bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovating in Health Care – Modern Challenges
Authors: Izetbegović Sebija , Stojkanović Goran , Švrakić Suvada , Mehmedbašić Eldar
Published: February 2015

Introduction: The goal of this article is to present that innovating in health care begins to become an imperative in present time. Innovating will enable the achievement of the highest quality health care results and the patients' satisfaction with the least amount of financial resources.Methods: The thorough literature review of multifaceted sources was conducted including: studies, books, monographies and peer – reviewed journals with the goal of achieving the clearer picture of today's modern challenges in the complex fi eld of health care innovation.Discussion: Theoretical and empirical studies clearly indicate that the innovation is one of the key factors in the competitiveness of the organization and its survival in the market. Developed countries of the world today are making significant efforts in order for innovation to become a national priority, with special emphasis placed on measuring innovation performance. Results of theoretical and practical studies show that in the future, treatment of the most diffi cult and complex diseases of our time, through the entirely new discoveries and results, derived from the process of innovation, will project entirely new positive forms and outcomes in the health care.Conclusion: There is no doubt that the humanity and medical science will through innovation succeed to win the battles against the majority of the most complex contemporary diseases. Malignant neoplasm of tomorrow, through the application of a new, innovative approaches to research, processes and treatments will become a chronic diseases. Among many, the particular problem in the process of innovation will represent the cost of research and development (R&D), production and the safety of prescription drugs.
Opportunities for emotional intelligence in the context of nursing
Authors: Ilievová Lubica , Juhásová Ingrid , Baumgartner František
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and control one´s own emotions as well as emotions of other people. There are two orientations in studying emotional intelligence. They differ in whether they relate abilities and personal characteristic features or not. Emotional intelligence usage is currently being understood as a fundamental requirement of nursing in care provision to patients.Methods: In a research conducted with a group of nursing students (n = 86), we were examining emotional intelligence as an ability and as a feature. We used SIT-EMO (Situational Test of Emotional Understanding) scales in order to fi nd out emotional intelligence as an ability, and SEIS (Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale), measuring emotional intelligence as a feature. In the context of nursing, we were finding out emotional self-effi cacy in relation to geriatric patients (ESE-GP). TEIQue-SF (Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire – short form) method was used to set up our own questionnaire.Results: We were fi nding out the extent of emotional intelligence and we were analyzing it from the viewpoint of its grasping as a feature, ability and emotional self-effi cacy in relation to geriatric patients. We found out lower levels in social awareness, emotional management and stress management dimensions of the nursing students.Conclusion: Emotional intelligence as an ability of the nursing students can be enhanced through psychological and social trainings. Emotional intelligence has an impact on social and communication skills, which are a precondition of effective nursing care.
The influence of social environment on the smoking status of women employed in health care facilities
Authors: Nikšić Dragana , Rudić Aida , Nikšić Haris , Jatić Zaim , Džubur Amela , Kurspahić  Mujčić Amira
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a high prevalence of smoking among women, especially among health care professionals. The goal of this study is to investigate the influence of the social environment of women employed in health institutions in relation to the cigarettes smoking habits.Methods: The study included 477 women employed in hospitals, outpatient and public health institutions in Sarajevo Canton Bosnia and Herzegovina. We used a modifi ed questionnaire assessing smoking habits of medical staff in European hospitalsResults: The results showed that 50% of women are smokers, with the highest incidence among nurses (58.1%) and administrative staff (55.6%). The social environment is characterized by a high incidence of colleagues (60.1%) and friends who are smokers (54.0%) at the workplace and in the family (p<0.005). One third of women (27.8%), mainly non-smokers, states that the work environment supports employees smoking (p=0.003).Conclusion: Workplace and social environment support smoking as an acceptable cultural habit and is contributing to increasing rates of smoking among women.
Awareness and attitude of secondary school students about drug use
Authors: Branković Suada , Šegalo Mersa , Pašalić Arzija , Mahmutović Jasmina , Jaganjac Amila , Čustović-Hadžimuratović Amra , Vreto Elisa
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Problem of addiction on psychoactive substances is one of the most diffi cult problems in a modern society, which brings serious consequences, both for the individual, his environment and the whole society.Methods: The study included 95 children and adolescents of medical school. Among the respondents, there were 44 subjects of third year of high school and 51 respondent-grader.Results: Students involved in this research as an answer to why young people start using drugs often reported curiosity in over 50% of cases, as well as pressure of friends. For students who use narkotine respondents generally thought they are  reasonable and sufficiently weak and limited personality. Thelargest number of high school students who were involved in the study did not know the individuals who use drugs.Conclusion: Drug addiction is a serious problem all over the country, and the number of addicts is becoming larger. Particularly worrisome is the fact that the consumption of the drug phenomenon is a characteristic of young population, especially high school students
Effects of the combined swimming, corrective and aqua gymnastics programme on body posture of preschool age children
Authors: Torlaković Aldvin , Muftić Mirsad , Avdić Dijana , Kebata Roman
Published: February 2015

Introduction: This research paper is aimed at identifying the possible effects that the implementation of the combined kinesiological programs of swimming and hydro-kinesiological therapy may have on thebody posture in preschool children.Methods: The survey was conducted on a sample of 50 boys selected from a number of Sarajevo kindergartens, in the age group of 5.2±0.6 yrs.; mean height=114±7 cm; mean weight= 21.8±4.7 kg. In order to evaluate the postural status, we used a reduced Napoleon Wolanski method. The activities were carried out within the period of 16 weeks, twice a week for 60 minutes.Results: The analysis of the initial and fi nal series of testing with t-test indicates a high level of statistical signifi cance in the variables of shoulder posture assessment, shoulder blade posture assessment, spinalcord posture assessment, leg posture assessment, feet posture assessment, overall body posture assessment according to Wolanski, whereas somewhat lower level of statistical signifi cance was found in thevariables of abdominal posture assessment and chest posture assessment. A relatively low level of statistical significance is observed only in the variable of head posture assessment.Conclusion: It can be concluded that a combined program of corrective gymnastics with games and exercises in water had signifi cant effects on improving the muscle tone in the respondents, which in turn had a direct impact on improving their body posture, both in terms of all of the individually surveyed body parts and in overall terms.
Efficiency of dental health care in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Cilović Lagarija Šejla , Selimović-Dragaš Mediha
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Despite the great improvements in the oral health status of the population across the world, oral diseases remains a major public health issue connected with a lost of numerous school days for childrenand absenteeism from work in adults. This effect is particularly evident in low and middle income countries as Bosnia and Herzegovina. This retrospective study presents the effi ciency of dental health carein Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina measured by number of visits and performed dental treatments during the time period of six years, from 2005-2011.Methods: Data were collected by evaluation of the results obtained by forms which are mandatory to be completed by dentists.Results: The number of graduated dentists from 2007 to 2011 decreased from 108 in 2007 to 68 in 2011. In the same time, number of dentists employed in public sector slightly increased from 529 in 2005 to587 in 2011. Number of extracted permanent teeth decreased from the 412 extracted permanent teeth per dentist in 2005 to 364 in 2011. Small number of fi lled primary teeth comparing to large number ofextracted primary teeth showed negligence in their treatment.Conclusion: Having in mind that improving oral health in developing countries is a very challenging objective we can conclude that dental health care system in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina need to bereform in order to improve oral health in general, particularly in children population.
Etiological factors of preterm delivery
Authors: Brkičević Elvira , Grgić Gordana , Ljuca Dženita , Ostrvica Edin , Tulumović Azur
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Preterm delivery is the delivery before 37 weeks of gestation are completed. Preterm birth is a major course of neonatal morbidity and mortality, the incidence of premature delivery in developedcountries is 5 to 9%. Aims of this study were to determine the common etiological factors for preterm delivery, most common weeks of gestation for pretern delivery, and most commom way of delivery for preterm delivery.Methods: The study included 600 patients divided into two groups, experimental group (included 300 preterm delivered pregnant women), control group (included 300 term delivered women).Results: The incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant women younger than 18 years was 4.4%, and in pregnant women older than 35 years was 14%. 44.6 % of preterm delivered women at the experimentalgroup had lower education. In the experimental group burdened obstetrical history had 29%, 17.2% had a preterm delivery, 35.6% had a premature rupture of membranes, 15% had a preterm delivery before32 weeks of gestation, 12.4% between 32-33.6 weeks of gestation, while 72.6% of deliveries were between 34- 36.6 weeks of gestation. Multiple pregnancy as an etiological factor was present in 10.07% ofcases. Extragenital diseases were present in 10.4%. In the experimental group there were 29%, while in the control group there were 15% subjects with burdened obstetrical history.Conclusions: Preterm birth more often occurs in a pregnant women younger than 18 and older than 35 years, and in a pregnant women of lower educational degree. Preterm delivery in the most commoncases was fi nished in period from 34 to 36.6 weeks of gestation. The most common etiological factor of preterm delivery in the experimental group was preterm rupture of membranes and idiopathic pretermdelivery.
Common variable immunodeficiency – case report
Authors: Vukas Emina , Dizdarević Aida , Mesihović - Dinarević Senka , Čengić Adisa
Published: February 2015

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) or acquired hypogammaglobulinemia is the type of primary immunodeficiency. Deregulation of the immune system, leading to hypogammaglobulinemia, defective activation and proliferation of T cells and dendritic cells, and malfunction of the cytokines are observed in CVID. The clinical picture of CVID varies, any organ or system can be affected, therefore the diagnosis is often difficult and delayed and sometimes is not always possible. This article describes a twelve years old boy with all the clinical signs of immunodeficiency, as confi rmed by laboratory. The main treatment consists of life-long immunoglobulin substitution in intravenous or subcutaneous form.
Fostering the practice of rooming-in in newborn care
Authors: R. Shrivastava Saurabh , S. Shrivastava Prateek , Ramasamy Jegadeesh
Published: February 2015

Practice of rooming-in meant that baby and mother stayed together in the same room day and night in the hospital, right from the time of delivery till the time of discharge. Adoption of rooming-in offers multiple benefits to the newborn, mother, and mother-child as a unit. It is a cost-effective approach wherefewer instruments are required and spares additional manpower. Rooming-in endeavors the opportunity to contribute signifi cantly in the child’s growth, development and survival by assisting in timely initiation of breastfeeding. To ensure universal application of rooming-in in hospitals, a comprehensive and technically sound strategy should be formulated and implemented with active participation of healthcare professionals. Measures such as advocating institutional delivery through outreach awareness activities; adoption of baby-friendly hospital initiative; inculcating a sense of ownership among health professionals, can be strategically enforced for better maternal and child health related outcomes.
Correlation of Body Mass Index and Waist Hip Ratio with lipid and hormone profile in women in menopausal transition
Authors: Mešalić Lejla
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Menopausal transition is a period characterised by psychic, somatic changes as well as changes in reproductive capabilities of a woman. It occurs as a consequence of ovarian’s function termination, and pertains to the periods of different meanings: perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause. Although there are numerous assessments of behaviour of the lipids and lipoproteins during menopausal transition, their relation to sexual hormones and body mass is still being assessed. The aim of this study is to determine the differences and connections between body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) and lipid and hormone profile among the assessees in premenopause, perimenopause and postmenopause.Methods: The assessment was done on 150 assessees divided in three groups of 50, such as: premenopause, perimenopause and postmenopause. The assessment included the following: interview, determination of BMI, WHR, and taking of blood sample and processing of hormone, lipid and lipoprotein concentration.Results: Based on the obtained results, it may not be concluded that BMI has a positive correlation with cholesterol and VLDL concentration in postmenopause, positive correlation with apo A in perimenopause and postmenopause, and positive correlation with Lp (a) and apo B in premenopause and perimenopause, while negative correlation with HDL and estradiol concentrations in premenopause.Conclusion: WHR has negative correlation with HDL concentration in premenopause and perimenopause, and a negative correlation with estradiol concentrations in premenopause.
Characteristics of Patients Involved in Psychotherapy in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Alispahić Sabina , Hasanbegović-Anić Enedina , Tuce Đenita , Hadžiahmetović Nina , Sandić Aneta
Published: February 2015

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of Bosnian and Herzegovinian patients involved in psychotherapeutic treatments in order to explore the current situation of psychotherapy in Bosnia and Herzegovina.Methods: The study included 213 patients (154 women and 47 men) undergoing diverse psychotherapeutic treatments. Data about demographic and clinical characteristics were collected by questionnaire. Following characteristics were documented: age, sex, education, employment status, marital status, specific problem that got the client involved in psychotherapy, type of psychotherapy, and use of psychopharmacology.Results: Majority of the patients undergoing psychotherapy are age up to 40 and female. They are by vast majority holding a university degree and are employed. Nearly equal number of patients is living in partnership or marriage compared to single or never been married. Most frequent reasons for getting involved in the psychotherapy treatment are of the intrapersonal nature (depression, anxiety and panic attacks). Majority of the patients were involved in gestalt and cognitive behavioral psychotherapy, and at the same time majority of those were not prescribed medicaments.Conclusions: We point out and overview some of the most prominent socio-demographic traits of patients undergoing psychotherapy, the ones that could be important in the future research with the higher degree of control. In the terms of personal initiative, psychotherapy stops being a taboo in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, there is still a long path until it reaches integration in daily life of the people.
The effect of the infection Clostridium difficile on the rehabilitation
Authors: Tanovic Edina , Tanovic Haris , Kadic Aldijana , Vrabac Dževad , Selimović Senad , Kostić Dragan
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Clostridium difficile is the cause of the post antibiotic colitis. This anaerobe, sporogenous, gram-positive bacteria is most often recognized as the cause of the nosocomial diarrhea. The aim of this work is to show the impact of the infection Clostridium difficile on the result of rehabilitation of the patients that have been treated in the rehabilitation facility.Methods: 448 patients treated at the Clinic for physical medicine and rehabilitation of the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo were included in the study. Gender, age, Barthel index, length of hospitalization, and values of the albumin in the serum were documented. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Mann-Whitney U test and One Sample Wilcoxon Signed Rank test were used for data analysis.Results: There were 57% female and 43% of male patients. The average age was 67.5 years for women and 52 years for men. Barthel index at admission was 4.0 and at discharge raised to 8.0 (p=0.047). The length of the hospitalization for patients without infection was shorter (28.8 days) compared to patients with infection (43 days) (p=0.015). Values of the albumin in the blood at patients with confirmed Clostridium difficile infection were significantly lower than referent values (p = 0.016).Conclusion: Patients with Clostridium difficile infection had longer period of the rehabilitation and the results were less favorable.
Cardiac aspects of DiGeorge syndrome: a report of two cases with molecular analysis
Authors: Mesihović Dinarević Senka , Vukas Emina
Published: February 2015

DiGeorge syndrome (DGS) which is also known as velocardiofacial syndrome is caused by a submicroscopic chromosome deletion of band 22q11. It is associated with a disturbed development of the pharyngeal arches. In this report we describe two unrelated male children with clinical features consistent with 22q11.2 microdeletion syndrome characterized by cardiac defect, recurrent respiratory infections and developmental deficiency. Definitive diagnosis is made by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization analysis (FISH). Children underwent surgical correction of congenital heart defects. During surgery thymic aplasia was confirmed in both children, postoperative course proceeded without major complications. Our report suggests that the criteria in searching for microdeletion 22q11.2 should be expanded and applied in patients with conotruncal and non-conotruncal congenital heart defects and at least one typical feature of this syndrome.
Antiphospholipid syndrome associated with non-infective mitral valve endocarditis: a case report
Authors: Stevanović Dragan , Mačkić Denis , Džambasović Elvira , Čehajić Amir , Čustović Faruk , Tucaković Nijaz
Published: February 2015

We present a rare case of antiphospholipid syndrome associated with non-infectious thrombotic endocarditis of the mitral valve. The patient was admitted to hospital for examination because of skin lesions manifested through a discoid skin rash. During the hospitalization antiphospholipid syndrome was diagnosed along with ultrasound verification of vegetations on the mitral valve, including both leaflets, with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation. Adequate and opportunely introduced therapy led to regression of all symptoms, including endocarditis of the mitral valve on checkup ultrasound verifications, with a prevention of arterial and/or venous thrombosis in patient's future.
Use of colposcopy for detection of squamous intraepithelial lesions
Authors: Omeragić Feđa , Tulumović Azur , Iljazovic Ermina , Adzajlic Amela , Suko Alija , Mešić-Đogic Larisa , Perendija Vladimir
Published: February 2015

Introduction   Pap smear, the main tool of cervical cancer screening is not always available, but some patients are in urgent need for proper diagnostic. Aim of this article was to investigate accuracy of colposcopy for detection of squamous intraepithelial lesions of low or high grade (LGSIL, HGSIL) and to promote colposcopy as useful tool for detection of patients in need for immediate further diagnostics. Methods Prospective multicentric study performed in B&H in 2012 -2013 included 87 patients with colposcopic images related to squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) who formed experimental group: 56 patients with colposcopic images related to LGSIL and 31 patients related to HGSIL. Control group included 50 patients without colposcopic abnormalities. To test accuracy of colposcopy, PAP smear and histology were used. For statistical analysis χ2 was used.Results 94.5% patients in experimental group had abnormal PAP test:  64.3% correlated to LGSIL (χ2= 60.48 P < 0.0001), while 64.5% correlated to HGSIL (χ2 = 54.23 P<0.0001) Odds Ratio = 490; 95% CI = 42.024 to 5713.304).  HGSIL was confirmed in 27 (87%) cases by histology (CIN II /CIN III). There were no statistically significant differences between colposcopic finding and histology results (Yates-corrected χ2 = 0.33 P = .5637)Conclusions This study showed high level of correlation between colposcopy and PAP results    (63-64%) and to histology for HGSIL (87%). In absence of PAP test colposcopy could be used to select patients in need for biopsy.
Effect of Costus igneus: The insulin plant, on prediabetes and diabetes in neonatal streptozotocin rats
Authors: Talasila EGK , Bavirisetti Hemalatha , Chimakurthy Jithendra , Candasamy Mayuren
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Pre-diabetes is a condition that persists for a considerable duration before progressing into type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Development of resistance to insulin is the underlying cause of pre-diabetes, preventive measures such as diagnosis, treatment and exercise will preclude its development into T2DM. The present study aims at studying the effect of pre-treatment and post-treatment with isolated fraction of Costus igneus on pre-diabetes and diabetes in neonatal streptozotocin (STZ) induced T2DM.Methods: Neonatal rats were treated with STZ and differentiated for pre-treatment and post-treatment. Rats of pre-treated group were treated with isolated fraction of Costus igneus (CIF) from 4th week after STZ administration and after 12th week in non-treated rats of post-treatment group. The antihyperglycemic was studied on 7th and 12th week after STZ treatment using oral glucose tolerance test and the hypoglycemic effect was studied on day 1, 7, 14 and 21 of treatment after 12th week of STZ treatment in both pre and post treated groups.Results: Oral glucose tolerance test on 7th and 12th week had shown a protective effect against increase in blood glucose levels in pre-treated groups whereas, no such significant decrease was observed in non-treated groups. In the effect on hypoglycemia, a reduction in blood glucose levels was observed on treatment with CIF in both pre and post treated rats on 14th and 21st day.Conclusions: Treatment with CIF in pre-diabetic stage could reduce the chances of progression into T2DM and is also beneficial in diabetic rats, which could be due to increase in the peripheral utilization of glucose and the insulin mimetic effect of Costus igneus.
Gastric antral vascular ectasia: a case report
Authors: Cehajic Amir , Mackic Denis , Dzambasovic Elvira , Tucakovic Nijaz , Mujakovic Aida , Custovic Faruk
Published: February 2015

Gastric antral vascular ectasia is a vascular gastric malformation which represents a rare cause of upper gastrointestinal system bleeding. It is usually presented with a significant anemia and it is diagnosed with an endoscopic examination of the upper gastrointestinal system. It is often associated with other chronic illnesses such as liver cirrhosis, sclerodermia, diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension. It is treated symptomatically in terms of anemia correction with blood transfusions and iron supplements, proton pump inhibitors, beta-blockers and endoscopic procedures such as argon plasma coagulation which currently represents the treatment of choice in Sy. GAVE cases.
The evaluation of B-type Natriuretic Peptide and Troponin I in acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina
Authors: Serdarevic Nafija , Durak-Nalbantic Azra
Published: February 2015

Introduction: The diagnostic utility of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has prompted interest in its use as an aid in the detection of early heart failure and assessment of diseases. The first objective of this study was measurement of BNP and troponin I (TnI) blood levels in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and unstable angina. The second objective of this study was to find a correlation between TnI and BNP in blood.Methods: The concentrations of BNP and TnI in 150 blood levels were determined using CMIA (chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay) Architect and 2000 (Abbott diagnostics). The retrospective study included 100 patients who were hospitalized at the Department of Internal Medicine of the University Clinical Center Sarajevo and 50 healthy control. The reference blood range of BNP is 0-100 pg/mL and TnI is 0.00-0.4 ng/mL.Results: In the patients with AMI the mean value of BNP is 764.48 ± 639.52 pg/mL and TnI is 2.50 ± 2.28ng/mL. The patients with unstable angina have BNP 287.18 ± 593.20 pg/mL and TnI 0.10 ± 0.23 ng/mL. Our studies have shown that the correlation between BNP and TnI was statistically significant for p< 0.05 using Student t test with correlation coefficient r = 0.36. Conclusions: BNP and TnI levels can help to identify the patients with a high risk for cardiovascular diseases.
Modeling Borehole Radar by Finite-difference Time-domain in Conductive Sandstone
Authors: Ma Chunguang , Zhao Qing , Wang Likai , Liu Shuzhang
Published: February 2015

Three-dimensional (3-D) numerical simulations combined with field experiments to study the radar wave responses in a sandstone formation are described. A borehole radar system was used to perform GPR surveys in a conductive sandstone. Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) modeling is an economical and efficient method to analyze and interpret the experimental results. Using a priori information of the test site and the instrument parameters, a 3-D FDTD code based on perfectly matched layer (PML) boundary conditions was adopted to establish simulation models to study the conductivity impact on the radar response. In the single-hole reflection models, under the condition of σ/(ωε) << 1, a borehole radar can detect targets several meters away from the borehole. In this case, the amplitude attenuation of the radar wave changes linearly as the conductivity increases. However, the detecting capability declines rapidly for the two-way attenuation. The cross-hole tomography simulations are in accordance with the result of the tomography survey, which indicates that the conductivity of the site is about 0.015 S/m to 0.02 S/m, and the attenuation coefficient is between 8.9 dB/m and 11.8 dB/m. The reflected wave of the targets, a cliff and another borehole, cannot clearly be identified in the single-hole reflection image. This is supported by the tomographic image, which illustrates that the radar wave attenuation is significant in the sandstone formation. Therefore, the borehole radar system cannot detect the targets in this highly conductive sandstone.
Novel Miniaturized Antenna Designs for In-traffic Air-coupled Ground Penetrating Radar Systems
Authors: Li Ming , Vilbig Reid , Birken Ralf , Busuioc Dan , Sun Nian X , Wang Ming
Published: February 2015

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) antennas are key elements for the operation of air-coupled, compact, low-cost systems that can be operated at road speeds to map subsurface defects such as corroded rebar, trapped moisture, voids, and pavement layers. This paper presents requirements and tradeoffs for such antennas, as well as a brief methodology for the design process to frame the context and boundary conditions of the antenna problem. Furthermore, the paper discusses a number of planar antennas that have been designed in printed circuit board (PCB) technology using low-cost, glass-reinforced epoxy laminate sheets such as FR4.

The ultra-wide-band operation of antennas, along with other key parameters such as gain and beam width, is very important in the design of a useful GPR antenna for air-coupled operation. The interconnected relationship between antenna parameters limits the designs and constrains the upper bounds of the performance that can be achieved. Regulatory specifications such as FCC compliance create additional burden on the specifications and requirements.

A rounded bowtie antenna, a slotted bowtie antenna and two types of Vivaldi antenna are designed, simulated, fabricated, and characterized. All are intended to operate within the 1.1–3.5 GHz frequency band and benefit from compact size while providing high gain to allow for the detection of pavement layers and rebar in bridge decks to a depth of up to 2 feet. In-field measurements of the antennas, together with the GPR system, are presented for static testing scenarios such as buried rebar in a sand box and concrete slab. The antenna testing over the sandbox and concrete slab demonstrates the great potential of utilizing the proposed antennas in air-coupled GPR systems, especially the compact rounded bowtie and slotted bowtie antennas.
The Quadruple Bottom Line (January 2004)
Authors: Baker Kate H.
Published: February 2015

President's column - No abstract available.
Comments (January 2004)
Authors: Donnelly John
Published: February 2015

Editor's column - No abstract available.
Q&A with Eivald M.Q. Roren
Authors: Roren Eivald M.Q. , Donnelly John
Published: February 2015

Q&A - No abstract available.
Mature Field Revitalization: Redevelopment of a Giant Multilayered Carbonate Reservoir
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Technology Editor Dennis Denney, contains highlights of paper SPE 81581, "A Case Study on Redevelopment of a Giant Multilayered Carbonate Reservoir Based on Modification of Ongoing Waterflood Program Through Integrated Reservoir- Modeling Studies," by Yatindra Bhushan, SPE, Amitabh Pandey, SPE, Sanjiv K. Srivastava, SPE, and B.L. Lohar, Inst. of Reservoir Studies, ONGC, prepared for the 2003 Middle East Oil Show, Bahrain, 9-12 June.
Mature Field Revitalization: Integrated Development Approach for a Mature Oil Field
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Technology Editor Dennis Denney, contains highlights of paper SPE 81438, "Integrated Development Approach for a Mature Oil Field," by Challa R.K. Murty, SPE, and Abdulla Al-Haddad, SPE, Bahrain Petroleum Co., prepared for the 2003 Middle East Oil Show, Bahrain, 5-8 April.
Overview: EOR/IOR (January 2004)
Authors: Felber Betty
Published: February 2015

Overview - No abstract available.
EOR/IOR: Forty Years of Steam Injection in California: The Evolution of Heat Management
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Assistant Technology Editor Karen Bybee, contains highlights of paper SPE 84848, "Forty Years of Steam Injection in California - The Evolution of Heat Management," by E.J. Hanzlik, SPE, and D.S. Mims, SPE, ChevronTexaco, prepared for the 2003 SPE International Improved Oil Recovery Conference, Kuala Lumpur, 20-21 October.
Overview: Well Intervention and Control (January 2004)
Authors: Barnett David
Published: February 2015

Overview - No abstract available.
Well Intervention and Control: Offshore Applications of Underbalanced-Drilling Technology
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Assistant Technology Editor Karen Bybee, contains highlights of paper SPE 79854, "Well-Control Considerations - Offshore Applications of Underbalanced-Drilling Technology," by Don M. Hannegan, SPE, Weatherford Drilling and Intervention Services, and Glen Wanzer, U. of Oklahoma, prepared for the 2003 SPE/IADC Drilling Conference, Amsterdam, 19-21 February.
Challenge and Opportunity in the Maturing North Sea
Authors: Sword Graeme
Published: February 2015

The North Sea has arrived at a challenging stage in its development. Exploration activity has declined over the past decade, and production has been falling from its peak in 1999. At the same time, competition for investment is intensifying, with supermajors such as BP and Shell channeling more of their exploration budgets away from the North Sea to newer discoveries in the Gulf of Mexico, Brazil, and west Africa.

However, the North Sea remains one of the world’s great energy provinces. In the U.K., the Dept. of Trade and Industry estimates that 30 billion bbl of oil equivalent (BOE) has been produced but the remaining reserves base is 22 to 31 billion BOE. Norway estimates that only 40% of its oil has been produced and that remaining reserves are 85 billion BOE. Both countries’ governments recognize the need to develop effective strategies to extend the productive lifespan of the province.

The past 6 years have witnessed massive restructuring and consolidation in the industry. With the supermajors continuing to squeeze their suppliers on price, service companies are left seeking new opportunities for growth. For service companies in the North Sea, the key challenge is how to market their expertise on a global stage. Service companies could gain from the emergence of an even stronger independent sector, provided that they can address the needs of smaller oil producers.

The Need for Technological Innovation

Technology is critical to the long-term future of the North Sea, and the prize is considerable, given the scope to boost recovery rates from mature and marginal fields. The onus of developing and driving new technologies into the marketplace will remain with the operators, large service companies, and governments. Certainly, technical innovation requires a robust and inventive contracting and service/supply sector, and we are witnessing the emergence of a cluster of companies that are leading this drive. The challenge is not just to sustain but to grow this side of Europe’s upstream energy sector.

But with the largest operators now focusing their finances elsewhere, a larger share of that responsibility will fall on the state. It is time for governments to step up funding of new technology or face the prospect of the North Sea losing its position as a world leader in the hydrocarbons industry.
Greater Effective Propped Areas Derived From Proppant/Partial Monolayer Combination
Authors: JPT staff _
Published: February 2015

Optimization of slickwater-fracturing treatments using recently developed ultralightweight (ULW) proppants to facilitate proppant placement throughout the entire fracture area has found success. Wells treated with newly developed ULW proppants and refined placement techniques are experiencing stimulation increases (as much as 700%). The observed stimulation increases in wells stimulated by BJ Services with these ULW proppants have yielded payouts in a few weeks or months compared to years under previous methods.

The resurgence of low-cost slickwater-fracturing treatments in wells that have been uneconomical to fracture with conventional methods has led to implementing new technologies to maximize the effective propped-fracture area. The reduced settling tendencies afforded by the ULW proppants have proved beneficial in that endeavor. A desire to maximize the conductivity of the fracture within that effective area has led to rekindled interest in the decades-old theory of partial proppant monolayers.

Before the use of ULW proppants, fracturing-mechanics and -design experts tried to achieve desired fracture conductivity through the creation of fractures with partial monolayers of prop-pant but had been unsuccessful because of an inability to obtain uniform and complete coverage of the fracture; loss of fracture width as a result of proppant embedment; potentially deleterious non-Darcy flow effects; and, in the case of untreated walnut hulls, insufficient proppant strength to support the load.

In 1959, SPE paper 1291-G authors S.R. Darin and J.L. Huitt discussed the results of a study on the factors affecting fracture conductivity, demonstrating that there is an areal proppant concentration less than that of a full proppant monolayer in which the resulting conductivity is much higher than that of a full monolayer. In 1970, an SPE Monograph titled Hydraulic Fracturing, Volume 2, by G.C. Howard and C.R. Fast examined the conductivity benefits associated with partial monolayers but noted that, when using conventional methodologies, a partial monolayer had been very difficult to achieve in the field, particularly in a vertical fracture. The authors suggested that monolayers could be attained in the field by placement of a full monolayer consisting of a blend of proppant particles and oil-soluble resin particles, subsequently dissolving the resin particles to leave only a partial proppant monolayer. Contemporary experts have treated partial proppant monolayers as a technical curiosity but dis-miss the concept as having not been proved to be widely successful.

The advent and early success of ULW proppants in slickwater fracturing applications have provided evidence of longer effective propped fractures where the partial-monolayer technique was employed. Evaluation of these results indicates that the use of ULW proppants overcomes previous limitations for obtaining partial proppant monolayers.
Reservoir Management Tenets: Why They Matter to Sustainable Supplies
Authors: Saleri Nansen G.
Published: February 2015

The growing global demand for energy and, in particular, crude supplies has brought into focus the twin issues of production sustainability and reliability. The question “What are the constituent elements that determine the sustainability of a set target from a typical field?” resonates with new urgency. A school of thought within the industry views reservoir attributes as the sole controlling factor in the equation. But there might be another element, often taken for granted, that could prove to be the critical link—prudent governance in the form of reservoir management tenets. Stated differently, underachievement of expected production levels or ultimate recoveries may often reflect unintended, although predictable, consequences of management practices unconstrained by due-diligence provisions. The tenets described in this article have played a definitive role in Saudi Aramco’s experience with its fields and may offer a useful platform for discussion. The case here is not to argue that the noted tenets are universally applicable. Instead, the intent is to point to their indispensable business value as a framework for all.

What Is Different About Today’s Subsurface

Three issues rise above all others in matters involving the subsurface: reserves, cost management, and sustainability and reliability of production.

A meaningful discussion of these items, however, calls for a close look at the emerging characteristics of the subsurface and what they portend for tomorrow. There is a confluence of trends, namely increasing complexity of well architectures, higher levels of well intelligence, and the arrival of real-time information in well-placement and field operations. The latter two events, artifacts of global information technology advances, have two predictable consequences for our industry: an exponential increase in availability of real-time data and the heightened expectation of commensurate speed and accuracy in decision making and forecasting. The question that begs to be raised is, “How do we transform the massive volumes of data into intelligent decision making with business value?” Do we need a process or a formalized framework to influence the outcomes emerging from fields in terms of expected ultimate recoveries, costs, and sustainability?

In their insightful article “Delusions of Success,” Lovallo and Kahneman argue that business and project failures stem from consequences of flawed decision making and specifically from a lack of an objective perspective (regarding underlying project assumptions). In this context, how can we ensure that the appropriate level of “objective perspective” is injected into field performance forecasts?
Gecko Wells: Bringing Sand to Surface, A Change in Well-Design Philosophy
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Assistant Technology Editor Karen Bybee, contains highlights of paper SPE 87956, "Gecko Wells: Bringing Sand to Surface, A Change in Well-Design Philosophy," by Fadillah Hj Ahmad, Mike Ward, SPE, and Antony Fisher, SPE, Brunei Shell Petroleum, prepared for the 2004 IADC/SPE Asia Pacific Drilling Technology Conference and Exhibition, Kuala Lumpur, 13-15 September.

A fundamental change in well design was proposed following an energetic, low-unit-development-cost (UDC) workshop with cross-discipline, service company, and other low-cost-operator input. As with most brownfield sites, continued production faces a constant challenge to keep UDC economical. One of the major costs and well-design requirements in this shallow oil field is downhole sand control. If well design could be slimmed down and simplified and sand produced to the surface, a significant reduction in well costs could be possible.

Introduction

Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) Darat assets comprise onshore and near-shore hydrocarbon-production fields, principally the Seria field. The Seria oil field is a billion-bbl field that has been producing for more than 60 years. More than 159×106 m3 of oil has been produced since the field came on stream in the 1930s. Approximately 186×106 m3 of bypassed moveable oil in the Seria field has been identified. Because of the compartmentalized, highly stratified nature of the reservoir, numerous reserves are unlikely to be developed economically at current UDC.

The catalyst for attempting to produce some of the untapped hydrocarbons was the Darat Low-Cost-Well Workshop held in May 2003. Significant preparation went into this event to ensure a healthy mix of BSP disciplines, Shell Group expertise in mature-well technology, and most importantly, service-company representation from a diverse range of companies with much experience in non-Shell-operated low-cost environments around the world.
A Low-Permeability Case Study of 5 Years of Continuous Well-Performance Improvement
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Technology Editor Dennis Denney, contains highlights of paper SPE 90792, "Integrated Process Improves Production of the Almond Formation in the Wamsutter Field, Wyoming: A Low-Permeability Case Study of 5 Years of Continuous Improvement in Well Performance," by Mike Mullen, SPE, Rich Dickerman, SPE, and Jack Stabenau, Halliburton, and Martin Dobson, SPE, and Charles Ohlson, SPE, Marathon Oil Co., prepared for the 2004 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, Houston, 26-29 September.

Common concerns regarding mature low-permeability gas reservoirs include: “How much will the new designs cost?” and “Will the new designs increase recoverable reserves?” To answer these questions, the reservoir must be studied and analyzed before a reasonable prediction can be made regarding its maximum potential. An effective approach is to form an integrated team, made up of specialists from both the operating and service companies, to gather and process comprehensive information. This information should include data from reservoir engineering, drilling, petrophysics, geology, stimulation design, and production and completion operations.

Introduction

A team approach was applied to the low-permeability Almond and Lewis sands in the Wamsutter field in southwest Wyoming. The team began studying the reservoir in 1998 to better understand the problems that prevented wells from producing at their maximum potential. The team was challenged with the following tasks.

- Determine whether the wells were already performing at peak capacity.

- Establish a benchmark against which to measure the success of any changes.

- Identify major causes of underperformance.

- Apply new technologies and techniques to overcome the causes of underperformance.

- Prioritize pay zones on the basis of log evaluation, individual zone testing, and production logging.

- Design stimulation treatments that maximize the net present value of the well.

- Document the effect of specific changes in completion practices.

From the beginning, a benchmark of the 90-day-average production rate was established. As a result, the original benchmark has been exceeded by more than 100% over the past 5 years. The average production for these wells also has increased more than 50%.
Overview: EOR/IOR (January 2005)
Authors: Pitts Malcolm J.
Published: February 2015

The thrust of any oilfield enhanced-recovery project is economical production of incremental oil. Three field projects are discussed in this feature that demonstrate incremental oil production by use of three different enhancement technologies: CO2, steam, and chemical injection. Each study provides insight into the enhanced-oil-recovery technologies: CO2 flooding of a 50-cp reservoir, surfactant enhancement of a carbonate reservoir, and adjustment of steamflood practices for environmental compliance. While we tend to focus on oil produced, these papers illuminate requirements to implement a successful project.

First, one’s homework must be done, which includes sound reservoir-engineering and geologic analyses to define the best technology for a particular reservoir. Laboratory evaluations that show technology feasibility and incremental oil production from reservoir rock are key to making an informed “go or no-go” decision. Numerical simulation is the next logical step to translate laboratory data into field performance, thus providing an oil-production forecast for use in calculating project economics. The final decision to move forward with a field project should come only after careful technical and economic analyses of the potential effects on project outcome. Next, proper facilities design and attention to detail by field operators are essential to success. Finally, and perhaps one of the most refreshing aspects demonstrated by these papers, comes continual monitoring of a project to react to what is happening in the field, to make adjustments as necessary, and to learn from performance. We, as engineers, are forced to make assumptions, which may or may not be correct as a project is developed. When a process does not perform as anticipated, we often conclude that the technology did not work rather than admit that the application was ill conceived or improperly implemented. However, with persistence and willingness to take a different viewpoint, success often can be achieved by changing our preproject conceptions.

Additional EOR/IOR Technical Papers

Available at the SPE eLibrary: www.spe.org

SPE 89457 - Artificial Intelligence Used to Evaluate 23 Single-Well Surfactant-Soak Treatments

SPE 88720 - Vertical Conformance in a Mature Carbonate CO2 Flood: Salt Creek Field Unit, Texas

SPE 88716 - Evaluation of IOR Potential Within Kuwait [See JPT (December 2004) 57]

SPE 89456 - A Novel and Successful MEOR Pilot Project in a Strong Waterdrive Reservoir, Vizcacheras Field, Argentina

SPE 89423 - Wettability Alteration During Surfactant Flooding of Carbonate Reservoirs