bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal serum adiponectin multimers in gestational diabetes
Authors: Mazaki-Tovi Shali , Romero Roberto , Vaisbuch Edi , Erez Offer , Mittal Pooja , Chaiworapongsa Tinnakorn , Kim Sun Kwon , Pacora Percy , Yeo Lami , Gotsch Francesca , Dong Zhong , Yoon Bo Hyun , Hassan Sonia S. , Kusanovic Juan Pedro
Published: June 2009

Objective: Adiponectin, an adipokine with profound insulin-sensitizing effect, consists of heterogeneous species of multimers. These oligomeric complexes circulate as low-molecular-weight (LMW) trimers, medium-molecular-weight (MMW) hexamers and high-molecular-weight (HMW) isoforms and can exert differential biological effects. The aims of this study were to determine whether there is a change in circulating adiponectin multimers in the presence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), overweight/obesity or with a treatment with sulfonylurea or insulin in patients with GDM.

Study design: This cross-sectional study included women with: 1) normal pregnancy (n=149); and 2) patients with GDM (n=72). Thirty-three patients with GDM were managed with diet alone. Among the others 39 diabetic patients, 17 were treated with Glyburide and 22 with insulin. The study population was further stratified by first trimester body mass index (BMI) (normal weight <25 kg/m2 vs. overweight/obese ≥25 kg/m2). Serum adiponectin multimers (total, HMW, MMW and LMW) concentrations were determined by ELISA.

Results: 1) The median maternal serum of total, HMW, MMW and LMW were lower in patients with GDM than in those with normal pregnancies (P<0.001 for all comparisons); 2) patients with GDM had a lower HMW/total adiponectin ratio and a higher MMW/total and LMW/total adiponectin ratio than those with a normal pregnancy (P<0.001 for all comparisons); and 3) among GDM patients, there were no differences in the concentrations and relative distribution of adiponectin multimers between those who were managed with diet, and those who were treated with pharmacological agents.

Conclusion: 1) GDM is characterized by a distinctive pattern of concentrations and relative distribution of adiponectin multimers akin to Type 2 diabetes mellitus; 2) dysregulation of adiponectin multimeres can provide a mechanistic basis for the association between adiposity and GDM.
Glucose deprivation, oxidative stress and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARA) cause peroxisome proliferation in preimplantation mouse embryos
Authors: Jansen Sarah , Cashman Kara , Thompson Jeremy G , Pantaleon Marie , Kaye Peter L
Published: June 2009

Ex vivotwo-cell mouse embryos deprived of glucosein vitrocan develop to blastocysts by increasing their pyruvate consumption; however, zygotes when glucose-deprived cannot adapt this metabolic profile and degenerate as morulae. Prior to their death, these glucose-deprived morulae exhibit upregulation of the H+-monocarboxylate co-transporter SLC16A7 and catalase, which partly co-localize in peroxisomes. SLC16A7 has been linked to redox shuttling for peroxisomal β-oxidation. Peroxisomal function is unclear during preimplantation development, but as a peroxisomal transporter in embryos, SLC16A7 may be involved and influenced by peroxisome proliferators such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARA). PCR confirmedPparamRNA expression in mouse embryos. Zygotes were cultured with or without glucose and with the PPARA-selective agonist WY14643 and the developing embryos assessed for expression of PPARA and phospho-PPARA in relation to the upregulation of SLC16A7 and catalase driven by glucose deprivation, indicative of peroxisomal proliferation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and relationship to PPARA expression were also analysed. In glucose-deprived zygotes, ROS was elevated within 2 h, as were PPARA expression within 8 h and catalase and SLC16A7 after 12–24 h compared with glucose-supplied embryos. Inhibition of ROS production prevented this induction of PPARA and SLC16A7. Selective PPARA agonism with WY14643 also induced SLC16A7 and catalase expression in the presence of glucose. These data suggest that glucose-deprived cleavage stage embryos, although supplied with sufficient monocarboxylate-derived energy, undergo oxidative stress and exhibit elevated ROS, which in turn upregulates PPARA, catalase and SLC16A7 in a classical peroxisomal proliferation response.
One hundred fifty autologous peripheral haemopoietic stem cell transplantations and their lessons
Authors: Kiss Attila , Reményi Gyula , Szász Róbert , Batár Péter , Rejtő László , Váróczy László , Sípos Tamás , Kovácsné Kovács Erika , Szarvas Marianna , Udvardy Miklós
Published: June 2009

Magyarország V. Hemopoetikus Őssejt Transzplantációs Központja öt évvel ezelőtt (2003 szeptemberében) kezdte meg működését. Az Európai Csontvelő Transzplantációs Bizottság 648-as alközpontja.Célok:Magyarország északkeleti régiói haemopoeticus őssejt transzplantációs igényének kielégítése, valamint a hazai és külföldi centrumokkal való aktív kapcsolat kialakítása.Módszerek:A beavatkozások a nemzetközi kritériumok szerint történtek.Eredmények:Működése során eddig 150 autológ őssejt-transzplantációra került sor. A betegek közül 74 myeloma multiplexes, 43 non-Hodgkin-lymphomás, egy krónikus lymphoid leukaemiás, 27 Hodgkin-kóros volt. Négy beteg autoimmun betegségben szenvedett. Egy leiomyosarcomás beteg átültetésére is sor került. A túlélési eredmények megfeleltek a hazai és a nemzetközi adatoknak. A központ szerepet vállalt a Debreceni Egyetem egyéb őssejtterápiás tevékenységeiben is (dendritikusvakcina-program, infarctus myocardii, perifériás artériás érbetegség, autoimmun betegségek őssejtterápiája). A központban került sor a legtöbb zevalin, bischloronitrosourea, etopozid, cytosin-arabinozid, melphalan kondicionáló protokoll alkalmazására Magyarországon (tíz beteget kezeltek ilyen módon).
Importance of magnetic resonance investigations in the prenatal diagnostics of malformations of the fetal central nervous system
Authors: Joó József Gábor , Rigó jr. János
Published: June 2009

Az MR-vizsgálat mint képalkotó eljárás egyre elterjedtebb a praenatalis diagnosztikában is. A módszert előnyei elsősorban a központi idegrendszeri fejlődési rendellenességek kórismézésében teszik egyre inkább nélkülözhetetlenné. Megbízhatósága – akárcsak az ultrahang-diagnosztikában – jelentősen függ a vizsgáló személy felkészültségétől, amely a központi idegrendszeri anatómia ismeretén túl multidiszciplináris szemléletmódot is igényel. Azon malformatiók esetén, amelyekben a kora terhességi diagnózishoz ismételt vizsgálatok szükségesek (például velőcső-záródási rendellenességek), az ultrahang előnyösebb az MR-technikánál. Az intrauterin fertőzések, illetve a fossa posterior fejlődési rendellenességei esetén ugyanakkor a két képalkotó eljárás kitűnően egészíti ki egymást. Ugyancsak jelentős az MR-módszer a magzati ventriculomegalia prognózisának felállításában, valamint a magzati idegrendszer ischaemiás állapotainak rövid távú felismerésében. Az ultrahangfelvétel értékelhetőségét nehezítő tényezők (anyai obesitas, oligohydramnion) esetén az MR-technika szerepe jelentősen felértékelődhet a végső kórisme felállításában. Hátránya (egyelőre) nehezebb hozzáférhetősége, az ultrahangnál kisebb költséghatékonysága, valamint a megfelelő felkészültségű szakemberek korlátozott száma.
Physiological effects of static magnetic fields
Authors: László János
Published: June 2009

Az alábbiakban kísérletet teszek arra, hogy röviden számot adjak a sztatikus mágneses terek eddig bizonyított élettani hatásairól, kiemelve a hazai tapasztalatokat. E tudományterület fejlődésének jelentős lökést adott a nukleáris magrezonancia módszer elterjedése az orvosi diagnosztikában. Idehaza eddig elsősorban a kísérleti farmakológia, illetve neurológia eszköztárába tartozó kísérletek közül vezetett több pozitív eredményre. Ezek alapján a következő két megalapozott kijelentést tehetjük: 1. Létrehozható olyan sztatikus mágneses tér, amelynek állatkísérletben bizonyított, statisztikusan szignifikáns fiziológiás hatása van. 2. Ez a hatás biológiai, a mágneses tér a szervezet endogén rendszereit mozgósítja egy-egy patologikus folyamat leküzdésére. Választ elsősorban arra keresünk, hogy vajon fel tudjuk-e ezt a hatást használni terápiás célokra.
Suplementação materna com retinil palmitato no pós-parto imediato: consumo potencial por lactentes
Authors: Bezerra Danielle Soares , Araújo Katherine Feitosa de , Azevêdo Gabrielle Mahara Martins , Dimenstein Roberto
Published: June 2009

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito da suplementação materna com dose única de retinil palmitato no pós-parto para o fornecimento de vitamina A ao lactente. MÉTODOS: Ensaio clínico realizado em Natal (RN), entre março e dezembro de 2007, com 85 mulheres aleatoriamente distribuídas em dois grupos. As suplementações de retinil palmitato no pós-parto corresponderam à dose única de 200.000 (grupo experimento) UI e 0 UI (grupo controle). A quantificação do nível de retinol no leite foi obtida pelo método de cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência. Com base nas concentrações de retinol obtidas no leite materno e por meio de simulações, foi calculado o consumo de vitamina A dos lactentes nos momentos 24h e 30 dias pós-parto. RESULTADOS: No momento 24h pós-parto, o fornecimento diário de retinol ao recém-nascido via colostro foi de 1,63 µmol para o grupo controle e 2,9 µmol para o grupo experimento, considerando ingestão adequada de 1,40 µmol/dia e volume de leite consumido de 500 mL/dia. Trinta dias pós-parto, esses valores corresponderam a 0,64 µmol/dia (controle) e 0,89 µmol/dia (experimento), um aumento de 39% na concentração de retinol no grupo experimento em relação ao grupo controle ou 64% da recomendação para lactentes de zero a seis meses de idade. CONCLUSÕES: A suplementação materna com 200.000 UI de retinil palmitato no pós-parto imediato e a promoção de práticas de aleitamento materno são eficientes para melhorar o estado nutricional em vitamina A do binômio mãe-filho.
Utilização dos serviços de saúde pela população coberta pela Estratégia de Saúde da Família
Authors: Fernandes Léia Cristiane L , Bertoldi Andréa D , Barros Aluísio J D
Published: June 2009

OBJETIVO: Analisar os padrões de utilização dos serviços de saúde em comunidades cobertas pela Estratégia de Saúde da Família. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal de base populacional com amostra de 2.988 indivíduos, de todas as idades, residentes em áreas de abrangência da Estratégia de Saúde da Família, em Porto Alegre (RS), entre julho e setembro de 2003. Foram aplicados questionários pré-codificados a todos os moradores dos domicílios sorteados sobre informações demográficas, socioeconômicas e de saúde. Nas análises foram calculadas razões de prevalências, intervalos com 95% de confiança e aplicados testes do qui-quadrado. Realizou-se regressão de Poisson na análise multivariável para possíveis fatores de confusão. RESULTADOS: Pessoas do sexo feminino, com 60 anos ou mais, com cor da pele branca, com menor nível socioeconômico, sem cobertura por plano de saúde e com autopercepção de saúde ruim tiveram maior probabilidade de utilizar a unidade de saúde da família local. Em relação aos usuários de outros serviços de saúde, o padrão foi semelhante para as variáveis sexo, idade e autopercepção de saúde, mas foi encontrada uma maior utilização por pessoas com maior nível socioeconômico e com cobertura por plano de saúde. CONCLUSÕES: A utilização da unidade de saúde da família local foi maior entre as pessoas com menor nível socioeconômico e sem cobertura por plano de saúde, indicando indivíduos mais pobres como prioritários das ações governamentais. A mudança do modelo assistencial e a implantação da Estratégia de Saúde da Família tendem a melhorar progressivamente as condições de saúde da população mais pobre, minimizando as desigualdades em saúde.
Dilemas da institucionalização de políticas sociais em vinte anos da Constituição de 1988
Authors: Lobato Lenaura de Vasconcelos Costa
Published: June 2009

O objetivo é discutir e analisar alguns elementos do processo de institucionalização de políticas sociais no Brasil pós Constituição de 88, em especial as de Seguridade Social. Parte-se do pressuposto de que esse processo apresenta híbridos que comprometem os resultados previstos no modelo constitucional. Por um lado, verificam-se avanços importantes no aparato político-organizacional e na concepção da questão social (aqui tratados através dos elementos de constitucionalização, abrangência e ampliação). Por outro lado, persistem entraves, em especial na universalização, no financiamento e na qualidade dos serviços prestados que são contraditórios aos avanços alcançados. A permanência desses híbridos impede a equidade e a cidadania propostas no modelo da Constituição de 1988.
Proteção social no Brasil: o que mudou na assistência social após a Constituição de 1988
Authors: Vaitsman Jeni , Andrade Gabriela Rieveres Borges de , Farias Luis Otávio
Published: June 2009

O trabalho discute as mudanças do componente assistencial da proteção social nas duas décadas que se seguiram à Constituição de 1988. Discute as transformações da proteção e assistência social nas últimas décadas e os processos que, na década de 1990, fizeram avançar os processos de reforma da política assistencial social no Brasil, sem no entanto produzir grandes mudanças no modelo de oferta de serviços. A partir dos anos 2000, há uma significativa expansão de recursos e de cobertura de benefícios e serviços na área assistencial. Argumenta que os programas de transferência de renda, embora surgidos e difundidos em um contexto internacional de políticas restritivas, no Brasil, ao se integrarem a um sistema público e universal de assistência social, alargaram substantivamente o escopo da proteção social. Alguns efeitos da expansão do sistema de proteção social no Brasil são apontados: diminuição da desigualdade de renda; construção da capacidade institucional na área da assistência social; o significado social, político e simbólico da inclusão de um amplo segmento populacional a um sistema público de assistência social por meio de uma estrutura de provisão fora dos tradicionais mecanismos de filantropia e clientelismo.
Reforma sanitária brasileira: dilemas entre o instituinte e o instituído
Authors: Fleury Sonia
Published: June 2009

O artigo apresenta a trajetória das políticas sociais no Brasil e identifica, em cada etapa, o modelo de proteção social vigente. Afirma que a Constituição Federal de 1988, ao introduzir o conceito de Seguridade Social e criar o Sistema Único de Saúde, representou uma ruptura com o modelo tanto de Estado quanto de cidadania anteriores, em resposta à mobilização social que a antecedeu. A subordinação dos princípios de justiça e inclusão social, que orientaram o desenho desse novo padrão de proteção social, a uma política liberal e monetarista, tiveram importantes impactos na fase de implementação das políticas sociais. No entanto, os dilemas que atravessam tais políticas e, em particular, a construção do sistema único de saúde devem ser analisadas sob uma perspectiva teórica que compreende as convergências e divergências entre os três movimentos que caracterizaram a Reforma Sanitária brasileira, quais são: a subjetivação, a constitucionalização e a institucionalização.
Reformas de saúde em perspectiva comparada: uma questão sem fim .... ou uma busca improvável
Authors: Björkman James Warner
Published: June 2009

Considerando a natureza problemática das tentativas de reformar os sistemas nacionais de prestação de serviços em saúde, este documento aborda o contexto e a lógica das reformas do setor. Após um retrospecto das abordagens do aumento de capacitação em três gerações de reformas do setor público, o documento examina as reformas aplicadas ao financiamento, organização e prestação dos serviços de saúde, e sugere estratégias para reformas que levem a capacidade em consideração.
Saúde da família: limites e possibilidades para uma abordagem integral de atenção primária à saúde no Brasil
Authors: Giovanella Ligia , Mendonça Maria Helena Magalhães de , Almeida Patty Fidelis de , Escorel Sarah , Senna Mônica de Castro Maia , Fausto Márcia Cristina Rodrigues , Delgado Mônica Mendonça , Andrade Carla Lourenço Tavares de , Cunha Marcela Silva da , Martins Maria Inês Carsalade , Teixeira Carina Pacheco
Published: June 2009

O artigo analisa a implementação da Estratégia Saúde da Família (SF) e discute suas potencialidades em orientar a organização do SUS no Brasil, a partir da análise da integração da SF à rede assistencial e atuação intersetorial, aspectos cruciais de uma atenção primária abrangente. Foram realizados quatro estudos de caso de municípios com elevada cobertura por SF (Aracaju, Belo Horizonte, Florianópolis e Vitória) tendo como fontes: entrevistas semi-estruturadas com gestores e inquéritos com profissionais de saúde e de famílias cadastradas. A análise da integração destacou a posição da Estratégia SF na rede assistencial, os mecanismos de integração e a disponibilidade de informações para continuidade da atenção. A intersetorialidade foi pesquisada quanto aos campos de atuação, abrangência, setores envolvidos, presença de colegiados, e iniciativas das equipes. Os resultados apontam avanços na integração da SF à rede assistencial, propiciando o fortalecimento dos serviços básicos como serviços de procura regular e porta de entrada preferencial, todavia permanecem dificuldades de acesso à atenção especializada. As iniciativas intersetoriais foram mais abrangentes quando definidas como politica integrada do governo municipal para a construção de interfaces e cooperação entre os diversos setores.
Descentralização e coordenação federativa: a experiência brasileira na saúde
Authors: Viana Ana Luiza d'Ávila , Machado Cristiani Vieira
Published: June 2009

O artigo aborda as relações intergovernamentais em saúde nos vinte anos de implantação do Sistema Único de Saúde, à luz da trajetória histórica do federalismo brasileiro e de suas implicações para a saúde. Inicialmente faz uma revisão teórico-conceitual dos temas federalismo, proteção social e coordenação federativa na saúde, considerando o debate internacional e a análise histórica do caso brasileiro. A seguir, analisa a atuação federal na coordenação intergovernamental da política nacional de saúde no período de implantação do SUS, a partir de uma pesquisa acerca do papel do Ministério da Saúde brasileiro de 1990 a 2002, que envolveu análise documental e realização de entrevistas com dirigentes federais e outros atores da política nacional. Observou-se que a política de saúde registrou nos últimos vinte anos mudanças em cinco atributos relevantes para a caracterização do federalismo: os arranjos institucionais e regras para decisões no governo federal; o conjunto de atores com base territorial; os arranjos jurídico-legais para definir responsabilidades entre níveis de governo; os arranjos fiscais intergovernamentais; os arranjos informais entre governos, verticais e horizontais.
Responsabilidade do Estado e direito à saúde no Brasil: um balanço da atuação dos Poderes
Authors: Baptista Tatiana Wargas de Faria , Machado Cristiani Vieira , Lima Luciana Dias de
Published: June 2009

A Constituição Federal de 1988 inaugurou um novo momento político-institucional no Brasil ao reafirmar o Estado Democrático e definir uma política de proteção social abrangente, incluindo a saúde como direito social de cidadania. Desde sua promulgação, um conjunto expressivo de leis, portarias ministeriais e ações de âmbito administrativo buscaram viabilizar o projeto político desenhado na Constituição. Por outro lado, no mesmo período, cresce o número de mandatos judiciais com demandas relativas ao direito à saúde. Tal movimento tem revelado inconsistências e contradições no âmbito legal e normativo do SUS, bem como problemas não equacionados pela política de saúde, questionando a atuação do Executivo e criando novas demandas por legislação. O artigo discute o papel do Estado na saúde a partir de 1990, considerando a atuação dos Poderes. Discutem-se as perspectivas da garantia do direito à saúde frente ao projeto de construção de um Estado democrático e orientado para o bem-estar social, em face dos desafios relativos aos mecanismos de coordenação e de equilíbrio entre Poderes na saúde.
O financiamento do SUS sob os "ventos" da financeirização
Authors: Mendes Áquilas , Marques Rosa Maria
Published: June 2009

O artigo reconstitui o processo de institucionalização do financiamento do SUS, prejudicado, em primeira instância, pelas condições da política macroeconômica desenvolvida ao longo dos anos 1990 e 2000, e, em última instância, pelos efeitos provocados pela atual fase do capitalismo financeiro. Identificam-se, também, a partir do quadro econômico e político, as tensões existentes com a área econômica do governo federal, destacando as condicionalidades impostas ao financiamento e ao conceito de saúde, enquanto universal e integrante da Seguridade Social.
Avaliação de iniciativas e programas intersetoriais em saúde: desafios e aprendizados
Authors: Magalhães Rosana , Bodstein Regina
Published: June 2009

O objetivo deste artigo é contribuir para a avaliação das iniciativas voltadas para a construção de arranjos intersetoriais no âmbito das políticas públicas de saúde e de proteção social. São tomados como focos analíticos a iniciativa de Desenvolvimento Local Integrado e Sustentável de Manguinhos (DLIS-Manguinhos) - uma proposta de base territorial e comunitária associada à estratégias de colaboração e negociação bottom up- e a experiência de implementação do programa federal de transferência condicionada de renda Bolsa Família (PBF). Nesta perspectiva, aspectos ligados às redes de mobilização social, perfil dos atores envolvidos, tipos de incentivos e níveis de integração institucional são tratados como elementos cruciais para a análise do alcance de programas e iniciativas que articulam propostas intersetoriais. Conclui-se que a interface e o diálogo entre pesquisa, avaliação e acompanhamento de processos decisórios constituem eixos centrais para o maior aprendizado social e institucional na área.
Diabetes mellitus juvenil: a experiência de familiares de adolescentes e pré-adolescentes
Authors: Brito Thaís Basso de , Sadala Maria Lúcia Araújo
Published: June 2009

Este estudo foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de investigar a experiência de cuidar de adolescentes e pré-adolescentes portadores de diabetes tipo I, na perspectiva dos seus familiares. Foi utilizada a abordagem fenomenológica, modalidade de pesquisa qualitativa que se propõe a compreender os significados das experiências vividas. Foram entrevistados dez pais (9 mães e 1 pai) em hospital de ensino do interior paulista. A experiência de cuidar do filho com diabetes emerge das convergências das descrições dos participantes, sendo descrita em três temas principais: o universo da doença; relação com as pessoas; reflexão sobre a experiência vivida. Os participantes descrevem suas dificuldades e estratégias para manterem a família unida e ainda oferecer suporte aos filhos. Eles acreditam que têm que aceitar e enfrentar os desafios, além de estimularem os filhos para sua segurança e qualidade de vida. Os dados mostraram a necessidade de um suporte profissional, além de um espaço para a discussão de temas tanto para as crianças com diabetes como para seus familiares.
Evolução histórica dos programas de prevenção e controle da dengue no Brasil
Authors: Ferreira Beatriz Jansen , Souza Maria de Fátima Marinho , Soares Filho Adauto Martins , Carvalho André Anderson
Published: June 2009

Avaliou-se a dengue mundial e nacionalmente, através de uma análise epidemiológica quanto à distribuição e formas. Avaliou-se o Programa Nacional de Controle à Dengue (PNCD) quanto a sua implantação através do estudo do Diagdengue. Foi feita uma análise fatorial através de um conjunto de indicadores contributivos para a variabilidade. Somou-se os escores dos indicadores e a classificação dos municípios prioritários para o PNCD, para a construção de um índice, apresentando-o por estado e por trimestre, com intervalos distribuídos num intervalo de 0 a 9. A implantação do PNCD se dá de forma irregular, prevalecendo municípios com implantação ruim na região Norte e Nordeste. Na segunda análise, agregou-se a variáveis socioeconômicas dos municípios selecionados. Para os testes de associação, agrupou-se em duas classes: "ruim" e "bom/muito bom". Considerou-se a associação entre o índice de infestação predial informados no banco de dados do FAD e o índice construído. Foram usados para a verificação de associação testes de análise variância, teste de tendência e estimativa de razões de chance. Observou-se que municípios com baixo analfabetismo, alta coleta de lixo, alta proporção de instalações sanitárias estão correlacionados com uma boa classificação do município em relação ao Diagdengue.
Retinoic acid cross-talk with calcitriol activity in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Ørnsrud R , Lock E J , Glover C N , Flik G
Published: June 2009

Vitamins A (VA) and D (VD) are metabolised by vertebrates to bioactive retinoic acid (RA) and calcitriol (CTR). RA and CTR involvement in bone metabolism requires fine-tuned regulation of their synthesis and breakdown. In mammals antagonism of VA and VD is observed, but the mechanism of interaction is unknown. We investigated VA–VD interactions in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) following i.p. injection of RA and/or CTR. VA metabolites, CTR, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and phosphorus (P) were determined in plasma. Expression of bone matrix Gla protein (mgp), collagen 1 alpha2 chain (col1a2) and alkaline phosphatase (alp) mRNA was quantified to reflect osteogenesis. Branchial epithelial Ca channel (ecac listed as trpv6 in ZFIN Database) mRNA levels and intestinal Ca and P influx were determined to study Ca/P handling targets of RA and CTR. RA-injection (with or without CTR) decreased plasma CTR-levels three- to sixfold. CTR injection did not affect RA metabolites, but lowered CTR in plasma 3 and 5 days after injection. Lowered plasma CTR correlated with decreased mgp and col1a2 expression in all groups and with decreased alp in CTR-injected fish. RA-treated salmon had enhanced alp expression, irrespective of reduced plasma CTR. Expression of ecac and unidirectional intestinal influx of Ca were stimulated following RA–CTR treatment. Plasma Ca, Mg and P were not affected by any treatment. The results suggest cross-talk of RA with the VD endocrine system in Atlantic salmon. Enhanced Ca flux and osteogenesis (alp transcription) in RA-treated fish and inhibition of mgp expression revealed unprecedented disturbance of Ca physiology in hypervitaminosis A.
Integrity Assessment of Well Barriers Threatened by Increasing Casing-Hanger Loads
Authors: Okstad Eivind H. , Sangesland Sigbjørn
Published: June 2009

Degradations or interruptions of the original well-barrier elements might occur at offshore wells after some time in operation. Experience from the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) has shown that these problems are not always treated as thoroughly as expected by the parties involved. This paper presents an approach for an efficient visualization and description of interrupted well barriers, basically to increase the well-barrier control and management. By mapping the history of operational demands and load picture of the well in combination with the status of well barriers, a consistent basis for evaluations is obtained. The main intention is thus to realize the real well problem and its underlying causes in a controlled and systematic manner. Then, the responsible parties involved can take action more accurately according to the type of failure that has been revealed.
Formation Damage Caused by Emulsions During Drilling With Emulsified Drilling Fluids
Authors: Fjelde Ingebret
Published: June 2009

The potential for macroemulsions to cause formation damage during drilling with emulsified drilling fluids [oil-based mud (OBM)] has been studied for consolidated low-to-medium-permeability sandstone. Two types of emulsified drilling fluids were used, one with mineral-based (MB) oil and one with synthetic-based (SB) oil.

The emulsions in tested OBM were found to be stabilized both by emulsifiers and particles (organoclay and drilled solids). At low shear rates, aggregates of water droplets and particles were observed by microscopy. In bulk experiments, the stability of emulsions formed by the mixing of mud filtrates and reservoir fluids was found to depend on the compositions of emulsified drilling fluid and crude oil. These emulsions were found to cause severe formation damage in corefloods at 90°C. The damages were partly removed during aging at higher temperatures (120 and 150°C). At 90°C, the emulsions appeared to be more stable in cores than in bulk.

The potential for emulsion invasion will be highest during the spurt period, especially if the emulsions in the muds are not stable. The amount of emulsion invasion will increase with filtration pressure. Creation of emulsion in the oil reservoirs will be easiest at high shear rates (e.g., in the spurt period and in the start of the oil production) and high concentrations of emulsifiers in the mud filtrate and reservoir oil.

The risk for emulsion invasion and creation of emulsion during drilling can be reduced by avoiding high overbalanced pressure and minimizing the fluid loss. The potential for the creation of emulsions during start of production can be reduced by starting with low drawdown.

Formation damage caused by emulsions can be nonpermanent. Because emulsions are thermodynamically unstable, the potential for permanent damage caused by emulsions will usually be lower at higher temperatures (studied mud systems showed a change between 90 and 120°C). Mechanisms for stabilization and, thereby, also for breaking of emulsions depend on the compositions of the mud filtrate and the reservoir fluids. If the damaged area is swept by the produced oil, removal of emulsions by dilution with the oil can be possible.

Use of synthetic oil instead of the crude oil in laboratory experiments can give incorrect estimates of the potential for formation damage caused by emulsions. Short laboratory experiments can also give excessively high estimates of the potential for permanent emulsion-related formation damage.
Olefin-Based Synthetic-Drilling-Fluids Volumetric Behavior Under Downhole Conditions
Authors: Demirdal Barkim , Cunha Jose C.
Published: June 2009

Usual practice in drilling engineering is to determine drilling-fluid density at surface conditions assuming that drilling-fluid density does not change with changing downhole conditions. This assumption may result in inaccuracy while estimating static and dynamic pressures in the wellbore, especially when synthetic-based drilling fluids are used. Inaccurate estimation of the pressure profile in the annulus can lead to severe well problems such as kicks, drilling-fluid losses, and wellbore instability. In addition, inaccurate pressure-profile estimation can affect the success of managed-pressure-drilling (MPD) operations, which require real-time knowledge of wellbore pressures to keep wellbore pressure between formation pore and fracture pressures using a control choke placed on the return line of the annulus.

Effects of pressure and temperature on volumetric behavior of two olefin-based synthetic oils are investigated in this study using a mercury-free pressure/volume/temperature (PVT) system. The olefin-based synthetic oils used in this study are C16C18 internal olefin (IO) and C12C14 linear alpha olefin (LAO). To simulate deep offshore situations, the temperature is ranged between 25 and 175°C, while the pressure is ranged between 0 and 14,000 psig.

In addition, volumetric performances of olefin-based synthetic-oil systems under investigation are compared with those of water, brine solution, mineral oil, diesel oil, and n-paraffin-based oil under similar conditions.

The study shows that the volumetric properties of synthetic-based oils are more sensitive to pressure and temperature conditions compared to water, brine solutions, mineral oil, and diesel oil. Once emulsion systems containing synthetic-based oils are used, density change with respect to downhole conditions should be modeled to increase the reliability of pressure-profile calculations.
Increasing Production by Maximizing Underbalance During Perforation Using Nontraditional Lightweight Completion Fluid
Authors: Jan Badrul M. , Rae Graeme R. , Noor M. Ishenny , Suhadi An N. , Devadaas Melvin
Published: June 2009

The invasion of the pulverized formation rock grains and the resulting low-permeability crushed zone is the primary cause of wellbore damage in perforated completions, as established by Behrmann et al. (1991). To minimize this damage during the perforating process, it is necessary to provide a dynamic underbalance in the well that will deliberately induce flow into the wellbore for tunnel cleanup. Traditional well fluids have a limited application in depleted reservoirs because the lowest achievable density is on the order of 6.6 lbm/gal. In many depleted reservoirs, this density can represent an overbalance. It is not always desirable or operationally practical to provide this underbalance with a gas cushion; therefore, to achieve underbalance, it is desirable to engineer a stable fluid with nondamaging chemical properties, which would have a significantly lower density. This paper reports on the formulation of superlight completion fluids consisting of Shell Sarapar 147 synthetic oil (SO) [Shell Middle Distillate Synthesis (MDS), Kuala Lumpur) and 3M Scotchlite hollow-glass spheres (HGSs) (3M, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA), also known as glass bubbles, as a density-reducing agent, with an appropriate stabilizing agent. Laboratory tests show that density values as low as 5.0 lbm/gal could be achieved. Similar mixtures were prepared and used in perforation operations for Talisman Malaysia. A total of 72 bbl of lightweight completion fluids (LWCFs) at approximately 5.5 lbm/gal was pumped downhole, and the perforation job was completed successfully. Production history of the well shows marked increase in production rate compared to the neighboring wells, which produce from the same reservoir but were perforated traditionally with little or no underbalance. This technology is not necessarily limited to depleted reservoirs. In normally pressured zones where permeability is extremely low, the fluid provides an opportunity to increase the available underbalance by an order of magnitude to assist cleanup.
Analysis of Casing-Shift Problems in Compacting Reservoirs
Authors: Jinnai Yasuo , Morita Nobuo
Published: June 2009

In the past, casing-shift problems were thought to be one of the causes of production decline. This motivated field engineers to investigate whether or not casing shift occurred by shooting radioactive bullets in productive layers and measuring the relative movement of casing and formation (Allen 1984). However, the results were ambiguous because of the uncertainty of wireline-logging depth measurements during a long reservoir-compaction period. In this paper, the following will be investigated:

How the bonding of casing and formation breaks under confining stresses How a casing slides after the bonding breaks The magnitude of shear force required to induce casing shift The magnitudes of casing shift for typical reservoir conditions

To achieve the above objectives, the following laboratory measurements were performed:

Construct test samples simulating casings bonded to formation with cement and mudcake. Conduct experiments measuring shear force required to induce casing shift under confining stress. Simulate the correlation of depth and shear and normal stresses around a cased hole using a finite-element model for compacting reservoirs. Compare the results of experiments with simulations to judge the magnitude of casing shift.

The laboratory experiments showed that a casing does not simply slip when a shear load is applied. It accompanies shear failure of cement sheath. Hence, when casing shift occurs, shear fractures are also induced in the cement, which may cause gas or liquid migration through the fracture network. Calculations are performed to estimate the shear stress induced at casing/cement and formation/cement interfaces during reservoir compaction using a finite-element-simulation model. Comparing the laboratory-measured sliding shear stress with the calculated shear stress, it is concluded that a small casing slippage may occur at casing/cement and formation/cement interfaces. The amount and distribution of slippage along casing/cement and formation/cement are also evaluated for typical reservoir conditions. The small slippage may be serious enough to reduce production. Hence, reperforation at the expected shift intervals would recover productivity. In addition, the small slippage creates a shear fracture network that may cause gas or liquid migration.

Several standard cement tests are described in Nelson and Guillout (2007). This work complements two previous works (Evans and Carter 1963; Ladva et al. 2004) for casing/cement and formation/cement bond strengths using similar cement. Previous work determines cement shear and hydraulic-bond strengths for those with small reservoir compaction, while this work focuses on cement-bond strength for more-severe compactions where casing slippage or failure are initiated. Unlike the standard hydraulic and shear cement bond tests, the current test method closely simulates the in-situ conditions, clarifying the phenomena occurring during casing slippage. In addition, a rule of thumb and a practical method to evaluate the magnitude of casing shift are proposed.
Measurement and Analysis of Induced Torsion in Helically Buckled Tubing
Authors: Zdvizhkov A. , Miska S. , Mitchell R.
Published: June 2009

In the original publication on helical buckling by Lubinski et al. (1962), it was assumed that no torsion can be developed in buckled tubular string (Lubinski–Woods problem) if there is no casing-to-tubing friction and tubing remains in an elastic range of bending.

Recent theoretical work by Mitchell (2004) presented the large-displacement analysis of a helically buckled slender beam and predicted that shear force and twisting moment are induced in helically buckled pipe without externally applied torque.

In short, there is an induced left-hand torsion in tubing buckled into a right-hand helix that is surprisingly large and, in some cases, may approach or exceed the makeup-torque values for connections.

For study of this phenomenon, an experimental facility was set up at the University of Tulsa, depicting a straight horizontal wellbore with the inner steel tubing having a 0.50-in. (12.7-mm) outside diameter (OD) and the outer acrylic tube having a 1.90-in. (48.3-mm) inside diameter (ID), representing drillstring and wellbore, respectively.

For a precise measurement of pure torsion in the tubing, strain gauges were employed, arranged into the full-torsion bridge configuration.

The experiments were performed with the "bottom end" of the steel tubing held stationary and with axial-buckling force applied from the "top end."

The end conditions for the tubing were represented by clamped and pinned connections.

It was observed that torsional equilibrium in the tubing is disturbed as soon as buckling force is applied, with further increase in torsion as the shape of the tubing transforms from sinusoidal to helical.

Upon the tubing reaching full helical shape, the internal torsion continues to increase with the increase of axial-buckling force in the manner predicted theoretically.

The results of this study are important for practical design and analysis of drillstrings and completion tubing.
Risk Communication, Space, and Findability in the Public Sphere: A Case Study of a Physical and Online Information Center
Authors: Nagelhout Ed , Staggers Julie , Tillery Denise
Published: June 2009

This article uses theories of space and findability to analyze a public information center as an example of multi-modal risk communication. The Yucca Mountain Information Center is an informational space created by the Department of Energy to inform the public about the proposed nuclear waste repository planned for Yucca Mountain, Nevada. As a public space, the Center uses fact sheets, posters, and three-dimensional displays to make arguments about the storage of nuclear waste; we argue that the physical space, text, displays, and online space are all elements of risk communication. We offer a new way to read these elements of risk communication and suggest potential opportunities for public agency.
Toward a Rhetoric of Locale: Localizing Mobile Messaging Technology into Everyday Life
Authors: Sun Huatong
Published: June 2009

This article explores the social meaning of locale in mobile communication research and introduces an approach of user localization to study technology integration. It investigates how locale forms an essential role in mobile communication in the way that practice, agency, and identities are articulated into a user localization process of incorporating technology into user's everyday life. It argues that the use of mobile communication technology is both a complex and dynamic interaction with its surrounding social, cultural, technological, and economic conditions, and an articulation work of self and locale.
Examining Editor-Author Ethics: Real-World Scenarios from Interviews with Three Journal Editors
Authors: Amare Nicole , Manning Alan
Published: June 2009

Those who submit manuscripts to academic journals may benefit from a better understanding of how editors weigh ethics in their interactions with authors. In an attempt to ascertain and to understand editors' ethics, we interviewed 3 current academic journal editors of technical and/or business communication journals. We asked them about the ethical dilemmas they encountered while working with authors, whether the editors formally or informally followed a “code of ethics,” and if they felt obligated to maintain any ethical codes in particular. In this article, we discuss the ethical dimensions of editorial practices using specific ethical scenarios provided by these three editors. We then analyze these scenarios using traditional ethical models in our field but also in terms of a less-known but powerful model of ethical analysis originally proposed by the philosopher C. S. Peirce. We argue that Peirce's “community of inquiry” ethics model best describes these journal editors' ethics when working with authors.
Introducing Heuristics of Cultural Dimensions into the Service-Level Technical Communication Classroom
Authors: Schafer Robert
Published: June 2009

A significant problem for practitioners of technical communication is to gain the skills to compete in a global, multicultural work environment. Instructors of technical communication can provide future practitioners with the tools to compete and excel in this global environment by introducing heuristics of cultural dimensions into the service-level classroom. By practicing how to use these heuristics in “real-world” contexts, instructors can prepare students to function as both information architects and symbolic-analytic operators within this global work environment. In this article, I first examine common cultural heuristics as they pertain to business communication. Next, I articulate how technical communicators can benefit from incorporating these heuristics into the classroom. Finally, I offer a pedagogical approach to introducing heuristics of cultural dimensions into the service-level technical communication classroom.
Application of Coagulation Systems Coupled with Adsorption on Powdered Activated Carbon to Textile Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Furlan Franciele Regina , Silva Laís Graziela de Melo da , Morgado Ayres Ferreira , Ulson de Souza Antônio Augusto , Ulson de Souza Selene Maria Arruda Guelli
Published: June 2009

The aim of the present study was to investigate the removal of reactive dyes, Black 5 and Orange 16, through a combined coagulation/adsorption process on activated carbon. A coconut-based powdered activated carbon was used as an adsorbent and aluminum chloride was chosen as the coagulant. In order to obtain the best removal conditions for these dyes, the influence of the following parameters were investigated: coagulant dosage, aqueous solution pH, addition of sodium chloride and the application of increased temperature plus sodium chloride. Adsorption results for the reactive dyes were analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models and showed good correlation. The presence of sodium chloride in the mixture resulted in significant adsorption improvement. The influence of increased temperature plus sodium chloride on the dye removal from aqueous solution showed the feasibility of adsorption and its endothermic nature. Through the reactivation experiments it was verified that the adsorbent can be reused three times, consecutively, after the first adsorption with the virgin carbon. For the final evaluation of the effluent, obtained after the coagulation and adsorption process, acute toxicity tests were carried out with Daphnia magna, and the results obtained showed that the final effluent was not toxic. The combined coagulation/adsorption process was found to be an excellent option for the removal of reactive dyes.
Determination of the Wall Shear Stress by Numerical Simulation: Membrane Process Applications
Authors: Springer Fanny , Ghidossi Rémy , Carretier Emilie , Veyret Damien , Dhaler Didier , Moulin Philippe
Published: June 2009

Membrane processes have been intensely developing during the last decades, and mainly in dairy industry. Considering the feed effluent complexity, concentration polarization phenomenon and fouling are accentuated limitations for the development of membrane dairy filtration processes. Knowledge of the wall shear stress developed at the membrane surface is fundamental to reduce those phenomena. In this work, the variation of the wall shear stress on cylindrical, square, triangular and hybrid channels by numerical simulation for various operating parameters was studied. Predictions were established for different commercial ceramic membranes and predict the geometry that tends to better mass transport efficiency by enhancing hydrodynamics conditions. Numerical simulations are performed over a typical range of Reynolds numbers inside different channel geometries under laminar and turbulent conditions. Consequently, this paper intended to enhance the performances of these processes by maximizing the average wall shear stress on the membrane surface by numerical simulation. A comparison with experimental results was realized and a good agreement was obtained. Given those conclusions, a new membrane according to the whole CFD results consistent with experimental results was designed.
Argon Stable Isotope Concentrations in Lunar Regolith
Authors: Halas Stanislaw , Wójtowicz Artur , Czarnacki Maciej , Robens Erich
Published: June 2009

We performed stepwise heating experiments for determination of the two stable isotope ratios of argon fractions and total concentrations of the three stable isotopes 36Ar, 38Ar and 40Ar in lunar regolith acquired from the Apollo 11, Apollo 12 and Apollo16 missions. Also the concentration of in situ formed radiogenic 40Ar was estimated on the basis of known ages and potassium concentrations determined by isotope dilution method. The observed excess of 40Ar concentration is interpreted to be due to variable (over geological time) flux of solar energetic particles which were implanted into the material at the Moon surface.
Use of Qualitative Research Approach in Postmodern Studies: Sharing of Some Anthropological Experiences of the Study on the Pahari People of Central Nepal
Authors: Khadka Anju
Published: June 2009

doi: 10.3126/njqrm.v1i0.1971Keywords: postmodern studies; Pahari People Nepalese Journal of Qualitative Research Methods Vol.1 2007 pp.37-50
A Companion to Qualitative Research by Ewe Flick, Ernst von Kardoff and Ines Steinke. 2004
Authors: Timseena Bhanu
Published: June 2009

doi: 10.3126/njqrm.v1i0.1977 Nepalese Journal of Qualitative Research Methods Vol.1 2007 pp.68-71