bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The cadaveric anatomy of the distal radius: implications for the use of volar plates
Authors: McCann PA , Clarke D , Amirfeyz R , Bhatia R
Published: March 2012

INTRODUCTION

Fractures of the distal radius are common upper limb injuries, representing a substantial proportion of the trauma workload in orthopaedic units. With ever increasing advancements in implant technology, operative intervention is becoming more frequent. As growing numbers of surgeons are performing operative fixation of distal radial fractures, an accurate understanding of the relevant surgical anatomy is paramount. The flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon forms the cornerstone of the Henry approach to the volar cortex of the distal radius. A number of key neurovascular structures around the wrist are potentially at risk during this approach, especially when the FCR is mobilised and placed under retractors.

METHODS

In order to clarify the safe margins of the FCR approach, ten fresh frozen human cadaver limbs were dissected. The location of the radial artery, the median nerve, the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve and the superficial branch nerve were measured with respect to the FCR tendon. Measurements were taken on a centre-to-centre basis in the coronal plane at the watershed level. In addition, the distances between the tendons of brachioradialis, abductor pollicis longus and flexor pollicis longus, and the radial artery and median nerve were measured to create a complete picture of the anatomy of the FCR approach to the distal radius.

RESULTS

The structure most at risk was the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve. It was located on average 3.4mm from the FCR tendon. The radial artery and the main trunk of the median nerve were located 7.8mm and 8.9mm from the tendon. The superficial branch of the radial nerve was 24.4mm from the FCR tendon and 11.1mm from the brachioradialis tendon.

CONCLUSIONS

Operative intervention is not without complication. We believe a more accurate understanding of the surgical anatomy is key to the prevention of neurovascular damage arising from the surgical management of distal radial fractures.
Arterial injuries at the elbow carry a high risk of muscle necrosis and warrant urgent revascularisation
Authors: Lowrie AG , Berry MG , Kirkpatrick JJR , Lees VC , McGrouther DA
Published: March 2012

INTRODUCTION

Revascularisation following axial arterial system injury is effective in upper limb salvage but necrosis of muscle, the tissue most sensitive to ischaemia, may still occur. We examined the frequency of necrosis, its related factors and its functional significance.

METHODS

The clinical findings and operative management of 13 patients with injuries at the elbow referred to 2 plastic surgical hand surgery units over a 30-month period were reviewed. Good outcome was defined as minimal impairment with return to previous occupation, intermediate outcome as moderate impairment with change in occupation and poor outcome as major functional loss preventing work.

RESULTS

Seven patients injured the brachial and six injured both the radial and ulnar arteries. Concomitant injuries were severe with nerve injuries in 11 and muscle damage in 12 patients. Functional outcome was good in four cases, intermediate in four and poor in five. Muscle necrosis developed in four brachial artery injuries. In all four cases, initial successful revascularisation failed post-operatively. Case review revealed delayed recognition in three cases where pain heralded ischaemia but distal skin circulation and pulses were adequate. Of patients with necrosis, three had a poor outcome and one had an intermediate outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of muscle necrosis must be considered when managing these injuries, particularly if initial revascularisation is unsuccessful. Every effort should be made to optimise repair technique and post-operative monitoring. Limb salvage is no longer enough. Fully viable muscle is necessary to restore function and livelihoods.
The effect of alcohol on surgical skills
Authors: Kirby G , Kapoor K , Das-Purkayastha P , Harries M
Published: March 2012

INTRODUCTION

The General Medical Council states ‘a surgeon must not work when their health state is adversely influenced by fatigue, disease, drugs or alcohol’. However, there are no defined criteria for acceptable blood alcohol levels when operating. The aim of this study was to measure the effect of varying amounts of alcohol on surgical dexterity, cognitive abilities and the social interactions required to ensure patient safety during a routine ear, nose and throat (ENT) operation.

METHODS

ENT surgeons were asked to perform a microlaryngoscopy with excision of a predetermined glottic lesion on a validated laryngeal model. The procedure was repeated four times over a period of four hours with varying doses of alcohol (no alcohol control, one glass, three glasses and six glasses of wine). The parameters recorded included theatre etiquette, surgical time, operative skills and patient safety. Scores were adjudicated by two independent observers.

RESULTS

The more glasses of wine consumed, the more detrimental the effect was on the surgical performance of all participants. There was a global reduction in ability of 7.25% after three glasses and 19.25% after six glasses of alcohol. No domain showed an improvement following sequential increase in blood alcohol concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that there are no deleterious effects on surgical performance following the consumption of one glass of wine 45 minutes prior to microlaryngoscopy among ENT surgeons of varying experience. However, there is clear evidence that with three or more glasses of wine there is an adverse effect on performance, with decreased surgical dexterity, cognition functions and professionalism.
Accuracy of prediction equations for calculating resting energy expenditure in morbidly obese patients
Authors: Ullah S , Arsalani-Zadeh R , MacFie J
Published: March 2012

INTRODUCTION

The accuracy of prediction equations for estimating resting energy expenditure (REE) in morbidly obese patients is unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the REE measured using bedside indirect calorimetry with commonly used prediction equations.

METHODS

A total of 31 morbidly obese patients were studied. Pre-operative REE was measured with indirect calorimetry and compared with estimated REE using the Harris–Benedict and Schofield equations. All patients subsequently underwent a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and measurements were repeated at six weeks and three months following surgery.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 47 years. The mean pre-operative body mass index was 46kg/m2. The mean REE measured using indirect calorimetry was 1,980kcal/day. The estimated REE using the Harris–Benedict and Schofield formulae was 2,195 and 2,129kcal/day respectively. The equations overestimated REE by 10% and 7%. Body weight and body mass index reduced significantly following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. There was no significant change in measured REE over the three-month period. After weight loss the difference between the estimated and measured REE reduced to 1–3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Prediction equations overestimate REE in morbidly obese patients. Their accuracy improved after surgery induced weight loss, confirming their validity for the normal weight population. Indirect calorimetry should be used in morbid obesity.
Isolated metastatic primary peritoneal carcinoma to the breast: a rare site of disease recurrence
Authors: Coyne PE , Kenny L , Barnes E , Westley R , Ward E , Jain M , Iwuchukwu O
Published: March 2012

Primary breast carcinoma is a common pathology in the UK. It can present with metastatic deposits but it is rare that lesions in the breast are the sole primary or secondary presentation for metastatic cancer from other sources. We present a case of a primary peritoneal cancer recurring after optimal treatment with a new breast lesion and the diagnostic difficulties that this can cause.
Splenic laceration with a twist: a lesson learnt from gastric volvulus
Authors: Warren C , Wallace W , Campbell WJ
Published: March 2012

Acute gastric volvulus is an uncommon entity that requires prompt diagnosis and management to prevent potential life threatening complications. We present a rare case of splenic laceration secondary to acute gastric volvulus.
Portfolios and Their Role in Revalidation and Assessment
Authors: Fleming JC
Published: March 2012

Following the introduction of the 'Licence to Practise' regulations by the General Medical Council (GMC) in 2009, all UK doctors are on a path towards regular revalidation in the workplace. In June 2010 the GMC completed its public consultation process on its plans for revalidation, and the results and subsequent responses for this process have been published. The exact details and requirements of this process are yet to be published but it is likely that an ongoing portfolio of some nature will be a mandatory requirement for the GMC's revalidation strategy. A portfolio is a form of displaying one's work that was traditionally used in the arts and is now present for all stages of education from primary school through to various professional programmes.
Clinical Coding in Paediatric Orthopaedics and Its Cost Implications
Authors: Pett PI , Clarke NMP
Published: March 2012

Clinical coding is the process of taking information from a patient's hospital stay and translating it into coded data. This is done using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) to code the disease process as well as any complications that may have occurred and the Office of Population Censuses and Surveys (OPCS) codes for medical and surgical procedures. This coded information has many uses in the NHS. It is used for research, audit and monitoring health trends across the UK as well as for funding trusts as part of the 'payment by results' scheme initiated by the government in 2000.
Theatre Teams Assembled Using Personality Profiles Can Improve Predicted Teamworking Scores
Authors: Horwood J , Maw A
Published: March 2012

Many organisations have realised the growing importance of teamworking and communication skills within their workforce. Teams that function well together tend to be more productive, dynamic and emotionally content. Highstress professions, particularly those in the aviation industry, have recognised the importance of teamworking, not only for error reduction but also for successful outcomes in crisis situations. This has led to a wealth of psychological research into many aspects of team interactions. Numerous independent organisations now utilise psychological profiling techniques to predict how their employees will perform in a team situation. In addition, a wealth of companies offer various types of team training, specifically designed to improve the interactions between employees.
Efficacy of the Two-Week Wait Referral System for Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kumar R , Drinnan M , Mehanna H , Paleri V
Published: March 2012

The publication of the NHS Cancer Plan by the Department of Health in September 2000 led to an increase in the number of urgent referral clinics as the guidelines stipulated that cancer patients should not wait more than two months from referral to initiation of treatment. 1 following the implementation of these guidelines for head and neck cancer (HNC) referrals in December 2000, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) released an update as part of Clinical Guidance 27 in 2005 2 outlining eight key symptoms that should prompt urgent referral to secondary care.
Research Output in a UK Orthopaedic Training Region Between 2000 and 2010
Authors: Rogers BA , Solan MC , Ricketts DM
Published: March 2012

During training surgeons acquire both clinical and non-clinical skills. The latter include management experience, teaching, research and audit skills. Just as a surgical trainee must learn how to operate, there is a requirement that he or she learns how to undertake research. The UK trauma and orthopaedics curriculum states that trainees must provide a portfolio demonstrating competences in 'personal research, assessment of the research of others and evidence of audit'. Trainees' ability to assess research is tested during the fRCS (Orth) examination by critique of a research paper.
Your online library: new resources for 2012
Authors: Howard Eric
Published: March 2012

In January 2012 the College's Library and Surgical Information Services launched a further expansion in the range of electronic journals and resources to support your professional development and practice. Your comments to the Library, particularly through the e-journals survey carried out in summer 2011, have helped shape the collection as we try to take a more evidence-based approach in order to meet your needs as closely as possible. We have been able to provide access to 20 new e-journal titles for UK fellows and members from a range of publishers, including key titles such as the Journal of the American Medical Association, Archives of Surgery and Annals of Plastic Surgery. A full list of the newly added titles is available at http://www.rcseng.ac.uk/library/online-resources/online-journals/new-journal-titles.
The NHS reforms: good, bad or neutral? Medical students debate at the College
Authors: McClenaghan Fiona , Stevenson Finn
Published: March 2012

The Professor Harold Ellis Medical Student Prize for Surgery, held at the close of 2011, threw open to debate the question of whether the reforms currently under way in the NHS are 'good, bad or neutral'. Sixteen undergraduate medical students with hopes of a surgical career were invited to the College from medical schools all across the UK to present their case either for or against Andrew Lansley's proposed reforms. After giving a five-minute presentation to fellow students, participants were questioned by fellows of the College and Professor Ellis himself. The conclusions reached represented a complete range of opinion from great anticipation of positive change to great concern over the future of the NHS. Both authors were highly commended for their presentations and here we aim briefly to set out our differing opinions on the reforms of the NHS.
Arylene–ethynylene macrocycles: Privileged shape-persistent building blocks for organic materials
Authors: Gross Dustin E. , Zang Ling , Moore Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2012

This report details the advances in synthetic strategies toward arylene–ethynylene macrocycles (AEMs). After a brief description of traditional methods, we summarize recent advances based on dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) whereby a highly active and functional group tolerant alkyne metathesis catalyst yields scalable quantities of AEMs under thermodynamic controlled reaction conditions.
CONFERENCE REPORT
Authors: Mitchell Roanna
Published: March 2012

Endangered Species summit review, London, March 2011
The Legacy of Ottoman Building in Nicosia: Hans as Spaces of Coexistence in Pre-conflict Cyprus
Authors: Bakshi Anita
Published: March 2012

The urban form of Nicosia has been heavily influenced by the conflict in Cyprus and the separation of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities since the late 1950s. The historic city centre, encircled within the sixteenth-century Venetian walls, is defined by an absence, the
Buffer Zone, an inaccessible strip that divides it down the middle. This was once the city's main market area, its course laid out in the medieval period. Three centuries of Ottoman rule left an imprint on this urban fabric and resulted in the building of a large number of hans along these
marketplace streets. As the Cyprus conflict remains unresolved, so do the divergent narratives, differing on each side of the border, regarding how this part of the city was lived in and used in the years prior to division. The nature of these streets, in terms of the degree of coexistence
or separation that existed between the communities sharing them, is disputed. This article will look at material evidence and memories related to several of Nicosia's hans in order to provide an alternative narrative; looking to the material reality of these buildings, and the memories connected
to them, to discuss the nature of coexistence in pre-conflict Cyprus in the 1940s and 1950s.
The Missiri of Fréjus as Healing Memorial: Mosque Metaphors and the French Colonial Army (1928–64)
Authors: Gruber Christiane
Published: March 2012

The Missiri, or Mosque, of Fréjus was constructed c.1928–30 for the Senegalese riflemen (tirailleurs sénégalais) of the French colonial troops based in the military camps of southern France. Although its appearance seemingly links it with sub-Saharan Islamic
architecture, its purpose and uses remained secular. Officials at the camps hoped that the building would induce health and community spirit, while providing a memorial space for deceased soldiers. Through an analysis of the building's shape, function and surviving military documents, this
study demonstrates that the Missiri is the material outcome of new ventures in French colonial humanism, ostensible religious tolerance, and the belief that moral rectitude can be expressed through architecture. Moreover, this mosque-like building represents a clear example of a structural
form (the mosque) divorced from a particular function (Islamic ritual) and concerned instead with providing a site to commemorate the Senegalese riflemen's contributions to Greater France.
The role of H2O in controlling bond topology:I. The[6]Mg(SO4)(H2O)n(n= 0–11) structures
Authors: Hawthorne Frank C. , Sokolova Elena
Published: March 2012

Here, we examine the role of (H2O) in controlling polymerization of structural units in simple hydrated oxysalt compounds of the form Mg(SO4)(H2O)n. As the number of (H2O) groups in the structure increases, the number ofM—M(M= Mg) linkages decreases in a 1 : 1 ratio with the (increasing) number of (H2O) groups until noM—Mlinkages are left, and then the number ofM—T(T= S) linkages decreases with the (increasing) number of (H2O) groups until noM—Tlinkages are left (atn= 6). The change in bond topology is monotonic as a function of (H2O) content except forn= 5 where, instead of replacing anM—Tlinkage, the fifth (H2O) group is held in the structure by hydrogen bonds only. The valence-sum rule of bond-valence theory constrains the anion-coordination numbers to [2], [3] and [4] in these structures. The handshaking lemma of graph theory allows us to derive an equation relating the coordination numbers of the cations (Mg = [6], S6+= [4], H = [2]) to the coordination numbers of the anions. There are four integer solutions to this equation, and the Mg(SO4)(H2O)nstructures correspond to two of these solutions. Structures are known forn= 0–2.5, 4–7, 11; considering the variations in connectivity and coordination number as a function ofn, a possible structural arrangement is proposed for Mg(SO4)(H2O)3.
Using Biomimicry to Engage Students in a Design-Based Learning Activity
Authors: Gardner Grant E.
Published: March 2012

I describe a design-based learning activity that utilizes the interdisciplinary content domain of biomimicry. Design-based learning requires student creativity and technological innovation to address novel science problems, characteristics of the nature of science not often addressed in schools. Alignment with national standards documents, protocols, and assessment recommendations are provided.
Move Over! Studying Flatfish Travel Patterns to Profile Fish Behavior
Authors: Aultman Terry , Curran Mary Carla
Published: March 2012

The way an animal moves from place to place can inform us about its life and environment. In this lesson, students examine the travel patterns of juvenile flatfishes in an estuary. The process of sampling bottom-dwelling fishes is explained, and data from a university-based marine science laboratory are evaluated. Students compare the distance traveled by juvenile fish to human movement by determining their own average step length. Comparing step length to the distance-to-body-length traveled by flatfish enables students to put in perspective the journey taken by the fish.
Tasting the Brutality of Qaddafi's Regime
Authors: cheslow daniella
Published: March 2012

Israeli-Tunisian artist Rafram Chaddad traveled to Libya in March 2010 to photograph the synagogues and cemeteries of Libya's vanished 2,500-year-old Jewish community. Libyan secret police arrested him and accused him of spying for Israel. Chaddad withstood electrocution, ten days with no sleep, and savage beatings with a lead pipe before spending months alone in a tiny cell. He was released five months later through back-channel negotiations. Today, what he remembers most is every dish his wardens served him, from cinnamon-stewed camel to stuffed tripe served over turmeric-saturated rice. His prison term sheds light on the brutality and curious generosity of jail under the deposed Muammar Qaddafi.

Chaddad's survival strategy revolved around food. Three times a day Chaddad would ask the prison guards for cooking advice as they delivered hot-foil meal trays to his cell. He marked time with tinfoil squares he ripped off the wrapping of grilled chicken. And he rejoiced in the small details of the food, such as dill on macaroni or dried mint in sorba, a tomato, meat, and lentil stew. In Chaddad's case, being a bon vivant was the best defense when all he had was a rotting gray mattress in a tiny room.
Trash Eaters
Authors: lindeman scarlett
Published: March 2012

“Trash Eaters.” an ethnography of the freegan community of New York City, explores what it means to eat trash, by choice, in an urban metropolis. Freegans aim to remove themselves as much as possible from the conventional economy; they find, repurpose, share, and barter to obtain food and other necessities, including gleaning from garbage bags left on the street. This paper investigates city waste, the quantity and quality of edible food within the trash, and the tricks and techniques “trash eaters” employ to find and harvest the edible found food. Additionally, the paper traverses the beliefs and taboos that come from crossing a social boundary, from the sidewalk to the trash heap, and the value that can come from the transgressive action: self-sufficiency, reinvention, and wasting less.
A Kare Pan Is a Pretty Good Start
Authors: simmons andrew
Published: March 2012

Common in train stations and department store food courts, Japanese bakery chains often specialize in clever interpretations of European baked goods and reconfigurations of culinary traditions from other countries. They provide visitors not only with snacks, but with a unique perspective. Kare pan is curry bread, a typical bakery item. In Japan, foreign cultural symbols aren't merely appropriated; they're savored, celebrated, and then regurgitated as something fresh. In the rich world of Japanese baked goods, this process can be seen as authentically Japanese, even if the food itself is not.
Cock-A-Doodle
Authors: spiller harley
Published: March 2012

Art Historian Jed Perl's challenge to reveal a topic in the work of Pablo Picasso that hadn't been thoroughly covered results in “Cock-a-Doodle,” an analysis of the master's lifelong penchant for making art about poultry. Less glorious and known than the master's celebrated images of women and bullfights, birds intended for the dinner table are nonetheless a critical aspect of his oeuvre. For Picasso common birds were perfect tools for implying the elemental. He was not a gourmet. Food was less important for him as nourishment than as a mirror of the soul. Based on an eighty-five page analysis of all of his works on the topic, this essay focuses on his 1962 painting Coq Troussé (Trussed Cock). In this picture Picasso reversed the ordinary process whereby birds are slaughtered before plucking, making this painting unique in the history of game bird portraiture. Horrified and horrifying, the unwilling star of Picasso's timeless and global image demands that his viewers confront their fears of savagery and death. Picasso focused on the carnage lurking behind societal niceties; loved divulging the viscera of so-called civilization; and found in humble, ungainly chicken (and other edible birds) an enduring motif for his humanistic mission.
The Science of Biodynamic Viticulture
Authors: tippetts jason
Published: March 2012

Biodynamics, as a viticultural method, is generally not well understood by either its practitioners or its detractors. Detractors complain that biodynamics is rooted in mysticism and has no scientific basis whatsoever and thus no place in the increasingly scientific world of viticulture and oenology. Proponents counter that the biodynamic method established by Rudolf Steiner in the early twentieth century is fundamentally based on scientific facts, and that the results of applying the method are consistent and easily discernible in both the vineyard and the wine glass. This article elucidates the very complex relationship between Steiner's theory and reductivist science and suggests that only by better understanding this relationship can we truly appreciate what the biodynamic method is.
MEG3 noncoding RNA: a tumor suppressor
Authors: Zhou Yunli , Zhang Xun , Klibanski Anne
Published: March 2012

Maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) is an imprinted gene belonging to the imprinted DLK1–MEG3 locus located at chromosome 14q32.3 in humans. Its mouse ortholog, Meg3, also known as gene trap locus 2 (Gtl2), is located at distal chromosome 12. The MEG3 gene encodes a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and is expressed in many normal tissues. MEG3 gene expression is lost in an expanding list of primary human tumors and tumor cell lines. Multiple mechanisms contribute to the loss of MEG3 expression in tumors, including gene deletion, promoter hypermethylation, and hypermethylation of the intergenic differentially methylated region. Re-expression of MEG3 inhibits tumor cell proliferation in culture and colony formation in soft agar. This growth inhibition is partly the result of apoptosis induced by MEG3. MEG3 induces accumulation of p53 (TP53) protein, stimulates transcription from a p53-dependent promoter, and selectively regulates p53 target gene expression. Maternal deletion of the Meg3 gene in mice results in skeletal muscle defects and perinatal death. Inactivation of Meg3 leads to a significant increase in expression of angiogenesis-promoting genes and microvessel formation in the brain. These lines of evidence strongly suggest that MEG3 functions as a novel lncRNA tumor suppressor.
Dynamic expression pattern and subcellular localization of the Rhox10 homeobox transcription factor during early germ cell development
Authors: Song Hye-Won , Dann Christina T , McCarrey John R , Meistrich Marvin L , Cornwall Gail A , Wilkinson Miles F
Published: March 2012

Homeobox genes encode transcription factors that regulate diverse developmental events. The largest known homeobox gene cluster – the X-linked mouse reproductive homeobox (Rhox) cluster – harbors genes whose expression patterns and functions are largely unknown. Here, we report that a member of this cluster,Rhox10, is expressed in male germ cells.Rhox10is highly transcribed in spermatogoniain vivoand is upregulated in response to the differentiation-inducing agent retinoic acidin vitro. Using a specific RHOX10 antiserum that we generated, we found that RHOX10 protein is selectively expressed in fetal gonocytes, germline stem cells, spermatogonia, and early spermatocytes. RHOX10 protein undergoes a dramatic shift in subcellular localization as germ cells progress from mitotically arrested gonocytes to mitotic spermatogonia and from mitotic spermatogonia to early meiotic spermatocytes, consistent with RHOX10 performing different functions in these stages.
Novel Regulators of Planar Cell Polarity: A Genetic Analysis in Drosophila
Authors: Weber Ursula , Gault William J , Olguin Patricio , Serysheva Ekaterina , Mlodzik Marek
Published: March 2012

Planar cell polarity (PCP) is a common feature of many epithelia and epithelial organs. Although progress has been made in the dissection of molecular mechanisms regulating PCP, many questions remain. Here we describe a screen to identify novel PCP regulators in Drosophila. We employed mild gain-of-function (GOF) phenotypes of two cytoplasmic Frizzled (Fz)/PCP core components, Diego (Dgo) and Prickle (Pk), and screened these against the DrosDel genome-wide deficiency collection for dominant modifiers. Positive genomic regions were rescreened and narrowed down with smaller overlapping deficiencies from the Exelixis collection and RNAi-mediated knockdown applied to individual genes. This approach isolated new regulators of PCP, which were confirmed with loss-of-function analyses displaying PCP defects in the eye and/or wing. Furthermore, knockdown of a subset was also sensitive to dgo dosage or dominantly modified a dishevelled (dsh) GOF phenotype, supporting a role in Fz/PCP-mediated polarity establishment. Among the new “PCP” genes we identified several kinases, enzymes required for lipid modification, scaffolding proteins, and genes involved in substrate modification and/or degradation. Interestingly, one of them is a member of the Meckel-Gruber syndrome factors, associated with human ciliopathies, suggesting an important role for cell polarity in nonciliated cells.
Neonatal Liver Cirrhosis Without Iron Overload Caused by Gestational Alloimmune Liver Disease
Authors: Debray Francois-Guillaume , de Halleux Virginie , Guidi Ornella , Detrembleur Nancy , Gaillez Stéphanie , Rausin Léon , Goyens Philippe , Pan Xiaomin , Whitington Peter F.
Published: March 2012

Gestational alloimmune liver disease has emerged as the major cause of antenatal liver injury and failure. It usually manifests as neonatal liver failure with hepatic and extrahepatic iron overload, a clinical presentation called neonatal hemochromatosis. We report on a newborn in whom fetal hepatomegaly was detected during pregnancy and who presented at birth with liver cirrhosis and mild liver dysfunction. Liver biopsy showed the absence of iron overload but strong immunostaining of hepatocytes for the C5b-9 complex, the terminal complement cascade neoantigen occurring specifically during complement activation by the immunoglobulin G-mediated classic pathway, which established the alloimmune nature of the hepatocyte injury. The infant survived with no specific therapy, and follow-up until 36 months showed progressive normalization of all liver parameters. This case report expands the recognized clinical spectrum of congenital alloimmune liver disease to include neonatal liver disease and cirrhosis, even in the absence of siderosis. Such a diagnosis is of utmost importance regarding the necessity for immunotherapy in further pregnancies to avoid recurrence of alloimmune injury.
Self-Assembly of Graphene Nanoribbons with Unsaturated Edges
Authors: Pang Andrew L. J. , Sorkin Viacheslav , Zhang Yong-Wei
Published: March 2012

We studied the self-assembly mechanisms of Graphene Nanoribbon (GNR) with unsaturated edges and demonstrated the ability of GNR to self-assemble into novel stable structures. We proposed three mechanisms which dictate the self-assembly evolution of GNR with unsaturated edges. Using the Adaptive Intermolecular Reactive Empirical Bond-Order (AIREBO) potential, we performed molecular dynamics simulations on initially-planar GNRs with unsaturated edges. The simulation results showed that the self-assembly mechanisms and final conformations of the GNRs correlate well with the proposed GNR self-assembly mechanisms. Furthermore, the simulations also showed the ability of a narrow GNR to self-assemble into various nanostructures, such as tapered graphene nano-rings and graphene nanoscrolls with an embedded nanotube.
Nanoscale Heat Transport through Epitaxial Ultrathin Hetero Films: Bi(111)/Si(001) and Bi(111)/Si(111)
Authors: Hanisch-Blicharski Anja , Wall Simone , Kalus Annika , Frigge Tim , Horn- von Hoegen Michael
Published: March 2012

The cooling process of ultrathin hetero films upon excitation with short laser pulses was studied for epitaxial Bi(111) films on Si(001) and Si(111) substrates by means of the Debye-Waller effect with ultrafast electron diffraction. From the exponential decay of the temperature, a cooling time constant was determined as a function of thickness for both substrates. For Bi/Si(111), a linear dependence between the decay constant and thickness was observed, even for 2.8 nm thin films , as predicted from the diffuse mismatch model (DMM) and the acoustic mismatch model (AMM). However, with Bi/Si(001), a significant deviation from this linear dependence was observed for film thicknesses below 5 nm.
News: CPD for existing and aspiring reservoir panel engineers
Authors: Hill Timothy , Hughes Andy
Published: March 2012

This note contains advice from two members of the Reservoirs Committee on the requirements to demonstrate continued professional development when applying or re-applying for appointment to a reservoirs panel.
Surveys and temporary works in spillway construction at Windleden Upper reservoir
Authors: Hallsworth Anneke Kellond
Published: March 2012

Windleden Upper reservoir in South Yorkshire is an earth embankment dam located within the Peak District National Park. It was created by impounding a small tributary stream of the River Don. Following recent recommendations made in the interests of safety, a hydraulic model of the spillway was constructed for the probable maximum flood outflow of 40 m3/s. The model showed that the existing spillway did not have sufficient capacity in the tumblebay area, which could pose a risk to reservoir safety. This paper describes the investigation, construction and temporary works required to deliver the project. Comprehensive geotechnical analysis was carried out on the existing tumblebay walls, using finite analysis methods, to calculate their stability during excavation construction works. Cores were taken through the existing walls to establish the construction method and trial pits were carried out to understand where these are founded. Access was a major issue on this site, owing to the narrow width of the embankment and concerns about the stability of the wave wall. Extensive three-dimensional modelling was carried out to provide a solution for a temporary access road during works to the spillway.
Banded vegetation‐dune development during the Medieval Warm Period and 20th century, Chihuahuan Desert, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Weems Stacey L. , Monger H. Curtis
Published: March 2012

With the advent of systematic high‐resolution satellite photography, striking geometric shapes of banded vegetation several km2 in size, but not apparent from the ground, have been documented for many areas of the arid and semiarid world. Banded vegetation, in which dense perennial vegetation alternates with bands of bare soil may originate from geomorphic processes, ecological self‐organization, or human land use. In the Chihuahuan Desert of New Mexico prominent arc‐shaped bands of vegetation and dunes occur along the contact of a piedmont slope (bajada) and basin floor. The origin and chronology of this banded vegetation‐dune complex was investigated using early aerial photography (1936–1942), landscape photography (1918), vegetation and soil surveys (1858, 1918), soil stratigraphy, 13C/12C ratios, and 14C dating. These methods reveal two periods of eolian deposition. The first began in the Medieval Warm Period (ca. AD 900–1300) and was followed by a period of landscape stability during the Little Ice Age (ca. AD 1500 to 1850). The second began in the late‐1800s when widespread desertification occurred throughout the American Southwest. Banded vegetation was initiated after formation of erosional scarplets that functioned as obstacles upon which eolian sand accumulated, thus becoming a dam to overland flow and causing strips of vegetation to form. Banded vegetation in this study is an emergent pattern produced by a coupled ecologic‐geomorphic‐climatic system. The stratigraphic record produced by this system enables us to compare current ecological responses to climate change with baseline prehistorical responses to climate change.
Relationship Between Normal Serum Creatinine Concentration and Periodontal Disease in Japanese Middle‐Aged Males
Authors: Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Kushiyama Mitoshi , Murakami Masatoshi , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: March 2012

Background: Periodontitis has been shown to be closely related to diabetes, which was recently found to be associated with lower serum creatinine. Conversely, several studies have suggested a positive relationship between periodontitis and abnormally high concentrations of serum creatinine associated with renal dysfunction, seemingly contradicting the above. This study evaluates periodontal status and serum levels of creatinine within the normal range to resolve this apparent contradiction.

Methods: A comprehensive health examination of 907 Japanese males, 49 to 59 years old, was performed from 2000 to 2002. A blood sample was collected from the antecubital vein after an overnight fast. The periodontal parameters were periodontal probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (AL). We examined the association between serum creatinine concentration within the normal range and periodontal parameters.

Results: Serum creatinine concentration within the normal range was inversely correlated with mean PD and mean AL. In multivariate linear regression analyses, every 0.1‐mg/dL increment in serum creatinine concentration was associated with a 0.064‐mm decrease in both mean PD and mean AL (P <0.05) after adjusting for confounding variables.

Conclusion: This study finds a significant inverse association between normal serum creatinine concentration and periodontal disease.
An Early Warning System for Identifying Drilling Problems: An Example From a Problematic Drill-Out Cement Operation in the North-Sea
Authors: Cayeux Eric , Daireaux Benoît , Dvergsnes Erik Wolden , Sælevik Gunnstein , Zidan Mohamed
Published: March 2012

We describe the validation of a software solution that automatically detects changes in downhole drilling conditions. Based on early warnings provided by the system, the drilling team can take pre-emptive action when conditions start to deteriorate. However, we have found that the decision maker takes time to build confidence that the reported symptoms, if ignored, will lead to a drilling incident.

To illustrate this problem, a particular BHA run, where the system has been used, is analyzed in detail. A leak-off test should have been performed after drilling out a 300m long cement plug. While drilling the cement, the system gave several warnings that the cuttings transport was poor. Nevertheless the decision was made to continue drilling. Close to the end of the plug, the hole started to pack off and shortly after, mud losses were experienced compromising the planned leak-off test. While pulling out of hole, the system triggered new warnings because of the possible presence of a cuttings bed. The decision was made to clean the hole thoroughly and at the second attempt, the subsequent trip out of hole was uneventful.

The principle of the system is to compare results from calibrated physical models of the well with surface and downhole measurements. The system analyses the following indicators continuously: sliding and rotational friction, downhole and pump pressure, free rotating weight deviations and pit volume variations. Experience has shown that using multiple symptoms to detect abnormal drilling conditions is essential because similar problems do not always present the same pattern of indicators.

The system has regularly shown its ability to provide early warning signs of changing downhole conditions well before an eventual incident. This consistency has helped build confidence amongst the decision makers who are then ready to take prompt actions in response to warnings.
Manufacturing Wells: Myth or Magic
Authors: de Wardt John P
Published: March 2012

Description

Manufacturing wells has been proffered as an opportunity to reduce the cost and increase the speed of construction for hydrocarbon production. There are a number of key caveats that must be addressed in order to progress this application of manufacturing techniques to well construction. This paper describes these caveats and the means to address them.

Application

The application of manufacturing techniques has been discussed in the industry for some years under the heading of factory style drilling. The progressive rise of drilling costs against low gas prices, the increase in pad drilling of horizontal wells for shale gas and liquids, the rising uptake of lump sum outsourced project managed wells primarily from NOC’s is creating an environment where the uptake of faster, lower cost well construction can accelerate.

The application described in this paper takes factory style drilling to the next level whereby the best attributes of manufacturing are applied through the full cycle of the well including the well components (not just the drilling process).

Results, Observations, Conclusions

Lean Manufacturing techniques have resulted in significant gains in the manufacturing industry: 50% time reduction and 25% improved quality. Similar results are being emulated in other industries that are adopting these techniques. Lean Drilling™ has set benchmarks in drilling and completion performance across the globe (ref SPE27476, SPE 59203, SPE87117). The rewards are immense and can significantly offset the rising cost of accessing hydrocarbons thus enabling greater exploitation of oil and gas reserves.

Correctly applied methods of Lean Manufacturing yield improved safety, functionality, quality, speed of construction and lowered costs. These methods also open the door to the application of automation throughout the supply chain thus gaining additional leverage on performance and cost.

Significance of Subject Matter

This paper will describe the history of Lean Manufacturing and under what circumstances it can be applied to wells construction. It will build on the differences between project type and various ongoing business type of wells as introduced in SPE 128716. It will lay out the opportunities and the barriers to this large opportunity for value generation. It will describe where it cannot, and should not be applied. A future outlook will address the industry shift to ever increasing factory style drilling and manufactured wells.
Next-Generation Managed Pressure Drilling System Enables HP/HT Horizontal Wells in the Haynesville Shale
Authors: Montilva Julio , Mota Jose , Poletzky Isabel C. , Sati Mohamed , Lovorn Randy , Grable Jeff
Published: March 2012

Managing pressure cycling on connections during drilling operations remains the greatest challenge for Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operators today. During conventional MPD operations, systems typically employ back pressure pumps to compensate for well back pressure across the well head. These conventional systems require a delicate control on connections between the driller managing rig pumps and the MPD operator managing back pressure pumps.

This paper describes implementation of a fully automated MPD system which incorporates a Rig Pump Diverter (RPD) that allows smooth transition from circulating to non-circulating down hole during connections while maintaining continuous rig pump circulation. The RPD system allows flow to be diverted from the stand pipe to the choke manifold, enabling accurate control of the bottomhole pressure (BHP) for controlled transition from drilling mode to connection mode. This paper will further describe the time savings and enhanced drill crew workflow associated with the use of the RPD system.

The paper describes the MPD implementation process, which included front-end engineering and design, HAZID/HAZOP (pre-job process of identification and management of potential hazards for operations), flow loop testing, in-house simulation, on-site drill crew training and will delineate the benefits of using the new system such as controlling annulus pressure during drilling operations. Additionally, results of field trials performed in High Pressure / High Temperature (HPHT) horizontal wells in the Haynesville Shale will be described.

We will show in the paper how this system operates on a small foot print while making the interaction between drilling crews and MPD crews highly effective. We will also demonstrate that the new MPD system provides better control managing pressure cycling, gas expansion and/or influx to the system, enabling effective drilling for better rate of penetration (ROP).
Drilling Contract Historical Development and Future Trends Post-Macondo: Reflections on a 35 Year Industry Career
Authors: Moomjian Cary A.
Published: March 2012

The author reflects upon a 35 year drilling industry career, over half of which was as General Counsel for two major drilling companies, to review the evolution of drilling contracts and discuss future contracting trends post-Macondo.

The historical review begins with the advent of the oil and gas industry and considers developments that led to issuance of the first (IADC predecessor) AAODC standard drilling contract in 1952. The paper then traces the evolution of drilling contracts as they became more complex and sophisticated while the industry extended into the offshore and international arenas.

Major events that impacted contracting, such as development of various standard contracts, anti-indemnity statutes and other legislation, judicial decisions, the "Drilling in the '90s" and other strategic initiatives, are considered. Incentive, variable rate and multi-party drilling contracts are reviewed. The paper also discusses contractual provisions that were implemented to address operational and technical innovations such as horizontal drilling, extension into deepwater and dual activity simultaneous operations capability.

The dichotomy between U.S. land operations (which primarily utilize IADC model contract forms) and offshore and international operations (which generally are based on operator standard contracts) is considered along with the impact of market forces upon drilling contract terms. The difficulties encountered when contracting with national oil companies that insist upon adherence to their standard forms are discussed. Controversial issues, such as the enforceability of indemnities in the event of gross negligence, are reviewed. The paper also discusses the impact of Macondo upon drilling contract terms.

With this background, anticipated future contracting trends in a post-Macondo world are considered.
Understanding Shale Heterogeneity - Key to Minimizing Drilling Problems in Horn River Basin
Authors: Khan Safdar , Ansari Sajjad , Han Hongue , Khosravi Nader
Published: March 2012

More than 70% of nonproductive time (NPT) and increases in drilling cost are related to wellbore instabilities. Shale formations are the primary sources (90%) for wellbore instabilities. Numerous wellbore instability problems have been reported in the Horn River basin (HRB), the largest shalegas play in Canada. As a consequence of the depositional environment, shale formations have laminated structure that results in anisotropic mechanical properties and horizontal stresses. Failure to consider this characteristic of shale can have severe consequences on drilling. Traditional isotropic stress calculation approaches typically used in wellbore stability analysis do not consider 3D azimuthal anisotropy present in shales. Ignoring anisotropy generally results in underestimation of stresses, which can lead to incorrect safe trajectory or mud-weights predictions.

In this paper, drilling problems experienced in 15 wells in two different areas of the HRB were examined. Some of these wells had severe wellbore instabilitis due to high pore pressure, mud losses or lost circulation, tight hole/stuck pipe/pack off, or combination of these events. Three borehole assemblies (BHA) were lost in these wells which required side tracking. Most of these problems were experienced in Fort Simpson and upper Muskwa formations. An in-depth postmortem analysis of these wells indicated that shale heterogeneity was not properly characterized (anisotropic horizontal stresses were not considered in the prespud analysis which resulted in incorrect mud-weight predictions and trajectory calculations.