bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A evolução da gestão de compras em uma empresa do segmento de material escolar: estudo de caso longitudinal
Authors: Senapeschi Neto Alberto , Godinho Filho Moacir
Published: April 2011

Este trabalho tem como objetivo principal apresentar e discutir, por meio de um estudo de caso longitudinal, a mudança evolutiva na forma de gestão de compras implementada por uma empresa de produtos de escrita e pintura na busca de maior alinhamento das estratégias corporativas e aumento de competitividade nos negócios. Os resultados mostraram que, referente a sete variáveis de controle da gestão de compras analisadas (estágio estratégico de desenvolvimento da função compras; objetivos a ser alcançados; forma de integração com a gestão da qualidade; forma de integração com o planejamento e controle da produção; nível de habilidade requerida dos profissionais; quantidade e especificação dos indicadores de desempenho utilizados), houve uma clara evolução buscando acompanhar o desenvolvimento teórico da área. As mudanças ocorridas na empresa em questão podem servir como referência para empresas que desejem re-estruturar sua gestão de compras, bem como contribui para a redução do gap existente entre a teoria e prática na área, mostrando um caso onde muitas das mais modernas técnicas teóricas se encontram implementadas.
A maternidade como enigma: Atenas, as Luzes e Freud
Authors: Quintana Gomez Graciela
Published: April 2011

Este trabalho examina a questão da maternidade, a partir de uma abordagem histórica das construções discursivas dominantes na Grécia Clássica e nas Luzes, e da análise de determinados textos de Freud. O objetivo principal é tentar demonstrar o peso de uma tradição patriarcal, que remonta à Antigüidade sobre a representação fálica da maternidade de Freud (embora ele também abra outras linhas interpretativas alternativas), sustentada em três pilares fundamentais: o monismo fálico, o essencialismo no entendimento da questão da diferença entre os sexos e a idéia de que as mães têm os filhos sozinhas, sem intervenção do pai.
Uso de estratégias de leitura por alunos do ensino médio
Authors: Joly Maria Cristina Rodrigues Azevedo , Santos Lílian Mendes dos , Marini Janete Aparecida da Silva
Published: April 2011

O presente estudo verificou o uso de estratégias metacognitivas de leitura por alunos do ensino médio. Participaram 487 alunos do ensino médio de escolas públicas, 55,7%, e particulares ,44,3%, sendo 58,3% do sexo feminino. A idade variou de 14 a 21 anos com média de 16,2 anos e desvio padrão de 1,27. O procedimento utilizado foi a aplicação coletiva por classe de uma escala de estratégias metacognitivas de leitura. Os resultados revelaram que as mais utilizadas pelos participantes foram as de solução de problemas, especialmente durante a leitura. Os participantes do sexo feminino (M=46,10; DP=12,42) demonstraram utilizar estratégias de leitura mais freqüentemente que os do masculino (M=39,13; DP=13,94). Houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas quanto ao uso de estratégias metacognitivas de leitura entre 15 e 17 anos [F(7,480)=2,33; p<0,02]. Verificou-se diferença de uso também entre a primeira série do ensino médio em relação a terceira e habilitação ao magistério [F(3,484)=12,36; p<0,00].
Fatores de risco cardiovascular em adolescentes: prevalência e associação com fatores sociodemográficos
Authors: Farias Júnior José Cazuza de , Mendes Jonathan Karl Feitosa , Barbosa Daniele Batista Martins , Lopes Adair da Silva
Published: April 2011

OBJETIVOS: Determinar a prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovascular (individual e co-ocorrência); e investigar a relação entre esses fatores e indicadores sociodemográficos em adolescentes. MÉTODOS: A amostra, selecionada por conglomerados em dois estágios (escolas, turmas), foi constituída de 782 adolescentes (14-17 anos de idade, 54,9% do sexo feminino) do ensino médio no município de João Pessoa - PB, Brasil. As variáveis independentes foram sexo, idade e condição econômica. Os desfechos investigados foram: níveis insuficientes de atividade física, hábitos alimentares inadequados, pressão arterial elevada, etilismo, excesso de peso corporal e tabagismo. RESULTADOS: Níveis insuficientes de atividade física (59,5%) e hábitos alimentares inadequados (49,5%) foram os fatores de risco cardiovascular mais prevalentes. Pressão arterial elevada, etilismo e excesso de peso foram mais prevalentes no sexo masculino, e níveis insuficientes de atividade física no sexo feminino. Cerca de 10% dos adolescentes não apresentaram nenhum fator de risco, e 51,4% apresentaram dois ou mais fatores de forma simultânea. Os adolescentes do sexo masculino (OR = 1,89; 1,35 - 2,65) e aqueles que pertenciam aos estratos econômicos mais pobres tiveram maiores chances de apresentar um ou mais fatores de risco biológicos (OR = 1,69; IC95% = 1,16 - 2,47). CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovascular foi elevada, com destaque para a exposição simultânea a múltiplos fatores de risco. Os adolescentes do sexo masculino e os mais pobres foram os subgrupos com maior exposição a fatores de risco biológicos de forma simultânea.
Frequência de sintomas no último ano de vida de idosos de baixa renda em São Paulo: estudo transversal com cuidadores informais
Authors: Solano João Paulo Consentino , Scazufca Márcia , Menezes Paulo Rossi
Published: April 2011

O crescimento da população idosa brasileira fez aumentar a prevalência de doenças crônicas e o número de pessoas sofrendo de diversos sintomas ao final da vida. Este estudo objetivou entrevistar cuidadores de idosos falecidos, investigando a presença, intensidade e duração de sintomas no último ano, e se os mesmos foram tratados. Arrolaram-se idosos por inquérito domiciliar de base populacional em setores de baixa renda do Butantã, São Paulo. Eram elegíveis os idosos falecidos durante o período de dois anos de seguimento. Oitenta e um cuidadores foram entrevistados entre três e 16 meses pós-óbito e responderam um questionário sobre onze sintomas. Os sintomas mais referidos foram dor (78%), fadiga (68%), dispnéia (60%), depressão e anorexia (58% cada). Dor, dispnéia e fadiga foram os mais intensos. Dor, fadiga e depressão duraram 6 meses ou mais. Ficaram sem tratamento 79% dos idosos com depressão, 77% daqueles com incontinência urinária e 67% daqueles com ansiedade. É necessário implementar conceitos e ações de cuidados paliativos para dar aos idosos mais dignidade e qualidade ao final da vida.
Tráfego veicular como método de avaliação da exposição à poluição atmosférica nas grandes metrópoles
Authors: Habermann Mateus , Medeiros Andrea Paula Peneluppi , Gouveia Nelson
Published: April 2011

A poluição atmosférica é uma das maiores preocupações para a saúde pública. Entre os estudos conduzidos para testar a associação entre poluição do ar e os mais diversos desfechos em saúde, alguns utilizaram dados viários e de tráfego veicular como avaliação da exposição. O presente trabalho pretende revisar e discutir alguns dos aspectos metodológicos dos estudos que utilizaram este método, principalmente em áreas onde a fonte veicular é uma grande geradora de poluentes. Realizou-se uma busca bibliográfica com palavras-chave relacionadas à poluição atmosférica e tráfego veicular, e foram selecionados artigos publicados entre os anos de 2000 e 2009. Foram constatadas várias abordagens para avaliar a exposição, enfatizando-se o método da Densidade de Tráfego Ponderada pela Distância, que considera as vias e a distância das mesmas em relação ao local de interesse e o tráfego. Além disso, destaca-se a importância do uso de técnicas de sistemas de informação geográfica (SIG) como instrumento na construção de modelos para mensurar a exposição.
Tiger Rag na interpretação do Le Quintette du Hot Club de France: história, análise e práticas de performance
Authors: Costa Adriana
Published: April 2011

Estudo sobre a assimilação do jazz na cultura popular francesa dos anos de 1930 e criação de uma sociedade de entusiastas desse estilo, especialmente em torno do Le Quintette du Hot Club de France. A transcrição e análise de Tiger Rag, música dos membros da Original Dixieland Jazz Band (Nick La Rocca, Eddie Edwards, Tony Sbarbaro, Larry Shields e Harry da Costa) na interpretação do Le Quintette (LE QUINTETTE DU HOT CLUB DE FRANCE, 1934, remasterizado em 1993) revela suas práticas de performance, especialmente de seus solistas: Django Reinhardt, no violão, e Stephane Grappelli, no violino.
A new species of Microglanis (Siluriformes: Pseudopimelodidae) from the rio Uruguay drainage, Brazil
Authors: Bertaco Vinicius A. , Cardoso Alexandre R.
Published: April 2011

A new pseudopimelodid catfish, Microglanis malabarbai, is described from the rio Ijuí drainage, tributary of the middle rio Uruguay, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from all other Microglanis species by the caudal fin color pattern, almost completely black, with a narrow vertical white band across central portions of the caudal-fin rays. Furthermore, it is distinguished from M. cottoides and M. eurystoma, both from rio Uruguay drainage, by head length, maxillary barbel length, internareal distance, and number of lateral-line pores, and from M. cibelae from the coastal drainages of northern Rio Grande do Sul and southern Santa Catarina states, by head length, maxillary barbel length, and body width. A key is presented for the species of Microglanis occurring in southern Brazil.
Chromosomal analyses in Megalonema platanum (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae), an endangered species from South American rivers
Authors: Carvalho Rafael Augusto de , Sanchez Sebástian , Swarça Ana Claudia , Fenocchio Alberto Sergio , Martins-Santos Isabel C. , Dias Ana Lúcia
Published: April 2011

This study presents chromosomal data of Megalonema platanum from rio Tibagi, Paraná, Brazil and from rio Paraná, Argentina. The diploid number was equal 54 with karyotype composition of 24m+16sm+2st+12a in both populations. The AgNOR sites were detected in the terminal position of a submetacentric pair of the two analyzed populations, coinciding with secondary constrictions on the short arm of pair 15. CMA3 and FISH with 18S rDNA probe displayed fluorescent signals that correspond to the AgNOR sites and secondary constriction. The presence of a small acrocentric supernumerary chromosome can be observed in M. platanum from rio Tibagi, with centromeric heterochromatin. Others heterochromatic blocks were evidenced in the terminal position of some chromosome and one metacentric large chromosome pair, probably the first pair, showed an interstitial heterochromatin. In the population of the rio Paraná were still observed heterochromatic blocks in both ends in some chromosomes. This work brings for the first time cytogenetic date of M. platanum, which is a very rare species in the rio Paraná basin and may be endangered.
Split tensile strength of monofilament polypropylene fiber-reinforced cemented sandy soils
Authors: Consoli N.C. , de Moraes R.R. , Festugato L.
Published: April 2011

ABSTRACT: The present research aims to quantify the influence of the amount of cement, the porosity, and the voids/cement ratio in assessment of the split tensile strength (qt) of a sandy soil when reinforced and non-reinforced with fibers. A series of split tensile tests were carried out in the present work. The results show that fiber insertion in the cemented soil, for the whole range of cement studied, causes an increase in split tensile strength. The split tensile strength (qt) increased linearly with the amount of cement (C), and a power function fits well as the relation between split tensile strength (qt) and porosity (η) for both the fiber-reinforced and non-reinforced specimens. It was also shown that the voids/cement ratio, in which volumetric cementitious material content is adjusted by an exponent (0.28 for both the fiber-reinforced and non-reinforced cemented soil mixtures) to result in unique correlations for each mixture, is a good parameter in the evaluation of the split tensile strength of the fiber-reinforced and non-reinforced cemented soil studied. This experimental framework will enable a good definition of mechanical parameters used in the design of foundations and subgrades of roads and railways platform (whose system failure mechanisms usually start under tensile stresses at the base of the improved layer) and for their execution quality control.
Antioxidant depletion in high-density polyethylene pipes exposed to synthetic leachate and air
Authors: Krushelnitzky R.P. , Brachman R.W.I.
Published: April 2011

ABSTRACT: Antioxidant depletion rates are reported for samples of one particular high-density polyethylene pipe when immersed in air and a synthetic municipal solid waste leachate, obtained by measuring the oxidative induction time (OIT) at temperatures of 22°C, 40°C, 70°C and 85°C with time. Of the factors examined, the rate of antioxidant depletion was affected most by the ageing temperature, with much faster depletion occurring at higher temperatures. Antioxidant depletion was faster when immersed in the synthetic leachate rather than in air, and faster for the thin pipe examined compared with a thick pipe. No significant difference in antioxidant depletion was found whether the pipe was deflected with a 10% reduction in vertical outside pipe diameter or not deflected. Predictions of the time to deplete antioxidants are then made from Arrhenius extrapolations of the reported data. It is estimated that depletion of antioxidants may take from as long as 600 years at 10°C to as little as 20 years at 50°C when exposed to air, and may reduce to 160 years at 10°C or 10 years at 50°C if exposed to the synthetic leachate. These results are applicable for the particular pipe, antioxidant formulation and conditions examined.
Internal stability of geosynthetic-reinforced soil walls in tiered configuration
Authors: Yoo C. , Jang Y.S. , Park I.J.
Published: April 2011

ABSTRACT: This paper presents the results of an investigation into the internal stability of two-tier, geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) walls. Model tests were first conducted using two-tier GRS model walls that were reduced from a full-scale GRS wall according to the similitude law. A series of finite element (FE) analyses were also carried out on full-scale GRS walls with various offset distances and reinforcement distributions. It is shown that the critical offset distance beyond which two tiers act independently set by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) design guideline is considerably larger than that obtained from the current study. Also shown is that the lower-tier reinforcement length has a greater effect on the overall wall stability than the upper-tier reinforcement length, as the minimum reinforcement length changes more drastically with the offset distance D for the lower tier than for the upper tier. Practical implications of the finding are discussed.
High-temperature air channel testing of thermally bonded PVC geomembrane seams
Authors: Stark T.D. , Pazmino L.F.
Published: April 2011

ABSTRACT: The objective of this paper is to present a procedure for high sheet temperature air channel testing of dual-track thermal seams for 0.75 mm thick polyvinyl chloride (PVC) geomembranes. This objective is accomplished by developing relationships between seam peel strength and seam burst pressure for sheet temperatures ranging from 46.7°C to 62.8°C during field air channel testing. This paper extends the original relationships presented by Thomas et al. and Stark et al., which extend only to 46.7°C, because a sheet temperature greater than 46.7°C is frequently encountered during hot summer months. The original relationship is extended to 62.8°C using the Arrhenius model, and a polynomial equation is presented that can be used to convert the sheet temperature during field air channel testing to the air channel pressure required to ensure that the specified seam peel strength of 2.6 N/mm is met or exceeded. Thus the proposed relationship and equation allow the seam peel strength to be verified by field air channel testing without conducting destructive tests.
Effect of Phase I Periodontal Therapy on Anti‐Cardiolipin Antibodies in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Associated With Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Gunupati Sumanth , Chava Vijay K. , Krishna B. Phani
Published: April 2011

Background: Serum anti‐cardiolipin (aCL) antibodies are prevalent in patients with periodontal diseases. These increased aCL concentrations were identified to play a modulating role in cardiovascular diseases. The present study aims to explore the effect of phase I periodontal therapy on immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG aCL antibodies in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) associated with chronic periodontitis.

Methods: A cross‐sectional randomized clinical study was conducted within two groups comprising a sample size of 72 patients (n = 36 each). Group 1 had clinical features of AMI, and group 2 had clinical features of AMI associated with chronic periodontitis. After a thorough clinical and oral examination, the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment loss (AL) were recorded. Serum sample collection by venipuncture was done for estimation of serum IgM and IgG aCL concentration by using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method. In group 2, phase I periodontal therapy was performed, and clinical and biochemical parameters were reanalyzed after 1 month.

Results: In group 2, the mean PI, GI, PD, clinical AL, and serum IgM and IgG aCL antibody levels were significantly higher than in group 1 patients. In addition, study results showed significant alterations in concentrations of serum IgM (P = 0.008) and IgG (P <0.001) aCL along with periodontal parameters after phase I periodontal therapy.

Conclusion: The phase I periodontal therapy altered levels of serum IgG and IgM aCL antibodies in patients with AMI associated with chronic periodontitis.
Modulation of Phosphate/Pyrophosphate Metabolism to Regenerate the Periodontium: A Novel In Vivo Approach
Authors: Rodrigues Thaisângela L. , Nagatomo Kanako J. , Foster Brian L. , Nociti Francisco H. , Somerman Martha J.
Published: April 2011

Background: The developing periodontium is sensitive to local levels of inorganic phosphate (Pi) and inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) as demonstrated by cementum phenotypes resulting from the loss of function of protein regulators of Pi/PPi homeostasis. The progressive ankylosis protein (ANK) regulates the transport of PPi, and progressive ankylosis gene (Ank) and knock‐out (KO) mice feature a rapidly forming and thick cementum. We hypothesized that, besides affecting cementum formation, decreased extracellular PPi levels in Ank KO mice would also impact cementum regeneration.

Methods: Periodontal fenestration defects (≈2 mm in length, 1 mm in width, and 0.5 mm in depth) were created on buccal aspects of mandibular molars in Ank KO and wild‐type (WT) mice. Mandibles were harvested at 15 and 30 days post‐surgery for histology, histomorphometry, evaluation of in vivo fluorochrome labeling, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for proteins including bone sialoprotein (BSP), osteopontin (OPN), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), and ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (NPP1).

Results: A greater amount of new cementum was observed in Ank KO mice at 15 and 30 days post‐surgery (P <0.05), which was confirmed by fluorochrome labeling showing a higher new cementum appositional activity in defect areas in Ank KO mice versus controls. At days 15 and 30 during healing, regenerating cementum and associated cells in Ank KO samples recapitulated expression patterns mapped during development, including limited BSP and positive OPN and DMP1 in the cementum matrix as well as elevated NPP1 in cementoblasts.

Conclusions: Within the limits of the study, these findings suggest that reduced local levels of PPi could promote increased cementum regeneration. Therefore, the local modulation of Pi/PPi may be a potential therapeutic approach for achieving improved cementum regeneration.
Occupational Injuries in a Commune in Rural Vietnam Transitioning From Agriculture to New Industries
Authors: Marucci-Wellman Helen , Leamon Tom B. , Willetts Joanna L. , Binh Ta Thi Tuyet , Diep Nguyen Bich , Wegman David H. , Kriebel David
Published: April 2011

Objectives. We explored the impact on work-related injuries of workers splitting time between industry and agriculture, a common situation in developing countries.

Methods. In 2005, we administered a cross-sectional survey to 2615 households of Xuan Tien, a developing rural community of Vietnam, regarding self-reported injuries and hours worked for 1 year. We defined groups as working in industry, agriculture, or a mix of both.

Results. Overlapping employment (part time in agriculture and up to full time in industry) increased the risk of injury in both agricultural and industrial work. This pattern held across all work groups defined by the relative amount of time worked in agriculture. Those working fewer than 500 hours annually in agriculture had an agricultural injury rate (872 per 1000 full-time equivalents) that was more than 4 times higher than the average rate overall (203 per 1000) and the rate for workers employed only in industry (178 per 1000).

Conclusions. Working in agriculture for short durations while working in industry increased the risk of injury substantially in both types of work.
The Implementation of a Drilling-and-Completions Advanced Collaborative Environment—Taking Advantage of Change
Authors: Sawaryn S.J.. J. , Goodwin S.. , Deady A.. , Critchley C.. , Swanson B..
Published: April 2011

Advanced collaborative environments (ACEs) were planned as an integral part of the operator's new Aberdeen office. The move in early 2008 coincided with a major business reorganization that prompted a critical reassessment of their scope and functionality. The selected approach is well suited to operations in a mature area. During the pilot project, three ACE implementation types were tested. One of these provided dedicated data feeds and visualization tools within the normal work area, operating only during normal working hours. The other two were (1) an asset-based, on-site, round-the-clock type and (2) an outsourced model, each representing a business-model extreme. The selected configuration was closest to the first of these models, with careful provision for future growth.

The results of the pilot studies supported the business case but suggested that the realization of many of the benefits would hinge on attitudes, behaviors, and working practices. It was concluded that steady growth, based on demand and keeping pace with the changing habits, would give the best return. Detailed plans were created for each of the people, process, technology, environment, and organization components of the operator's ACE model. The new building design and layout has greatly enhanced the overall working environment. Other activities included the upgrading of fiber links, the introduction of an operability laboratory to test the compatibility of data feeds and systems, extensive human-factor studies, contract reassessment, and the introduction of a dedicated ACE support team. By June 2008, seven rigs were being supported simultaneously, including monitoring the progress of a wired-pipe trial in Trinidad. All this has been achieved during a period of outstanding drilling-and-completions (D&Cs) performance. This measured approach has delivered results, helping to win hearts and minds while avoiding overstretching resources. The paper includes details of the pilot project, implementation, and the progress and challenges to date.
Evaluation of a New Environmentally Friendly Chelating Agent for High-Temperature Applications
Authors: Mahmoud M.A.. A. , Nasr-El-Din H.A.. A. , De Wolf C.A.. A. , LePage J.N.. N. , Bemelaar J.H.. H.
Published: April 2011

Matrix acidizing is used in carbonate formations to create wormholes that connect the formation to the wellbore. Hydrochloric acid (HCl), organic acids, or mixtures of these acids are typically used in matrix-acidizing treatments of carbonate reservoirs. However, the use of these acids in deep wells has some major drawbacks, including high and uncontrolled reaction rates and corrosion to well tubulars, especially those made of chromium-based tubulars (Cr-13 and duplex steel); and these problems become severe at high temperatures. To overcome problems associated with strong acids, chelating agents were introduced and used in the field. However, major concerns with most of these chemicals are their limited dissolving power and negative environmental impact.

L-glutamic acid diacetic acid (GLDA), a newly developed environmentally friendly chelate, was examined as a replacement for acid treatments in deep oil and gas wells. The solubility of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in the new chelate was measured over a wide range of parameters. Coreflood tests were conducted using long Indiana limestone cores 1.5 in. in diameter and 20 in. in length, which allowed better understanding of the propagation of this chemical in carbonate rocks. The cores were X-ray scanned before and after the injection of chelate solutions into the cores. The concentration of calcium (Ca) and chelate was measured in the core effluent samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the fate and propagation of chelating agents in coreflood studies.

GLDA has a very good ability to dissolve Ca from carbonate rocks over a wide pH range by a combination of acid dissolution and chelation. The addition of 5 wt% sodium chloride (NaCl) did not affect the GLDA performance at pH = 13 but significantly accelerated the reaction at pH = 1.7. Compared with other chelating agents, GLDA dissolved more Ca than ethanoldiglycinic acid (EDG) but less than hydroxyethyl ethylenediamine triacetic acid (HEDTA) at high pH values. GLDA of pH = 1.7 was able to form wormholes at 2 and 3 cm3/min. GLDA was found to be thermally stable at temperatures up to 350°F.
Robust Well-Test Interpretation by Using Nonlinear Regression With Parameter and Data Transformations
Authors: Dastan Aysegul , Horne Roland N.
Published: April 2011

Nonlinear regression is a well-established technique in well-test interpretation. However, this widely used technique is vulnerable to issues commonly observed in real data sets—specifically, sensitivity to noise, parameter uncertainty, and dependence on starting guess. In this paper, we show significant improvements in nonlinear regression by using transformations on the parameter space and the data space. Our techniques improve the accuracy of parameter estimation substantially. The techniques also provide faster convergence, reduced sensitivity to starting guesses, automatic noise reduction, and data compression.

In the first part of the paper, we show, for the first time, that Cartesian parameter transformations are necessary for correct statistical representation of physical systems (e.g., the reservoir). Using true Cartesian parameters enables nonlinear regression to search for the optimal solution homogeneously on the entire parameter space, which results in faster convergence and increases the probability of convergence for a random starting guess. Nonlinear regression using Cartesian parameters also reveals inherent ambiguities in a data set, which may be left concealed when using existing techniques, leading to incorrect conclusions. We proposed suitable Cartesian transform pairs for common reservoir parameters and used a Monte Carlo technique to verify that the transform pairs generate Cartesian parameters.

The second part of the paper discusses nonlinear regression using the wavelet transformation of the data set. The wavelet transformation is a process that can compress and denoise data automatically. We showed that only a few wavelet coefficients are sufficient for an improved performance and direct control of nonlinear regression. By using regression on a reduced wavelet basis rather than the original pressure data points, we achieved improved performance in terms of likelihood of convergence and narrower confidence intervals. The wavelet components in the reduced basis isolate the key contributors to the response and, hence, use only the relevant elements in the pressure-transient signal. We investigated four different wavelet strategies, which differ in the method of choosing a reduced wavelet basis.

Combinations of the techniques discussed in this paper were used to analyze 20 data sets to find the technique or combination of techniques that works best with a particular data set. Using the appropriate combination of our techniques provides very robust and novel interpretation techniques, which will allow for reliable estimation of reservoir parameters using nonlinear regression.
A Robust Method for Calculating Formation Mobility With a Formation Tester
Authors: V E.B. Dussan.
Published: April 2011

Determining formation mobility (permeability/viscosity) with a formation tester dates back to the introduction of the tool in the mid-1950s. Many methods have been developed over the years to calculate a formation mobility from a pressure test. Here, a rigorous method is presented that has several convenient features. It is based on a model that assumes the presence of both tool-storage and formation compressibility and so is appropriate for a fully unsteady flow induced in the formation, but it does not require the determination of either compressibility to determine the mobility. The full impact of the wellbore geometry is included (i.e., it does not assume the "spherical-flow model"). The mobility is determined by a simple, direct calculation of the measured time-dependent pressure, as opposed to methods based upon data regression or solving an inverse problem. On the other hand, this new method shares several of the restrictions common to existing techniques: It assumes that the formation contains a single phase of slightly compressible fluid. The calculated mobility characterizes the formation in the vicinity of the wellbore wall, in which formation damage is most likely to occur.

This publication is dedicated to Gérard Catala, a colleague with tremendous insight.
Credit Ratings and Cash-Flow Analysis of Oil and Gas Companies: Competitive Disadvantage in Financing Costs for Smaller Companies in Tight Capital Markets
Authors: Weijermars Ruud
Published: April 2011

This article concisely presents the results of a cash-flow analysis and the impact of recent capital-market dynamics on the relative competitive position of bigger [oil majors, public/private-partnership (PPP) oils, and independents] and smaller (unconventionals, small caps, and juniors) oil and gas companies. Upstream energy companies now compete not only for preferred access to the best new hydrocarbon resources but also for credit from capital markets. Although credit ratings of individual companies themselves have mostly remained unaffected by the Great Recession (in 2008–2009), the cost of credit and spread tied to the ratings has climbed steeply for most of them. The annual cash-flow statements of 24 representative companies were analyzed over a 5-year performance period (2004–2008). The companies involved come from all traditional peer groups: juniors (five), small caps (three), unconventionals (three), independents (three), PPP oils (four) and majors (six). Oil companies generate cash from the following two main sources of funds: (1) net cash generated from operations and (2) net cash raised from financing activities. In-depth analysis of the cash-flow metrics for each market capitalization category revealed that the operational income of smaller oil and gas companies commonly is insufficient to fund new capital-expenditure (CAPEX) projects. Such companies must resort to external financing resources (debt and equity financing), as follows from this study. The competition for financial resources has heightened since the onset of the recession, and companies need to be entrepreneurial in their search for capital. The pattern that emerged provides a crisp explanation on what drives asset swaps and acquisitions in times of tight capital. This analysis provides useful insight for oil executives as to the range of options and possible outcomes of finance strategies.
Glucose and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Leszek Szablewski
Published: April 2011

Glucose is an essential metabolic substrate of all mammalian cells. D-glucose is the major carbohydrate presented to the cell for energy production and many other anabolic requirements. Under normal physiological conditions, it is the sole source energy for the brain. Glucose is obtained directly from the diet. Dietary carbohydrates from which humans gain energy enter the body in different forms, such as monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides and more so, also by the synthesis of other substrates in organs such as the liver. Glucose and other monosaccharides are transported across the intestinal wall to the hepatic portal vein and then to liver cells and other tissues. There they are converted to fatty acids, amino acids and glycogen (the liver stores excess glucose as glycogen and little glucose is normally converted to fat), or are oxidized by the various catabolic pathways of cells. In the first rate-determining step of metabolism, glucose is transported across the plasma membrane by the facilitative glucose transporters. Hexokinase then phosphorylates glucose to glucoso-6-phosphate. The product generally enters the glycolytic pathway, generating NADH, ATP, and pyruvate, or the pentose phosphate pathway. In the presence of sufficient oxygen, pyruvate can be fed into mitochondria and fully oxidized to produce more ATP. When oxygen is limited, pyruvate is disposed in the form of lactate and glycolysis becomes the main source for ATP production. Pentose phosphate pathway plays an important role in the synthesis of pentose sugars for DNA and RNA, as well as generation of NADPH for the synthesis of lipids.
Insulin Resistance and Disturbance of Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Leszek Szablewski
Published: April 2011

Resistance and Disturbance of Glucose Metabolism

Insulin resistance is an early and major feature in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (noninsulin- dependent diabetes mellitus), but it is also associated with hyperlipidemia, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and various monogenic disorders such as Rabson- Mendenhall syndrome, leprechaunism, type A insulin resistance, and CFTDM syndrome (congenital muscle fiber type disproportion myopathy). Moreover, disturbances in sleep (sleep apnoea) and ovarian dysfunction are also characterized by insulin resistance. It is a major problem that is increasing rapidly worldwide. A number of factors increase the risk for insulin resistance, including genetic predisposition, obesity and inactivity, aging, medications, polycystic ovary syndrome, and rare disorders such as partial lipodystrophy. Diets high in saturated fats and carbohydrates are associated with glucose intolerance, obesity, coronary heart disease, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, and glucolipotoxicity are secondary phenomena that are proposed to play a role in all forms of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance typically reflects multiple defects of insulin receptor and post-receptor signaling that impair a diverse range of metabolic and vascular actions.
Introduction. The Nature of Partnerships and the Processes of their Formation: Juxtaposing Conflict and Cooperation
Authors: Syna Desivilya Helena , Palgi Michal
Published: April 2011

In light of the blurred nature and conceptual imprecision with regard to the construct of partnership and
the fragmented relevant literature, the introductory chapter provides an overview of types of partnerships, impetus
for developing them and processes of building partnerships, underscoring their paradoxical nature and conflict
dynamics. It constitutes an integrated conceptual map for the analysis of various types of organizational partnerships.
The Challenge of Partnership Development: The Case of Alternative Labour Relations
Authors: Garibaldo Francesco
Published: April 2011

This essay, according to a theoretical framework by Ramsay (1997), considers participation in a
specific context. Changes in the context determine cycles of participation with very different outcomes. The essay
will first analyze the role of the broader democratic framework in modern society and the role of conflict. The
concepts so highlighted will be applied to two Italian case studies, as a way to illustrate Ramsay's hypothesis in
two different cycles of participation: the positive cycle from 1968 to 1974, and the negative one in the 1980s.
Then the main changes in the socio-economic and political context in Europe will be considered. Based on the
lessons learned, an alternative path to participation will be sketched.
"Downtown" and "Suburbia" Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in the Application of Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D)
Authors: Mizrachi Yonathan , Ben-Attar Daniella
Published: April 2011

There is a growing consensus in recent years that Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can offer
sustainable and effective mechanisms for economic development. The importance of PPPs are even more
pronounced in developing economies that are struggling to deal with some of the most challenging infrastructural
and service issues. Within this context, the specific area of ICT (Information and Communication Technologies)
has particular relevance, given its enormous potential for advancing development objectives (termed "ICT4D").
However, this potential is a long way from being fulfilled, with ICT advancements in the developing world
lagging far behind OECD and other industrialized countries. Public-Private Partnerships represent a key
mechanism that can contribute in addressing this challenge, offering a large menu of possibilities for cultivating
ICT4D related efforts to their fullest potential.

Inter-sector cooperation involves challenges and complexities which are accompanied by promising
opportunities. How can we make sense of the various types of public and private sector activity in the ICT4D
arena? What are the different models that characterize PPPs in ICT4D and what key opportunities and challenges
do they present? Finally, how can we resolve the misunderstandings inherent in ICD4D PPP efforts? This paper
addresses these questions by reviewing PPPs on a general level and proposing a conceptual model for
understanding the various modalities of PPPs in ICT4D. The model is applied to a case study presented from a
private sector perspective, shedding new light on the intricacies of such PPPs and their potential for accelerating
socio-economic progress in the developing world.
Engaging the Paradox in Partnership: Balancing Conflict and Cooperation
Authors: Syna Desivilya Helena , Palgi Michal
Published: April 2011

The central argument we proposed in the introductory chapter and demonstrated throughout the various
book chapters, maintains that partnerships are dialectic entities. On the one hand these arrangements are
established in order to enable cooperation among the partners. Yet, each of the partners is motivated to promote
and emphasize his or her own interests, at times at the expense of the other partners. We present a conceptual
framework designed to synthesize the findings and insights of the preceding chapters. It focuses on factors
promoting versus impeding the success of partnerships, in particular their capabilities to cope with the dialectic
nature of these alliances. We address the following two questions: What factors influence the characteristics and
intensity of the paradox? How can the partners cope with the duality?
Contributors
Authors: Syna Desivilya Helena , Palgi Michal
Published: April 2011

Full text available
Governance in the Westminster System
Authors: Cutting Bruce , Kouzmin Alexander
Published: April 2011

A comparative study is provided of the way the triadic governance structure manifests in the
Westminster system of government. The process of cabinet decision making is explained in terms of the roles of
the spending Minister, the ever-rational Treasurer and the Prime Minister as central arbitrator of policy. An
explanation is provided as to how the effectiveness of the cabinet decision-making process is determined, largely
by the relationship between the key players.
Evolution of Governance
Authors: Cutting Bruce , Kouzmin Alexander
Published: April 2011

An analysis of Michels' (1962) Iron Law of Oligarchy is used to explore the shortcomings of
democratic governance, the inherent tendency towards oligarchy and the individuals' desire to dominate others.
Democratic governance is discussed in terms of the triadic notions of the act of governing, the rule of the people
and the processes that have been sanctioned to effect the conscious intent of society. The explanations of the
evolution of authority by Michels (1962) and Weber (1947) are compared within the triadic formwork and the
making of an oligarch is discussed in exploring the evolution of governance.
Factor Demand Analysis for Ethanol in the U.S. Refinery Industry
Authors: Chaudhuri Malika , Tonsor Glynn T , Peterson H. Christopher
Published: April 2011

Ethanol is increasingly being used as a gasoline oxygenate and a volume extender in the refinery and blender industry in the U.S. This paper estimates refinery and blender factor demand and evaluates price responsiveness of inputs. The study also tests hypotheses regarding existence of structural change in the industry’s demand for inputs. It determines the common shift point and adjustment rate characterizing the transition path of structural change for the set of inputs using gradual switching multivariate regression techniques and maximum likelihood methods. Results suggest structural change in factor demand for inputs in the refinery and blender industry has been initiated in January 2001 at slow adjustment rates. Results also suggest that with the exception of labor and capital, demand responsiveness for inputs to own price changes has decreased over time. The Hicks-Allen cross price elasticity estimates also suggests role-reversal for usage of ethanol in the refinery industry across regimes, with the latter being increasingly used as a substitute than as a complement with time.
The Market Crash and Mass Layoffs: How the Current Economic Crisis May Affect Retirement
Authors: Coile Courtney C , Levine Phillip B
Published: April 2011

Recent dramatic declines in U.S. stock and housing markets have led to widespread speculation that shrinking retirement accounts and falling home equity will lead workers to delay retirement. Yet the weakness in the labor market and its impact on retirement are often overlooked. If older job seekers have difficulty finding work, they may retire earlier than expected. The net effect of the current economic crisis on retirement is thus far from clear. In this paper, we use 30 years of data from the March Current Population Survey to estimate models relating retirement decisions to fluctuations in equity, housing, and labor markets. We find that workers age 62 to 69 are responsive to the unemployment rate and to long-run fluctuations in stock market returns. Less-educated workers are more sensitive to labor market conditions and more-educated workers are more sensitive to stock market conditions. We find no evidence that workers age 55 to 61 respond to these fluctuations or that workers at any age respond to fluctuating housing markets. On net, we predict that the increase in retirement attributable to the rising unemployment rate will be almost 50 percent larger than the decrease in retirement brought about by the stock market crash.
Ceramic materials made of CdTe and Cd-Zn-Te nanocrystalline powders
Authors: Kolesnikov Nikolai , Borisenko Elena , Borisenko Dmitrii , Gnesin Boris
Published: April 2011

In the present study newly produced semiconductor ceramic nanopowder materials made of CdTe and Cd1−xZnxTe (CZT) are considered. Common features and differences in microstructures, phase transformations, grain growth and properties of the ceramic materials of the binary and ternary compositions are studied.
Metrology of degree of coherence of circularly polarized optical waves
Authors: Zenkova C. , Gorsky M. , Gorodynska N.
Published: April 2011

The use of the method of field polarization modulation for defining the degree of coherence of circularly polarized waves is offered. The role of the reference circularly polarized wave in transforming the spatial distribution of polarization into the depth of visibility modulation of the resulting distribution, which can be metrologically estimated and analyzed, is demonstrated.
Effect of dietary supplementation of trace elements on blood chemistry and selected immunological indices depending on the age of broiler chickens
Authors: Petrovič Vladimír , Kushev Ján , Nollet Lode , Kováč Gabriel
Published: April 2011

This study was performed to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn and Se on some haematological, immunological and enzymatic indices in blood of broilers at the age of 21, 35 and 42 days. The basal diets (BDs) for Groups 1 and 2 were supplemented with the equivalent amounts of trace elements in an inorganic form (Cu sulphate 5 mg·kg-1 DM, Fe sulphate, Zn oxide, Mn oxide 50 mg·kg-1 DM), however sodium selenite or selenized yeast (Sel-Plex) were given at a dose of Se 0.3 mg·kg-1 DM, respectively. Groups 3 and 4 received the same BD´s but with the substantially reduced amount of supplemented nutrients in the organic “proteinated” form (Bioplex Cu 2.5 mg·kg-1 DM, Bioplex Fe, Bioplex Zn, Bioplex Mn 10 mg·kg-1 DM), except for selenium that was given at a dose of Se 0.3 mg·kg-1 DM as sodium selenite or Sel-Plex, respectively. The supplementation of restricted doses of trace elements in the organic forms into the diet did not affect studied haematological, immunological, enzymatic indices. At the age of 21 days, the activity of GSH-Px was significantly higher in the groups supplemented with sodium selenite later no differences due to the administered form of Se were found. This indicates that the GSH-Px activity reached a plateau in all groups of broilers at the 21, 35 and 42 day, except for GSH-Px activity in the groups of birds supplemented with selenized yeast on day 21. In Addition, significant age dependent changes were observed in blood chemistry, but the different treatments did not influence these changes. Base on our results, the doses of organic forms of trace elements supplemented into the diets for poultry can be restricted to 50% (Bioplex Cu) and 20% (Bioplex Fe, Bioplex Zn and Bioplex Mn) without influencing the blood chemistry of broilers.
Surgical management of the tethered spinal cord—walking the fine line
Authors: Drake James M.
Published: April 2011

✓The tethered spinal cord is a fascinating yet controversial condition seen frequently in neurosurgical practice. Treatment decision making is made difficult by the variety of lesions and clinical presentations comprised by this condition and the absence of high-quality clinical outcome data to provide guidance. Clinical presentations may be divided into four general categories or typical scenarios: 1) significant dysraphic abnormality, clear clinical deterioration; 2) significant dysraphic abnormality, clinically normal or stable deficit; 3) incidentally discovered abnormality, other problem; and 4) tethered spinal cord symptomatology, normal imaging. The author provides case examples to illustrate potential treatment approaches and suggests balancing the risks and benefits for each general category.

Clearer diagnostic and treatment strategies for the tethered spinal cord will only result from high-quality clinical and basic research. Until the results of such research are available, surgeons should endeavor to maximize benefit and reduce risk for patients who may have a tethered spinal cord, walking the fine line between over- and undertreatment.