bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communicating Disclosure Risk in Informed Consent Statements
Authors: Singer Eleanor , Couper Mick P.
Published: September 2010

For several years, we have experimented with various ways of communicating disclosure risk and harm to respondents in order to determine how these affect their willingness to participate in surveys. These experiments, which used vignettes administered to an online panel as well as a mail survey sent to a national probability sample, have demonstrated that (a) the probability of disclosure alone has no apparent effect on people's willingness to participate in the survey described, (b) the sensitivity of the survey topic has such an effect, and (c) making explicit the possible harms that might result from disclosure also reduces willingness to participate, in both the vignette and the mail experiments. As a last study in this series, we experimented with different ways of describing disclosure risk in informed consent statements that might more plausibly be used in real surveys, again using vignettes administered to an online panel. As suggested by our earlier work, we found that the precise wording of the confidentiality assurance had little effect on respondents' stated willingness to participate in the hypothetical survey described. However, the experimental manipulations did have some effect on perceptions of the risks and benefits of participation, suggesting that they are processed by respondents. And, as we have found in our previous studies, the topic of the survey has a consistent and statistically significant effect on stated willingness to participate. We explore some implications of these findings for researchers seeking to provide adequate information to potential survey respondents without alarming them unnecessarily.
Development of an Accessible Self-Assessment Tool for Research Ethics Committees in Developing Countries
Authors: Sleem Hany , Abdelhai Rehab Abdelhai Ahmed , Al-Abdallat Imad , Al-Naif Mohammed , Gabr Hala Mansour , Kehil Et-Taher , Sadiq Bakr Bin , Yousri Reham , Elsayed Dyaeldin , Sulaiman Suad , Silverman Henry
Published: September 2010

In response to increased research being performed in developing countries, many research ethics committees (RECs) have been established, but the quality of their ethics review systems remains unknown. Evaluating the performance of an REC remains a challenging task. Absent an accreditation process, a self-assessment mechanism would provide RECs a way to review their policies and processes against recognized international standards. We describe a self-assessment tool that was developed and reviewed by REC members and researchers from the Middle East. This tool reflects pragmatic aspects of human subjects protection, is based on international standards, is straightforward in its completion, and its items are relevant to the administrative processes that exist in many RECs in the developing world.
Black Retail Enterprise and Racial Segregation in Northern Cities before the “Ghetto”
Authors: Boyd Robert L.
Published: September 2010

Past research indicates that black entrepreneurship in northern cities was unaffected by residential segregation by race until after the formation of the “ghetto.” In the present study, however, an analysis of Census data shows that in the urban North during the late nineteenth century, the residential segregation of blacks was positively associated with blacks' shopkeeping ratio, a measure of the extent to which black retail entrepreneurs were merchants rather than peddlers. This finding accords with the theory that ethnic businesses are often supported by the residential segregation of group members. Moreover, it implies that black merchants in northern cities may have been bolstered by business ownership opportunities created by a socially and spatially segregated market of black consumers much earlier than previously believed.
Basketball-Related Injuries in School-Aged Children and Adolescents in 1997–2007
Authors: Randazzo Charles , Nelson Nicolas G. , McKenzie Lara B.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The objective was to determine national patterns of basketball-related injuries treated in emergency departments in the United States among children and adolescents <20 years of age.

METHODS:

A retrospective analysis was conducted with data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, from 1997 to 2007. Sample weights provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission were used to calculate national estimates of basketball-related injuries. Trend significance of the numbers and rates of basketball-related injuries over time was analyzed by using linear regression.

RESULTS:

An estimated 4 128 852 pediatric basketball-related injuries were treated in emergency departments. Although the total number of injuries decreased during the study period, the number of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) increased by 70%. The most common injury was a strain or sprain to the lower extremities (30.3%), especially the ankle (23.8%). Boys were more likely to sustain lacerations and fractures or dislocations. Girls were more likely to sustain TBIs and to injure the knee. Older children (15–19 years of age) were 3 times more likely to injure the lower extremities. Younger children (5–10 years of age) were more likely to injure the upper extremities and to sustain TBIs and fractures or dislocations.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although the total number of basketball-related injuries decreased during the 11-year study period, the large number of injuries in this popular sport is cause for concern.
Parents' Decision-Making in Newborn Screening: Opinions, Choices, and Information Needs
Authors: Lipstein Ellen A. , Nabi Emara , Perrin James M. , Luff Donna , Browning Marsha F. , Kuhlthau Karen A.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Our objective was to describe how parents consider disease and test characteristics when making decisions about newborn screening.

METHODS:

We conducted focus groups with parents from primary care clinics and interviews of parents from a genetics clinic (total of 45 participants). Participants discussed 7 vignettes about newborn screening that we developed and refined with the assistance of an expert panel. Two coders coded the data independently, compared coding, and resolved disagreements through discussion. Using framework analysis, we analyzed the data and identified how parents' preferences varied according to disease characteristics, test characteristics, and perceptions of the associated risks and benefits.

RESULTS:

Study participants strongly supported population-wide screening for disorders with well-defined, effective treatments, even if the treatment (eg, a bone marrow transplant) had significant morbidity. However, particularly among primary care clinic participants, there were more-varied preferences and greater difficulty making decisions about disorders associated with older age at onset, less-accurate screening tests, or less-effective treatment. In those cases, many participants suggested optional screening. For all disorders, participants expressed a desire for more information to facilitate decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS:

Participants supported newborn screening for treatable disorders but suggested optional screening for other disorders. The variable influences on parents' decision-making suggest that parents with diverse experiences, if they were included in decision-making regarding screening policies, could provide critical perspectives and help screening programs address parents' preferences and meet parents' information needs.
Influence of genotype on protein and oil concentration of soybean seeds
Authors: Santos Esmael Lopes dos , Pípolo Antonio Eduardo , Faria Ricardo Tadeu de , Prete Cássio Egidio Cavenaghi
Published: September 2010

Aiming at evaluating genotype influence on the concentration of protein and oil, immature seeds of cultivars CD 202 and CD 206 were removed from the mother-plant, in the stage R5, and were grown in vitro, in a liquid culture medium which contained 20, 40 and 60 mM of glutamine, during eight days. Afterwards, the concentrations of oil and protein were compared to the contents of the seeds cultivated in vivo. With a higher availability of glutamine for the seed, there was an increase of protein content. The genotypes were statistically different as far as the protein concentration was concerned,which confirmed that the genotype had influence on the concentration of protein in the seed. Oil and protein concentrations were inversely related when a variation of glutamine concentration occurred.
Interactions between an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (Scutellospora heterogama) and the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) on sweet passion fruit (Passiflora alata)
Authors: Anjos Érika Cristina Teixeira dos , Cavalcante Uided Maaze Tiburcio , Gonçalves Danielle Maria Correia , Pedrosa Elvira Maria Regis , Santos Venézio Felipe dos , Maia Leonor Costa
Published: September 2010

The effects of inoculation of sweet passion fruit plants with the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus Scutellospora heterogama on the symptoms produced by Meloidogyne incognita race 1 and its reproduction were evaluated in two greenhouse experiments. In the 1st, the M. incognita (5000 eggs/plant) and S. heterogama (200 spores/plant) inoculations were simultaneous; in the 2nd, the nematodes were inoculated 120 days after the fungal inoculation. In both the experiments, 220 days after AM fungal inoculation, plant growth was stimulated by the fungus. In disinfested soil, control seedlings (without S. heterogama) were intolerant to parasitism of M. incognita, while the growth of mycorrhized seedlings was not affected. Sporulation of S. heterogama was negatively affected by the nematodes that did not impair the colonization. M. incognita did not affect mycorrhizal seedling growth. The establishment of mycorrhiza prior to the nematode infection contributed for the reduction of symptoms severity and reproduction of M. incognita in disinfested soil.
The response of young and adult rats to the riboflavin supplementation
Authors: França Camille Feitoza , Vianna Lucia Marques
Published: September 2010

The aim of this article was to study the response of young and adult rats on the supplementation of diet with riboflavin. Twenty-four young and adult normotensives (Wistar) male rats, subdivided into two groups: treated (10mg riboflavin/Kg of body weight) and control (receiving vehicle) were daily evaluated for physical and behavioural aspects. Systolic blood pressure was determined twice a week and liver toxicity was investigated it the end of treatment. Data were evaluated using one-way ANOVA and p<0.05 was significant. There were no changes on general health aspects of the treated rats; however, the supplementation provoked a significant (p<0.05) systolic blood pressure reduction.
The mechanics of fibre-reinforced sand
Authors: DOS SANTOS A.P.SILVA , CONSOLI N.C. , BAUDET B.A.
Published: September 2010

Fibres can be an effective means of reinforcing soils. This paper presents data from laboratory triaxial tests on quartzitic sand reinforced with polypropylene fibres. By keeping the studied composite consistent throughout the study (host sand and fibre characteristics kept constant), it has been possible to develop a framework of behaviour for the sand–fibre material, which provides a solid base for future research on fibre-reinforced soils. Data from previous work and from new tests have been analysed within the Critical State framework, that is in terms of normal compression line, critical state line and state boundary surface.
Periodontal Status and Neutrophilic Enzyme Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Authors: Gürsoy Mervi , Könönen Eija , Gürsoy Ulvi K. , Tervahartiala Taina , Pajukanta Riitta , Sorsa Timo
Published: September 2010

Background: Pregnancy induces or enhances susceptibility to gingivitis; however, the presence and role of neutrophilic enzymes in pregnancy‐related gingivitis are not well known. The present study demonstrates the relationship between neutrophilic enzymes in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and periodontal status during pregnancy and postpartum.

Methods: At baseline, 30 periodontally healthy pregnant women (Pr group) and 24 non‐pregnant women (N‐Pr group) as their controls participated in the study. The Pr group was examined once per each trimester and twice during postpartum and the N‐Pr group three times (on successive months). During each visit, GCF samples were collected from all first molars, and clinical measurements (visible plaque index, bleeding on probing [BOP], probing depth [PD], and clinical attachment level) were recorded. The samples were analyzed for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8, polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) elastase, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)‐1. Their levels were compared to the periodontal status at the collection site.

Results: In the Pr group, BOP and PD scores significantly increased between the first and second trimester, indicating pregnancy gingivitis. This increased inflammation was not reflected by the enzymes examined in GCF; the amounts of PMN elastase decreased continuously during the follow‐up period, and those of MPO and MMP‐8 did not increase until delivery, whereas TIMP‐1 amounts remained stable throughout the follow‐up period. In the N‐Pr group, all parameters remained steady.

Conclusion: Despite an increased susceptibility to gingivitis during mid‐pregnancy, the host response does not seem to activate its own degradative enzymes.
Survival Rate for Implants Placed in the Posterior Maxilla With and Without Sinus Augmentation: A Comparative Cohort Study
Authors: Barone Antonio , Orlando Bruno , Tonelli Paolo , Covani Ugo
Published: September 2010

Background: The reduced bone height and proximity of the maxillary sinus are the most common limitations for placement of dental implants in the posterior maxilla. Reconstruction of the atrophic posterior maxilla can be performed with a sinus augmentation procedure. The aim of this cohort study is to compare the survival rate of implants placed in augmented sinus to implants placed in native bone in the posterior maxilla.

Methods: This study was designed as a prospective cohort study and included consecutively treated patients. Patients who required the sinus augmentation (test group) were treated according to the two‐stage technique. Patients were scheduled for follow‐up evaluation at 3, 6, and 12 months after implant placement and then every 6 months for ≤6 years.

Results: One hundred and five patients with 393 implants were enrolled in the study. Two hundred and one implants were placed after preliminary sinus floor grafting in 41 patients. The control group contained 64 patients with 192 implants that were placed in pristine bone of the posterior maxilla. The cumulative implant survival rates were 86.1% and 96.4%, respectively. The difference between the two groups was highly significant (P <0.005).

Conclusions: These findings show that implants placed in augmented sinuses had a lower survival rate compared to implants placed in pristine bone. All the implant failures in the augmented sinuses occurred before the prosthetic rehabilitation. Moreover, it should be considered that most of the failures were observed in few patients, thus suggesting cluster behavior.
Arginine–Nitric Oxide–Polyamine Metabolism in Periodontal Disease
Authors: Ozer Leyla , Elgun Serenay , Ozdemir Burcu , Pervane Beste , Ozmeric Nurdan
Published: September 2010

Background: Arginine is converted to nitric oxide (NO) via NO synthase and to ornithine via arginase. Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) catalyzes the conversion of ornithine to polyamines. Arginase can inhibit NO production, and NO can inhibit ODC activity as part of an early inflammatory response. This study examines the arginine‐NO‐polyamine pathway alteration in saliva and gingival biopsy samples of patients with gingivitis or periodontitis and healthy controls and evaluates the response to periodontal treatment.

Methods: This study includes nine gingivitis patients, 15 chronic periodontitis patients, and 11 healthy age‐matched controls. Periodontal clinical measurements, gingival biopsies, and saliva samples were obtained before treatment (BT) and 1 month after periodontal treatment (AT). Arginase and ODC activities and NO levels were determined spectrophotometrically.

Results: The BT salivary and gingival NO levels were found to be highest in the gingivitis group, followed by the healthy and the periodontitis groups, respectively. Salivary NO levels significantly increased in the periodontitis group and decreased in the gingivitis group AT (P <0.05). Gingival NO levels decreased significantly in the periodontitis and the gingivitis groups AT (P <0.05). Arginase levels were detected highest in the gingivitis group and lowest in the periodontitis group, both in saliva and gingiva. Only gingival arginase levels significantly increased AT (P <0.05). ODC activity was highest in saliva, and lowest in the gingiva of the periodontitis patients BT. It was found to be significantly higher in the periodontitis group AT (P <0.05).

Conclusions: In this study, regarding arginine‐NO‐polyamine metabolism, gingival tissue seems to be more informative about periodontal pathogenesis than saliva. At early phase of periodontal inflammation, NO arginase and ODC levels were measured as higher than at an established lesion of periodontitis.
Knowledge About the Association Between Periodontal Diseases and Diabetes Mellitus: Contrasting Dentists and Physicians
Authors: Al‐Khabbaz Areej K. , Al‐Shammari Khalaf F. , Al‐Saleh Noha A.
Published: September 2010

Background: There is a strong body of evidence that supports the relationship between periodontal diseases and diabetes mellitus (DM). Many patients are unaware of the effects of diabetes on oral health. Whether health care providers are applying the information about the link between DM and periodontal diseases in their practices depends on the levels of their knowledge of such valuable information. Therefore, the aims of this study are to evaluate the knowledge of dental and medical practitioners concerning the effects of diabetes on periodontal health and to find out if the practitioners are aware of the bidirectional relationship between periodontal diseases and DM.

Methods: This was a cross‐sectional survey of randomly selected general practitioners practicing in Kuwait. Participants were asked about specific periodontal complications that they believed patients diagnosed with diabetes were more susceptible to, and their awareness of the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal diseases was evaluated.

Results: A total of 510 general practitioners (232 physicians and 278 dentists) participated in the study. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding mean ages, sex distributions, and years in practice. Only 50% of all study participants believed that patients with diabetes were more susceptible to tooth loss because of periodontal diseases than were individuals without diabetes. Dentists were significantly more aware of gingival bleeding, tooth mobility, and alveolar bone resorption than were physicians. Factors significantly associated with having knowledge about the effects of diabetes on periodontal health in logistic regression analyses were older age, female sex, and the dental profession.

Conclusion: The knowledge about the association between periodontal diseases and DM should be increased among dental and medical practitioners to effectively prevent, manage, and control diabetes and periodontal diseases.
Safety of Oscillating‐Rotating Powered Brushes Compared to Manual Toothbrushes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Van der Weijden Fridus A. , Campbell Shelly L. , Dörfer Christof E. , González‐Cabezas Carlos , Slot Dagmar E.
Published: September 2010

Background: Oscillating‐rotating power toothbrushes have been proven clinically efficacious. To our knowledge, a comprehensive review of all clinical and laboratory investigations solely comparing the safety of these toothbrushes to the standard of care (i.e., manual toothbrushes) has not been published. The aim of this systematic review is to examine the literature concerning the relative soft and/or hard tissue safety outcomes with the use of oscillating‐rotating toothbrushes compared to manual toothbrushes.

Methods: With the use of electronic databases of the National Library of Medicine (PubMed‐MEDLINE), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Cochrane‐CENTRAL), and the Excerpta Medical Database (EMBASE), a search of in vivo and in vitro trials through May 2010 was conducted to identify appropriate studies that evaluated the effects of an oscillating‐rotating power toothbrush compared to a manual toothbrush with respect to soft and/or hard tissue safety. Eligible trials incorporated a safety evaluation as a primary or secondary outcome parameter (i.e., gingival recession, observed/reported adverse events, and hard tissue effects) or used a surrogate parameter (i.e., stained gingival abrasion and brushing force) to assess safety. Data extraction for the primary‐ and surrogate‐measure safety studies, which included mean values and SDs when available, and a meta‐analysis of the gingival recession data were performed.

Results: Independent screening of the titles and abstracts of 697 PubMed‐MEDLINE, 436 Cochrane‐CENTRAL, and 664 EMBASE papers resulted in 35 publications that met the eligibility criteria. The mean change in gingival recession was not significantly different among toothbrush groups in the two selected trials with safety as a primary outcome (weighted mean difference: 0.03). A meta‐analysis of the five trials that evaluated safety with a surrogate parameter was not possible; however, there were no significant between‐group differences at the study end in any trial. A descriptive analysis of the 24 selected studies assessing safety as a secondary outcome revealed few brushing‐related adverse events. The heterogeneity in objectives and methodology of the four in vitro trials that met the eligibility criteria precluded generalization of the results.

Conclusion: A large body of published research in the preceding 2 decades has consistently shown oscillating‐rotating toothbrushes to be safe compared to manual toothbrushes, demonstrating that these power toothbrushes do not pose a clinically relevant concern to hard or soft tissues.
Using "Fast Models" for Selecting the Right Decision—A Norwegian North Sea Case Study
Authors: Hollund K. , Kolbjørnsen O. , Syversveen A. R. , Lie T. , Jørstad A.
Published: September 2010

The Alvheim field is located offshore Norway and consists of several oil and gas discoveries which contains hydrocarbons in good quality Paleocene sandstones. In the early phases of the development the in-place oil and gas volumes were to a large degree uncertain. Nevertheless, the partners needed to work on the concept selection issues.

The model described in the paper includes a tool for displaying important upside potential seen in geological and geophysical evaluations and parametric model for the production profiles. This results in a "fast model" that could be applied as part of a Monte Carlo model handling all essential elements in the cash flow for various field development concepts.

One of the challenges was to make a model that realistically accounted for the information we knew would appear during production. This was solved using an optimizing inside the Monte Carlo simulation.

The developed model proved useful. Running the model would quickly give comparable economic figures for various concepts. The upside potential and risk associated could also be studied. Another important property of the model was the ability to incorporate the results of the appraisal wells and narrow the uncertainty range in the modeling as soon as the information became available.
E&P: Mature-Asset Expertise
Authors: Garcia-Blanco M. T. , Seltzer R. N. , Chernacov A. , Laria G.
Published: September 2010

YPF operates in Argentina, where some fields have produced hydrocarbons for over a century. Faced by this, in 2007 YPF-E&P decided to change its course of action and determined a new strategy focusing on "achieving excellence in mature fields operations as a competitive advantage for growth". Two main objectives were defined: increasing recovery factors and improving the operational efficiency.

In order to achieve these goals, opportunities for improvement were identified as a result of process oriented asset management with focus in improved measurement and analysis with professionals of proven technical soundness. The latter were reinforced by the hiring of new employees from the YPF-E&P Masters programme and graduates from the best technical universities, increasing staff by 37%. The new management scheme implied a reevaluation of all YPF-E&P assets, the application of the FEL (Front-End Loading) methodology and a strict peer review process for every project to be implemented. An activity based costing (ABC) and budgeting (ABB) model for lifting, drilling and contracts were developed and adopted. These changes led to the implementation of portfolio management techniques.

After three years we are now able to evaluate the results. Drilling costs have been decreased by 30%, driven by a 21% reduction in well construction time, production losses and corrective maintenance were reduced by over 20%. Pulling and workovers costs decreased 22% and 29% respectively, pushing lifting costs down 13%. In the Golfo San Jorge Basin, the oldest one in the country, a reserves replacement ratio of over 100% was achieved in the last two years. Whilst improving the profitability and stabilizing personnel (rotation less than 2%), significant improvement in HS&E (Reducing LTI by11%) was also achieved.

The paper describes the strategic thinking, diagnostic methods, processes, technology and systems that permitted the transformation of YPF-E&P and the delivery of these results.
A Software for Poroelastic Analyses of Borehole Stability
Authors: Cui L. , Abousleiman Y. , Ekbote S. , Roegiers J. -C. , Zaman M.
Published: September 2010

Boreholes are usually drilled through fluid-saturated formations. The conventional elastic solutions for boreholes cannot treat appropriately the coupling effects between the rock matrix deformation and pore fluid flow. These effects are fully captured by the application of poroelasticity to the borehole problems. This paper presents the software, PBORE-3D for Windows, which is capable of performing stability analyses of boreholes taking into consideration the fully coupled effects between the rock matrix and pore fluid using recently-developed poroelastic borehole models. PBORE-3D can perform analyses of stress/pore pressure, formation failure, and mud weight design; the input can be entered conveniently and results can be displayed graphically through the interfaces. Various features and user-friendly environments of PBORE-3D are also demonstrated through examples.
Coexistence of the Fishing Industries and Offshore Hydrocarbon Development: The Sable Offshore Energy Project Case
Authors: Tsui P. T. P.
Published: September 2010

This paper describes how the offshore and nearshore fishing industries were engaged in resolving potential conflicts that could have arisen from the development of the Sable Offshore Energy Project (SOEP). This project involves the development of six gas/condensate fields containing 85 billion m3 of recoverable gas reserves on the Scotian Shelf in the Canadian Atlantic. The offshore production facilities included one central manned platform complex and five unmanned platforms; 28 production wells, 175 km of interfield flowlines, and a 225-km-long pipeline from the central platform to onshore facilities in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Through the formation of focused fishery liaison committees, fishers and project personnel worked together to resolve issues concerning sharing of the sea and the sea bed; communications; compensation; and the design of an environmental effects monitoring program. This case study is site-specific, but may offer a practical model for the coexistence of the fishing and the petroleum industries during the development of a new offshore petroleum field.
The Political Economy of Oil: Piper Alpha and the British Offshore Oil Industry
Authors: Beck Professor Matthias , Woolfson Charles
Published: September 2010

Following the Piper Alpha disaster in 1988, the British Offshore Oil and Gas Industry has implemented a new framework for offshore risk assessment which had been endorsed by Lord Cullen's enquiry. This paper gives a critical assessment of the developments in offshore safety and risk management over the past decade. It notes that the new approach to offshore safety management has encountered a number of critical problems that have ultimately undermined the efficacy of the new offshore safety regime. These problems include: (a) The exclusive nature of Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA); (b) The rise of multi-skilling; (c) The imprecision of QRA; (d) Implementation and communication problems. The lecture identifies an, albeit tentative, link between these problems and the continuously high rate of offshore accidents.
Case Histories of the Intermediate Horizontal Radius Drilling in Turbidite Deposits Pangkalansusu
Authors: Ringoringo A. F. M. , Sugiyanto B. , Daryono Daryono , Jethnani J. R.
Published: September 2010

Reservoirs of Turbidite deposits in Pangkalansusu marginal oil field are part of several anticlinorium that cross the Pangkalansusu, known as Besitang River Sands Member (BRS). The reservoir is structurally complex, with low porosity and permeability. The implementation of intermediate horizontal drilling technology in Pangkalansusu has revitalized this abandoned/marginal field and created additional recoverable reserves. As of October 2001, three successful 6″ re-entry horizontal wells were been drilled. Average production from these wells is 4 MMSCFD of gas and 60 - 70 BOPD (Oil and condensate),which is an eightfold increase as compared to offset vertical wells in the area. The paper will discuss the benefits of drilling horizontal wells with build up rates in excess of 30 /100’.In particularly on re-entry wells where the use of the existing wellbore can be maximized, cost can be reduced and reservoir life can be extended. The paper will also review the case histories(including completion designs) as well as concerns associated with the use of this technology.
The SSP-300: An Alternative to the Oil Industry
Authors: Smedal A. , Syvertsen K. , Lopes C.
Published: September 2010

The SSP (Sevan Stabilized Platform) is basically a mono-hull with circular shape, depending on the same stability principles as a ship-shaped vessel. The SSP-300 refers to one SSP hull size, capable of storing 300,000 barrels of cargo. Differently than the SPARs, the SSP is wider than her vertical height, with an operational draft that is typically less than one third of her diameter. The circular shape dispenses the unit of any heading changes, since the seas face the same vessel hydrodynamical resistance, whichever direction they are coming from. Consequently, the SSP does not need turrets nor swivels, in order to handle the incoming oil flow, having the option of receiving the risers through a central moon-pool, while maintaining a spread-mooring system separately deployed from her outer hull.

The design also includes important safety features, like double bottom and double sides, which allows for segregated ballast and offers structural strengthening. The highly symetrical shape is also conducive to modularity and a good stress distribution throughout the hull, preventing fatigue stress concentration and doing away with the need of using high grade steel. The result is that the hull is composed of a small number of different construction modules, used repeatedly, and a lower steel density for the hull, which translates readily into smaller construction cost and yard time.

The SSP not only offers all the advantages of a regular ship-shaped vessel – like large storage capacity, big deck load, and spacious deck area – but has motion behaviour similar or better than a semi-submersible hull. Construction is facilitated by the intrinsic symmetry, which also offers access to all tanks from a central position, thus reducing piping and cabling. This paper will address these, and other features of the SSP (including the structural economies allowed by the design), describing a concept design that can be constructed virtually anywhere, and with enough robustness to compete sucessfully in a wide range of applications, throughout the world.
Effects of the 5th and 7th Grade Enhanced Versions of the Keepin' it Real Substance Use Prevention Curriculum
Authors: Elek Elvira , Wagstaff David A. , Hecht Michael L.
Published: September 2010

This study assessed the outcomes of adapting the culturally-grounded, middle school, substance-use prevention intervention, keepin' it REAL ( kiR), to target elementary school students and to address acculturation. At the beginning of 5th grade, 29 schools were randomly assigned to conditions obtained by crossing grade of implementation (5th, 7th, 5th + 7th, and control/comparison) by curriculum version [ kiR-Plus vs. kiR-Acculturation Enhanced ( AE)]. Students ( n = 1984) completed 6 assessments through the end of 8th grade. The kiR curricula generally appear no more effective than the comparison schools' programming. Students receiving either version of the kiR intervention in only the 5th grade report greater increases in substance use than did control students. Receiving the kiR-AE version twice (both 5th and 7th grades) has benefits over receiving it once.
Impact of a Classroom Behavior Management Intervention on Teacher Risk Ratings for Student Behavior
Authors: Hansen William B. , Bishop Dana C. , Jackson-Newsom Julia
Published: September 2010

Classroom behavior management interventions have been used successfully with drug prevention programs to prevent subsequent antisocial behavior and substance use among youth. This article presents results from implementation of the All Stars Challenge, a classroom-based behavior management component to a drug prevention program for fifth graders. Risk ratings for shyness and lack of awareness of social norms among high-risk students who received the All Stars Challenge were reduced compared with fifth graders who did not receive the intervention. In contrast, physical and social aggressivity among low-risk students who received the program increased when compared to similar control students.
Natural killer cells: Biology, functions and clinical relevance
Authors: Vojvodic Svetlana , Popovic Stevan
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Natural Killer cells (NK cells) represent the subset of peripheral lymphocytes that play critical role in the innate immune response to virus-infected and tumor transformed cells. Lysis of NK sensitive target cells could be mediated independently of antigen stimulation and without requirement of peptide presentation by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. NK cell activity and functions are controlled by a considerable number of cell surface receptors, which exist in both inhibitory and activating isoforms. There are several groups of NK cell surface receptors: 1) killer immunoglobulin like receptors-KIR, 2) C-type lectin receptors,3)natural citotoxicity receptors-NCR and 4) Toll-like receptors-TLR. Functions of NK receptors. Defining the biology of NK cell surface receptors has contributed to the concept of the manner how NK cells selectively recognize and lyse tumor and virally infected cells while sparing normal cells. Further, identification of NK receptor ligands and their expression on the normal and transformed cells has led to the development of clinical approaches to manipulating receptor/ligand interactions that showed clinical benefit. NK cells are the first lymphocyte subset that reconstitute the peripheral blood following allogeneic HSCT and multiple roles for alloreactive donor NK cells have been demonstrated, in diminishing Graft vs. Host Disease (GvHD) through selective killing recipient dendritic cells, prevention of graft rejection by killing recipient T cells and participation in Graft vs. Leukaemia (GvL) effect through destruction of residual host tumor cells. Conclusion. Besides their role in HSCT, NK cell receptors have an important clinical relevance that reflects from the fact that they play a crucial role in the development of some diseases as well as in possibilities of managing all NK receptors through selective expansion and usage of NK cells in cancer immunotherapy.
The Role of the Internal Audit Function in the Disclosure of Material Weaknesses
Authors: Lin Shu , Pizzini Mina , Vargus Mark , Bardhan Indranil R.
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the role that a firm’s internal audit function (IAF) plays in the disclosure of material weaknesses reported under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (U.S. Congress 2002). Using data from 214 firms, we examine the relation between material weakness (MW) disclosures and various IAF attributes and activities. Our results indicate that MW disclosures are negatively associated with the education level of the IAF and the extent to which the IAF incorporates quality assurance techniques into fieldwork, audits activities related to financial reporting, and monitors the remediation of previously identified control problems. The timing of Section 404 work and the nature of follow-up monitoring suggests that these aspects of IAF quality help prevent MWs from occurring. We find that MW disclosures are positively associated with the IAF practice of grading audit engagements and external-internal auditor coordination, suggesting that these activities increase the effectiveness of Section 404 compliance processes.
Vibration Perception Threshold as a Measure of Distal Symmetrical Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Martin Catherine L. , Waberski Barbara H. , Pop-Busui Rodica , Cleary Patricia A. , Catton Sarah , Albers James W. , Feldman Eva L. , Herman William H. ,   on behalf of the DCCT/EDIC Research Group
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To describe the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of vibration perception threshold (VPT) testing in subjects with type 1 diabetes relative to gold standard assessments of peripheral neuropathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

VPT was determined in 1,177 adults with type 1 diabetes 13–14 years after participating in a study of intensive (INT) versus conventional (CONV) diabetes treatment. Abnormal VPT was defined by values exceeding 2.5 SD above age-specific normal values. Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy were assessed and electrodiagnostic studies were performed to establish definite clinical neuropathy, abnormal nerve conduction, and confirmed clinical neuropathy (the presence of both definite clinical neuropathy and abnormal nerve conduction).

RESULTS

Thirty-seven percent of subjects had definite clinical neuropathy, 61% had abnormal nerve conduction, and 30% had confirmed clinical neuropathy. Abnormal VPT was more common among former CONV than among INT subjects (64 vs. 57%, P < 0.05) and was associated with older age. VPT was a sensitive measure of confirmed clinical neuropathy (87%) and of definite clinical neuropathy (80%) and a specific measure of abnormal nerve conduction (62%). Higher VPT cut points improved test sensitivity and lower cut points improved specificity. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves ranged from 0.71–0.83 and were higher for older than for younger subjects and highest for those with confirmed clinical neuropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

VPT was a sensitive measure of peripheral neuropathy. Future researchers may choose to select VPT cut points for defining abnormality based on the population studied and clinical outcome of interest.
Do Strong Unions Shape District Policies?
Authors: Strunk Katharine O. , Grissom Jason A.
Published: September 2010

A substantial amount of school district policy is set in the collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) negotiated between teachers’ unions and districts. Although previous studies have assumed that CBA provisions bargained by unions are a primary mechanism connecting union strength to outcomes for teachers and students, research has not yet addressed the basic question of whether stronger unions in fact bargain different CBAs. Combining data from a content analysis of agreements and a statewide survey of school board members in California, this study examines whether stronger, more politically organized unions are associated with CBAs that place greater constraints on district policy options. The results show that contracts in districts with stronger unions, measured by both board members’ evaluations of union power and union support of board members in recent elections, allow school district administrators less flexibility than do contracts in districts with weaker, less active unions.
Tracing Transitions
Authors: Kirshner Ben , Gaertner Matthew , Pozzoboni Kristen
Published: September 2010

Although closure is an increasingly common response to the problems of chronically underperforming urban schools, few studies have examined the effect of closure on displaced students. The authors used multiple methods to study the academic performance and experiences of Latino and African American high school students in the year following the closure of their school. Quantitative analyses show declines in the transition cohort’s academic performance after transferring to new schools. Qualitative findings help explain this pattern by describing students’ interpretations of the closure and their experiences transitioning to new schools. Overall, the case study suggests that closure added stressors to students who were already contending with challenges associated with urban poverty.
Structural and age hardening characteristics of near eutectic Al–Si alloys
Authors: Kaur Kamalpreet , Pandey Om Prakash
Published: September 2010

In the present work structural features of near eutectic Al–Si and Al–Si–Cu alloys prepared by a normal melting and casting route are studied. It is observed that morphology of Si plays an important role in enhancing the mechanical properties of Al–Si alloys. In order to modify the Si network in the matrix of Al some immiscible elements such as Pb, Sn, Cd and Bi have been added in small quantities to the alloy. Since the structure developed after casting governs the mechanical properties, it is essential to understand the structural features before testing the mechanical properties. Taking into consideration the age hardening characteristics of the alloys, microstructural assessment and a thermal study of these alloys have been done. Thermal analysis shows that immiscible elements are homogeneously distributed in the alloys. It is observed that the addition of Pb leads to a rosette type structure, whereas in the case of Cd and Sn blunt and twisted Si needles can be seen. The structural features of the eutectic change to hypoeutectic completely on addition of Bi. The shift in the eutectic depression on addition of a ternary element causes a change in the morphology of Si. Addition of Cu to the Al–Si alloys gives precipitation hardening characteristics.
Mechanical testing of a modified stabilisation method for tibial tuberosity advancement
Authors: Barthelemy N. , Mills J. , Pascon F. , Ragetly G. R. , Balligand M. , Etchepareborde S.
Published: September 2010

Objectives: This in vitro study evaluated three modified techniques of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA). Loads to failure were calculated for each technique.

Methods: A 9 mm TTA procedure was performed in the tibiae of dogs weighing between 32 and 38 kg. In group 1 (n = 12), the distal part of the tibial crest was left attached to the tibia by the cranial cortex, and a figure-of-eight wire was added for stabilisation. In group 2 (n = 12), the tibial crest was left attached but no additional device was used for stabilisation. In group 3 (n = 12), the tibial crest was completely separated from the tibia and fixed by a figure-of-eight wire so that, in this group, only the wire opposed avulsion of the tibial crest. Unidirectional axial force was applied via the patella to determine the maximal load to failure of the model.

Results: There was no significant difference between group 1 and group 2. These two groups both had a significantly stronger construct than that of group 3.

Clinical significance: We described modifications to the TTA procedure without plate fixation that warrant clinical investigation. When the crest is broken during its advancement, the tension sustained by the repair is significantly weaker from a biomechanical point of view and the use of such a repair clinically is not recommended by the authors.
Radiographic features of the dorsal condylar sagittal ridge of the third metacarpal and metatarsal bones in young Warmblood stallions
Authors: Martens A. , Declercq J. , Busoni V. , Vanderperren K. , van Bree H. , Saunders J. H. , Hauspie S.
Published: September 2010

Objectives: To describe the radiographic appearance of the dorsoproximal aspect of the sagittal ridge of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bone in Warmblood horses.

Methods: The lateromedial radiographic projections of the metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joints performed on horses as a part of stallion selection were used. The dorsal aspect of the distal third metacarpal/metatarsal bone was divided in two areas. The appearance of the bone surface in area I was classified as normal, irregular, notch, indentation and lucency. For area II, the categories were normal, irregular, depression or lucency and flattening of the sagittal ridge. Other abnormalities at the dorsal aspect were also noted.

Results: In area I, 51.5% of the ridges appeared normal, 19.3% were irregular, 8.9% had a notch, 8.1% had a lucency, and 12.2% had an indentation. In 1.2% of the horses a fragment was present, and in 1.7% a fragment was suspected.

In area II, 90.6% of the metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joints were normal, 6.2% were irregular, 2.9% showed a depression or lucency, and the sagittal ridge in 0.2% was flattened. A fragment was present in 0.3%, and suspected in 0.4%.

Clinical significance: Morphological variation is present at the dorsal aspect of the metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joint in young Warmblood stallions. These various aspects should be recognised and described in horses presented for prepurchase examination. However, their clinical relevance in the individual horse is unclear and needs further investigation.

Funding: Stijn Hauspie is a research fellow of the “Special Research Fund”, Ghent University (Belgium).