bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron transfer and oxidase activities in reconstituted hemoproteins with chemically modified cofactors
Authors: Matsuo Takashi , Hayashi Takashi
Published: November 2009

Protoheme IX is a typical iron porphyrin cofactor, showing a variety of reactivities in many hemoproteins under the reaction environments provided by protein matrices. Chemical modification of the protoheme cofactor is expected to be a versatile strategy to design hemoproteins possessing unique functions. This review focuses on the conversion of a hemoprotein, mainly myoglobin (an oxygen-storage hemoprotein), into a protein having different functions from the original ones by replacement of the protoheme cofactor with synthetic cofactors. The myoglobin having anionic patches pended to the heme propionates effectively binds electron-accepting proteins or small cationic organic molecules on the protein surface, resulting in enhanced efficiency of the photoinduced electron transfers from the myoglobin to these electron acceptors. Furthermore, the peroxidase and peroxygenase activities are also enhanced due to the facile substrate accesses. The attachment of the chemically active moiety such as flavin at the heme terminal is also important to give P450-like function to the native myoglobin. The employment of a structural isomer of porphyrin as an artificial cofactor gives rise to remarkably high dioxygen affinity and peroxidase activity in myoglobin, and allows us to easily detect high-valent species of the porphyrin isomer in HRP. These examples provide a clear insight into hemoprotein modifications based on synthetic chemistry as well as genetic amino acid mutations.
Skills, Schools, and Credit Constraints: Evidence from Massachusetts
Authors: Goodman Joshua
Published: November 2009

Low college enrollment rates among low-income students may stem from a combination of credit constraints, low academic skill, and low-quality schools. Recent Massachusetts data allow the first use of school district fixed effects in the analysis of credit constraints, leading to four findings. First, low-income students in Massachusetts have lower intended college enrollment rates than higher income students but also have dramatically lower skills and attend lower-quality school districts. Second, inclusion of skill controls greatly reduces but does not eliminate this intended enrollment gap. Third, inclusion of school district fixed effects has little further impact, with low-income students eight percentage points less likely to intend enrollment than higher income students of the same skill and from the same school district. Fourth, medium- and high-skilled low-income students appear the most constrained. State governments could use the methods employed here to target financial aid more efficiently.
S-Metric Calculation by Considering Dominated Hypervolume as Klee's Measure Problem
Authors: Beume Nicola
Published: November 2009

The dominated hypervolume (or S-metric) is a commonly accepted quality measure for comparing approximations of Pareto fronts generated by multi-objective optimizers. Since optimizers exist, namely evolutionary algorithms, that use the S-metric internally several times per iteration, a fast determination of the S-metric value is of essential importance. This work describes how to consider the S-metric as a special case of a more general geometric problem called Klee's measure problem (KMP). For KMP, an algorithm exists with runtime O(n log n + nd/2 log n), for n points of d ≥ 3 dimensions. This complex algorithm is adapted to the special case of calculating the S-metric. Conceptual simplifications realize the algorithm without complex data structures and establish an upper bound of O(nd/2 log n) for the S-metric calculation for d ≥ 3. The performance of the new algorithm is studied in comparison to another state of the art algorithm on a set of academic test functions.
Hybrid Evolutionary Optimization of Two-Stage Stochastic Integer Programming Problems: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Tometzki Thomas , Engell Sebastian
Published: November 2009

In this contribution, we consider decision problems on a moving horizon with significant uncertainties in parameters. The information and decision structure on moving horizons enables recourse actions which correct the here-and-now decisions whenever the horizon is moved a step forward. This situation is reflected by a mixed-integer recourse model with a finite number of uncertainty scenarios in the form of a two-stage stochastic integer program. A stage decomposition-based hybrid evolutionary algorithm for two-stage stochastic integer programs is proposed that employs an evolutionary algorithm to determine the here-and-now decisions and a standard mathematical programming method to optimize the recourse decisions. An empirical investigation of the scale-up behavior of the algorithms with respect to the number of scenarios exhibits that the new hybrid algorithm generates good feasible solutions more quickly than a state of the art exact algorithm for problem instances with a high number of scenarios.
Competitive Coevolutionary Learning of Fuzzy Systems for Job Exchange in Computational Grids
Authors: Fölling Alexander , Grimme Christian , Lepping Joachim , Papaspyrou Alexander , Schwiegelshohn Uwe
Published: November 2009

In our work, we address the problem of workload distribution within a computational grid. In this scenario, users submit jobs to local high performance computing (HPC) systems which are, in turn, interconnected such that the exchange of jobs to other sites becomes possible. Providers are able to avoid local execution of jobs by offering them to other HPC sites. In our implementation, this distribution decision is made by a fuzzy system controller whose parameters can be adjusted to establish different exchange behaviors.

In such a system, it is essential that HPC sites can only benefit if the workload is equitably (not necessarily equally) portioned among all participants. However, each site egoistically strives only for the minimization of its own jobs' response times regularly at the expense of other sites.

This scenario is particularly suited for the application of a competitive coevolutionary algorithm: the fuzzy systems of the participating HPC sites are modeled as species that evolve in different populations while having to compete within the commonly shared ecosystem.

Using real workload traces and grid setups, we show that opportunistic cooperation leads to significant improvements for each HPC site as well as for the overall system.
Multi-Objective Optimization with Controlled Model Assisted Evolution Strategies
Authors: Braun Jan , Krettek Johannes , Hoffmann Frank , Bertram Torsten
Published: November 2009

Evolutionary algorithms perform robust search in complex and high dimensional search spaces, but require a large number of fitness evaluations to approximate optimal solutions. These characteristics limit their potential for hardware in the loop optimization and problems that require extensive simulations and calculations. Evolutionary algorithms do not maintain their knowledge about the fitness function as they only store solutions of the current generation. In contrast, model assisted evolutionary algorithms utilize the information contained in previously evaluated solutions in terms of a data based model. The convergence of the evolutionary algorithm is improved as some selection decisions rely on the model rather than to invoke expensive evaluations of the true fitness function. The novelty of our scheme stems from the preselection of solutions based on an instance based fitness model, in which the selection pressure is adjusted to the quality of model. This so-called λ-control adapts the number of true fitness evaluations to the monitored model quality. Our method extends the previous approaches for model assisted scalar optimization to multi-objective problems by a proper redefinition of model quality and preselection pressure control. The analysis on multi-objective benchmark optimization problems not only confirms the superior convergence of the model assisted evolution strategy in comparison with a multi-objective evolution strategy but also the positive effect of regulated preselection in contrast to merely static preselection.
How Can Technology Facilitate Financial Inclusion in India? A Discussion Paper
Authors: Gangopadhayay Shubhashis
Published: November 2009

More than 50 per cent of the adult population in our country is excluded from the financial sector. It is not just people in the rural areas; many of the lower income categories of the urban population are also excluded. This is largely because of the way the supply of such services is organised. For instance, the transaction costs of financial services to the poor are exceedingly large in comparison to their potential exposure. From the demand side too, there is financial illiteracy and the consequent fear of approaching formal institutions.

The discussion paper focuses on developing complete solutions and not on restatements of the problem. The paper deliberates on the following types of questions:

How can we reduce transaction costs of dealing with the poor?

Can we develop institutions to act as intermediaries between existing institutions and the excluded?

How to build a technology platform on which these issues can be tackled?

What sort of legal environment is necessary to support an innovative use of technology?

Our attempt has been to defi ne the regulatory framework that encourages greater and universal access to financial services based on a technology platform that allows solutions that are otherwise infeasible.
Commentary: Recalling as a Holistic Experience: Objects, Emotions and Meanings United
Authors: del Río María Teresa , Molina María Elisa
Published: November 2009

Reavey and Brown (2009), in their article ‘The Mediating Role of Objects in Recollections of Adult Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse’, make an interesting review of recollections of child abuse episodes in four women. They intend to give an account, in terms of agency, responsibility and integrity, of reports of past traumatic experiences in which particular objects are considered. The mediation of objects in recollection of past memories is discussed as a relevant contribution, positioning objects as semiotic resources for the apprehension of idiosyncratic experiences and personal sense-making. It is stated that objects also allow exchange with an external interlocutor mediating assessment and psychological elaboration being carried out with survivors. Also, as parts of a holistic phenomenon of memory, objects attached to emotion and meaning contribute to the robust aspect of the way in which past experiences can be apprehended. This last issue helps to orient the discussion of accuracy and validity in traumatic memory. Agency and ambivalence as parts of human experiencing are considered relevant, highlighting two aspects: theoretical and clinical implications.
Commentary: Autonomy and Relatedness Reconsidered: Learning from the Inuit
Authors: Luciano Margaret
Published: November 2009

Psychology has long struggled with defining constructs while preserving their meaning within a cultural context. Autonomy and relatedness have been construed as a dichotomy, which does not contribute to the understanding of how humans can act autonomously while being attached to one another. It is more fruitful to discuss the constructs in the context of an inclusive relationship in which autonomy and relatedness are proposed to be compatible as they are located on different dimensions: agency and interpersonal distance, respectively. The nuances of the constructs and the dialogical process, which includes the middle ground between the two extremes, are crucial for a complete understanding. The presence of autonomy does not imply or negate the presence of relatedness. Autonomy and relatedness not only can but do synthesize in a variety of forms.
Striving toward the future: aspiration—performance discrepancies and planned organizational change
Authors: Labianca Giuseppe , Fairbank James F. , Andrevski Goce , Parzen Michael
Published: November 2009

Interest has been growing in understanding how organizations’ aspiration levels affect their planning for future organizational change. Previous research has not specified whether organizations use direct competitors or other comparable organizations as referents for forming their aspirations. In this study, it is argued that organizations form their social aspirations based on two types of interorganizational comparisons: competitive and striving. In competitive comparisons, an organization compares its current performance against that of its current direct competitors. When relative performance is poor, these organizations plan more extensive and more radical change. However, the study shows that organizations that are performing well relative to competitors do not necessarily become inertial, as theory suggests. Rather, organizations engage in striving comparisons by comparing their current performance against the performance of organizations to which they strive to be like in the future. The analyses show that organizations with large striving discrepancies are driven to more extensive and more radical change, even if they are performing well compared to current competitors. The study examined this interplay between competitive and striving discrepancy in explaining organizational change on a sample of 131 AACSB accredited business schools.
Usefulness of repeated D-dimer testing after stopping anticoagulation for a first episode of unprovoked venous thromboembolism: the PROLONG II prospective study
Authors: Cosmi Benilde , Legnani Cristina , Tosetto Alberto , Pengo Vittorio , Ghirarduzzi Angelo , Testa Sophie , Prisco Domenico , Poli Daniela , Tripodi Armando , Marongiu Francesco , Palareti Gualtiero ,   for the PROLONG Investigators (on behalf of Italian Federation of Anticoagulation Clinics)
Published: November 2009

The PROLONG randomized trial showed that a normal D-dimer (D-d) 1 month after anticoagulation suspension for unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE) was associated with a low risk of late recurrences (4.4% patient years). However, it is unknown whether D-d changes subsequently. The aim of this prospective multicenter study was to assess D-d time course and its relation with late recurrences in patients with normal D-d 1 month after anticoagulation suspension for a first episode of unprovoked VTE. D-d was measured with a qualitative method (Clearview Simplify D-dimer; Inverness Medical Professional Diagnostics). Patients with a normal D-d 1 month after stopping anticoagulation repeated D-d testing every 2 months for 1 year. D-d was normal in 68% (243/355) of patients 1 month after anticoagulation suspension. Patients in whom D-d became abnormal at the third month and remained abnormal afterward had a higher risk of recurrence (7/31; 27% patient years; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 12-48) than patients in whom D-d remained normal at the third month and afterward (4/149; 2.9% patient years; 95% CI: 1-7; adjusted hazard ratio: 7.9; 95% CI: 2.1-30; P = .002). Repeated D-d testing after anticoagulation suspension for a first episode of unprovoked VTE could help tailor the duration of treatment. This trial is registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00266045.
Depth perception for moving images shown on a large LED display with an aperture grille
Authors: Yamamoto Hirotsugu , Nishimura Hayato , Uchida Keigo , Ono Kasai , Hayasaki Yoshio , Suyama Shiro
Published: November 2009

Abstract— A type of depth illusion created by the use of an aperture grille is reported. When viewing a moving target through multiple slits, a movement with depth is perceived, which was originally reported (see Ref. 11). The binocular delay is considered to cause a virtual disparity between both perspective images with apparent movement. By using an LED display with an aperture grille as a stereoscopic display, perceived distance caused by a binocular delay has been measured. The measured distance is compared with the perceived distance for stereoscopic still images shown on a stereoscopic LED panel. The comparison supported that the binocular delay is converted into binocular disparity. Furthermore, pair‐comparison tests were conducted to investigate depth impressions. It was found that use of an aperture grille improves depth impression for a movie that was taken with a laterally moving camera.
Effects of shadow‐mask voltage on the discharge in shadow‐mask PDPs
Authors: Yang Lanlan , Tu Yan , Wang Baoping , Zhang Xiong , Li Qing , Zheng Yaosheng , Wu Zhong
Published: November 2009

Abstract— A new type of ACPDP with a shadow mask (shadow‐mask PDP, SMPDP) has been developed, featuring an effective structure and lower cost. The distinct difference between an SMPDP and a conventional ACPDP is that the dielectric barrier ribs are replaced by a single metal shadow mask. A three‐dimensional self‐consistent fluid model was used to analyze the effects of the shadow‐mask voltage on the discharge for a simplified driving scheme. The simulation results indicate that by selecting the appropriate shadow‐mask voltage, the addressing speed can be improved due to the local strong electric field. The steady discharge in the sustaining period will not be affected by changes in the shadow‐mask voltages in the addressing period. While in the sustaining period, the shadow‐mask‐voltage variation can directly affect the sustaining discharge. The floating shadow mask in the sustaining period is beneficial in achieving a stable sustaining discharge.
Physics-Driven Interface Modeling for Drainage and Imbibition in Fractures
Authors: Prodanovic Maša , Bryant Steven L.
Published: November 2009

The geometric distribution of immiscible fluid phases in fractures is not readily accessible experimentally, so aperture-scale simulations of drainage and imbibition in realistic fractures can provide valuable insight. We implement a level set method for computing the location within a fracture of the interface between two fluids controlled by capillary forces. The movement of the interface in response to changes in capillary pressure is approximated as quasistatic displacement. Fluid interfaces are thus constant mean curvature surfaces, satisfying the Young-Laplace equation. We apply a progressive quasistatic (PQS) algorithm to determine when spontaneous pore-level events occur during fluid displacement. The algorithm captures reversible and irreversible behavior. We illustrate the approach in two types of rough-walled fractures. One type is a 3D crack between irregular, impermeable surfaces; the other type is a gap between irregular 2D and 3D grain packs. We focus on the disconnected (defending) fluid volumes and (advancing) fluid main pathway as the geometric properties of the fracture are varied, notably aperture and the number of contact points between the upper and lower fracture surfaces. The curvature of the fluid/fluid interface in the plane of the fracture is often ignored by invasion percolation simulation techniques, yet it is known to influence strongly the fluid cluster properties. Our simulations establish the exact position and shape of the interface in realistic fracture geometries, from which fluid volumes, contact areas, and interface curvatures can be obtained. This establishes a new, mechanistic basis for predicting relative permeabilities in fractures and for evaluating transfer functions in dual-porosity flow models.
Well-Integrity Issues Offshore Norway
Authors: Vignes Birgit , Aadnøy Bernt S.
Published: November 2009

A number of serious well failures in recent years led to investigations of well-integrity issues. The Petroleum Safety Authority Norway (PSA) performed a pilot well-integrity survey based on supervisory audits and requested input from seven operating companies, 12 preselected offshore facilities, and 406 wells. The wells were a representative selection of production and injection wells with variation in both age and development categories.

The pilot project indicates that 18% of the wells in the survey have integrity failure, issues, or uncertainties, and 7% of these are shut in because of well-integrity issues. The selection of wells and the companies indicate that the statistics are representative.

The well incidents in the past and the results of the pilot well-integrity survey revealed that the industry needs to increase focus on barrier philosophy. Control of barrier status is an important health, safety, and environment (HSE) factor to avoid major incidents caused by unintentional leaks and well-control situations. Knowledge of well-integrity status at all times enables the companies to take the right actions in a proactive manner to prevent incidents.

The paper presents the results and the conclusions from the pilot survey. In addition, a number of technical well failures will be presented, identifying critical elements such as corrosion, leaks, and operational factors. In particular, the understanding of barrier regulations, standards, and implementation was found to be inadequate.
Particulate-Based Loss-Prevention Material—The Secrets of Fracture Sealing Revealed!
Authors: Kaageson-Loe N. , Sanders M. W. , Growcock F. , Taugbøl K. , Horsrud P. , Singelstad A. V. , Omland T. H.
Published: November 2009

Owing to the narrow drilling margin that exists between the pore-pressure and the fracture-pressure gradient, drilling in depleted-reservoir, high-pressure/high-temperature, and deepwater environments is universally recognized as being technically challenging.

A number of field techniques are available for mitigating many of the drilling problems encountered. Included among these are specialized fluid engineering that involves the use of chemical- and particulate-based treatments for minimizing or preventing losses. In many instances, these techniques can be used to strengthen or stabilize the wellbore when drilling at or near the fracture gradient, thereby potentially eliminating the need for intermediate casing strings.

This paper discusses particulate-based-treatments design for sealing fractures. Substantial experience gained from innovative laboratory testing has highlighted the mechanisms and many factors that determine the effectiveness of the fracture seal. The particle-size distribution (PSD) relative to the fracture aperture, particle morphology, volumetric concentration, rheological properties of the fluid, and fluid-loss control influence whether the seal is established within the fracture or at the fracture mouth. Understanding this distinction is important with respect to selecting the optimum treatment and its application for given field conditions. Parameters critical for optimizing the treatment have been identified and are discussed in the context of laboratory and field experience.
Automatic Measurement of Drilling Fluid and Drill-Cuttings Properties
Authors: Saasen A. , Omland T. H. , Ekrene S. , Brévière J. , Villard E. , Kaageson-Loe N. , Tehrani A. , Cameron J. , Freeman M. , Growcock F. , Patrick A. , Stock T. , Jørgensen T. , Reinholt F. , Amundsen H. E. F. , Steele A. , Meeten G.
Published: November 2009

To remotely control the drilling process, it is necessary to measure several drilling-fluid parameters automatically. This will increase objectivity of the measurements and make it possible to react to changes in real time. The current paper describes in detail the design for an integrated tool combination and the results of a full-size yard test of such a combined set of tools for measuring drilling-fluid parameters and formation properties automatically. Some of the automated tools have been tested on rigsite operations. Results from these individual tests are also presented.

The automatic drilling-fluid analysis includes viscosity, fluid loss, electrical-stability (ES) measurements, and chemical properties such as pH. Full viscosity curves for the drilling fluid are measured using configurations and shear rates similar to those suggested by American Petroleum Institute (API) procedures. Because gel-formation curves and fluid-loss properties require some sort of controlled static periods, these measurements are made semicontinuously. However, they are automatic and can be measured as frequently as desired.

An automatic system is included to measure the particle-size distribution (PSD), concentration, and morphology. Knowledge of these parameters is necessary, especially when drilling in depleted reservoirs where particles are added for increasing the wellbore strength.

The produced-cuttings volume is measured. An automatic system is adapted that determines, with accuracy comparable to that of visual analysis, whether the particles separated at the shaker screens are drill cuttings or cavings produced by an unstable formation. The mineralogy of the cuttings is analyzed automatically using Raman spectroscopy, making it possible to evaluate continuously the different formations being drilled.
Dual Role of Catalytic Agents on In-Situ Combustion Performance
Authors: Akkutlu I.Y.. Y. , Yortsos Y.C.. C. , Adagülü-Demirdal G.D.. D.
Published: November 2009

Unlike other thermal recovery methods, air injection and in-situ combustion generates significant amounts of heat in the reservoir. However, the process is subject to acute heat loss rates from the reaction zones because of high temperature gradients; consequently, the reaction temperatures may be reduced considerably, leading to a deteriorated combustion performance and debilitated field operations. The goal of this paper is to determine under which reservoir conditions the combustion temperatures could be maintained at sufficient levels. Previous investigators have partially addressed this issue using kinetic and combustion tube experiments. In the absence of heat losses, it has been repeatedly shown that catalytic agents (naturally occurring clays, metal oxides, and some water-soluble metallic additives) improve the self-sustainability limit of combustion front in crude oil and sand mixtures. In general, this has been attributed to the dual role of these agents on the combustion performance, namely the catalytic and fuel deposition effects. It is currently a common belief that appropriate introduction of such materials in a reservoir environment could enhance the performance of combustion process and, hence, improve the recoveries. An investigation of their dual role on combustion requires that the mechanisms of combustion are well understood in their presence. Complex physical and chemical nature of the problem at the pore-scale has prevented detailed investigations using physical and numerical models, however. Here, we approach the problem analytically using a sequential-reaction [high-temperature oxidation/low-temperature oxidation (HTO/LTO)] combustion front propagation model, based on large activation energy asymptotics, and introducing the reaction kinetics and fuel deposition effects to the model systematically by varying the related variables and parameters. Coherent propagation of the reaction regions are then investigated using reaction region temperatures, propagation velocity, and the oxygen consumption efficiency. General characteristics of an ideal catalytic agent are discussed in terms of its potential to improve in-situ combustion. It is found that the front propagation can be improved under the reservoir conditions only if both the catalytic and fuel deposition effects of the agents are present. The work is important for our understanding of in-situ combustion processes and can be used for development of screening criteria to identify high-performance catalytic agents in the laboratory using conventional apparatus.
Corporate Venture Capital as a Conduit for Early Adoption of Emerging Technology: A Decade of Experience
Authors: Unneland Trond , Hanten John
Published: November 2009

A continuous challenge in the petroleum industry is to identify and rapidly implement new technologies into field operations to increase production, improve employee productivity, and lower costs. Utilizing new world-class technology is critical as the industry moves towards more complex environments. To support this trend, a Chevron corporate strategy is to leverage technology to deliver superior performance and growth. A range of suitable tools are available, such as internal R&D, joint ventures, and collaboration with academia and service companies. A less traditional method in the petroleum industry is to use corporate venture capital (VC) as a tool to gain access to world-class technology. This paper covers a decade of Chevron VC experience, including justification for corporate VC investments, how success is measured, financial and strategic yield, investment criteria, governance, partnerships, track record, and portfolio highlights. In this paper, several technology transfer success stories are given including the financial and operational value they created for the Chevron business units. The investments cover such diverse technology areas as artificial lift, seismic monitoring, deepwater technology, wind power, and high-end computing for reservoir simulation.
On-Site Bioremediation Systems Reduce Crude Oil Contamination
Authors: Hildebrandt W.W. , Wilson S.B.
Published: November 2009

Oilfield properties frequently have areas where soils contain concentrationsof crude oil. These soils can be either"hazardous wastes" or"designated wastes" under regulatory guidelines. As a result, propertyowners and financial institutions face potential liabilities when oilfieldproperties are transferred to new operators, abandoned, or converted to otheruses.

Modern, well-designed soil bioremediation systems are cost-effective ways totreat soils that contain concentrations of crude oil, and these systems caneliminate an owner's subsequent liabilities. A modern on- sitebioremediation system requires significantly less surface area, results inlower operating costs, and provides more effective, expeditious results thantraditional land-farming practices. It also eliminates potential long-termliabilities and is typically more cost-effective than excavation and off-sitedisposal of oilfield soils. Case studies indicate that on-site bioremediationsystems have reduced crude oil contamination in soil to levels acceptable toregulatory agencies in less than 20 weeks (in some cases, less than 10 weeks). Total costs for on-site bioremediation range from $35 to $120/yd3oftreated soil, including excavation, depending on specific siterequirements.

Introduction

During normal operation of oilfield properties, crude oil or other materialsfrequently leak or spill onto land surfaces. These degraded soils are commonlyassociated with oil wells, sumps and pits, tank batteries, gathering lines, andpump stations. Crude oil and drilling muds may also be found in these areasand, like the contaminated soil, they may be considered either hazardous wastesor designated wastes under current regulatory guidelines. The regulationspertaining to crude oil vary across the U.S. In California, for example, crudeoil is considered a designated waste and its off-site disposal is subject toregulations. If certain constituents (e.g., benzene) are present insufficiently high concentrations, the soil degraded by crude oil may beconsidered a hazardous wasteand subject to additional regulations. Crude oilsludge in an old sump typically contains oilfield treatment chemicals;therefore, the sludge is considered a hazardous waste.
Initiation and Persistence to Statin Treatment in Patients with Diabetes Receiving Glucose-Lowering Medications 1997- 2006
Authors: Dominguez H. , Schramm T. K. , Norgaard M. L. , Abildstrøm S.Z. , Kober L. , Jørgensen C. , Guterbaum T.J. , Poulsen H.E. , Torp-Pedersen C. , Gislason G. H.
Published: November 2009

Aims:

Since 2001 guidelines recommend statin treatment in most patients with diabetes. We investigated secular changes in initiation and persistence to statin treatment during a 10-year period in a nationwide cohort of patients initiating glucose-lowering medication (GLM).

Methods:

All Danish citizens 30 years and older who claimed prescriptions of GLM between 1997 and 2006 were identified from nationwide registers of drug dispensing from pharmacies and hospitalizations, and followed until 2006. Statin treatment was registered if a prescription was claimed during the period. By logistic regression we analyzed factors related to initiation and persistence to statin treatment.

Results:

In total 128,106 patients were included. In 1997 only 7% of the patients receiving GLM claimed statins within the first year after GLM initiation. Despite increasing statin prescriptions the following years, only 62% were using statins at the end of follow up. The chance of ever receiving statins was lowest if not initiated within 180-days following the first purchase of GLM (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.74-0.76). A previous myocardial infarction was associated with increased statin treatment (OR 4.51; 95% CI 4.31 - 4.71), while low income was associated with lower use of statins (OR 0.68; 95%CI 0.66-0.72). Between 75-85 % of the patients who initiated statins treatment were persistent to treatment by 2007.

Conclusions:

In spite of increasing use of statins in diabetes patients over time, many patients remain untreated. Early initiation of statin treatment in diabetic patients and focus on patients with low socioeconomic status is needed to give long-term benefits.
Identification of Generation and Network Expansion Locations to Meet Growing Loads Using Relative Electrical Distance Approach
Authors: Dhadbanjan Thukaram , Chintamani Vyjayanthi
Published: November 2009

Ever growing demand for the electric power requires timely expansion of generations and networks. It is observed that these expansions may not often be done optimally and the load concentration locations and generation expansion locations may not always match up. To address this problem of meeting the growing loads optimally, a concept of relative electrical distance (RED) is applied to identify the optimum generation reschedule values and also system expansion locations. The approach of RED computes the relative electrical distances between the generation and load buses using the transmission network parameters. Using this approach, the amount of generation increase or evacuation required can be identified. This paper presents the approach using a sample 16-bus system and a practical 72-bus system, an equivalent of Indian southern grid. Studies are carried out considering short term and long term load growths and the results obtained are validated using power flows. The different scenarios studied are assessed based on their minimum voltage, MW loss values, Minimum Singular Value etc. Few aspects like cost estimation for network expansion, loss shared by different generations etc, are also computed, and it is finally concluded that the best tradeoff between the two expansions is to be honored.
An Analysis of Southwest Airlines: Applying the Horngren, Datar, and Foster (2006) Strategic Profitability Analysis Approach
Authors: Bailey Charles D. , Collins Allison B. , Collins Denton L. , Lambert Kenneth R.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT: This case requires students to collect financial and operational data from Southwest Airlines' 2003–2006 annual reports and to use that data to conduct a strategic profitability analysis of the firm's changes in operating income. As described in Horngren et al. (2006), this analysis decomposes changes in a firm's operating income into components related to growth, price recovery, and productivity. Similar to other studies (e.g., Dikolli and Sedatole 2004), this case uses publicly available data to link textbook concepts to “real world” applications. Linking strategy with profitability allows students to see how firms manage inputs in order to compete, grow, and profit in output markets.
Outbreak of trichinellosis in eastern Slovakia
Authors: Paraličová Z. , Kinčeková J. , Schréter I. , Jarčuška P. , Dubinský P. , Porubčin Š. , Pavlinová J. , Kristian P.
Published: November 2009

Trichinellosis is a zoonosis caused by ingestion of undercooked raw meat from animals that harbour infectious larvae. In most of the Slovak regions there is ongoing life cycle of circulating trichinellosis in wild carnivores and wild boar population. The outbreak of trichinellosis occured in Rožňava district east Slovakia during spring in 2008. Ten members of farmer’s family and their relatives got ill while processing meat from home-made pig-slaughter for meals and meat products intended for wedding dinner. During the meat processing all of them tasted raw meat. Moreover, another 45 persons were exposed to this infection by eating heat-treated meat products. The most common predominant clinical signs were: myalgias, fever, fatigue, exanthema and periorbital oedema. On the 40th day after infection there were intermediate to high titres of trichinella IgG antibodies detected (10 patients), high levels of eosinophilia (10 patients) with maximum of 6.76 × 109/l (55 %) and profound changes in selected laboratory parameters: decreased levels of total proteins, increased levels of alpha 1-globulin and C reactive protein. Presence of IgG antibodies as well as aforementioned laboratory parameters was important markers of trichinellosis in our study, whereas other laboratory changes (leukocytosis, high levels of activity lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase) were detected only in few hospitalized patients.
Ecological aspects of metazoan endoparasites of Metynnis lippincottianus (Cope, 1870) (Characidae) from Upper Paraná River floodplain, Brazil
Authors: Moreira L. , Takemoto R. , Yamada F. , Ceschini T. , Pavanelli G.
Published: November 2009

We examined 44 specimens of Metynnis lippincottianus (Cope, 1870) (Characidae), collected in the Upper Paraná River floodplain, Brazil, from March 2006 to December 2007. Of the total number of fishes, 32 (72.7 %) were infected by at least one species of helminth (endoparasites). One digenean, Dadayus pacupeva, and four nematode species, Spinoxyuris oxydoras, Contracaecum sp. (larval stage), Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus and Raphidascaris (Sprentascaris) mahnerti were identified. D. pacupeva and S. oxydoras showed the highest values of prevalence, mean intensity and abundance. The typical pattern of overdispersion or aggregation was observed for all endoparasites. Dominance by D. pacupeva and S. oxydoras was observed in the parasite community. Positive association between D. pacupeva and two nematode species (S. oxydoras and P.(S.) inopinatus) was observed, including positive and significant covariation between their abundances. These results suggest that species are coexisting without competition. There was no correlation between parasitism and sex for M. lippincottianus.
Echinoparyphium limosorum n. sp. (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) from Black-tailed Godwit, Limosa limosa (Aves, Charadriiformes) in Slovakia
Authors: Macko J. , Špakulová M. , Macková A.
Published: November 2009

Echinostomatid trematode Echinoparyphium limosorum n. sp. from the charadriiform bird Limosa limosa is described on basis of morphometrical study of museum material. The new species is characterized by medium-sized body up to 4.9 mm long, reniform head collar up to 511 wide, armed with 48–51 collar spines up to 91 µm, arranged in double row. The new species is largely similar to Echinoparyphium recurvatum, however, the most remarkable difference lays in the higher number of collar spines which are 48–51 in E. limosorum n. sp. but 45 in E. recurvatum. The authors discuss relative impact of numerical generic characters and propose an amending of the diagnosis of The genus Echinoparyphium given by Kostadinova (2005) as follows: Collar spines up to 51, sharply pointed, all in double row.
Influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the nematicidal properties of leaf extracts of Thymus vulgaris L.
Authors: Sasanelli N. , Anton A. , Takács T. , D’Addabbo T. , Birò I. , Malov X.
Published: November 2009

The effect of arbuscolar mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on the nematicidal activity of Thymus vulgaris against the rootknot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica was investigated in two in vitro experiments. In the first experiment egg masses of M. incognita and M. javanica were immersed for 3 weeks in aqueous leaf extracts of thyme plants non-inoculated or previously inoculated with Glomus mosseae or mixed AMF strains (Sclerocystis sinuosa, Glomus claroideum-1, G. claroideum-2 and G. claroideum-3). Thereafter the hatching test continued in distilled water for five more weeks. In the second experiment egg masses of both Meloidogyne species were exposed to the different thyme extracts for 4, 8 and 16 hours and then incubated in distilled water for 8 weeks. Distilled water and 5 mg/ml aqueous solution of fenamiphos nematicide were used as controls. Numbers of second stage juveniles emerging weekly were expressed as cumulative percentages of the total egg content of the egg masses. In the first experiment juvenile emergence from eggs of both Meloidogyne species immersed in thyme extracts for three weeks was completely suppressed since the first week. Hatching of eggs of M. incognita in all the extracts was significantly lower than that in water control, although emergence in the extract from uninoculated thyme plants was significantly higher than the others and no statistical different from that of aqueous fenamiphos solution. Emergence of M. javanica juveniles was significantly lower after immersion in all the extracts than in distilled water control and aqueous fenamiphos solution. In the second experiment a 4-hour exposure to the extract from thyme inoculated with G. mosseae and mixed AMF population significantly reduced the final hatch of M. incognita in comparison to distilled water. A 16-hour exposure to the extract from mixed AMF inoculated plants resulted in a significantly lower egg hatch than the shorter exposure times, whereas no statistical difference was found between 4 and 8 hour exposure to both extracts. Emergence of M. javanica juveniles was statistically lower than in water only after 16 hours exposure to the extracts from mixed AMF strains inoculated plants, but no difference was found among the different exposure times. Growth of T. vulgaris was significantly increased only by the infections of mixed AMF strains.
Using Narratives as a Research Strategy
Authors: Pepper Coral , Wildy Helen
Published: November 2009

This paper reports on our use of narrative accounts in qualitative research about educational leadership in Western Australia. Data for the research were gathered through semistructured interviews. We wanted to know whether interview data constructed as narrative accounts then analysed would help us understand the phenomenon of leading for sustainability. We had used this approach previously (Wildy & Pepper, 2005; Clarke, Wildy & Pepper, 2007) in our examination of school leadership. Our commitment to an interpretive approach (Connelly & Clandinin, 1990; Kvale, 1996), to delve into our participants’ understanding of their experiences remains strong. Rich insights into the experiences of participants are revealed in narrative accounts crafted from semistructured interviews. Stories and descriptions of experience are given status when presented as narratives so contribute to participants’ wellbeing and meet the criteria for ‘good educational research’. In this paper we describe collecting data, constructing narratives, confirming quality and conducting analysis to describe the ‘wakefulness’ and transparency we adhere to when using narrative accounts as a research strategy.
A New Species of the Genus Phanerotoma Wesmael (Braconidae: Cheloninae) with a key to Indian Species
Authors: Sheeba M , Narendran TC
Published: November 2009

A new species of Phanerotoma viz., P. malabarica Sheeba & Narendran sp. nov. from India is described and compared with its closest relative. A key to Indian species of Phanerotoma is also provided. Key words: Phanerotoma, Braconidae, Cheloninae, New species, P. malabarica   DOI:10.3329/jbs.v16i0.3734 J. bio-sci. 16: 11-14, 2008
Karyotype Analysis of Seven Varieties of Taro Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott. from Bangladesh
Authors: Parvin S , Kabir G , Ud-Deen MM , Sarker JK
Published: November 2009

Nuclear and chromosome characteristics of seven varieties of Colocasia esculenta were studied. Interphase chromosome value was found to range from 2119.85 (cytotype-3) to 5346.12 (cytotype-7). Heterochromatin values varied from 23.17 (cytotype-2) to 44.52% (cytotypt-6) in meristematic cells. Karyotype studies revealed that somatic chromosome number was 28 in cytotype-1, 2, 5, 6 and 7; 42 in cytotype-3 and 21 in cytotype-4. The longest chromosome (5.54 μm) was observed in cytotyopt-2 and shortest (1.3 μm) in cytotype-3 and 6. Key words: Karyotype, Nuclear phenotype, Colocasia esculenta.   DOI:10.3329/jbs.v16i0.3735    J. bio-sci. 16: 15-18, 2008
Micropropogation of Cucurbita maxima Duch. through Shoot Tip Culture
Authors: Mahzabin F , Parvez S , Alam MF
Published: November 2009

Micropropagation of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima Duch.) was achieved using shoot tip of in vitro grown seed derived plants of two cultivars namely, Bikrompuri and Baromasi of Bangladesh. The excised shoot tips were cultured on MS medium containing KIN, BA, NAA at various levels of concentration and combination for shoot induction and proliferation, and best response was found at 3.0 mg/l of BA. Shoots were rooted most effectively in ½ MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l IBA. Bikrompuri was found more responsive than Baromasi for rapid clonal propagation. Key words: Micropropagation, Direct organogenesis, Shoot tip, Pumpkin   DOI:10.3329/jbs.v16i0.3742 J. bio-sci. 16: 59-65, 2008
In Vitro Propagation of Pumpkin and Ash Gourd through Nodal Segments
Authors: Haque ME , Sarkar MAR , Mahmud MA , Rezwana D , Sikdar B
Published: November 2009

The present study was undertaken with a view to develop an efficient protocol for in vitro multiple shoot formation and subsequent root induction considering various cultural aspects using nodal segments of Cucurbita maxima and Benincasa hispida. The best hormone for shoot multiplication of pumpkin was BAP (2 mg/l), incase of ash-gourd BAP was 1.5 mg/l. For callus induction BAP+2,4-D was best combination for pumpkin and it was 2.0+0.1 mg/l when in ash gourd BAP+NAA was the best combination. IBA + ½MS medium were used for induction of shoot bud root. In both of pumpkin and ash gourd 1.5 mg/l IBA was found best for induction of roots. Key words: In vitro, MS medium, nodal segments, multiplication, rooting, pumpkin and ash gourd.   DOI:10.3329/jbs.v16i0.3743 J. bio-sci. 16: 67-71, 2008
Post-Irradiation Ageing Effect on Morphological Characters of Crotalaria saltiana
Authors: Shah ABS , Ud-Deen MM , Naz A , Sarker JK , Kabir G
Published: November 2009

Post-irradiation ageing effect on seed germinability and different morphological characters of Crotalaria saltiana were studied in the year of 2006. Germination percentage of Crotalaria saltiana seeds treated with different doses of gamma rays, aged for 32 years in moisture free condition showed remarkable variation. Plants grown from the treated seeds of all the doses showed diversity among themselves regarding their morphological characters. Such as plant height was found to reduce in lower doses and this character showed no such consistent result. Leaf irregularities such as, invaginated margin, inverted margin with blunt apex, leaf with bifurcated apex, small size and dented margin, etc. were recorded. Key words: Post-irradiation ageing effect, Morphological characters, Crotalaria saltiana.   DOI:10.3329/jbs.v16i0.3747 J. bio-sci. 16: 89-93, 2008