bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Practical Method for Theoretically Determining the Productivity of Multi-fractured Horizontal Wells
Authors: Kuppe F. , Settari A.
Published: July 2010

This work investigates the productivity of different configurations offractured horizontal wells by means of numerical simulation. Model results havebeen compared to a number of analytical solutions available for estimating theproductivity of unfractured horizontal wells under various boundary conditions.The simulation model was expanded to include varying lengths of one, three, five, and seven infinite conductivity, vertical hydraulic fractureconfigurations. In this work, infinite (high) fracture conductivity was used, although the model can also be used to investigate the effect of finiteconductivity. Based on the numerical results, a third order polynomialcorrection to the linear flow equation was developed to yield more accurateproductivity index predictions without the limitations of analyticalsolutions.

The empirical formula, generated from this work, can be used easily foraccurate predictions of multi-fractured horizontal well productivity andproject economics, under a variety of reservoir and boundary conditions.

Introduction

The productivity and hydrocarbon recovery benefits of horizontal wells, compared to their vertical counterparts are, by now, well established concepts.The unstimulated horizontal well can generate production rates of two to fivetimes that of an unstimulated vertical well at similar pressure drawdowns(1).In addition, horizontal wells that intersect natural fractures dramaticallyincrease reservoir contact area and, consequently, further increase theproductivity and drainage efficiency(1,2). Historically, horizontal wells havebeen less effective in thicker reservoirs (with thicknesses in the order of 500ft. or more), reservoirs with low vertical permeability (relative to horizontalpermeability), and in stratified reservoirs with impermeable shale barriers.The improvement of well completion and stimulation technology, however, isrenewing enthusiasm for horizontal well applications in areas that werepreviously considered unqualified.

The use of hydraulic fractures to enhance horizontal well productivity wasforeseen already in early works by Giger et al(1) and Giger(2).

With the advent of fractured horizontal wells (or unstimulated horizontalwells, for that matter) has come a host of analytical solutions, developed topredict the productivity of these wells, although too few includefractures.
Large Scale Carbon Dioxide Production from Coal-fired Power Stations for Enhanced Oil Recovery: A New Economic Feasibility Study
Authors: Tontiwachwuthikul P. , Chan C.W. , Kritpiphat W. , Demontigny D. , Skoropad D. , Gelowitz D. , Aroonwilas A. , Mourits F. , Wilson M. , Ward L.
Published: July 2010

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies must be increasingly applied inorder to sustain the current production capacity of conventional oil in Western Canada. Among these technologies, carbon dioxide (CO2) flooding isa highly attractive possibility. At the same time, a large amount of CO2 is being produced by coal-fired power plants in this region. The CO2 is currently discharged into the atmosphere and could be a majorcontributor to the so-called greenhouse effect, which would lead to globalwarming. Thus, the concept of capturing CO2 and utilizing it as aflooding agent in EOR processes is currently generating much interest amongoil, utility and coal companies. This paper describes how cogenerationconcepts, together with process optimization strategies, help to reduce the CO2 production cost by utilizing low-pressure steam and waste heatfrom various sections of the power generation process. Based on these conceptsand strategies, results from this study show that the recovery cost of CO2 from a coal-fired power plant can range between $0.50 –2.00/mscf. If the cost is approximately $1.25/mscf, the production cost of abarrel of incremental oil would be less than $18. Therefore, at modest oilprices, there is room for profit to be made operating a CO2 floodwith flue gas extracted CO2, The technical and economic feasibilityof the concepts are evaluated and practical implications for the Saskatchewanresources are discussed.

Introduction

Oil, utility and coal companies in Western Canada are increasinglyinterested in the concept of capturing CO2 from coal-fired powerstations and utilizing it as a flooding agent for EOR processes. Implementationof such a scheme would provide two important benefits:the captured CO2 could be marketed as a flooding agent which would generaterevenues, andCO2 emissions to the atmosphere would be reduced.Since CO2 emissions are considered to be the main contributor to thepossible serious environmental problem of global warming, the proposed schemecould become an important instrument to reduce such emissions at minimalincremental cost.
Theoretical Analysis of a Flow-By Electrochemical Reactor with Porous Cathode for the Simultaneous Removal of Different Metal Ions
Authors: Olvera Oscar G , Lapidus Gretchen T
Published: July 2010

A model for a flow-by porous electrode electrochemical reactor operating under galvanostatic conditions has been used to study the removal of two different metal ions. The effect of the applied electrical current was investigated and the concentration, current and electrode potential distributions were calculated. Applied electrical current was used instead of a constant potential as a boundary condition.For a low applied electrical current (-3.5 Am-2), conversions of 54 and 5% were obtained for the first and second component, respectively, with a calculated cathode potential drop of (94 mV); a relatively homogeneous current distribution was observed, with a consequently efficient use of the porous cathode volume. For higher values (-10 Am-2), the first component was almost completely removed, whereas only 70% of the second compound was deposited and a larger cathode potential drop was estimated (477 mV). Moreover, a less homogeneous current distribution was obtained and the electrode volume was not used as efficiently as in the case of a lower applied current. These results have important implications in the ultimate reactor design and its analysis and evaluation, since uneven deposits would eventually provoke localized deposit buildup and flow channeling as well as poor reactor performance. Good agreement was observed between experimental and theoretical results published by other authors and the model presented here.
Mathematical Simulation of Solid-Liquid Diffusion in Continuous Countercurrent Extraction Process, Part I - Modeling Development
Authors: Rittirut Waigoon , Thongurai Chakrit , Siripatana Chairat
Published: July 2010

This work extends the development of backmixing-diffusion model by further removal of some assumptions from the previous works. The model covers for steady and unsteady state conditions in continuous countercurrent extraction and will be available for simulation purpose for reversing continuous countercurrent extractor (RCCE) in a more realistic ways, especially in beverage juice production. Solution of the modeling was carried out by numerical method, namely, an implicit finite difference. For the unsteady state condition, the Crank-Nicholson method was selected for calculation due to its stability; for the steady state one, the selected numerical method was center-difference formula with second order of magnitude of error, cooperated with Richardsons extrapolation. Matrix inversions were done by Gauss Jordan method. Considerable verification was made by assuring the accuracy and stability of numerical method for both steady and unsteady state conditions in a practical range. It was found that the solution obtained from the developed model with aforementioned numerical method compared well with the well-established analytical solution whenever they are available. Generally, the numerical solutions gave high accuracy for the steady state condition, while still being acceptable for practical purpose.
Mathematical Simulation of Solid-Liquid Diffusion in Continuous Countercurrrent Extraction Process, Part II - Modeling Verification and Its Application
Authors: Rittirut Waigoon , Thongurai Chakrit , Siripatana Chairat
Published: July 2010

In this work, a backmixing-diffusion model was developed for continuous countercurrent extraction process. Various parameters/factors influenced the extraction were investigated for juice extraction. Important parameters/factors studied were solid to liquid ratio, solid retention time, extraction temperature, external resistance to mass transfer, size and shape of solid materials and degree of backmixing for solid and liquid phase. For juice extraction from pineapple, apple and pear, it was found that the backmixing-diffusion concept can be used through the whole range of operation time. The model could predict the concentration profile well for both unsteady state period and steady state one. The simulation was successful for juice extraction process.
Operational Range for a Gas-Liquid-Solid Fluidized Bed Aerobic Biofilm Reactor with a Low-Density Biomass Support
Authors: Sokol Wlodzimierz
Published: July 2010

The operational range for a gas-liquid-solid fluidized bed aerobic biofilm reactor with a low-density biomass support is limited: on one side, by a minimum fluidization gas velocity ugf; on the other side, by a critical gas velocity ugcr. In this study, the values of ugf and ugcr were determined for a reactor in which polypropylene particles of density 910 kg/m3 were fluidised downwards by an upward cocurrent flow of gas and liquid. The treatment of industrial wastewaters was also investigated to determine the optimal air velocities ugm for comparison with the ugf and ugcr.The values of ugf and ugcr were in the range 1.58 x 10-3 - 14.27 x 10-3 and 5.37 x 10-3 - 58.59 x 10-3 m/s, respectively. Hence, the values of ugcr were approximately 4 times larger than the corresponding ugf. The values of ugm were 0.021, 0.025 and 0.036 m/s for the initial values of chemical oxygen demand 26,790; 33,210 and 41,640 mg/l, respectively. Thus, the values of ugm were approximately 3.5 times larger than the corresponding ugf. On the other hand, the values of ugm were about 65% of the corresponding ugcr.The application of low-density particles in a reactor allowed the control of a biomass loading in the apparatus. After change in (Vb/VR) at a set ug, the steady-state mass grown on particles was achieved after approximately 4 days of operation. With change in ug at a set (Vb/VR), the new steady-state biomass loading occurred after the culturing for about 2 days and the loading was constant over the entire period of experimentation for this ug.
In Utero Exposure to Maternal Diabetes Impairs Vascular Expression of Prostacyclin Receptor in Rat Offspring
Authors: Van Huyen Jean-Paul Duong , Vessières Emilie , Perret Claudine , Troise Adrien , Prince Sonia , Guihot Anne-Laure , Barbry Pascal , Henrion Daniel , Bruneval Patrick , Laurent Stéphane , Lelièvre-Pégorier Martine , Fassot Céline
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate modifications of arterial structure, gene expression, and function in our model of rats exposed to maternal diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Morphometric analyses of elastic vessels structure and determination of thoracic aortic gene expression profile with oligonucleotide chips (Agilent, G4130, 22k) were performed before the onset of established hypertension (3 months).

RESULTS

Arterial parameters of in situ fixed thoracic aorta were not significantly different between control mother offspring and diabetic mother offspring (DMO). The aortic gene expression profile of DMO is characterized by modifications of several members of the arachidonic acid metabolism including a twofold underexpression of prostacyclin receptor, which could contribute to decreased vasodilatation. This was confirmed by ex vivo experiments on isolated aortic rings. Pharmacological studies on conscious rats showed that systolic blood pressure decline in response to a PGI2 analog was impaired in DMO rats.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest an abnormal vascular fetal programming of prostacyclin receptor in rats exposed in utero to maternal hyperglycemia that is associated with impaired vasodilatation and may be involved in the pathophysiology of hypertension in this model.
Genetic and Functional Assessment of the Role of the rs13431652-A and rs573225-A Alleles in the G6PC2 Promoter That Are Strongly Associated With Elevated Fasting Glucose Levels
Authors: Bouatia-Naji Nabila , Bonnefond Amélie , Baerenwald Devin A. , Marchand Marion , Bugliani Marco , Marchetti Piero , Pattou François , Printz Richard L. , Flemming Brian P. , Umunakwe Obi C. , Conley Nicholas L. , Vaxillaire Martine , Lantieri Olivier , Balkau Beverley , Marre Michel , Lévy-Marchal Claire , Elliott Paul , Jarvelin Marjo-Riitta , Meyre David , Dina Christian , Oeser James K. , Froguel Philippe , O'Brien Richard M.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

Genome-wide association studies have identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs560887, located in a G6PC2 intron that is highly correlated with variations in fasting plasma glucose (FPG). G6PC2 encodes an islet-specific glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit. This study examines the contribution of two G6PC2 promoter SNPs, rs13431652 and rs573225, to the association signal.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We genotyped 9,532 normal FPG participants (FPG <6.1 mmol/l) for three G6PC2 SNPs, rs13431652 (distal promoter), rs573225 (proximal promoter), rs560887 (3rd intron). We used regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, and BMI to assess the association with FPG and haplotype analyses to assess comparative SNP contributions. Fusion gene and gel retardation analyses characterized the effect of rs13431652 and rs573225 on G6PC2 promoter activity and transcription factor binding.

RESULTS

Genetic analyses provide evidence for a strong contribution of the promoter SNPs to FPG variability at the G6PC2 locus (rs13431652: β = 0.075, P = 3.6 × 10−35; rs573225 β = 0.073 P = 3.6 × 10−34), in addition to rs560887 (β = 0.071, P = 1.2 × 10−31). The rs13431652-A and rs573225-A alleles promote increased NF-Y and Foxa2 binding, respectively. The rs13431652-A allele is associated with increased FPG and elevated promoter activity, consistent with the function of G6PC2 in pancreatic islets. In contrast, the rs573225-A allele is associated with elevated FPG but reduced promoter activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Genetic and in situ functional data support a potential role for rs13431652, but not rs573225, as a causative SNP linking G6PC2 to variations in FPG, though a causative role for rs573225 in vivo cannot be ruled out.
Roles of Bcl-3 in the Pathogenesis of Murine Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Ruan Qingguo , Zheng Shi-Jun , Palmer Scott , Carmody Ruaidhri J. , Chen Youhai H.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

It has long been recognized that autoimmunity is often associated with immunodeficiency. The mechanism underlying this paradox is not well understood. Bcl-3 (B-cell lymphoma 3) is an atypical member of the IκB (inhibitor of the nuclear factor-κB) family that is required for lymphoid organogenesis and germinal center responses. Mice deficient in Bcl-3 are immunodeficient because of the microarchitectural defects of their lymphoid organs. The goal of this study is to define the potential roles of Bcl-3 in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Bcl-3–deficient NOD mice were generated by backcrossing Bcl-3–deficient C57BL/6 mice to NOD mice. Spontaneous and induced type 1 diabetes were studied in these mice by both pathologic and immunologic means. The effect of Bcl-3 on inflammatory gene transcription was evaluated in a promoter reporter assay.

RESULTS

We found that Bcl-3–deficient NOD and C57BL/6 mice were, paradoxically, more susceptible to autoimmune diabetes than wild-type mice. The increase in diabetes susceptibility was caused by Bcl-3 deficiency in hematopoietic cells but not nonhematopoietic cells. Bcl-3 deficiency did not significantly affect anti-islet Th1 or Th2 autoimmune responses, but markedly increased inflammatory chemokine and T helper 17 (Th17)-type cytokine expression. Upon transfection, Bcl-3 significantly inhibited the promoter activities of inflammatory chemokine and cytokine genes.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that in addition to mediating lymphoid organogenesis, Bcl-3 prevents autoimmune diabetes by inhibiting inflammatory chemokine and cytokine gene transcription. Thus, a single Bcl3 gene mutation leads to both autoimmunity and immunodeficiency.
Hidden Complexities in Assessment of Glycemic Outcomes
Authors: Pogach Leonard M. , Rajan Mangala , Maney Miriam , Tseng Chin-Lin , Aron David C.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate facility rankings in achieving <7% A1C levels based on the complexity of glycemic treatment regimens using threshold and continuous measures.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective administrative data analysis of Veterans Health Administration Medical Centers in 2003–2004. Eligible patients were identified using National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) measure specifications. A complex glycemic regimen (CGR) was defined as receipt of insulin or three oral agents. Facilities were ranked using five ordinal categories based up both z score distribution and statistical significance (P < 0.05). Rankings using the NCQA definition were compared with a subset receiving CGRs using both a <7% threshold and a continuous measure awarding proportional credit for values between 7.9 and <7.0%. Ranking correlation was assessed using the Spearman correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

A total of 203,302 patients (mean age 55.2 years) were identified from 127 facilities (range 480–5,411, mean 1,601); 26.7% (17.9–35.2%) were receiving CGRs, including 22.0% receiving insulin. Mean A1C and percent achieving A1C <7% were 7.48 and 48% overall and 8.32 and 24.8% for those receiving CGRs using the threshold measure; proportion achieved was 60.1 and 37.2%, respectively, using the continuous measure. Rank correlation between the overall and CGR subset was 0.61; 8 of 24 of the highest or lowest ranked facilities changed to nonsignificance status; an additional five sites changed rankings.

CONCLUSIONS

Facility rankings in achieving the NCQA <7% measure as specified differ markedly from rankings using the CGR subset. Measurement for public reporting or payment should stratify rankings by CGR. A continuous measure may better align incentives with treatment intensity.
Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes Using Proposed HbA1c Diagnostic Criteria in the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer–Norfolk Cohort
Authors: Chamnan Parinya , Simmons Rebecca K. , Forouhi Nita G. , Luben Robert N. , Khaw Kay-Tee , Wareham Nicholas J. , Griffin Simon J.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence and relative risk of type 2 diabetes defined by the newly proposed HbA1c diagnostic criteria in groups categorized by different baseline HbA1c levels.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using data from the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC)-Norfolk cohort with repeat HbA1c measurements, we estimated the prevalence of known and previously undiagnosed diabetes at baseline (baseline HbA1c ≥6.5%) and the incidence of diabetes over 3 years. We also examined the incidence and corresponding odds ratios (ORs) by different levels of baseline HbA1c. Incident diabetes was defined clinically (self-report at follow-up, prescribed diabetes medication, or inclusion on a diabetes register) or biochemically (HbA1c ≥6.5% at the second health assessment), or both.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of diabetes was 4.7%; 41% of prevalent cases were previously undiagnosed. Among 5,735 participants without diabetes at baseline (identified clinically or using HbA1c criteria, or both), 72 developed diabetes over 3 years (1.3% [95% CI 1.0–1.5]), of which 49% were identified using the HbA1c criteria. In 6% of the total population, the baseline HbA1c was 6.0–6.4%; 36% of incident cases arose in this group. The incidence of diabetes in this group was 15 times higher than in those with a baseline HbA1c of <5.0% (OR 15.5 [95% CI 7.2–33.3]).

CONCLUSIONS

The cumulative incidence of diabetes defined using a newly proposed HbA1c threshold in this middle-aged British cohort was 1.3% over 3 years. Targeting interventions to individuals with an HbA1c of 6.0–6.4% might represent a feasible preventive strategy, although complementary population-based preventive strategies are also needed to reduce the growing burden of diabetes.
On Peres approach to Fradkin-Bacry-Ruegg-Souriau’s perihelion vector
Authors: Grandati Yves , Bérard Alain , Mohrbach Hervé
Published: July 2010

We solve explicitly the differential system obtained by Peres for the construction of a conserved vector associated to any central potential. We then obtain a very direct access to the discontinuous behavior of the Fradkin-Bacry-Ruegg-Souriau perihelion vector.
Accuracy of Cotton-Mouton polarimetry in sheared toroidal plasma of circular cross-section
Authors: Kravtsov Yury , Chrzanowski Janusz
Published: July 2010

The Cotton-Mouton effect in sheared plasma with helical magnetic lines is studied on the basis of the equation for complex amplitude ratio (CAR). A simple model for helical magnetic lines in sheared plasma of toroidal configuration is suggested. The equation for CAR in the sheared plasma is solved by perturbation method, using the small shear angle deviations as is characteristic for tokamak plasma. It is shown that the inaccuracy in polarization measurements caused by deviations of the sheared angle amounts to some percentage of the shearless Cotton-Mouton phase shift. One suggested method is to subtract the “sheared” term, which may improve the accuracy of the Cotton-Mouton measurements in the sheared plasma.
Experimental Stark broadening studies of the CI transition 3s
1
P
1o − 3p
1
S
0 at 833.5 nm
Authors: Bartecka Agnieszka , Bacławski Adam , Musielok Józef
Published: July 2010

Experimental Stark broadening studies of the infrared CI transition 3s
1
P
1o − 3p
1
S
0 at 833.5 nm are reported for the first time. A high-current wall-stabilized arc, operated in a mixture of helium, argon, carbon dioxide and hydrogen, was applied as the plasma source. Radiation emitted from homogeneous and optically thin plasma layers was analyzed. Stark broadening studies of the selected CI transition and the hydrogen Balmer β line were performed. As expected from theoretical considerations, the CI line width depends linearly on the electron density of the plasma. Applying theoretical Stark broadening data for the Hgb line, the measured Stark widths of the CI line were calibrated for the purpose of electron density determination in low temperature plasmas.
2DG enhances the susceptibility of breast cancer cells to doxorubicin
Authors: Ahmad Iman , Mustafa Ebtihal , Mustafa Noor , Tahtamouni Lubna , Abdalla Maher
Published: July 2010

2DG causes cytotoxicity in cancer cells by disrupting thiol metabolism while Doxorubicin (DOX) induces cytotoxicity in tumor cells by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here we examined the combined cytotoxic action of 2DG and DOX in rapidly dividing T47D breast cancer cells vs. slowly growing MCF-7 breast cancer cells. T47D cells exposed to the combination of 2DG/DOX significantly decreased cell survival compared to controls, while 2DG/DOX had no effect on MCF-7 cells. 2DG/DOX also disrupted the oxidant status of T47D treated cells, decreased intracellular total glutathione and increased glutathione disulfide (%GSSG) compared to MCF-7 cells. Lipid peroxidation increased in T47D cells treated with 2DG and/or DOX, but not in MCF-7 cells. T47D cells were significantly protected by NAC, indicating that the combined treatment exerts its action by increasing ROS production and disrupting antioxidant stores. When we inhibited glutathione synthesis with BSO, T47D cells became more sensitive to 2DG/DOX-induced cytotoxicity, but NAC significantly reversed this cytotoxic effect. Finally, 2DG/DOX, and BSO significantly increased the %GSSG in T47D cells, an effect which was also reversed by NAC. Our results suggest that exposure of rapidly dividing breast cancer cells to 2DG/DOX enhances cytotoxicity via oxidative stress and via disruptions to thiol metabolism.
Ultrastructural studies on egg envelopes surrounding the miracidia of Mediogonimus jourdanei Mas-Coma et Rocamora, 1978 (Digenea, Microphalloidea, Prosthogonimidae)
Authors: Świderski Zdzisław , Bakhoum Abdoulaye , Młocicki Daniel , Miquel Jordi
Published: July 2010

The intrauterine, mature and fully embryonated eggs of the prosthogonimid trematode Mediogonimus jourdanei Mas-Coma et Rocamora, 1978 were examined by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), using high pressure freezing, freeze substitution and infiltration with resin techniques. Each embryonated egg is composed of a miracidium surrounded by three envelopes: (1) the egg shell, (2) the outer and (3) inner envelopes. Egg envelopes play an important role in the protection, metabolism, storage of nutritive reserves and the general biology of the M. jourdanei egg. The inner envelope is characterised by large, flattened nuclei, and its syncytial cytoplasm contains a heavy accumulation of glycogen, lipid droplets, mitochondria and large vesicles. These traits indicate that this layer has the features of a metabolically-active syncytial layer with an energy storage capability. In the infective eggs observed before the hatching of the miracidium, areas of so-called “focal cytoplasmic degradation” were frequently observed, which may be involved in the autolytic process of all components of this envelopes.
A new species of Petasiger (Digenea, Echinostomatidae) parasitizing Podiceps major and Rollandia rolland (Aves, Podicipedidae) from Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Authors: Lunaschi Lía , Drago Fabiana
Published: July 2010

Petasiger argentinensis sp. nov. is described from material found in the intestine of the Great Grebe, Podiceps major (Boddaert) and the White-tufted Grebe, Rollandia rolland Quoy et Gaimard (Podicipediformes, Podicipedidae), from Argentina. The new species is characterized by the head collar armed with 19 spines and by the testes arranged in tandem. These characters are shared with only two Neotropical species of the genus, P. novemdecim Lutz, 1928 and P. combesi Zamparo, Overstreet et Brooks, 2005. Petasiger novemdecim differs from the new species in having a larger body, longer collar spines, larger eggs, a cirrus-sac of similar size to the ventral sucker and almost entirely anterior to it, and vitelline fields confluent ventrally posterior to the ventral sucker. P. combesi differs from the new species in most metrical characters, the shape of the body (antero-posteriorly elongate) and the location of the genital pore (dextral) and the excretory pore (dorsal). This is the first record of a member of the genus Petasiger parasitizing birds from Argentina.
A new opecoelid trematode, Pseudopecoelus brayi sp. nov. from the shoulderbar soldierfish, Myripristis kuntee off Visakhapatnam coast, Bay of Bengal
Authors: Madhavi Rokkam , Triveni Lakshmi T.
Published: July 2010

A new species of opecoelid trematode, Pseudopecoelus brayi sp. nov. is reported from the holocentrid fish, Myripristis kuntee collected from off Visakhapatnam coast, Bay of Bengal. The new species differs from related species by a combination of characters such as elongate body, deeply lobed gonads, tubular sinuous seminal vesicle extending up to the posterior border of ventral sucker, presence of a short cylindrical cirrus sac enclosing the cirrus and the vitelline zone extending anterior to ventral sucker. This is the 7th species of the genus to be reported from Indian marine fishes and the fifth species from holocentrid fishes. A key for separation of the species of Pseudopecoelus is given.
The occurrence of epibionts of Gordiida (Nematomorpha) in Catamarca, Argentina
Authors: Villalobos Cristina , Salas Liliana , Zanca Fernanda , Atencio Adrián
Published: July 2010

The presence of larvae and pupae of the genus Metrichia (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae), larvae of the genus Macrelmis and Phanocerus (Coleoptera, Elmidae), three diatom genera Achnanthes, Cocconeis, Gomphonema, and some specimens of very small diatoms that could not be determined to species or genus level, were recorded for the first time as epibionts for Chordodes brasiliensis (Gordiida, Nematomorpha). Such epibionts were found on the body surface of this species of hairworms, captured from El Tala stream, Catamarca, Argentina.
Ultrastructure of the intrauterine eggs of Didymobothrium rudolphii (Monticelli, 1890) (Cestoda, Spathebothriidea, Acrobothriidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Authors: Świderski Zdzisław , Gibson David , Santos Maria , Poddubnaya Larisa
Published: July 2010

The intrauterine polylecithal eggs of the spathebothriidean cestode Didymobothrium rudolphii (Monticelli, 1890) were examined by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Each unembryonated egg is composed of a fertilised oocyte or ovum and several vitelline cells, all surrounded by a newly formed shell. The lumen of the proximal uterus is packed with unutilised vitelline material and eggs at different stages of shell formation. In the proximal region of the uterus, the fertilised oocytes, initially surrounded by dense, discontinuous islands of eggshell material and containing long axonemes of spermatozoa in their cytoplasm, were frequently observed. Sperm axonemes also remain in the oocyte cytoplasm of eggs surrounded by a thick electron-dense shell until the sperm nucleus is transformed into a male pronucleus. Despite the fact that the two-pronuclei stage and cell divisions within the eggs of D. rudolphii were never observed, individual eggs containing several blastomeres of different sizes were seen in the middle and distal regions of the uterus. This provides indirect evidence that at least a few initial cleavage divisions must take place in the intrauterine eggs and direct evidence that the early embryonic development of D. rudolphii starts in utero. The several vitellocytes present in each egg contain nutritive reserves for the developing embryos; these are composed mainly of numerous lipid droplets and a moderate amount of glycogen. In the eggs containing early embryos composed of several blastomeres, the cytoplasm of the degenerating vitellocytes exhibits the presence of so-called ‘foci of cytoplasmic degradation’, which appear to be involved in the autolytic process of the vitellocyte cell components and inclusions, such as a high accumulation of lipids and glycogen. This progressive degeneration of the vitellocytes, considered as an example of programmed cell death or apoptosis, likely contributes towards the resorption of nutritive reserves by the developing embryo. Some of the results of this study are commented upon in relation to the affiliation of the spathebothriideans with other lower cestode groups.
Proctocaecum blairi sp. nov. (Digenea, Cryptogonimidae) from the freshwater crocodile, Crocodylus johnstoni, in Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Tkach Vasyl , Snyder Scott
Published: July 2010

Proctocaecum blairi sp. nov. is described from specimens found in the intestine of an Australian freshwater crocodile, Crocodylus johnstoni, from Northern Territory, Australia. The most important diagnostic features of the new species are the body proportions and size, the position of the pharynx (relative length of the prepharynx and oesophagus), the relative length and position of the vitelline fields, and the number, shape and size of the circumoral spines. The new species is morphologically most similar to Proctocaecum atae, P. elongatum, P. crocodili, P. gairhei and Acanthostomum slusarskii. It differs from all of these species in having a much longer prepharynx, and differs from both P. atae and P. crocodili in having a much longer body and posteriorly situated vitelline fields. Proctocaecum blairi sp. nov. differs from P. elongatum in having a shorter body, a greater forebody to hindbody ratio, a much smaller ventral sucker, and a higher number of circumoral spines (23 vs 21 in P. elongatum). The new species differs from P. gairhei in possessing a much larger body length:width ratio and an ovary separated from the anterior testis by a seminal receptacle. Acanthostomum slusarskii lacks a gonotyl and has fewer circumoral spines than the new species. Proctocaecum blairi sp. nov. is the third species of Proctocaecum and the fourth cryptogonimid species known from crocodiles in Australia.
Monitoring and Production of a Heavy-Oil Extraction Process at Peace River, Canada
Authors: Mollinger A.M. , de Rouffignac E. , Oates S. , Maron K. , Bourne S. , Brissenden S. , McGillivray P.
Published: July 2010

This reference is for an abstract only. A full paper was not submitted for this conference.

Peace River is a 100% Shell-owned heavy oil property located in Northern Alberta, Canada. A total of 7 billion barrels of 7 API oil is trapped in a 30 m thick semi-consolidated sand layer buried at a depth of about 600 m. At present, a "huff-and-puff" approach is employed to extract the oil, using closely spaced multi-lateral horizontal wells drilled from a central pad.

As part of a strategy to gain a better understanding of the extraction process at Peace River, Shell Canada designed and implemented a monitoring program over the most recently drilled production pads. This program included microseismic monitoring, surface time-lapse (2D and sparse 3D), a timelapse 3DVSP, and continuous tiltmeter monitoring. Shell Canada's Peace River asset team and EP Research and Development have been engaged in a collaborative, multidisciplinary effort to understand this data in terms of the implications for heat distribution, fluid flow, well and cap rock integrity, and other operational issues.

We have learned that our initial model of the extraction process at Peace River was incorrect, and that drilling and operational strategies based on this incorrect model are suboptimal. Our strategy for developing the field has now fundamentally changed based on the information gleaned from this monitoring project. Best practices include the integrated use of microseismic and other monitoring techniques for optimizing the drilling and operational strategy for a heavy oil field.
Isolation and Identification of Mycobacterium from Extrapulmonary Specimen at NTRL, NIDCH
Authors: Kamal SM Mostofa , Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Ahmed Sharmin , Ayaz KFM , Mahbub Md Shahriar , Khan Mohammad Ashik Imran , Gupta Ratan Das , Alam Md Billal , Miah Md Titu
Published: July 2010

Objective of the study was to see the frequency of isolation of Mycobacterium among different extrapulmonaryspecimens. The study was carried out at NTRL (National Tuberculosis reference laboratory), NIDCH Bangladeshduring January 2008-June 2009.This study was carried out retrospectively by analyzing NTRL laboratory data. Atotal of 514 extra-pulmonary specimens from different treatment centre of Dhaka was analyzed. Clinical specimens,such as lymph node aspirate, pleural fluid, urine, stool, gastric lavage, pus, ascitic fluid, cerebrospinal fluids, etc wascollected. Lowenstein-Jensen media was used for culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Mycobacteria wereisolated from 113 extra-pulmonary specimens. Male and female ratio was almost equal among positive cases. Thecommonest source of isolation was lymph nodes(frequency 55.8%) and lymph node aspirate( frequency 68.4%)pleural fluid (frequency10.6%).Anti-microbial susceptibility of the isolates to the four first line anti-tuberculosis drugs,rifampicin, isoniazid, streptomycin and ethambutol was tested, susceptibility rate was 100%.The results suggest that,,emphasis should be placed on laboratory diagnosis and treatment of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis.Keywords: Pulmonary tuberculosis; extrapulmonary; Microbial Sensitivity Test; Laboratory Technics and Procedures;BangladeshDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5454J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 128-130
Assessment of Stroke Outcome Based on Initial Stroke Severity Measured on Different Stroke Severity Scales
Authors: Quddus Abdul , Rahman Matiur , Ahmed Faisal , Mondol Badrul Alam , Siddiqui Md Mahmudur Rahman
Published: July 2010

Background: Stroke is the second most common cause of death globally and the major cause of disability. Thougha number of studies have been conducted on stroke outcome and recovery of walking function, the list and effectsof predictive factors are still a major challenge to stroke rehabilitation.Materials and methods: This was a randomized prospective study to evaluate whether initial stroke severityinfluences the stroke outcome. The patients were categorized after CT scan into two groups (group I- infarction typeand group II haemorrhagic type). Initial stroke severity was evaluated in Scandinavian Stroke Scale (SSS). Functionalstatus was evaluated after admission in Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Barthel Index (BI) and ShortForm- 36 (SF- 36).To see the outcome in relation to time patients were evaluated with FIM, BI and SF- 36 four weeksafter discharge.Results: Analysis of Scandinavian Stroke Scale indicated that the overall score was higher among the patients withcerebral infarct (mean score 29.25) compared to patients with cerebral hemorrhage (mean score 20.08) and themean difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Analysis of Barthel Index indicated that the percentage ofimprovement was significantly high among the patients with cerebral hemorrhage compared to cerebral infarct interms of transfers from bed to chair or vice versa (p<0.001). However, improvement was also high among thepatients with cerebral hemorrhage as well as cerebral infarct, but the difference was not statistically significant(p>0.05)Conclusion: This study indicates that initial motor, sensory and cognitive impairment can be good predictor inamount and time period of recovery of mobility function and other aspect in acute stroke patients, as data shows thatmilder the initial impairment faster and more is the recovery.Keywords: Stroke; cerebrovascular accident; outcome assessmentDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5460J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 137-142
Deep Fungal Infection- An Emerging Problem in Bangladesh
Authors: Parvin Rukhsana , Amin Robed , Mahbub Md Shahriar , Hasnain Muntasir , Arif Khan Mohammad , Miah Md Titu , Gupta Ratan Das , Alam Md Billal , Ahasan HAM Nazmul
Published: July 2010

Objective: Invasive deep fungal infections have become a major cause of morbidity and mortality over the pastthree decades. Organ transplantation, the use of aggressive chemotherapy and the availability and widespreaduse of immunosuppressive treatments for many medical ailments have resulted in large populations ofpatients who are at risk of fungal infections. We report our experience to increase awareness of the clinicalspectrum of disseminated fungal infection and its similarity to other infections and malignancy.Materials and Methods: Case reports from different medical institution for last 6 months were searched throughcase registry and recent scientific presentation and publications.Results: Recently a case of Histoplasmosis was reported in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) wherea 57 years old male presented with low grade fever for 3 months, backache followed by progressiveweakness of both lower limbs , there was spastic paraplegia with sensory loss upto the level of D10. An openbiopsy from paravertebral soft tissue showed histopathological features consistent with histoplasmosis. Otherdeep fungal infections e.g. pulmonary blastomycoses, mucormycoses and pulmonary aspergilloma were alsoreported in DMCH and Bangabandhu Shiekh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) and RMCH.Conclusion: As these fungal infections are not commonly encountered in our country and most of the disseminationhas similar clinical features of chronic inflammatory process and malignancy, we need a high index of suspicion todiagnose with different diagnostic approach. Bangladesh may be experiencing increase load of disseminated fungalinfections and awareness is now very important to explore its underlying aetiology.Keywords: Endemic mycoses; histoplasmosis; blastomycosis; mucormycosis; aspergilloma; BangladeshDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5466J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 170-175
Fatal Deliberate Self Harm with Paraquat
Authors: Majumder Mohammed Ishaque , Hoque Mohammad Mahfuzul , Ahmed BUM Wahid , Rahman AHM Walliur , Noor-E-Alam Sheikh Mohammad , Faiz Md Abul
Published: July 2010

Deliberate self harm using paraquat is a significant problem in parts of Asia, the Pacific and Caribbean. It is used asherbicide and highly toxic after ingestion. Large amount of paraquat leads to rapid death but smaller doses oftencause a delayed lung fibrosis. A 21-yr-old female patient with paraquat poisoning with complaints of retrosternal andepigastric pain, mild respiratory distress and jaundice was admitted. She was icteric, her pulse was fast, subcutaneousemphysema was found at neck and lung was clear. Her respiratory distress, renal and liver function deterioratedand the patient was shifted to ICU and died on fourth day of poisoning. Methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamidepulse therapy was given but the patient died from multi-organ failure. Paraquat is very toxic and has no antidote.Keywords: Paraquat; gramoxone; herbicides; poisoning; BangladeshDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5467J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 176-179
Cervical Myelopathy due to Tubercular Retropharyngeal Abscess
Authors: Amin Md Robed , Saha Shantonu Kumer , Sardar Hafiz , Kabir Ahmedul , Hawlader Anisur Rahman , Zaman Md Ferdous , Chowdhury Faizul Islam , Khandaker Md Abul Kashem
Published: July 2010

Tuberculosis is the commonest infectious disease in developing country. A retropharyngeal abscess is an immediatelife-threatening emergency, with potential for airway compromise and other catastrophic complications. We reportthe clinical, radiological and histological findings of symptomatic 16 years old girl with the features of cervical cordcompression due to retropharyngeal abscess of tubercular origin. The patient improved after surgical managementof abscess was done followed by anti-tuberculous drugs.Keywords: Retropharyngeal abscess; extrapulmonary tuberculosis; compressive myelopathyDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5468J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 180-182
Milroys Disease - The Rarest Cause of Lymphedema
Authors: Chowdhury Faizul Islam , Kabir Ahmedul , Banik Jayanta , Paul Pinaki , Rahman Matiur , Sarkar Shohel , Pervez Shahimur
Published: July 2010

Milroy’s disease is an old term used to describe hereditary congenital lymphedema. It is the rarest of the inheritedlymphedema. The cause is a mutation in the VEGFR3 gene and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Thisgene has been mapped to the telomeric part of the chromosome 5q in the region 5q34-q35. It is characterized bylower limb lymphedema, present at birth or developing soon after. It may be associated with intestinal lymphangiectasiaand cholestasis. Here we report a 57 years old male who had been suffering from bilateral leg swelling since birth andfinally leveled as a case of Milroy’s disease by positive family history and excluding other causes of lymphedema. Wepresent this case due to the rarity of its occurrence.Keywords: Milroy’s Disease; LymphedemaDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5471J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 189-192
Pyknodysostosis with Hearing Impairment
Authors: Ashraf Mohd , Farooq Arshad , Dar Tanveer I , Wani Khursheed A
Published: July 2010

Pyknodysostosis is a rare seclerosing bone disease that has autosomal recessive trait. It is characterized by smallstature, diffuse osteosclerosis with tendency to transverse fractures, acro-osteolysis of fingers, with flattened andgrooved nails. Other features include persistence of fontanelles, delayed closure of sutures, wormian bones, absenceof frontal sinuses and obtuse mandibular gonial angle with relative mandibular prognathism. We report a 9-yearoldgirl having features of pyknodysostosis with progressive hearing impairment, in the form of otosclerosis.Keywords: Craniofacial abnormalities; Hearing impairment; Otosclerosis; Pyknodysostosis; Seclerosing bone diseases.DOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5475J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 202-204
Successful Pregnancy Outcome with High dose Heparin Therapy in Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
Authors: Ranjith MP , Divya Ranjith , Meera S , Bahuleyan Shabu , Kuryan Roney Joseph
Published: July 2010

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by thrombosis, both arterial andvenous, recurrent spontaneous abortion and the persistence of positive antiphospholipid antibodies. Placentalthrombosis is believed to be the cause of recurrent abortions, characteristic of the syndrome. We report a pregnantwith antiphospholipid antibody syndrome patient with history of recurrent miscarriages and managed successfullywith high dose heparin.Keywords: Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; recurrent intra uterine death; HeparinDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5476J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 205-206
Abstracts from WCIM
Authors: Editor The
Published: July 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5483J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 233
Analysis of Electrokinetic Mixing Techniques Using Comparative Mixing Index
Authors: Jain Mranal , Yeung Anthony , Nandakumar Krishnaswamy
Published: July 2010

The performance of micro-mixers is evaluated in terms of deviations from perfectly mixed state and mixing length (i.e., device length required to achieve perfect mixing). Different variations of T-mixer are reported for improved mixing performance, including geometric constrictions/obstacles embedded in the channel wall, heterogeneously charged walls, grooves on channel base, etc. Most of the reported designs provide improved mixing at the expense of reduced flow rate; there exists therefore a tradeoff between mixing and transport. The reduced flow rate, which affects species residence time, is unfortunately not taken into account in most micro-mixing performance analyses. This issue is addressed by the comparative mixing index (CMI), which evaluates mixing performance more appropriately by normalizing the effect of residence time among different designs. In this study, the performance of several mixing strategies are evaluated based on the CMI; these are mixer designs that incorporate (a) physical constrictions, (b) induced charge electro-osmotic (ICEO) effects, and (c) heterogeneously charged walls. The present analysis clearly identifies conditions under which a given mixer design is superior to a T-mixer.
Machine Learning Techniques for Single Nucleotide Polymorphism—Disease Classification Models in Schizophrenia
Authors: Aguiar-Pulido Vanessa , Seoane José A. , Rabuñal Juan R. , Dorado Julián , Pazos Alejandro , Munteanu Cristian R.
Published: July 2010

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can be used as inputs in disease computational studies such as pattern searching and classification models. Schizophrenia is an example of a complex disease with an important social impact. The multiple causes of this disease create the need of new genetic or proteomic patterns that can diagnose patients using biological information. This work presents a computational study of disease machine learning classification models using only single nucleotide polymorphisms at the HTR2A and DRD3 genes from Galician (Northwest Spain) schizophrenic patients. These classification models establish for the first time, to the best knowledge of the authors, a relationship between the sequence of the nucleic acid molecule and schizophrenia (Quantitative Genotype – Disease Relationships) that can automatically recognize schizophrenia DNA sequences and correctly classify between 78.3–93.8% of schizophrenia subjects when using datasets which include simulated negative subjects and a linear artificial neural network.