bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Practical Iterative Scheme for Coupling Geomechanics With Reservoir Simulation
Authors: Samier Pierre , Onaisi Atef , de Gennaro Sergio
Published: November 2008

The use of reservoir simulation coupled with geomechanics has been increasing in recent years as its utility in modeling physical phenomena such as compaction, subsidence, induced fracturing, enhancement of natural fractures and/or fault activation, and steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) recovery has become apparent. Among different methods investigated by researchers, the iterative explicit method appears to be the preferred method for field-scale simulation.

This method is a loose coupled approach between a reservoir simulator and a geomechanical simulator. At user-defined steps, the fluid pressures are transmitted to the geomechanical tool, which computes the actual stresses and reports the modifications of porosities and permeabilities back to the reservoir simulator.

This paper presents a new iterative scheme that allows any reservoir simulator to be coupled with any nonlinear finite-element-method (FEM) package for the stress analysis without any limitation on the functionality of either simulator. The convergence of this new scheme is discussed, and results are presented for three cases described below.

The first case is a validation case used by other SPE papers. The second case is a synthetic model of a highly compacting reservoir sensitive to water saturation. The third case is a full-field reservoir model.
Managing Formation-Damage Risk From Scale-Inhibitor Squeeze Treatments in Deepwater, Subsea Fields in the Campos Basin
Authors: Bogaert Philip , Berredo Marcos C. , Toschi Celso , Bryson Bill , Jordan Myles M. , Frigo Dario M. , Afonso Marcos
Published: November 2008

This paper describes field experience and lessons learned from bullhead-deployed scale-control operations in a deepwater subsea development in the Campos basin, Brazil; specifically, this paper is about deploying such treatments from the floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) host, along the production flow-lines, and into four low-water-cut, horizontal, subsea wells completed with sand control.

The relatively small number of high-cost, highly productive wells, coupled with a very high barium sulfate (BaSO4) scaling tendency upon breakthrough of injection water, meant that not only was effective downhole scale management critical to achieve high hydrocarbon recovery, but that even wells at low water cuts were deemed to be at sufficient risk to require squeeze application.

Initial bullheaded scale treatments comprised three "hybrid" treatments: a mutual-solvent preflush, a water-based main flush, and a diesel overflush. As water-production rates rose, so did the treatment volumes required. To improve the logistics of these treatments and to mitigate issues that arise from poor injectivity of diesel in these wells, core studies were conducted to investigate the option of changing the overflush fluid from marine diesel to injection-quality seawater. This change also introduced the possibility of forming a gas-hydrate plug during shut-in, but this was managed by use of a thermodynamic hydrate inhibitor and by replacing the flowline contents to flashed crude during the shut-in period. Both the operational aspects and the response of the wells to the modified treatments will be compared with those previously deployed in terms of, in particular, the injectivity of the wells during treatment and well-treatment cleanup rates and productivity afterward.

The core studies also highlighted a formation-damage mechanism caused by incompatibility between the mutual solvent and the produced oil; this required modification of the treatment.
Effect of Droplet Size, Emulsifier Concentration, and Acid Volume Fraction on the Rheological Properties and Stability of Emulsified Acids
Authors: Al-Mutairi S. H. , Hill A. D. , Nasr-El-Din H. A.
Published: November 2008

Acid-in-diesel emulsions have been used extensively in matrix-acidizing and acid-fracturing treatments. This acid has several advantages, including lower corrosion rate, minimum number of additives, and deep acid penetration. For stimulation purposes, the most important properties of emulsified acid are reactivity, stability, and viscosity. The size distribution of the droplets of the emulsion affects these properties.

The purpose of this paper is to correlate the droplet size of the dispersed phase (acid) to the viscosity and stability of emulsified acids. Measurements of the droplet size were acquired with laser-diffraction techniques and analyzed by use of an advanced image-processing system. The apparent viscosity was measured with a Brookfield PVS rheometer at various temperatures. The stability of the emulsified acid was monitored by use of an HTHP see-through cell.

Steady shear viscosity was measured for emulsions with droplet sizes ranging in diameter from 1 to 20 μm. The viscosity covered a shear rate range from 10 to 750 s−1 and a temperature range from 25 to 80°C. All measurements were regenerated for emulsifier concentrations of 1, 5, and 10 gpt. It was noted that finer emulsions had higher viscosities. Likewise, similar measurements were performed with varying acid volume fractions.

The most stable emulsion was noted at an acid volume fraction of nearly 0.7. Other volume fractions were stable for a few hours before diesel was expelled as a separate layer above the emulsion. Eventually, the remaining emulsion stabilized at an acid volume fraction of 0.7.

This paper discusses the effects of the acid volume fraction, emulsifier concentration, and droplet size distribution on the rheological properties and stability of emulsified acids.
Improving Reserves Estimates From Decline-Curve Analysis of Tight and Multilayer Gas Wells
Authors: Cheng Y. , Lee W. J. , McVay D. A.
Published: November 2008

Decline-curve analysis is one of the most commonly used techniques to estimate reserves from production data. In tight formations that have been stimulated—especially when there are multiple layers that communicate only at the wellbore—the uncertainty in reserves estimates from this technique is quite large because forecasting future performance is quite difficult. This uncertainty can affect the classification of reserves, and could limit what we should call "proved developed reserves." In this paper, we present new procedures to mitigate the complexity of decline-curve analysis in multilayer tight gas wells. Using synthetic and field examples, we demonstrate how reserves can be estimated more reliably.

For tight and multilayer gas wells, it is not uncommon that decline-curve analysis yields an Arps decline-curve parameter b greater than unity (Arps 1945). Single-layer hydraulically fractured tight gas wells also appear to have b-values greater than unity. Different practices are used to handle such complexity. For forecasts, some analysts simply use the b-value obtained from matching production data, while others force the b value to be unity. Still others use the hyperbolic decline and the matched value of b, but, when the decline rate reaches a predetermined limit, they switch to exponential decline for the remainder of the forecast. Thus, forecasted performance differs significantly when different analysts analyze the data. Consequently, the reserves estimate has large uncertainty, which can, in turn, affect its classification.

In this paper, we first present an in-depth investigation of decline behavior of tight, single-layer and multilayer gas wells by analyzing depletion characteristics using simulated data sets. We illustrate the long-duration transient effects present in single-layer stimulated tight gas wells and the complex flow regimes present when wells in layered reservoirs are produced commingled. Our work indicates that, as observed in field data, transient effects and coexistence of different flow regimes between layers lead to abnormal decline behavior (b > 1.0) in multilayer tight gas wells, which leads to errors in production forecasts. Our new procedure provides a method to minimize these errors.
Plugging of Fractures in Chalk Reservoirs by Enzyme-Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation
Authors: Larsen Jan , Poulsen Mikael , Lundgaard Thomas , Agerbæk Mikkel
Published: November 2008

Natural or induced fractures in a chalk reservoir can reduce the recovery of an oil field significantly. Therefore, the plugging of fractures with a wide range of materials has been investigated over the years. Calcium carbonate is an obvious candidate, being the main constituent of the reservoir itself. However, to apply calcium carbonate as a plugging fluid, a mechanism is required for delaying the precipitation until the chemical reaches the fracture. An enzymatically induced plugging mechanism has been suggested, in which the urease enzyme converts urea into ammonia and carbonate. This carbonate will then precipitate with calcium as calcium carbonate. However, the amount of calcium carbonate produced was relatively low and the cost of the stabilizer and high-purity-enzyme source was prohibitively high for practical use. Furthermore, the calcium carbonate precipitated as a slurry of small particles, which is deemed less efficient for fracture plugging when compared to larger crystals or aggregates.

In this paper, work is presented on design of an improved plugging fluid based on enzymatic calcium-carbonate precipitation and optimization toward a field-applicable solution. The relatively expensive stabilizer and enzyme source are replaced with low-cost ingredients, and the rate of precipitation is improved. By optimizing the concentrations of the reactants, we have improved the yield of calcium carbonate from 20 to more than 200 g/L. Furthermore, the crystallization can be controlled to obtain much larger calcium carbonate crystals. Laboratory plugging experiments have shown that larger crystal sizes improve the durability of the formed plugs significantly.
On Interfacial-Tension Measurements to Estimate Minimum Miscibility Pressures
Authors: Jessen Kristian , Orr Franklin M.
Published: November 2008

Measurements of the interfacial1 tension (IFT) of mixtures of a reservoir fluid and injection gas at various pressures have been proposed as an experimental method for predicting the minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) in an experiment referred to as the vanishing-IFT (VIT) technique. In this paper, we analyze the accuracy and reliability of the VIT approach using phase equilibrium and slimtube experimental observations and equation-of-state (EOS) calculations of the behavior of VIT experiments for the same systems.

We consider 13 gas/oil systems for which phase equilibrium and density data and slimtube measurements of the MMP are available. We show that tuned EOS characterizations using 15 components to represent the gas/oil systems yield calculations of phase compositions and densities and calculated MMPs that reproduce the experimental observations accurately. We assume that IFTs can be calculated with a parachor expression, and we simulate the behavior of a series of VIT experiments with different mixture compositions in the VIT cell. We show that compositions of mixtures created in the VIT cell are not, in general, critical mixtures and that calculated estimates of the MMP obtained by the VIT approach depend strongly on the composition of the mixture used in the experiment. We show also that those MMP estimates may or may not differ significantly from values obtained in slim-tube displacements. Fortuitously chosen mixture compositions can result in VIT-experiment estimates that agree well with slimtube MMPs, while for other mixtures, the error of the estimates can be quite large. In particular, we show that errors in the VIT-technique estimate of the MMP are often large for gas/oil systems for which the first-contact miscibility pressure (FCMP) is much larger than the slimtube MMP.

We conclude, therefore, that the VIT experiment is not a reliable single source of information regarding the development of multicontact miscibility in multicomponent gas/oil displacements.
Recognition of Human Proinsulin Leader Sequence by Class I–Restricted T-Cells in HLA-A*0201 Transgenic Mice and in Human Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Toma Andréa , Laïka Taghrid , Haddouk Samy , Luce Sandrine , Briand Jean-Paul , Camoin Luc , Connan Francine , Lambert Marion , Caillat-Zucman Sophie , Carel Jean-Claude , Muller Sylviane , Choppin Jeannine , Lemonnier François , Boitard Christian
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE— A restricted region of proinsulin located in the B chain and adjacent region of C-peptide has been shown to contain numerous candidate epitopes recognized by CD8+ T-cells. Our objective is to characterize HLA class I–restricted epitopes located within the preproinsulin leader sequence.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— Seven 8- to 11-mer preproinsulin peptides carrying anchoring residues for HLA-A1, -A2, -A24, and -B8 were selected from databases. HLA-A2–restricted peptides were tested for immunogenicity in transgenic mice expressing a chimeric HLA-A*0201/β2-microglobulin molecule. The peptides were studied for binding to purified HLA class I molecules, selected for carrying COOH-terminal residues generated by proteasome digestion in vitro and tested for recognition by human lymphocytes using an ex vivo interferon-γ (IFN-γ) ELISpot assay.

RESULTS— Five HLA-A2–restricted peptides were immunogenic in transgenic mice. Murine T-cell clones specific for these peptides were cytotoxic against cells transfected with the preproinsulin gene. They were recognized by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 17 of 21 HLA-A2 type 1 diabetic patients. PBMCs from 25 of 38 HLA-A1, -A2, -A24, or -B8 patients produced IFN-γ in response to six preproinsulin peptides covering residues 2–25 within the preproinsulin region. In most patients, the response was against several class I–restricted peptides. T-cells recognizing preproinsulin peptide were characterized as CD8+ T-cells by staining with peptide/HLA-A2 tetramers.

CONCLUSIONS— We defined class I–restricted epitopes located within the leader sequence of human preproinsulin through in vivo (transgenic mice) and ex vivo (diabetic patients) assays, illustrating the possible role of preproinsulin-specific CD8+ T-cells in human type 1 diabetes.
Exenatide Sensitizes Insulin-Mediated Whole-Body Glucose Disposal and Promotes Uptake of Exogenous Glucose by the Liver
Authors: Zheng Dan , Ionut Viorica , Mooradian Vahe , Stefanovski Darko , Bergman Richard N.
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE— Recent progress suggests that exenatide, a mimetic of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), might lower glycemia independent of increased β-cell response or reduced gastrointestinal motility. We aimed to investigate whether exenatide stimulates glucose turnover directly in insulin-responsive tissues dependent or independent of insulinemia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— An intraportal glucose infusion clamp was used in dogs to measure glucose turnover to encompass potent activation of the putative glucose/GLP-1 sensor in the porto-hepatic circulation with exenatide. The modified glucose clamp was performed in the presence of postprandial hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia with exenatide (20 μg) or saline injected at 0 min. Furthermore, the role of hyperglycemia versus hyperinsulinemia in exenatide-mediated glucose disposal was studied.

RESULTS— With hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia, exenatide produced a significant increase in total glucose turnover by ∼30%, as indicated by portal glucose infusion rate (saline 15.9 ± 1.6 vs. exenatide 20.4 ± 2.1 mg · kg−1 · min−1, P < 0.001), resulting from increased whole-body glucose disposal (Rd, ∼20%) and increased net hepatic uptake of exogenous glucose (∼80%). Reducing systemic hyperglycemia to euglycemia, exenatide still increased total glucose turnover by ∼20% (saline 13.2 ± 1.9 vs. exenatide 15.6 ± 2.1 mg · kg−1 · min−1, P < 0.05) in the presence of hyperinsulinemia, accompanied by smaller increments in Rd (12%) and net hepatic uptake of exogenous glucose (45%). In contrast, reducing hyperinsulinemia to basal levels, exenatide-increased total glucose turnover was completely abolished despite hyperglycemia (saline 2.9 ± 0.6 vs. exenatide 2.3 ± 0.3 mg · kg−1 · min−1, P = 0.29).

CONCLUSIONS— Exenatide directly stimulates glucose turnover by enhancing insulin-mediated whole-body glucose disposal and increasing hepatic uptake of exogenous glucose, contributing to its overall action to lower postprandial glucose excursions.
Laser cutting of 2024-T3 aeronautic aluminum alloy
Authors: Riveiro A. , Quintero F. , Lusquiños F. , Pou J. , Pérez-Amor M.
Published: November 2008

Since the beginning of the aeronautic industry, aluminum alloys have played a crucial role in its development. Nowadays, different aluminum alloy families are the base material of many pieces of aerospace vehicles. In this work, a novel approach to process aluminum alloys is explored. The authors efforts are aimed to cut 2024-T3 plates by a CO2 laser. They used a novel laser cutting head assisted by a gas jet working in supersonic regime in order to accomplish this objective. This supersonic nozzle and the intrinsic geometry of the cutting head allow carrying out the processing of these alloys more efficiently than conventional cutting heads. The microstructural characterization, grain morphology, kerf dimensions, and surface finish of the cuts have been analyzed. The cut edges are free of dross and cracks and the heat affected zone is negligible. These successful results confirm laser cutting processing assisted by a supersonic assisting gas jet as a promising technique in the aerospace field.
Effectiveness of drotaverine hydrochloride in progression of labour
Authors: Thapa Meena , Saha Rachana , Pradhan Amita , Shrestha Sweety
Published: November 2008

Aim: This study was done to compare the effectiveness of drotaverine hydrochloride and valethamate bromide in shortening duration of labour. Methods: It is a hospital based prospective study, carried out in the department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital (KMCTH), Sinamangal from 1st June to 31st August 2005. 99 patients, who were in active labour, were taken into the study. Out of which 50 were in drotaverine group (Group 1) who had received 40 mg of drotaverine hydrochloride intramuscularly at 3 to 5 cm dilatation of the cervix. Rest of 49 patients were in valethamate bromide group (Group 2). They received 3 doses of 8 mg valethamate bromide and 20 mg hyoscin butyl bromide intravenously half an hour interval. Result: The injection-delivery interval was studied in both Groups. The duration of injection-delivery interval was found to be almost equal in primigravidae of both Groups (p=0.72). But in multigravidae interval was significantly shorter in drotaverine Group (p=0.03). Conclusion: Both drotaverine and valethamate bromide are equally effective in shortening duration labour in primigravidae, where as drotaverine is more effective in multigravidae in accelerating labour. Keywords: Drotaverine, Valethamate bromide, cervical dilatation, labour acceleration   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i2.1447 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol 2007 Nov-Dec; 2 (2): 9 - 11
Intraperitoneal haemorrhage- A call for laparotomy as second intervention
Authors: Rawal Suniti , Rana Ashma , Bista Kesang D , Gurung Geeta , Ghimire Ram K
Published: November 2008

Aim: To study laparotomy as second intervention for hemoperitoneum following primary surgery in obstetric and gynecology. Method: Eleven years retrospective study going back from Dec 2006 embracing all the cases of re/laparotomy for intraperitoneal bleeding were carried out in TUTH, Nepal. Results: Of the 24 cases complicated by intraperitoneal hemorrhage for which relaparotomy had been done 12 each were formed by gynaecologic and obstetric cases: 11 were caesareans (CS) and a laparotomy following vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC). In gynecology the preceding surgeries undertaken were [diagnostic laparoscopy (1), laparotomy (3), hysterectomies 8 (3 being vaginal)] Massive hemoperitoneum occurred in ¼ cases; extensive hematoma in a third having altogether with associated risks factor in 9(37.5%).Source of bleeding were disligated/abraded infundibulopelvic vessel (3), cuff bleeding (4), cardinal ligaments (1), uterine cornua (1), uterine angles (6), vagina (1) and placental bed (1) which were duly managed by 5 obstetrics hysterectomy. Laparotomy >2 times were repeated 4: obstetric 2 [(1) for vault bleeding following hysterectomy done for scar rupture after VBAC and other for slippage of ovarian vessel following hysterectomy and internal iliac ligation] and same number in Gynecology 2 [(1) after vaginal hysterectomy first for laceration of infundibulopelvic vessel and then for generalized ooze and hematoma]. Next was following a diagnostic laparoscopy, complicated by unexplainable intraperitoneal bleeding first devised by internal iliac ligation, then finally by hysterectomy that died. Conclusions: Careful tying of the blood vessel, choosing right technique and appropriate ligature in the first place is as important as proper closure of all the surgical incision/ inflicted cut taking note of the rise in the pulse rate and fall in the blood pressure in overall postoperative cases such that related morbidity and mortality from late diagnosis leading to delayed second surgical intervention can be obviated or minimized. Key Words: Intraperitoneal bleeding, hemoperitoneum, relaparotomy   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i2.1458 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol 2007 Nov-Dec; 2 (2): 63 - 68
Pain Relief in labour: A randomized controlled trial comparing pentazocine with Tramadol
Authors: Kuti O , Faponle AF , Adeyemi AB , Owolabi AT
Published: November 2008

Aim: To assess and compare the analgesic efficacy and side effects of Pentazocine and Tramadol. Method: This double blind randomised controlled trial was carried out at the labour ward of Wesley Guild Hospital Ilesa Nigeria. One hundred normal pregnant women in active labour at term were randomly assigned to receive either intramuscular Pentazocine 30mg or intramuscular tramadol 100mg, at request for analgesia. Analgesic efficacy was assessed by verbal scales of pain intensity and relief; maternal and neonatal side effects were determined. Results: At 60 minutes after drug administration 47.7% and 30.9% of women, in the pentazocine and tramadol group respectively, experienced moderate to good pain relief. Significantly more women in the pentazocine group (34.1%) than in the tramadol group(14.3%) rated their pain as mild (P < 0.05) sixty minutes after drug administration. Mean time to first subsequent request for analgesia was greater in the pentazocine group (181 minutes vs 113 minutes; P < 0.05). There was no significant differences between the drugs in maternal side effects, labour and neonatal outcomes. Conclusion: Pentazocine provides better pain relief than tramadol in labor. Key words: Labour pain, pentazocine, tramadol doi:10.3126/njog.v3i1.1433NJOG 2008 May-June; 3(1): 14 - 18
Unexplained hemolytic anemia of pregnancy: Case report with review of related literature
Authors: Sharma Paban , Sthapit Rekha
Published: November 2008

We present a case of a multipara lady who developed hemolytic anemia during pregnancy with spontaneous remission after delivery. She was managed with low dose steroid for hemolysis during pregnancy with good feto-maternal outcome. Despite extensive investigations carried out to determine the cause, they remained in vain. Very few of such cases have been described in the literature, which merits its presentation. Key words: Hemolytic anemia, pregnancy   doi:10.3126/njog.v3i1.1441 NJOG 2008 May-June; 3(1): 49 - 50
Web-based Care For Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Dalton Janice E.
Published: November 2008

Telediabetes is a form of telemedicine used to provide education and clinical care to persons living with diabetes. Web-based delivery modes using cellular telephones and/or computers are of particular interest as they are becoming increasingly available. A review of current research on the practice of web-based telediabetes to adults with type 2 diabetes was conducted to determine the potential impact of this delivery mode on professional dietetics practice. Nine articles meeting the inclusion criteria were identified, critiqued, and summarized. Studies varied greatly in breadth and scope; consequently, few general conclusions could be drawn about telediabetes programs. Telediabetes programs were discussed in the context of soundness, effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and practical characteristics. Trends indicated a promising future for telediabetes. Dietitians should view telemedicine as a viable tool for service delivery and increase their knowledge, competency, advocacy, and research efforts in this area.
Nutrition Education Program DesignFor Youth with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Buccino Jennifer , Daneman Denis , Hamilton Jill
Published: November 2008

The increased prevalence of childhood obesity has led to rising rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in youth. Recommended nutrition strategies for children with T2DM are not well delineated. Adult recommendations for T2DM do not take into account different stages of physical and psychological growth. Nutrition recommendations for children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) also are not applicable to youth with T2DM, who generally require interventions to promote weight loss. A nutrition education program was developed for youth with T2DM, with attention to current nutrition recommendations and the delivery of nutrition education to obese children, children with T1DM, adults with T2DM, and children with T2DM. Together with program development strategies, a summary of relevant content and mode of delivery is presented for a nutrition education program intended specifically for youth with T2DM at The Hospital for Sick Children.
Food Products as VehiclesForn-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation
Authors: Martin Lisa , Zarn Dayna , Hansen Anne Marie , Wismer Wendy , Mazurak Vera
Published: November 2008

Purpose: An n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplement was incorporated into three food products previously determined to be preferred by cancer patients, and overall acceptability of these foods was evaluated.

Methods: Preliminary testing was performed; an internal panel determined initial acceptability of foods with the supplement added. Taste panel evaluations were held at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, Alberta. Each participant completed a questionnaire rating aroma, flavour, and overall acceptance on a seven-point hedonic scale (1 = dislike extremely, 7 = like extremely), as well as ability to consume each food daily.

Results: Foods were well-liked by patients and non-patients. Mean ± standard deviation acceptance scores for the three foods were pasta sauce 5.9 ± 0.94 (n = 90), oatmeal 6.1 ± 0.88 (n = 79), and smoothie 5.9 ± 1.12 (n = 126). Overall, 94% of patients and non-patients gave tomato pasta sauce, oatmeal, and the smoothie an acceptance score of at least 5.

Conclusions: The supplement was incorporated successfully into three foods, which were highly accepted by patients with cancer. Further research should focus on incorporating the supplement into flavoured or sweet foods, as these appear most effective. Microencapsulated fish oil in food products may be used as an alternative to fish oil capsules for delivering n-3 PUFA in clinical trials.
Body Composition and Resting Energy Expenditure of IndividualsWith Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Hogan S. Eileen
Published: November 2008

Purpose: The relationship between body composition and resting energy expenditure (REE) was investigated in two boys and two men with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) (ages 11 to 22.4 years) and two boys with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) (ages 7.75 and 13.75 years).

Methods: The REE was assessed by indirect calorimetry; body composition indices (weight, height, skinfolds, and mid-arm circumference) were measured using standardized techniques and compared with healthy reference data.

Results: Those with DMD had reduced corrected mid-upperarm muscle area (C-MUMA) in comparison with healthy peers, and approximately twice the subcutaneous fat levels of subjects with BMD and healthy peers. Boys with BMD had remarkably lower muscle status than did boys with DMD and healthy peers. In both groups, REE was lower than in healthy peers; REE was associated with body weight (r=0.85), height (r=0.92), mid-upper arm fat area (MUFA) (r=0.97), and C-MUMA (r=0.65).

Conclusions: Individuals with muscular dystrophy (MD) exhibit considerable disease-specific alterations in body composition. The REE had a stronger relationship with growth (weight and height) and subcutaneous body fat composition and a weaker association with C-MUMA. Understanding the effect of MD on body composition and REE will allow dietitians to individualize energy recommendations.
Vegetable and Fruit Intake And Factors Influencing their Intake
Authors: Li Liming , Levy-Milne Ryna
Published: November 2008

Purpose: A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and an attitude/behaviour questionnaire (ABQ) were developed, and their validity and reliability were tested to determine adolescents’ vegetable and fruit (VF) intakes and factors influencing their food choices.

Methods: High school students living in the lower mainland of British Columbia participated. The FFQ was adapted from the National Cancer Institute VF By-Meal screener, which was designed to be used with adults. After several focus groups with adolescents, the FFQ was revised to make it more user-friendly. The ABQ was developed after a literature review of factors influencing youth VF intake, and was based on the constructs within the Health Belief Model.

Results: The FFQ was validated against a written 24-hour dietary record (correlation coefficient = 0.52). The test-retest reliability coefficient for the FFQ was 0.46. A panel of experts tested the ABQ construct validity, and changes were made as a result of the recommendations. Internal consistency reliability and test-retest reliability of the ABQ were 0.71 and 0.59, respectively. Both questionnaires were tested for face validity with students and revised accordingly.

Conclusions: Further validation of these two questionnaires against other standardized tools is required. Future studies with adolescents using these tools can guide program and resource development.
ADAM SMITH ON MORALITY, JUSTICE ANDTHE POLITICAL CONSTITUTION OF LIBERTY
Authors: CARRASCO MARIA A.
Published: November 2008

This paper proposes that the particular moral point of view embodied in Adam Smith's ethics, which ultimately follows a model based on the determination of justice, enables him to introduce impartiality as a measure for every virtue, and to posit the equal dignity of all human beings as the justification of his ethics. This moral viewpoint, which I here call the `sympathetic-impartial perspective', is naturally learned by human beings in the course of socialization through the ongoing interaction between the innate impulse to sympathize and practically-informed reason. Moreover, this particular perspective creates a bridge between Smith's moral and political theories, shedding new light upon the moral foundations of his `system of natural liberty'.
THE NECESSITY OF PRAGMATISM: OVERCOMING THE STALEMATE OF COMMON SENSE
Authors: LUNDESTAD ERIK
Published: November 2008

The paper argues that the relation between the philosophy of common sense and skepticism ought to be perceived of as the relation between the two horns of a dilemma. Each position, it is therefore said, is able to confront the other with a valid objection, something which implies that neither of the two positions are defensible as such. The dilemma is only resolved, it is argued, by the way in which a pragmatic approach to knowledge enables us to incorporate the insights of both common sense and skepticism in a single position.
Minimal-Drift Heading Measurement using a MEMS Gyro for Indoor Mobile Robots
Authors: Hong Sung  Kyung , Park Sungsu
Published: November 2008

To meet the challenges of making low-cost MEMS yaw rate gyros for the precise self-localization of indoor mobile robots, this paper examines a practical and effective method of minimizing drift on the heading angle that relies solely on integration of rate signals from a gyro. The main idea of the proposed approach is consists of two parts; 1) self-identification of calibration coefficients that affects long-term performance, and 2) threshold filter to reject the broadband noise component that affects short-term performance. Experimental results with the proposed phased method applied to Epson XV3500 gyro demonstrate that it effectively yields minimal drift heading angle measurements getting over major error sources in the MEMS gyro output.
Can Commercial Digital Cameras Be Used as Multispectral Sensors? A Crop Monitoring Test
Authors: Lebourgeois Valentine , Bégué Agnès , Labbé Sylvain , Mallavan Benjamin , Prévot Laurent , Roux Bruno
Published: November 2008

The use of consumer digital cameras or webcams to characterize and monitor different features has become prevalent in various domains, especially in environmental applications. Despite some promising results, such digital camera systems generally suffer from signal aberrations due to the on-board image processing systems and thus offer limited quantitative data acquisition capability. The objective of this study was to test a series of radiometric corrections having the potential to reduce radiometric distortions linked to camera optics and environmental conditions, and to quantify the effects of these corrections on our ability to monitor crop variables. In 2007, we conducted a five-month experiment on sugarcane trial plots using original RGB and modified RGB (Red-Edge and NIR) cameras fitted onto a light aircraft. The camera settings were kept unchanged throughout the acquisition period and the images were recorded in JPEG and RAW formats. These images were corrected to eliminate the vignetting effect, and normalized between acquisition dates. Our results suggest that 1) the use of unprocessed image data did not improve the results of image analyses; 2) vignetting had a significant effect, especially for the modified camera, and 3) normalized vegetation indices calculated with vignetting-corrected images were sufficient to correct for scene illumination conditions. These results are discussed in the light of the experimental protocol and recommendations are made for the use of these versatile systems for quantitative remote sensing of terrestrial surfaces.
With White House and Congress calling for “reform,” despite new health studies showing harm, and Oregon reversal, is a slowdown in order?
Authors: Weiner Robert , Lambey Gene
Published: April 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris is campaigning for marijuana reform, and Senate Leader Chuck Schumer (D‐N.Y.) is also aboard the train. Reclassification on marijuana may be imminent. However, new studies show psychological, addictive, driving and performance issues related to marijuana legalization'n sweep: recreational in 24 states, including Washington D.C., medical in 40 states. The “dangers” stories are so buried that virtually no one sees them. Only the referenda to be voted on get major coverage — extremely popular with young voters.
Elemental Influence on Oxidation Behaviour of Cantor‐Based and Refractory High Entropy Alloys: A Critical Review
Authors: Dehury Ranjit Kumar , Kumar Rahul , Joshi Yogesh G. , Gupta Vinit
Published: April 2024

This article reviews the oxidation behaviour of the two most significant high entropy alloy systems (HEAs) namely Cantor‐based and refractory HEAs. HEAs have been extensively researched and show potential applications in various industries, including marine engine manufacturing, chemical industry, furnaces, ducting, heat exchangers, jet engines, steam turbines, nuclear reactors and electronic devices, among others. Effect of the presence of elements such as aluminium, manganese, chromium, silicon, tantalum, vanadium etc. is studied for catalysing the oxidation of HEAs. Aluminium, chromium, and silicon are reportedly found to considerably impact the oxidation kinetics and enhance the oxidation resistance. However, silicon can positively or adversely affect the oxidation resistance depending on its concentration and alloy composition. Other elements like manganese tend to adversely impact the oxidation resistance of FeCoNi‐based HEAs. Refractory elements are typically found to be not suitable for oxidation studies due to the formation of non‐protective oxide layers. However, refractory HEAs offer interesting trends both in terms of enhancing or reducing oxidation resistance depending on the alloying elements. Similarly, findings related to other elements are also presented and elaborated.
Additive Manufacturing of Zn‐Doped ZrO2Architectures
Authors: Winczewski Jędrzej , Arriaga‐Dávila Joel , Maestre David , Herrera‐Zaldívar Manuel , Gardeniers Han , Susarrey‐Arce Arturo
Published: April 2024

Tailoring the properties of microfabricated ceramics through doping can unlock new avenues for the additive manufacturing (AM) of advanced 3D architectures. The first step to achieving optical functionality is to control material morphology, crystallinity, and defects associated with the composition of the produced AM architecture and dopants. For this purpose, AM of zinc‐doped zirconia (ZrO2:Zn) 3D microarchitectures is proposed using two‐photon lithography and tailor‐made resin. It is found that Zn doping modulates ZrO2:Zn architecture crystallinity and optical properties. The modification of optical properties through Zn doping is confirmed by micro‐photoluminescence, where higher energy photon emission is observed due to the promotion of oxygen vacancies and surface defects. It is also shown that Zn 2.5% and 5 wt% stabilizes the monoclinic ZrO2at a lower temperature than in the case of undoped ZrO2. Furthermore, there is evidence that Zn tends to form ZnO wurtzite, which is later sublimated. The findings provide a promising route to understand the role of defects ZrO2:Zn optically upon annealing.
Integrating Image Perception and Time‐to‐First‐Spike Coding in MoS2 Phototransistors for Spiking Neural Network
Authors: Su Xiangwei , Zhang Bihua , Liang Caijing , Tian Maoxin , Zhang Tianjiao , Bian Zheng , Miao Jialei , Yang Quan , Xu Yang , Yu Bin , Chai Yang , Lin Peng , Zhao Yuda
Published: April 2024

Human vision system remains alert for dangers and adopts high‐speed and low‐power coding methods to convert the image information to spike signals. To meet the demand for danger alert in machine vision, it is important to design intelligent sensors to integrate the functions of image perception and high‐efficiency coding for high‐priority analysis. Inspired by the human visual system, a MoS2 phototransistor is introduced on SiNx substrate enabling simultaneous image perception and time‐to‐first‐spike (TTFS) coding. The device demonstrates exceptional performance in encoding 3‐bit grayscale images, achieving a low mean squared error of 0.008 and a high structural similarity index of 0.9784. Spiking neural networks (SNN) with TTFS coding achieve high recognition accuracy (98.86%) while reducing spike count by 75%. The device array also perceives motion direction and object states by converting data temporally. This work establishes a hardware foundation to promote the performance of SNNs in efficiently identifying crucial information.
Alignment Controlled Aramid Nanofiber‐Assembled Films
Authors: Tu Ruowen , Kim Hyun Chan , Baabdullah Osama A.H. , Sodano Henry A.
Published: April 2024

Aramid nanofibers (ANFs) are a strong and heat‐resistant nanomaterial that can be isolated from commercial para‐aramid fibers, which allow a bottom‐up self‐assembly to form ordered macroscale structures like ANF films. However, the anisotropic nature of high aspect ratio ANFs is not fully exploited when fabricating ANF films for the optimal mechanical properties. In this research, direct ink writing (DIW) is applied to produce ANF‐assembled films with arbitrary shapes, and the shear‐induced alignment of ANFs can follow the printing path direction. Therefore, controlled alignment of ANFs following the computer‐programmed printing pattern is achieved by DIW, which provides a path for the application of topology and nanofiber alignment optimization in nanofiber‐assembled films. In addition, the resulting DIW ANF films exhibit outstanding Young's modulus of 8.39 GPa, tensile strength of 198 MPa, and tensile toughness of 19.4 MJ m−3 in the alignment direction, together with a wide working temperature range up to 440 °C without losing 50% of its room temperature storage modulus. Moreover, the demonstrated self‐joining ability, rollability, and lamination processability of the DIW ANF films expand their potential applications toward high‐temperature ultrathin tubes, substrates for flexible printed circuit boards, and three‐dimensional all‐ANF lightweight structural parts in extreme environments.
3D Carbon Allotropes: Topological Quantum Materials with Obstructed Atomic Insulating Phases, Multiple Bulk‐Boundary Correspondences, and Real Topology
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Zhang Qianwen , Cheng Xia , Wang Wenhong , Qian Shifeng , Cheng Zhenxiang , Zhang Gang , Wang Xiaotian
Published: April 2024

The study of topological phases with unconventional bulk‐boundary correspondences and nontrivial real Chern number has garnered significant attention in the topological states of matter. Using the first‐principle calculations and theoretical analysis, a high‐throughput material screening of the 3D obstructed atomic insulators (OAIs) and 3D real Chern insulators (RCIs) based on the Samara Carbon Allotrope Database (SACADA) are performed. Results show that 422 out of 703 3D carbon allotropes are 3D OAIs with multiple bulk‐boundary correspondences, including 2D obstructed surface states (OSSs) and 1D hinge states, which are in 1D and 2Ds lower than the 3D bulk, respectively. The 2D OSSs in these OAIs can be modified when subjected to appropriate boundaries, which benefits the investigation of surface engineering and the development of efficient topological catalysts. These 422 OAIs, which have 2D and 1D boundary states, are excellent platforms for multi‐dimensional topological boundaries research. Remarkably, 138 of 422 OAIs are also 3D RCIs, which show a nontrivial real topology in the protection of spacetime inversion symmetry. This work not only provides a comprehensive list of 3D carbon‐based OAIs and RCIs, but also guides their application in various aspects based on multiple bulk‐boundary correspondences and real topological phases.
Accessing the O Vacancy with Anionic Redox Chemistry Toward Superior Electrochemical Performance in O3 type Na‐Ion Oxide Cathode
Authors: Tian Yinfeng , Cai Yusheng , Chen Yuanping , Jia Min , Hu Haonan , Xie Wenyong , Li Dongke , Song Hucheng , Guo Shaohua , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: April 2024

Anionic redox chemistry is now viewed as the effective paradigm of improving the capacity of layered oxide materials in Sodium‐ion battery. In this study, O3‐type layered oxide NaLi0.18Co0.23Ru0.59O2 (NLCR) with O redox ability is successfully synthesized via a facile solid‐state synthesis method. By manipulating the calcinate atmosphere with air and argon (sort by NLCR‐Air NLCR‐Ar respectively), a large amount of O vacancy is introduced in the NLCR‐Air cathode. NLCR‐Air with sufficient O vacancy exhibited superior rate performance which showed 87.7% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 20 C. Both NLCR‐Air and NLCR‐Ar showed activation of O redox properties which is supported by the soft X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (sXAS). Nevertheless, the in‐situ X‐ray diffraction and sXAS studies disclosed the O vacancy can promote the reversible phase transition and effectively suppress the irreversible O redox upon cycling. These are further supported by theoretical study which suggested a fast kinetic of Na diffusion and less electron agglomeration around the O atom for NLCR‐Air with O vacancy.The research proposed a modification strategy with extraordinary reversible O redox property within O3‐type layered cathode and offered a novel insight into understanding the anionic redox mechanism thus provide guidance of material design advanced energy storage systems.
Superhydrophobic Triboelectric Structural Materials Enabled by Hierarchical Spatial Assembly
Authors: Hou Zhuli , Liu Tao , Li Mingyang , Xu Yanniu , Wu Xunxiao , Luo Shuwen , Cai Chenchen , Mou Yakun , Qiu Yuhang , Nie Shuangxi , Lu Dengjun
Published: April 2024

Non‐contact intelligent sensing technology is a key player in the data acquisition and environmental monitoring framework of the Internet of Everything, laying the groundwork for the realization of highly integrated intelligent network systems. However, environmental factors continue to be a major challenge in the process of real‐time monitoring and feedback of objects, constraining the stability and accuracy of the sensing signals. In this study, a hierarchical spatial assembly strategy is implemented to effectively integrate an intermediate energy storage layer with superhydrophobic surfaces (CA = 162 ± 2.5°), resulting in the development of a moisture‐resistant triboelectric structural materials with stable monitoring and tracking capabilities. The moisture‐resistant self‐powered sensor constructed from this triboelectric structural material operates effectively in extreme humidity conditions (99% RH) with a full‐scale output retention rate of 95.2%, and is capable of accurately sensing human activity from the distance of 3 m. Importantly, the sensor can also effectively detect vehicle states during operation and perform real‐time monitoring of the vehicle's surrounding environment. This study not only overcomes the long‐standing challenges of accuracy and stability in high humidity for sensors but also advances the development of sustainable, interconnected intelligent systems for the Internet of Everything in extreme environmental conditions.
Specific and Magnetic Covalent Organic Framework Confined Os Nanoclusterzyme for Interference‐Free and Ultrasensitive Biosensing
Authors: Zhou Pengyou , Dai Yuwei , Lin Xiaorui , Song Yuxin , Pang Yuanfeng , Chen Rui , Xiao Rui
Published: April 2024

The peroxidase (POD)‐mimic nanozymes can be a potential tool for point‐of‐care (POC) diseases diagnosis. However, the complex sample matrix and unspecific multiple‐enzyme activities of nanozyme can generate false background signal and decrease the diagnostic accuracy. Here, a magnetic and POD‐specific covalent organic framework (COF) confined osmium (Os) nanoclusterzyme Fe3O4@COF@Os is developed for biomarkers biosensing. First, found that the catalytic activity and specificity of Fe3O4@COF@Os can be regulated by the deoxidizers and the functional groups of COF ligands. By using ascorbic acid as deoxidizer and F functional COF ligands, Fe3O4@COF@Os displayed superior POD‐specific activity and negligible oxidase (OXD) and catalase (CAT) mimic activity. Therefore, Fe3O4@COF@Os can separate and analyze of targets in bio‐matrix without background interference. For application, Fe3O4@COF@Os based lateral flow assay is established for serum cancer biomarker prostate‐specific antigen, the detection limit is 3.83 pg mL−1. For clinical prostatic cancer samples, the accuracy is 100% with a correlation coefficient of 0.998 with commercial ELISA kit. For chronic disease biomarker sensing, salivary glucose can be quantified as low as 0.1 µm, with negligible background interference and favorable recyclability. This specific magnetic nanozymes can offer a promising pretreatment‐free and POC strategy for rapid and accurate diseases diagnosis.