article is to make a diagnosis of an economic activity identified as relevant in a local economy, in order to verify if it meets the criteria that characterize an industrial cluster. This paper presents the overall results of research which analyzes the case of the candy and chocolate industries from the point of view of industrial clusters. The research is relevant considering that it presents a methodology for measuring the degree of functionality of a productive activity considered as relevant in a local economy under international operation standards, which is not common in studies of countries in Latin America.

The study seeks to answer the following research questions:

- What is an industrial cluster and what are its characteristics ?

- How to identify and evaluate an economic activity under a focus for industrial cluster?

- What are the competitive strengths and opportunities for local economic activity?

- Is it possible to design a strategy to promote the competitiveness of local economic activity?

The paper consists of the following parts:

- An introduction that presents the general problem context of the research subject is

- Theoretical studies and related research methodology.

Results of the investigation

- Proposition of strategic intervention to improve the functionality of the local cluster studied The case study focuses on San Luis Potosí State, México, and it seeks to demonstrate the need to carry out industrial cluster initiatives as a strategy to promote enterprise development and strengthen economic activities in the manufacture of candies and chocolate, identified as relevant in the local context.
A New Species of Ponthieva (Orchidaceae, Spiranthoideae) from Ecuador
Authors: Szlachetko Dariusz L. , Kolanowska Marta
Published: June 2014

A new species of Ponthieva R. Br., Ponthieva jamesonii is described and illustrated based on Ecuadorian material. The taxonomic affinity of the new entity is briefly discussed.
Du culturel au socioculturel, à propos de la traduction en roumain des documents personnels de langue française
Authors: Pop Mirela
Published: June 2014

L’article propose une vision élargie du culturel dans la perspective de l’approche socioculturelle de la traduction et essaie de fonder le concept d’élément socioculturel en relation avec la notion de culture comme ensemble de pratiques significatives partagées par les membres d’une collectivité. Après l’examen du concept d’élément culturel dans la littérature, nous illustrons notre vision sur des documents personnels de langue française, traités notamment dans la perspective des genres, en réfléchissant sur le transfert vers le roumain de certains éléments susceptibles de poser problème.
Analyse des personnages de contes comme culturèmes et unités de traduction
Authors: Pelea Alina
Published: June 2014

Partie d’une recherche plus ample sur les aspects culturels de la traduction des contes, notre étude aborde la question des dénominations des personnages de ces textes envisagées comme culturèmes et unités de traduction. Nous identifions ici une série de traits pertinents à même de circonscrire la signification complète de ces noms afin de mettre en place un outil analytique utile tant au traducteur qu’au traductologue menant des recherches descriptives sur la traduction des contes. Nous complétons le modèle d’analyse proposé par des exemples tirés du domaine franco-roumain.