bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow Assurance Applied Research Proposal for Heavy Oil Crudes from Green Offshore Naturally Fractured Reservoirs to Delivery Points
Authors: Camacho-Velázquez Rodolfo , Gómora-Figueroa A. Paulina , Cortés- Cortés Miguel , Pérez-Robles Víctor , Velázquez-Franco Martín
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a research project proposal to ensure the optimum flow assurance for the development of heavy crudes, from offshore reservoirs to delivey points, considering several field facilities, which include optimum application and performance of chemicals to suppress or attenuate the precipitation of organic and inorganic deposits, corrosion inhibitors, as well as the treatment of emulsions produced due to the presence of formation water during production. The interaction between chemicals employed in well stimulation treatments and those used for crude dehydration is also considered.

This proposal intends setting the basis to optimize flow assurance by minimizing the chemical dosage in the production and transportation facilities, maximizing the useful life of the employed chemical products. In order to achieve this goal it is necessary to include;

– Laboratory studies to characterize heavy oil, water and gas properties and the interactions between the different fluids present, which allow evaluating the generation and stability of emulsions, hidrocarbons stability, and corrosion index of water, for example. – Evaluation of chemicals for flow assurance in the reservoir, lifting fluids in production wells, including artificial lift systems, as well as surface transportation and treatment fluids, and the interaction between these chemicals at different points during hydrocarbons production. – Generation of reservoir, well completion, wellbore and surface transport models.

Pressure analyses show that production is dominated by high porosity vugs, and that the vertical permeability of vuggy areas is relevant for fields sharing an aquifer due to water channeling and the possible formation of emulsions inside the reservoir in the reion close to the producing wells.

The assessement of the aforedmentioned issues can lead to the control and/or prevention of emulsion formation, solids deposition and corrosion. Besides, addressing each of these issues individually, it is important to assess the influence of a mixture of several chemicals at the bottomhole and surface facilities, providing useful information to anticipate and avoid additional complications derived from the application of several chemicals to address flow assurance problems from the reservoir to the delivery points.
Green Products for Reducing the Viscosity of Heavy Oil
Authors: Rodrigues S.. , Oliveira A. P. , Pucciarelli N.. , Tooge C.. , Souza R..
Published: September 2014

The production of heavy oil has emerged as one of the great challenges of the oil industry today. The high viscosity, characteristic of these oils is linked to factors such as the presence of higher molecular weight components, asphaltenes, paraffins, resins and even due to emulsion stability. Highly emulsified oils are seen as a big problem because it directly affects the oil production and the costs involved to do it. Already the phase behavior of asphaltenes has been the subject of discussion in various jobs that match to recognize its complexity. Thus it is of utmost importance to develop new technologies that act reducing the viscosity and consequently reflecting in higher yields with lower costs. This study aimed to develop products that act reducing the viscosity, in operations where asphaltene dispersion and controlled droplet size of emulsified water from the system increased, so as to promote a significant reduction in viscosity with the use of environmentally products correct. A sample of oil used in the tests was from an exploratory field onshore Colombia. Products containing mixtures of different green chemical-polymeric agents with the intention of promoting a multifunctional and excellent synergy with the proposed system were developed. The analyzes were performed oil viscosity in a Haake RS 600, wherein the oil had its SARA and its water content measured by Karl Fischer. The results obtained with viscosity reduction were highly significant and promising, as the oil used in this study, no previous treatment had a viscosity of approximately 180000 cP, and after the development and application of the product is reached viscosities of up to 25 cP, while optimizing the process of demulsification end of oil.
Design and Optimization of Orifice based Flow Control Devices in Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage: A Case Study
Authors: Kyanpour Mohammad , Chen Zhangxin
Published: September 2014

The classical SAGD (Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage) involves drilling wells in parallel horizontal pairs. Steam is injected into the upper well (injector) to heat the reservoir and mobilize bitumen/heavy oil so that it drains to the lower well (producer) and can be lifted to the surface. In this process, steam distribution in the injector and a sustainable liquid level above the producer are key to achieve steam chamber conformance. The completion designs of these wells are critical in order to achieve optimal bitumen/heavy oil recovery and steam chamber development1.

Orifice based Flow Control Devices (FCDs) are being used in the SAGD wells. The FCDs in the injector (Steam Splitters) are used to customize steam distribution along the well. The FCDs in the producer (Inflow Control Devices) are used to develop a uniform inflow along the horizontal wellbore.

In this paper, a method will be presented for determining the size and position of Steam Splitters and Inflow Control Devices. This method can be used for both simple and complex reservoirs containing geological heterogeneity, hydraulic barriers and baffles. The validation of the design by field data in a Case Study will also be presented. It is shown that using FCDs in the wellbores helps to improve conformance and performance of SAGD well pairs significantly.
Challenges in PCP Smart Wells Application in a Heavy Oil Field
Authors: Toelsie S.. , Mohan A.. , Griffith C. R. , Wong Fong Sang M.. , Chin A Lien H..
Published: September 2014

As of February 2014, Staatsolie operates 1560 active wells mainly with Progressive Cavity Pumps (PCP) for artificial lifting of heavy crude oil of averagely 16°API. These pumps are installed at an average depth of 1000 feet, producing crude from unconsolidated Tertiary sand reservoirs. Average pump life time of 2 months up to 25 years have been realized with these PCP's. Optimal operation of these PCP's requires sufficient submergence in liquid to prevent the pump running dry and causing early failures. To achieve maximum pump life time, a minimum wellbore annulus liquid level between 50 to 100 feet above pump intake is applied to avoid partial cavity filling problems and dry running of the PCP.

The liquid levels in the wells are mainly acoustically surveyed. Significant challenges in well optimizations to achieve optimal well production conditions at the lowest submergence level were experienced with a foamy liquid column in the annuli resulting into apparent high flowing bottomhole pressure (FBHP). The application of downhole pressure gauges started in 2005 with the main objective to increase the reliability of actual FBHP based on downhole memory and surface read out pressure sensors. Main disadvantage of the memory sensors was the required well intervention jobs to retrieve the gauge to download the recorded data, while surface read out downhole pressure sensors had the advantage of real-time data availability. With the development in downhole pressure sensor applications, smart well operation was initiated in 2011. A smart well at Staatsolie operates around a preset target fluid level. This is achieved by automatic regulation of the pump speed via a variable frequency drive. Smart monitoring can be done locally as well as remotely through an online interface option. Both monitoring methods have the possibility of automatic shutdown control once enabled. The smart application focused mainly on the effective control of the PCP speed to prevent downhole pump failures caused by running dry of the pump and the possibility in achieving optimized production.

This paper intends to cover the experienced operational challenges, advantages and disadvantages based on the testing of different smart well technologies in the Staatsolie heavy oil fields.
Autonomous Inflow Control Valve for Heavy and Extra-Heavy Oil
Authors: Aakre Haavard , Halvorsen Britt , Werswick Bjørnar , Mathiesen Vidar
Published: September 2014

One of the challenges in heavy and extra heavy oil production are the relatively low recovery rate. A major challenge is to improve recovery from existing fields by developing and implementing new technologies that make mature and marginal fields more profitable. One of the challenges in heavy oil field with water drive or gas cap is the mobility ratio. Due to the high viscosity water and/or gas breakthrough will occur after short time production. This means that after a period of production, all wells will have water and/or gas breakthrough. As the breakthrough expands the production have to be limited due to excessive gas and/or water production. This means that production from the well have to be choked or stopped, even there is oil left along the wellbore. Inflow Control Device (ICD) and Autonomous Inflow Control Device (AICD) has shown that the oil production and recovery can be increased significantly with better inflow control along the well. However, neither ICD nor AICD is able to shut off the unwanted gas and water production completely. The newly developed and patented Autonomous Inflow Control Valve (AICV®) can shut off the unwanted fluid completely. This is the next generation autonomous inflow control. The technology can be installed in both new horizontal wells and recompleted into old wells with high water productions. The new completion technology is presented and experimental test results with gas, oil and water are presented together with reservoir simulations that confirm that the AICV® will give significantly increased recovery in field suffering from gas or water breakthrough.
Evaluation of Different Strategies for Selective Steam Injection in Stratified Heavy-Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Hoyos Perdomo R.. , Ardila Cubillos L. J. , Munoz Navarro S. F. , Rincon Canas M. M. , Palma-Bustamante J. M. , Naranjo Suarez C. E.
Published: September 2014

Steam injection is one of most successful techniques for improving oil recovery in heavy oil fields. However some reservoirs have characteristics that are not adequate for the implementation of this technique due to reservoir heterogeneity, where steam driving is present in most favorable areas as a result giving a channeling which does not allow the existence of a uniform vertical steam distribution, leaving unheated areas, decreasing the process efficiency and obtaining unexpected oil recovery factors.

Therefore in this paper different strategies were evaluated using a numerical reservoir simulator to determine most suitable option with the greatest chance of technical success for the implementation of selective steam injection. For the development of this research initially a study of selective steam injection process was performed in stratified reservoirs, once it was made this, the strategies for selective injection were raised: Steam injection at maximum and minimum rates for different layers, the product of each layer permeability by thickness and reservoir stimulation preceded by selective injection. Finally, the strategies selected were implemented in conceptual simulation models built in this case for a stratified homogeneous and heterogeneous reservoir developed with the properties of a Colombian heavy oil field using a comercial software.

The final results were analyzed based on the behavior of the oil recovery factor and the injection profile, these confirmed the efficiency of the technique, allowing to heat the formations by appropriate injection rate and for this reason an increase in the amount of recovered oil.

After obtaining the simulation results is set the better or best possibilities for implementing selective injection, it determines the range of application where selective steam injection could be run efficiently obtained from the ratio of the product of the permeability by the thickness and it is determined that treatment is best for the reservoir with cyclic steam simulation before selective steam injection.
Refraining from Intrusive Thoughts is Strategy Dependent: A Comment on Sugiura, et al. and a Preliminary Informal Test of Detached Mindfulness, Acceptance, and other Strategies
Authors: Wells Adrian , Roussis Panagiotis
Published: September 2014

The control of cognition is fundamental to psychological well being. One dimension recently explored by Sugiura, Sugiura and Tanno (2013) is the perceived ability to refrain from catastrophic thinking—a construct that could be a marker of several factors. The current paper recommends deeper consideration in terms of metacognitive theory and exemplifies this by testing the effect of a strategy that focuses on abstaining from processes (detached mindfulness) vs. transforming content (acceptance, brief exposure). Fifty-six participants ( M age = 21.5 yr., range = 18–42) were randomly assigned to detached mindfulness, acceptance, exposure, or a control group before watching a stressful film that induced intrusive images. Afterwards, they engaged in their respective strategies for 5 min. and the frequency of intrusive images was rated. Detached mindfulness was the only manipulation that was associated with a statistically significant lower frequency of intrusions than the control condition. It is argued that assessment of perceived skills to refrain from thinking should be conceptualized within a metacognitive framework that distinguish process- and content-oriented strategies and address the question: When is a strategy a true refrain?
Factor Analysis of the Drinking Motives Questionnaire in a Young Adult U.S. Army Sample
Authors: Mash Holly B. Herberman , Fullerton Carol S. , Ng Tsz Hin H. , Ursano Robert J.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for alcohol consumption are often conceptualized as deriving from internal and external sources and positive and negative reinforcement. The revised Drinking Motives Questionnaire (DMQ–R) was developed to classify reasons or motives for alcohol use which are associated with different drinking patterns. The factor structure of a subset of DMQ–R items was examined using exploratory factor analysis on a U.S. Army sample, to assess whether the DMQ–R subscales represent drinking motives typically identified by military service members. This study used the Department of Defense Survey of Health Related Behaviors Among Active Duty Military Personnel, which sampled 10,400 Army soldiers. A total of 4,475 responses were included in the analysis, which corresponded with a weighted sample of 391,185 soldiers. Principal-axis factor analysis with promax rotation identified two factors representing pleasure-seeking/enjoyment and avoiding rejection/“fitting in.” These factors may be useful in investigating relationships between drinking motives and alcohol use patterns within the U.S. Army population.
Effect of Client-Therapist Gender Match on the Therapeutic Relationship: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Bhati Kuldhir S.
Published: September 2014

Matching clients and counselors on the basis of heuristics, such as gender, is common in clinical practice. Considerable research has examined the effect of gender matching on the therapeutic alliance with equivocal results. Researchers have offered various hypotheses to explain these findings without consensus. This study sought to examine gender matching in a naturalistic setting and proposed that gender matching varies in importance depending upon the stage of the therapeutic relationship. It was hypothesized that gender matching affects the therapeutic alliance initially and then becomes less important as other factors come into play. Results did not support the hypothesis but showed a general “female effect.” Across all stages of therapy, female clients matched with female therapists reported therapeutic alliance ratings higher than dyads with a male therapist. Dyads with a female therapist and male client also reported alliance higher than male gender matched dyads. Implications of these results, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
Processing Speed in the Aging Process: Screening Criteria for the Spanish Quick Test of Cognitive Speed
Authors: Subirana-Mirete Judit , Bruna Olga , Virgili Carles , Signo Sara , Palma Carolina
Published: September 2014

A Quick Test of Cognitive Speed was administered to 357 participants without cognitive impairment, aged 18 to 85 years, to explore the effects of age on processing speed variables in Spanish speakers and to provide normative data for the test adapted to this population. Results were consistent with previous findings: correlations between age and naming times were high and statistically significant. Linear regression indicated that cognitive processing speed on this test slows 2 to 4 sec. per decade, depending on the task. Normalized data were provided. The findings concur with several studies that have linked age-cognitive impairment with slowing processing speed. This study attempted to assess the importance of this relation, as information processing speed could be considered a measure of cognitive impairment in everyday clinical screening evaluations.
Gait Parameters Affecting the Perception Threshold of Locomotor Symmetry: Comment on Lauzière, et al. (2014)
Authors: Hoogkamer Wouter , Bruijn Sjoerd M. , Duysens Jacques
Published: September 2014

In a recent work on locomotor symmetry while walking on a split-belt treadmill, Lauzière and co-workers determined the perception threshold of gait symmetry in a sample of healthy elderly. In addition, they aimed to determine which particular gait parameters affect the symmetry of the perception threshold. Although only temporal and kinetic gait parameters were measured (and no kinematics), it was suggested that stance time symmetry is an important criterion that participants use to identify the threshold. Here it is argued that several other gait parameters could qualify equally well as main criteria used to identify the threshold and that these parameters should be taken into account in future studies.
Zeroing of state variables in fractional descriptor electrical circuits by state-feedbacks
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz
Published: September 2014

The problem of zeroing of the state variables in fractional descriptor electrical circuits by state-feedbacks is formulated and solved. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of gain matrices such that the state variables of closed-loop systems are zero for time greater zero are established. The procedure of choice of the gain matrices is demonstrated on simple descriptor electrical circuits with regular pencils
A power electronics controlled current source based on a double-converter topology
Authors: Gwóźdź Michał
Published: September 2014

The paper presents a conception of power electronics voltage controlled current source (VCCS) which is able much more precise mapping of its an output current in a reference signal, compared to a typical converter solution. It can be achieved by means of such interconnection of two separate converters that one of them corrects a total output current towards a reference signal. An output power of auxiliary converter is much smaller than an output power of main one. Thanks to continuous work of this converter also pulse modulation components in this current are minimized. These benefits are paid for by a relatively small increase in the complexity and the cost of the system. This conception of a converter has been called the double-converter topology (DCT). In the author opinion presented solution of the system can find application in many power electronics equipment and, therefore, will be developed. In the paper DCT basics, simulation experiments, and possible practical arrangement of the DCT are presented
Application of the matrix converter to power flow control
Authors: Szcześniak P. , Fedyczak Z.
Published: September 2014

Advanced power electronic converters can provide the means to control power flow and ensure proper and secure operation of the future power grid. The small electrical energy sources dispersed in electrical power systems referred to as distributed generation are one of the most significant parts of future grids - Smart Grids. The threephase, direct matrix converter is an alternative solution to the conventional AC-DC-AC converter for interfacing two AC systems in distributed power generation with different voltage and/or frequency parameters. This paper presents a control analysis of a threephase matrix converter employed as a power interface of future electrical grids. The proposed system has been successfully tested for bidirectional power flow operation with different grid operating conditions, such as, frequency and voltage variation
Application of the second order generalized integrator in digital control systems
Authors: Możdżyński Kamil , Rafał Krzysztof , Bobrowska-Rafał Małgorzata
Published: September 2014

The paper describes second order generalized integrator (sogi) which is specialized in band-pass filtering and orthogonalization of periodic signals. Modifications of the structure and the influence of parameters on the system performance is described. The article highlights the particular importance of model discretization method in the practical implementation, as well as reviews estimation methods of the: amplitude, frequency, offset and phase angle of the periodic signal. Examples of simulation and experimental results are presented
DC-link voltage balancing in cascaded H-Bridge converters
Authors: Lewicki Arkadiusz
Published: September 2014

In this paper a DC-link voltage balancing strategy for multilevel Cascaded H-Bridge (CHB) converter is proposed. Presented solution bases on optimal choice of active vector durations in Space-Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SV-PWM). It makes it possible to DC-link voltages control and to properly generate the output voltage vector in the case of DC-link voltage unbalance. Results of simulation and experimental researches on proposed control strategy are presented in the paper
Optimal LQR controller in CSC based STATCOM using GA and PSO
Authors: Gupta Sandeep , Tripathi Ramesh Kumar
Published: September 2014

The static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) is the multipurpose FACTS device with the multiple input and multiple output system for the enhancement of its dynamic performance in power system. Based on artificial intelligence (AI) optimization technique, a novel controller is proposed for CSC based STATCOM. In this paper, the CSC based STATCOM is controlled by the LQR. But the best constant values for LQR controller's parameters are obtained laboriously through trial and error method, although time consuming. So the goal of this paper is to investigate the ability of AI techniques such as genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) methods to search the best values of LQR controller's parameters in a very short time with the desired criterion for the test system. Performances of the GA, PSO & ABC based LQR controllers are also compared. Applicability of the proposed scheme is demonstrated through simulation in MATLAB and the simulation results are shown an improvement in the input-output response of CSC-STATCOM
Does predation danger on southward migration curtail parental investment by female western sandpipers?
Authors: Jamieson Sarah Emily , Ydenberg Ronald C , Lank David B
Published: September 2014

Theory predicts that if extending parental care delays migratory departure, and if later migration is more dangerous, then parental care should be curtailed to make an earlier departure. Adult western sandpipers (
Diabetes Mellitus in Cats Relevant to Human Type 2 Diabetes – Current Knowledge and New Treatment Strategies – A Review
Authors: Palus Katarzyna , Całka Jarosław
Published: September 2014

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most commonly encountered endocrinopathies in domestic cats. Numerous studies have shown that feline diabetes mellitus (FDM) closely resembles human type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a common pathogenesis including insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion as well as the same risk factors. This similarity provides ground for better understanding of their pathogenesis as well as more efficient management, novel treatment and prevention options for the disease in both species. Recently, modulation of the incretin system has become a new area of active investigations by several pharmaceutical companies. Concerning the role of incretins in glucose homeostasis, therapies based on activating the incretin axis have proved highly effective in treating T2DM. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptors agonists and dipeptidylpeptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors have been recently developed agents for diabetes therapy. Furthermore, studies in healthy cats demonstrated that those drugs stimulate insulin secretion and lower glucagon levels. There is a need of additional clinical evaluation of action of the drugs in cats suffering from FDM. Moreover, studies in cats may contribute to the development of knowledge on the use of new drugs in treatment of human T2DM because cats are an excellent model for the study of diabetes.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Swirling Flows and Flame Dynamics
Authors: Abricka M. , Barmina I. , Valdmanis R. , Zake M.
Published: September 2014

The effect of swirling air on the flow dynamics was investigated for the cold non-reacting flows and the flame arising at thermo-chemical conversion of biomass pellets downstream of a cylindrical channel. Under experimental and numerical investigation was the swirling flow dynamics with the primary axial air supply below a biomass layer and swirling air supply above it. The results indicate that for cold flows the swirling air jet outflow from tangential nozzles leads to the formation of a complex flow dynamics which is influenced both by upstream and downstream air swirl propagation near the channel walls, with correlating swirl-enhanced formation of the upstream and downstream axial flows close to the flow centreline depending on the swirling air supply rate. These axial flows can be completely balanced at their stagnation within the axial recirculation zone. It is shown that at equal boundary conditions for the swirling flame and the cold flows the swirling flow dynamics is influenced by the upstream air swirl-enhanced mixing of the reactants below the air swirl nozzles. This determines the formation of a downstream reaction zone with correlating development of the flow velocity, temperature and composition profiles in the downstream flame regions with improved combustion stability. The low swirl intensity in these regions prevents the formation of a recirculation zone
Unified Model of Multiple Wind Turbines
Authors: Mutule A. , Kochukov O.
Published: September 2014

An approach is proposed to the modelling of wind farms in the electric power system long-term planning. It allows a specialist to perform calculations based on scanty information and offers a set of ready-to-use data for easy, fast, and precise modelling. The authors exemplify the calculations of wind speed probability density and power curves and give an idea for relevant corrections. They also show how to pass from a single wind turbine model to the unified model of multiple wind turbines which would meet the requirements of long-term planning tasks. The paper presents the data on wind farms that are operating in UK and Oceania
Infrastructure of Baltic Region Transmission System: Analysis of Technical and Economic Factors of its Development
Authors: Obushevs A. , Oleinikova I. , Mutule A.
Published: September 2014

The operational conditions of new networks dictate new requirements for the transmission planning, which would include the electricity market figures and a sizable involvement of renewable generation. This paper focuses on the transmission expansion planning techniques based on the calculations of optimal power flows and on the concept of development planning and sustainability. A description is given for the mathematical model of calculations and analysis of transmission system. The results have shown that the Baltic transmission system infrastructure can successfully be analyzed based on the proposed methodology and developed mathematical model
Optimized Deposition of Graphene Oxide Langmuir-Blodgett Thin Films
Authors: Dravniece A. , Gerca L. , Kundzins K. , Teivena K. , Kampars V. , Rutkis M.
Published: September 2014

Single sheet graphene (SG) is an innovative transparent material with high electrical and thermal conduction the use of which in transparent electrodes instead of traditional materials improves the performance of optoelectronic devices. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) has been obtained by a modified Hummer`s method followed by an advanced technique of water removal (lyophilisation). The Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) method was applied to transfer GO from suspension to substrate. To optimize the deposition process, as suspending and spreading solvents the benzene and benzene/methanol mixtures were chosen instead of previously studied water suspensions. The number of GO layers in suspension is reduced by exfoliation in order to obtain a single GO monolayer. For this purpose, sonication and centrifugation of GO sheets are carried out. Finally, the effect of variously treated glass substrate surfaces on the deposition efficiency has been studied. In the work, it is shown that ozonization of glass substrate improves the deposition outcome, while ozonization of indium tin oxide (ITO) glass substrate is necessary to perform such deposition. The obtained GO suspensions and LB thin films have been studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM)
Seasonal and Regional Differences in Lighting Conditions and their Influence on Melatonin Secretion
Authors: Błażejczyk Krzysztof , Morita Takeshi , Ueno-Towatari Tomoko , Błażejczyk Anna , Wieczorek Joanna
Published: September 2014

The paper presents essential results of multidisciplinary research dealing with differences in lighting conditions (natural and/or artificial) and their possible influence on melatonin secretion studied in Fukuoka (Japan) and in Warszawa (Poland). Several characteristics of lighting were considered (intensity of global 0.4-3.0 μm, visible 0.4 0.76 μm solar radiation, illuminance (lux), peak irradiance (μW∙cm−2∙nm−1), Color Corresponded Temperature (CCT, K) and peak wave length (nm)). Diurnal cycle of melatonin secretion was examined at volunteers (Poland - 15, Japan - 18), young male and female (21-33 years). Saliva samples were collected at 3h intervals, beginning at 10:00h on Thursday with subsequent sampling times at 13:00, 16:00, 19:00, 22:00 and at 01:00, 04:00 07:00h on Friday. Melatonin concentration (MC) was measured by commercials ELISA kit tests.
The Degree of Landscape Openness as a Manifestation of Cultural Metamorphose
Authors: Plit Joanna , Myga-Piątek Urszula
Published: September 2014

The issues of aesthetic assessment of landscapes has now become important due to the need of rational and balanced cultural landscape management and the implementation of the provisions of the European Landscape Convention. The aim of this article is to show the methodology of the assessment and interpretation of the degree of the current openness of the cultural landscape of Poland as an effect of a historical process. The chronological analysis made it possible to single out stages of opening/enclosing of the landscapes of Poland with reference to crucial natural, historical and cultural factors. The degree of landscape openness may be treated as a synthetic indicator of the natural and cultural environment evolution. When a landscape type is viewed as a result of natural and anthropogenic processes, the analysis of proportions between the surface of natural and cultural elements becomes of prime importance. In the historical times, the process of landscape enclosing was not unidirectional. Four stages of transformation of cultural landscapes in Poland have been distinguished. These stages are characterized by differences of the landscape openness. It can be interpreted as the result of cultural metamorphosis.
Discerning Primary and Secondary Factors Responsible for Clinical Fatigue in Multisystem Diseases
Authors: Maughan David , Toth Michael
Published: September 2014

Fatigue is a common symptom of numerous acute and chronic diseases, including myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, heart failure, cancer, and many others. In these multi-system diseases the physiological determinants of enhanced fatigue encompass a combination of metabolic, neurological, and myofibrillar adaptations. Previous research studies have focused on adaptations specific to skeletal muscle and their role in fatigue. However, most have neglected the contribution of physical inactivity in assessing disease syndromes, which, through deconditioning, likely contributes to symptomatic fatigue. In this commentary, we briefly review disease-related muscle phenotypes in the context of whether they relate to the primary disease or whether they develop secondary to reduced physical activity. Knowledge of the etiology of the skeletal muscle adaptations in these conditions and their contribution to fatigue symptoms is important for understanding the utility of exercise rehabilitation as an intervention to alleviate the physiological precipitants of fatigue.
The Structural and Functional Coordination of Glycolytic Enzymes in Muscle: Evidence of a Metabolon?
Authors: Menard Lynda , Maughan David , Vigoreaux Jim
Published: September 2014

Metabolism sustains life through enzyme-catalyzed chemical reactions within the cells of all organisms. The coupling of catalytic function to the structural organization of enzymes contributes to the kinetic optimization important to tissue-specific and whole-body function. This coupling is of paramount importance in the role that muscle plays in the success of Animalia. The structure and function of glycolytic enzyme complexes in anaerobic metabolism have long been regarded as a major regulatory element necessary for muscle activity and whole-body homeostasis. While the details of this complex remain to be elucidated through in vivo studies, this review will touch on recent studies that suggest the existence of such a complex and its structure. A potential model for glycolytic complexes and related subcomplexes is introduced.
Particle-Rich Cytoplasmic Structure (PaCS): Identification, Natural History, Role in Cell Biology and Pathology
Authors: Solcia Enrico , Sommi Patrizia , Necchi Vittorio , Vitali Agostina , Manca Rachele , Ricci Vittorio
Published: September 2014

Cytoplasmic structures showing a selective concentration of both polyubiquitinated proteins and proteasome have been described in various epithelial, hematopoietic, mesenchymal and neural cells in vitro or in fetal tissues, as well as in chronically-infected, mutated preneoplastic and neoplastic tissues. These cytoplasmic structures differ from other ubiquitin-reactive cytoplasmic bodies, like sequestosomes, aggresome-like-induced structures in dendritic cells (DALIS)/non-dendritic cells (ALIS) and aggresomes in showing distinctive ultrastructural organization (particle-rich cytoplasmic structure or PaCS), a cytochemical pattern and a functional profile. Their formation can be induced in vitro in dendritic or natural killer cells by trophic factors and interleukin treatment. They originate in close connection with ribosomes, while, as a result of their growth, the cytoskeleton and other surrounding organelles are usually dislocated outside their core. Interestingly, these particulate cytoplasmic structures are often found to fill cytoplasmic blebs forming proteasome- and polyubiquitinated protein-discharging vesicles, called ectosomes, which are found to detach from the cell and freely float in the extracellular space. To clearly point out the importance of the polyubiquitinated proteins and proteasome containing cytoplasmic structures, their role in cell biology and pathology has been carefully analyzed.
Supramolecular Structure and Renaturation of a (1→3)-β-d-Glucan Compared with Curdlan and Scleroglucan
Authors: Puertas Ana , Dueñas Mª , Marieta Cristina
Published: September 2014

A (1→3)-β-d-Glucan produced by Lactobacillus suebicus CUPV221 strain was investigated by tapping mode atomic force microscopy (TM-AFM), to compare its supramolecular structure and conformation with two commercial polysaccharides: curdlan and scleroglucan. It was found that the β-d-Glucan was a (1→3)(1→2)-β-d-Glucan and at room temperature formed three-dimensional networks by entanglements between strands, as does scleroglucan. However, (1→3)(1→2)-β-d-Glucan strands seemed to be more stiff than those of scleroglucan. It was also observed that curdlan samples deposited from 5 mM NaOH aqueous solution showed supermolecular assemblies, recognized in the literature as micelles, which are controlled by hydrophobic hydration. The (1→3)(1→2)-β-d-Glucan in alkaline aqueous solutions produced different supramolecular structures depending on pH, and at 0.4 M NaOH (pH 13.16), denaturation took place. After neutralizing the alkaline solution with HCl, the formation of short linear, circular, and hairpin structures was observed.
Welcome to Gels—An Interdisciplinary Open Access Journal for a Growing Scientific Community
Authors: Díaz David
Published: September 2014

The ability of natural systems to change functions in response to altered environmental conditions has inspired scientists during the last decades to fabricate smart materials that respond to different stimuli (e.g., temperature, ionic strength, light, mechanical stress, electromagnetic radiation, mechanical stress, chemical additives).[...]
Protective Effect of Prolactin against Methylmercury-Induced Mutagenicity and Cytotoxicity on Human Lymphocytes
Authors: Silva-Pereira Liz , Da Rocha Carlos , Cunha Luiz , Da Costa Edmar , Guimarães Ana , Pontes Thais , Diniz Domingos , Leal Mariana , Moreira-Nunes Caroline , Burbano Rommel
Published: September 2014

Mercury exhibits cytotoxic and mutagenic properties as a result of its effect on tubulin. This toxicity mechanism is related to the production of free radicals that can cause DNA damage. Methylmercury (MeHg) is one of the most toxic of the mercury compounds. It accumulates in the aquatic food chain, eventually reaching the human diet. Several studies have demonstrated that prolactin (PRL) may be differently affected by inorganic and organic mercury based on interference with various neurotransmitters involved in the regulation of PRL secretion. This study evaluated the cytoprotective effect of PRL on human lymphocytes exposed to MeHg in vitro, including observation of the kinetics of HL-60 cells (an acute myeloid leukemia lineage) treated with MeHg and PRL at different concentrations, with both treatments with the individual compounds and combined treatments. All treatments with MeHg produced a significant increase in the frequency of chromatid gaps, however, no significant difference was observed in the chromosomal breaks with any treatment. A dose-dependent increase in the mitotic index was observed for treatments with PRL, which also acts as a co-mitogenic factor, regulating proliferation by modulating the expression of genes that are essential for cell cycle progression and cytoskeleton organization. These properties contribute to the protective action of PRL against the cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of MeHg.
An Assessment of Maternal Health Issues in Two Villages in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: Siruma Amanda , Hornby Diana , Srinivas Sunitha
Published: September 2014

The fifth Millennium Development Goal of improving maternal health was placed on the international agenda and endorsed by global leaders at the Millennium Summit held in 2000. The aim of this baseline study was to conduct a situational analysis of key maternal health issues in two rural Eastern Cape villages in South Africa: Glenmore and Ndwayana. Ten focus group discussions were conducted with village leaders, community health workers and three different women self-help groups from Glenmore and Ndwayana, with five to eight voluntary participants in each focus group discussion. One of the themes highlighted was inadequate service delivery of ambulance services, which frequently failed to timeously reach expectant mothers in urgent need of transportation to a referral hospital. Adolescent pregnancy was highlighted as the maternal health issue of most concern to the community participants. In this context, a consensus was reached to design and implement an educational intervention to address adolescent pregnancy, which will form the focus of the next phase of this project.
Association of Traumatic Dental Injuries with Individual-, Sociodemographic- and School-Related Factors among Schoolchildren in Midwest Brazil
Authors: Freire Maria , Vasconcelos Daniela , Dos Santos Vieira Alessandra , Araújo Júlia , Da Silveira Moreira Rafael , De Fátima Nunes Maria
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study was to assess the association of untreated traumatic dental injuries (TDI) with individual-, sociodemographic- and school-related factors among 12-year-old schoolchildren in Midwest Brazil. This cross-sectional study was carried out in 2010 in the city of Goiania, Brazil. A random sample of 2075 schoolchildren was examined and interviewed. Untreated TDI in the permanent incisors was assessed using the methodology of the Brazilian National Oral Health Survey. Rao-Scott test and multinomial logistic regression were used to analyze the associations between independent variables and three categories of TDI, using a hierarchical method. Independent variables were children’s sex, self rated color/race and size of incisal overjet, their mother’s level of schooling, and the schools’ type and geographic location. The prevalence of trauma was 17.3% (CI 95% = 15.2–19.4); enamel fractures were the most common TDI (13.1%). In the adjusted model, a higher chance of having two or more teeth with TDI was found among boys, those whose mothers had lowest level of schooling, and those attending schools located in health districts with lower socioeconomic indicators. It was concluded that the prevalence of TDI was low and that it was associated with individual factors as well as the school environments.
Two New Quinochalcone C-Glycosides from the Florets of Carthamus tinctorius
Authors: Yue Shijun , Tang Yuping , Xu Chengmei , Li Shujiao , Zhu Yue , Duan Jin-Ao
Published: September 2014

Two new quinochalcone C-glycosides, named hydroxysafflor yellow B (1) and hydroxysafflor yellow C (2), along with two known quinochalcone C-glycosides, safflomin C (3) and saffloquinoside C (4), and one known flavanone, (2R)-4',5-dihydroxyl-6, 7-di-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl flavanone (5), were isolated from the florets of Carthamus tinctorius. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic (UV, IR, HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR) analyses. In addition, these quinochalcone C-glycosides together with hydroxysafflor yellow A and anhydrosafflor yellow B were evaluated for their anti-oxidative effects against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity in cultured H9c2 cells. Among them, compound 2 exhibited significant anti-oxidative effects.
Synthesis, Characterization and in Vitro Evaluation of New Composite Bisphosphonate Delivery Systems
Authors: Kolmas Joanna , Sobczak Marcin , Olędzka Ewa , Nałęcz-Jawecki Grzegorz , Dębek Cezary
Published: September 2014

In this study, new composite bisphosphonate delivery systems were obtained from polyurethanes (PUs) and nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA). The biodegradable PUs were first synthesized from poly(ε-caprolactone) diols (PCL diols), poly(ethylene adipate) diol, 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, 1,4-butanediol and HA. Moreover, the PCL diols were synthesized by the ring-opening polymerization catalysed by the lipase from Candida antarctica. Next, composite drug delivery systems for clodronate were prepared. The mechanical properties of the obtained biomaterials were determined. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized polymers was tested. The preliminary results show that the obtained composites are perspective biomaterials and they can be potentially applied in the technology of implantation drug delivery systems.
Evaluation of Binding Effects in Wood Flour Board Containing Ligno-Cellulose Nanofibers
Authors: Kojima Yoichi , Isa Akiko , Kobori Hikaru , Suzuki Shigehiko , Ito Hirokazu , Makise Rie , Okamoto Masaki
Published: September 2014

Wood-based materials are used extensively in residual construction worldwide. Most of the adhesives used in wood-based materials are derived from fossil resources, and some are not environmentally friendly. This study explores nanofiber technology as an alternative to such adhesives. Previous studies have shown that the three-dimensional binding effects of cellulose nanofiber (CNF), when mixed with wood flour, can significantly improve the physical and mechanical properties of wood flour board. In this study, ligno-cellulose nanofibers (LCNF) were fabricated by wet disk milling of wood flour. Composite boards of wood flour and LCNF were produced to investigate the binding effect(s) of LCNF. The fabrication of LCNF by disk milling was simple and effective, and its incorporation into wood flour board significantly enhanced the physical and mechanical properties of the board.
Optimized SU-8 Processing for Low-Cost Microstructures Fabrication without Cleanroom Facilities
Authors: Pinto Vânia , Sousa Paulo , Cardoso Vanessa , Minas Graça
Published: September 2014

The study and optimization of epoxy-based negative photoresist (SU-8) microstructures through a low-cost process and without the need for cleanroom facility is presented in this paper. It is demonstrated that the Ultraviolet Rays (UV) exposure equipment, commonly used in the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) industry, can replace the more expensive and less available equipment, as the Mask Aligner that has been used in the last 15 years for SU-8 patterning. Moreover, high transparency masks, printed in a photomask, are used, instead of expensive chromium masks. The fabrication of well-defined SU-8 microstructures with aspect ratios more than 20 is successfully demonstrated with those facilities. The viability of using the gray-scale technology in the photomasks for the fabrication of 3D microstructures is also reported. Moreover, SU-8 microstructures for different applications are shown throughout the paper.