bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cobertura do solo e degradação de pastagens em área de domínio de Chernossolos no sul da Bahia
Authors: Costa O. V. , Costa L. M. , Fontes L. E. F. , Araujo Q. R. , Ker J. C. , Nacif P. G. S.
Published: October 2014

O presente trabalho, realizado nos municípios de Itapé e Itaju do Colônia, os quais se encontram insertos na região econômica Litoral sul do estado da Bahia, teve por objetivo caracterizar um ambiente pastoril, dando ênfase a solos e sua cobertura natural, com a finalidade de mensurar e avaliar a degradação de pastagens. Essas áreas encontram-se em domínio de Chernossolos, em ambientes onde houve substituições de floresta nativa e cacau, cultivado em cabruca, por pastagens de capim Panicum maximum, cv. colonião e sempre-verde, cultivadas há vários anos em sistemas caracterizados como bem e mal manejados. Para isso, aplicou-se um método para análise da cobertura do solo, utilizando as unidades de amostragem de linhas e pontos em conjunto, monitorado pela caracterização química e física do solo. As amostras foram coletadas em trincheiras localizadas no topo, na meia-encosta e na baixada, em morros com conformações semelhantes. Verificou-se que a mudança de ambiente levou a alterações físicas e químicas do solo, tais como: diminuição nos valores de soma de bases, na capacidade de troca de cátions e, conseqüentemente, no grau de saturação por bases; diminuição nos teores de carbono orgânico total e aumento na densidade do solo e, em conseqüência, redução na quantidade total de poros, principalmente nas primeiras camadas do horizonte A, decorrente das exigências dos processos de conversão da floresta em pastagem. As amostragens realizadas por meio de linhas e pontos foram eficientes, uma vez que proporcionaram subsídios para a avaliação do nível de degradação, revelando que, ao longo dos anos, as pastagens mal conduzidas sofrem mudanças (sucessão de gramíneas, aumento na incidência de espécies espontâneas e de solo descoberto, dentre outras) que comprometem a sustentabilidade das pastagens da região.
Influência da irrigação e do cultivo nas propriedades de um latossolo e um argissolo da região do submédio São Francisco: atributos morfológicos e físicos
Authors: Santos E. E. F. , Ribeiro M. R.
Published: October 2014

Foram estudados os efeitos da irrigação e do cultivo nas propriedades morfológicas e físicas de dois solos da região do Submédio São Francisco. Foram selecionadas seis áreas: três num Latossolo Amarelo, no município de Casa Nova (BA), e três num Argissolo Amarelo fragipânico, no município de Juazeiro, BA, ambos nas condições não irrigada e irrigada por diferentes períodos e métodos. Os solos foram morfologicamente caracterizados e, nas amostras de cada horizonte, foram determinadas a granulometria, umidade nas tensões de -0,034 e -1,52 Mpa, densidade do solo, densidade das partículas, macroporosidade, porosidade total, condutividade hidráulica saturada e microporosidade. Os resultados mostraram que o uso do solo com irrigação provocou mudanças na morfologia do horizonte superficial, com o desenvolvimento do horizonte Ap, com consistência muito dura e transição abrupta, afetando também o BA, no caso de utilização mais intensiva. Observou-se aumento significativo no gradiente textural superficial do Argissolo, proporcional à intensidade da movimentação do solo e do uso da água. Nos dois tipos de solos estudados, o uso agrícola com irrigação promoveu aumento na densidade do solo e redução da macroporosidade, porosidade total e condutividade hidráulica do horizonte subsuperficial.
Teores de nitrogênio no solo e nas frações da matéria orgânica sob diferentes sistemas de produção de milho
Authors: Souza W. J. O. , Melo W. J.
Published: October 2014

Com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito de sistemas de produção sobre a dinâmica do N no solo e nas frações da matéria orgânica, realizou-se, por seis anos, em Jaboticabal (SP), um experimento constituído de: semeadura convencional de milho com pousio no inverno (C-Mi-P), plantio direto de milho e pousio no inverno (D-Mi-P), plantio convencional de milho em rotação com soja e pousio no inverno (C-Mi-P-So), plantio direto de milho em rotação com soja e pousio no inverno (D-Mi-P-So) e plantio direto de milho com uso de Mucuna aterrina (mucuna-preta), Cajanus cajan (feijão guandu) e Crotalaria juncea no inverno (D-Mi-Mu, D-Mi-Gu e D-Mi-Cr), em delineamento de blocos ao acaso e parcelas subdivididas. Após 60 dias da emergência das plântulas, coletaram-se amostras de solo (0-0,05, 0,05-0,10 e 0,10-0,20 m) e planta. Nas amostras de terra, avaliaram-se os teores de N total, N-NH4+, N-NO3-, N biomassa microbiana (N-B), N potencialmente mineralizável (NPM), N total nas frações: matérias húmicas (MH), solúvel em água (FSA), ácido fúlvico (AF), ácido húmico (AH) e humina (HN) com dados expressos em base de TFSE. Nas folhas, determinaram-se os teores de N total, e nas plantas de adubo verde (semeadas após a colheita do milho), mediram-se a produção de matéria seca (MS). Observaram-se valores maiores de NPM na camada de 0-0,05 m e nos tratamentos com plantio direto, envolvendo ou não rotação de culturas ou adubação verde, com a FSA se comportando de modo semelhante. O sistema de cultivo convencional, envolvendo ou não rotação de culturas, proporcionou maiores valores de N mineral na camada de 0,05-0,10 m, em razão da presença de maiores valores de N-nítrico. O cultivo convencional acelerou o processo de mineralização do N, enquanto a maior adição de matéria orgânica pela cultura de inverno no sistema de plantio direto promoveu incremento da fração potencialmente mineralizável do N no solo.
Política de formação de professores para a educação básica: a questão da igualdade
Authors: Souza Valdinei Costa
Published: October 2014

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar o programa Parfor Presencial, tendo como foco observar sua capacidade de reduzir desigualdades regionais e propiciar equidade no acesso de professores da educação básica à formação em serviço. É utilizada uma abordagem teórica do campo das políticas públicas para tratar o tema, analisando a relação do Parfor Presencial com outros programas integrantes da política de formação de professores, a configuração dos direitos e benefícios concedidos pelo programa, bem como a sua abrangência e gestão. O artigo conclui destacando a discrepância entre a necessidade de formação de professores e a oferta real de vagas pelo Parfor Presencial, como também a dificuldade de os professores aprendizes permanecerem nos cursos de formação.
As percepções dos estudantes mineiros sobre a incidência de comportamentos de indisciplina em sala de aula: um estudo baseado nos dados do SIMAVE/PROEB 2007
Authors: Silva Luciano Campos da , Matos Daniel Abud Seabra
Published: October 2014

O artigo decorre de uma pesquisa com delineamento de survey que investigou as percepções de estudantes de escolas públicas de Minas Gerais sobre a incidência de comportamentos de indisciplina em sala de aula, analisando como alguns fatores se associam a essa percepção: nível de ensino, sexo dos estudantes, nível socioeconômico, atraso escolar, proficiência em língua portuguesa e matemática e as práticas pedagógicas dos docentes. Utilizou-se o Programa de Avaliação da Rede Pública de Educação Básica (PROEB, 2007), que faz parte do Sistema Mineiro de Avaliação da Educação Pública (SIMAVE). Participaram todos os alunos do 5º ano (N= 307.386), do 9º ano (N=251.354) e do 12º ano (N=156.906). Destacaram-se como principais resultados: indisciplina em sala de aula; forte relação entre fracasso escolar e indisciplina; baixa associação entre indisciplina e nível socioeconômico; forte relação entre as práticas pedagógicas dos docentes e a indisciplina. Os resultados reforçam a centralidade da indisciplina na educação escolar.
Trajetória intelectual de pesquisadores da educação: a fecundidade do estudo dos memoriais acadêmicos
Authors: Rego Teresa Cristina
Published: October 2014

O artigo apresenta os resultados de uma recente pesquisa realizada sobre o tema da constituição identitária, a educação, a memória e suas relações com as narrativas autobiográficas. Foram analisados doze memoriais apresentados em concursos para os mais altos cargos ou titulação da carreira universitária (livre-docência e titular), produzidos por professores ligados diretamente ou indiretamente aos estudos educacionais. Os memoriais examinados foram elaborados ao longo das últimas décadas por pesquisadores de duas diferentes gerações, selecionados com base nos seguintes critérios: expressão do pesquisador, diversidade em termos de formação, vinculação institucional e área de atuação. Buscou-se apreender elementos constitutivos próprios de uma identidade narrativa, bem como vozes sociais e polifônicas que perpassam esses relatos.
Concepções de matemática de alunas-professoras dos anos iniciais
Authors: Carneiro Reginaldo Fernando , Passos Cármen Lúcia Brancaglion
Published: October 2014

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir as concepções sobre matemática de alunas-professoras dos anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental de um curso de Pedagogia à distância, no qual realizamos uma pesquisa qualitativa durante o trabalho nas disciplinas referentes à matemática. As atividades virtuais ali desenvolvidas geraram dados cuja análise evidenciou alguns aspectos da concepção de matemática como resolução de problemas. Tal análise também enfatizou a necessidade de pautar o ensino na compreensão e na justificativa das fórmulas, dos procedimentos e dos algoritmos. Além disso, apontou que as alunas-professoras refletiram e problematizaram suas concepções.
Gas permeability of partially hydrated geosynthetic clay liner under two stress conditions
Authors: Rouf M. A. , Singh R. M. , Bouazza A. , Rowe R. K. , Gates W. P.
Published: October 2014

The results of a series of gas permeability tests, with monitoring of gravimetric/volumetric moisture content and total suction, on a commercially available needle-punched geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) are presented. GCL specimens were partially hydrated with deionised water under 2 and 20 kPa confinement prior to testing. The tests were conducted at differential pressures ranging from 1 to 10 kPa. Gas permeability was found to decrease with an increase in gravimetric/volumetric moisture content and a decrease of suction. The effect of the preconditioning stress was found to be more pronounced at gravimetric moisture contents greater than 40% (25% apparent degree of saturation, 0·30 m3/m3volumetric moisture content), and suctions less than 1·6 MPa.
Cigarette Smoking Among Adults With Mobility Impairments: A US Population-Based Survey
Authors: Borrelli Belinda , Busch Andrew , Dunsiger Shira
Published: October 2014

Objectives. Smokers with mobility impairments have greater health risks than the general population. We report the prevalence of cigarette smoking and quit attempts among people with mobility impairments.

Methods. We conducted an analysis of 13 308 adults (aged 21–85 years) with mobility impairments (special ambulatory equipment and difficulty walking 0.25 miles without equipment) responding to the National Health Interview Survey (2011).

Results. Among 21- to 44-year-old adults with mobility impairments, 39.2% were smokers, compared with only 21.5% of adults without mobility impairments (odds ratio [OR] = 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07, 2.52). Among 45- to 64-year-old adults with mobility impairments, 31.2% were smokers versus 20.7% without mobility impairments (OR = 1.35; 95% CI = 1.09, 1.68). Women aged 21 to 44 years with mobility impairments had the highest smoking prevalence (45.9%), exceeding same-aged women without mobility impairments(18.9%; OR = 2.56; 95% CI = 1.32, 4.97). Men with mobility impairments had greater smoking prevalence (24.1%) than women with mobility impairments (15.1%; P < .01). Smokers with mobility impairments were less likely to attempt quitting (19.9%) than smokers without mobility impairments (27.3%; P < .01).

Conclusions. Smokers with mobility impairments should be targeted for cessation, particularly those who are younger and female.
Media Use, Sports Participation, and Well-Being in Adolescence: Cross-Sectional Findings From the UK Household Longitudinal Study
Authors: Booker Cara L. , Skew Alexandra J. , Kelly Yvonne J. , Sacker Amanda
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We investigated the relationship between selected types of screen-based media (SBM) use, total SBM use, sports participation, and markers of well-being.

Methods. Data came from the youth panel (n = 4899) of Understanding Society, the UK Household Longitudinal Study, conducted in 2009. Well-being was measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and markers of happiness in different life domains.

Results. The majority of young people used multiple types of SBM for at least 1 hour per day; only 30% participated in sports every day. Overall, young people with heavy SBM use were less happy than moderate users and more likely to have socioemotional difficulties. Chatting on social networking Web sites and game console use were associated with higher odds of socioemotional problems. Higher total SBM use was associated with lower odds of happiness and higher odds of socioemotional difficulties. Greater participation in sports was associated with higher odds of happiness and lower odds of socioemotional difficulties.

Conclusions. Further longitudinal research could inform future interventions to reduce sedentary behavior and encourage healthy lifestyles among young people.
All Rural Places Are Not Created Equal: Revisiting the Rural Mortality Penalty in the United States
Authors: James Wesley L.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. I investigated mortality disparities between urban and rural areas by measuring disparities in urban US areas compared with 6 rural classifications, ranging from suburban to remote locales.

Methods. Data from the Compressed Mortality File, National Center for Health Statistics, from 1968 to 2007, was used to calculate age-adjusted mortality rates for all rural and urban regions by year. Criteria measuring disparity between regions included excess deaths, annual rate of change in mortality, and proportion of excess deaths by population size. I used multivariable analysis to test for differences in determinants across regions.

Results. The rural mortality penalty existed in all rural classifications, but the degree of disparity varied considerably. Rural–urban continuum code 6 was highly disadvantaged, and rural–urban continuum code 9 displayed a favorable mortality profile. Population, socioeconomic, and health care determinants of mortality varied across regions.

Conclusions. A 2-decade long trend in mortality disparities existed in all rural classifications, but the penalty was not distributed evenly. This constitutes an important public health problem. Research should target the slow rates of improvement in mortality in the rural United States as an area of concern.
Indigenous Mortality (Revealed): The Invisible Illuminated
Authors: Freemantle Jane , Ring Ian , Arambula Solomon Teshia G. , Gachupin Francine C. , Smylie Janet , Cutler Tessa Louise , Waldon John A.
Published: October 2014

Inaccuracies in the identification of Indigenous status and the collection of and access to vital statistics data impede the strategic implementation of evidence-based public health initiatives to reduce avoidable deaths. The impact of colonization and subsequent government initiatives has been commonly observed among the Indigenous peoples of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. The quality of Indigenous data that informs mortality statistics are similarly connected to these distal processes, which began with colonization. We discuss the methodological and technical challenges in measuring mortality for Indigenous populations within a historical and political context, and identify strategies for the accurate ascertainment and inclusion of Indigenous people in mortality statistics.
Promoting Ethical Research With American Indian and Alaska Native People Living in Urban Areas
Authors: Yuan Nicole P. , Bartgis Jami , Demers Deirdre
Published: October 2014

Most health research with American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people has focused on tribal communities on reservation lands. Few studies have been conducted with AI/AN people living in urban settings despite their documented health disparities compared with other urban populations. There are unique considerations for working with this population. Engaging key stakeholders, including urban Indian health organization leaders, tribal leaders, research scientists and administrators, and policymakers, is critical to promoting ethical research and enhancing capacity of urban AI/AN communities. Recommendations for their involvement may facilitate an open dialogue and promote the development of implementation strategies. Future collaborations are also necessary for establishing research policies aimed at improving the health of the urban AI/AN population.
Case Management to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk in American Indians and Alaska Natives With Diabetes: Results From the Special Diabetes Program for Indians Healthy Heart Demonstration Project
Authors: Moore Kelly , Jiang Luohua , Manson Spero M. , Beals Janette , Henderson William , Pratte Katherine , Acton Kelly J. , Roubideaux Yvette
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We evaluated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) with diabetes in the Special Diabetes Program for Indians Healthy Heart (SDPI-HH) Demonstration Project.

Methods. Multidisciplinary teams implemented an intensive case management intervention among 30 health care programs serving 138 tribes. The project recruited 3373 participants, with and without current CVD, between 2006 and 2009. We examined data collected at baseline and 1 year later to determine whether improvements occurred in CVD risk factors and in Framingham coronary heart disease (CHD) risk scores, aspirin use, and smoking status.

Results. A1c levels decreased an average of 0.2% (P < .001). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels decreased, with the largest significant reduction in LDL cholesterol (∆ = −5.29 mg/dL; P < .001). Average Framingham CHD risk scores also decreased significantly. Aspirin therapy increased significantly, and smoking decreased. Participants with more case management visits had significantly greater reductions in LDL cholesterol and A1c values.

Conclusions. SDPI-HH successfully translated an intensive case management intervention. Creative retention strategies and an improved understanding of organizational challenges are needed for future Indian health translational efforts.
Relationship Between Diet and Mental Health in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: O’Neil Adrienne , Quirk Shae E. , Housden Siobhan , Brennan Sharon L. , Williams Lana J. , Pasco Julie A. , Berk Michael , Jacka Felice N.
Published: October 2014

We systematically reviewed 12 epidemiological studies to determine whether an association exists between diet quality and patterns and mental health in children and adolescents; 9 explored the relationship using diet as the exposure, and 3 used mental health as the exposure.

We found evidence of a significant, cross-sectional relationship between unhealthy dietary patterns and poorer mental health in children and adolescents. We observed a consistent trend for the relationship between good-quality diet and better mental health and some evidence for the reverse. When including only the 7 studies deemed to be of high methodological quality, all but 1 of these trends remained.

Findings highlight the potential importance of the relationship between dietary patterns or quality and mental health early in the life span.
Wounds on Wheels: Implementing a Specialized Wound Clinic within an Established Syringe Exchange Program in Baltimore, Maryland
Authors: Robinowitz Natanya , Smith Maria Elisa , Serio-Chapman Chris , Chaulk Patrick , Johnson Kristine E.
Published: October 2014

People who inject drugs (PWID) experience a high incidence of abscesses and chronic wounds. However, many PWID delay seeking care for their wounds. In 2012, the Baltimore Needle Exchange Program (BNEP) in Baltimore, Maryland, partnered with the Johns Hopkins Wound Healing Center to establish a mobile BNEP Wound Clinic. This clinic provided specialized wound care for BNEP patients. In sixteen months, the clinic treated 78 unique patients during 172 visits overall. On average, each visit cost the program $146.45, which was substantially less than clinic-based treatment. This program demonstrates that specialized wound care can be effectively provided through mobile outreach. A community-based service delivery approach might serve as a model for local health departments looking to improve the health of PWID.
Factors Influencing Parental Involvement Among Minors Seeking an Abortion: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hasselbacher Lee A. , Dekleva Anna , Tristan Sigrid , Gilliam Melissa L.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We explored factors that influenced whether minors involved or excluded a parent when seeking an abortion.

Methods. In the summer of 2010, we conducted interviews with 30 minors who sought an abortion in a state that did not require parental involvement at the time. Interviews were coded and analyzed following the principles of the grounded theory method.

Results. The majority of minors involved a parent. Commonly cited factors were close or supportive parental relationships, a sense that disclosure was inevitable, a need for practical assistance, and compelled disclosure. Motivations for not wanting to involve a parent, although some minors ultimately did, included preservation of the parent–daughter relationship, fear or detachment, and preservation of autonomy.

Conclusions. Minors were motivated to involve parents and other adults who were engaged in their lives at the time of the pregnancy, particularly those who supported them in obtaining an abortion. Motivations to exclude a parent were often based on particular family circumstances or experiences that suggested that involvement would not be helpful, might be harmful, or might restrict a minor’s ability to obtain an abortion.
Beyond the Bridge: Evaluating a Novel Mental Health Program in the New York City Jail System
Authors: Glowa-Kollisch Sarah , Lim Sungwoo , Summers Cynthia , Cohen Louise , Selling Daniel , Venters Homer
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We evaluated Beyond the Bridge, a novel mental health program in the New York City jail system designed to provide residentially based cognitive behavioral therapy in jail mental observation units.

Methods. We used propensity score matching and a dose–response analysis. Outcome measures included reduction in violent incidents and fights, reduction in uses of force by corrections officers, reduction in time spent on suicide watch and incidents of self-injurious behavior, and increased length of community survival.

Results. There were significant reductions in all outcomes when we compared program participants (n = 218) with an earlier cohort of patients residing on the mental observation unit before programming began (n = 413). However, when we compared program participants with a cohort of other patients residing on the units at the same time but who chose not to participate (n = 267), only time spent on suicide watch unit (rate ratio [RR] = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.59, 0.89) and recidivism (RR = 0.70; 95% CI = 0.59,0.83) were significantly reduced.

Conclusions. This evaluation and the model we piloted may provide useful information for other settings contemplating similar interventions.
Enhancing Condom Use Among Black Male Youths: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Crosby Richard A. , Charnigo Richard J. , Salazar Laura F. , Pasternak Ryan , Terrell Ivy W. , Ricks JaNelle , Smith Rachel V. , Taylor Stephanie N.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We tested the efficacy of a brief intervention to promote correct and consistent use of condoms among Black male youths attending sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinics in 3 southern US cities.

Methods. In 2010 to 2012, we screened (n = 1102) and enrolled (n = 702) youths aged 15 to 23 years who identified as Black and reported recent (past 2 months) sexual activity and randomized them to a private, brief, interactive intervention (n = 349) or an attention-equivalent control condition (n = 353). Assessments occurred at baseline and 2 and 6 months after the intervention.

Results. At 6 months, with adjustment for age and pretest nonequivalence of the outcome variable, an estimated odds ratio (EOR) of 1.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07, 2.49; P = .02) indicated efficacy for correct condom use. An adjusted generalized estimating equations model with both 2- and 6-month condom use variables produced an EOR of 1.49 (95% CI = 1.06, 2.08; P = .02). We did not observe significant effects on chlamydia and gonorrhea incidence.

Conclusions. This brief intervention, delivered as part of STI clinical care, could help alleviate the disproportionate STI–HIV burden among young Black men.
The Effect of Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status on Education and Health Outcomes for Children Living in Social Housing
Authors: Martens Patricia J. , Chateau Daniel G. , Burland Elaine M. J. , Finlayson Gregory S. , Smith Mark J. , Taylor Carole R. , Brownell Marni D. , Nickel Nathan C. , Katz Alan , Bolton James M. ,   the PATHS Equity Team
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We explored differences in health and education outcomes between children living in social housing and not, and effects of social housing’s neighborhood socioeconomic status.

Methods. In this cohort study, we used the population-based repository of administrative data at the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy. We included children aged 0 to 19 years in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in fiscal years 2006–2007 to 2008–2009 (n = 13 238 social housing; n = 174 017 others). We examined 5 outcomes: age-2 complete immunization, a school-readiness measure, adolescent pregnancy (ages 15–19 years), grade-9 completion, and high-school completion. Logistic regression and generalized estimating equation modeling generated rates. We derived neighborhood income quintiles (Q1 lowest, Q5 highest) from average household income census data.

Results. Children in social housing fared worse than comparative children within each neighborhood income quintile. When we compared children in social housing by quintile, preschool indicators (immunization and school readiness) were similar, but adolescent outcomes (grade-9 and high-school completion, adolescent pregnancy) were better in Q3 to Q5.

Conclusions. Children in social housing had poorer health and education outcomes than all others, but living in social housing in wealthier areas was associated with better adolescent outcomes.
Race/Ethnicity, Residential Segregation, and Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: Jones Miranda R. , Diez-Roux Ana V. , Hajat Anjum , Kershaw Kiarri N. , O’Neill Marie S. , Guallar Eliseo , Post Wendy S. , Kaufman Joel D. , Navas-Acien Ana
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We described the associations of ambient air pollution exposure with race/ethnicity and racial residential segregation.

Methods. We studied 5921 White, Black, Hispanic, and Chinese adults across 6 US cities between 2000 and 2002. Household-level fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides (NOX) were estimated for 2000. Neighborhood racial composition and residential segregation were estimated using US census tract data for 2000.

Results. Participants in neighborhoods with more than 60% Hispanic populations were exposed to 8% higher PM2.5and 31% higher NOXconcentrations compared with those in neighborhoods with less than 25% Hispanic populations. Participants in neighborhoods with more than 60% White populations were exposed to 5% lower PM2.5and 18% lower NOXconcentrations compared with those in neighborhoods with less than 25% of the population identifying as White. Neighborhoods with Whites underrepresented or with Hispanics overrepresented were exposed to higher PM2.5and NOXconcentrations. No differences were observed for other racial/ethnic groups.

Conclusions. Living in majority White neighborhoods was associated with lower air pollution exposures, and living in majority Hispanic neighborhoods was associated with higher air pollution exposures. This new information highlighted the importance of measuring neighborhood-level segregation in the environmental justice literature.
Retail Impact of Raising Tobacco Sales Age to 21 Years
Authors: Winickoff Jonathan P. , Hartman Lester , Chen Minghua L. , Gottlieb Mark , Nabi-Burza Emara , DiFranza Joseph R.
Published: October 2014

The majority of tobacco use emerges in individuals before they reach 21 years of age, and many adult distributors of tobacco to youths are young adults aged between 18 and 20 years. Raising the tobacco sales minimum age to 21 years across the United States would decrease tobacco retailer and industry sales by approximately 2% but could contribute to a substantial reduction in the prevalence of youths’ tobacco use and dependency by limiting access.
More Skin, More Sun, More Tan, More Melanoma
Authors: Chang Caroline , Murzaku Era Caterina , Penn Lauren , Abbasi Naheed R. , Davis Paula D. , Berwick Marianne , Polsky David
Published: October 2014

Although personal melanoma risk factors are well established, the contribution of socioeconomic factors, including clothing styles, social norms, medical paradigms, perceptions of tanned skin, economic trends, and travel patterns, to melanoma incidence has not been fully explored. We analyzed artwork, advertisements, fashion trends, and data regarding leisure-time activities to estimate historical changes in UV skin exposure. We used data from national cancer registries to compare melanoma incidence rates with estimated skin exposure and found that they rose in parallel. Although firm conclusions about melanoma causation cannot be made in an analysis such as this, we provide a cross-disciplinary, historical framework in which to consider public health and educational measures that may ultimately help reverse melanoma incidence trends.
Association of Age and Comorbidity on 2009 Influenza A Pandemic H1N1-Related Intensive Care Unit Stay in Massachusetts
Authors: Placzek Hilary E. D. , Madoff Lawrence C.
Published: October 2014

Objectives. We compared comorbidity measures by age group and risk factors for influenza-like illness (ILI)–related intensive care unit (ICU) stay during the 2009 seasonal influenza and influenza A (pH1N1) pandemic.

Methods. We identified all patients discharged from Massachusetts hospitals with ILI-related diagnoses between October 1, 2008, and April 25, 2009, and pH1N1–related diagnoses between April 26 and September 30, 2009. We calculated the Diagnostic Cost Group (DxCG) risk score as a measure of comorbidity. We used logistic regression predictive models to compare ICU stay predictors.

Results. Mean DxCG scores were similar for pH1N1 and seasonal influenza time periods (0.69 and 0.70). Compared with those aged 45 to 64 years, patients younger than 5, 5 to 12, and 13 to 18 years had an increased risk of pH1N1-related ICU stay. Within the pH1N1 cohort, an asthma diagnosis was highly predictive of ICU admission among those younger than 5, 5 to 12, and 13 to 18 years, and pregnancy among those aged 26 to 44 years.

Conclusion. High-risk groups, including children with asthma or pregnant women, would benefit from improved surveillance and resource allocation during influenza outbreaks to prevent serious ILI-related complications.
A Fracture Injection Test Design and Interpretation for the Determination of Reservoir Permeability
Authors: Guk Vyacheslav , Bychina Maria , Wolcott Don , Economides Michael J.
Published: October 2014

Permeability is an existential property in oil and gas reservoir production. Its value becomes even more important for the design of hydraulic fractures, in very wide use in the industry. Optimization of fracture geometry depends greatly on the permeability value. Methodologies such as the Unified Fracture Design cannot be applied properly in the absence of a reliable value of permeability. Massive amounts of income ride on the optimum deployment of fractures.

While core and log-derived permeability values are often employed, they are usually unreliable and irrelevant to the forecast of well performance. Well-test-derived permeability is far superior but it suffers because of two reasons: 1) the well may not be flowing at all because of very small permeability and near-well damage and, 2) the test in an e.g., 0.1 md reservoir may require a week of duration, at least, just to reach infinite acting radial flow, whose appearance is necessary, for interpretation. The recent activity in shale formations has lowered the permeability values by orders of magnitude, towards nanodarcy (0.000001 md). This makes well tests even more unattainable.

We are proposing here an alternative approach, the use of a fracture injection test (Minifrac) whose pressure falloff interpretation can lead to the traditional Nolte analysis providing the leak-off coefficient and closure pressure. However, because the overwhelming majority of DFIT fluids in low permeability formations is water with little if any polymer, the viscosity controlled and filter cake controlled components of the leak-off coefficient are non-existent. This suggests that only the compressibility controlled leak-off component dominates. This leak-off coefficient is directly proportional to the square root of reservoir permeability, whose calculation becomes readily available. In some ways what the energy of the minifrac does is to shock the formation, forcing back a rapid response, one that a well test cannot.

Application of the technique to dozens of wells has led to very realistic permeability values which subsequently were corroborated by production data analysis. The technology and approach presented here can fill a major gap in proper fracture design and reservoir exploitation.
Wavelet Frequency Analysis of Long-term Transient Pressure from Permanent Down-Hole Gauges (PDG) for the Real-Time Reservoir Monitoring
Authors: Wang Fuyong , Zheng Shiyi
Published: October 2014

This paper describes a new method of analyzing long-term Permanent Down-hole Gauge (PDG) data for real-time reservoir monitoring. The wavelet frequency analysis approach developed can identify dynamic changes in reservoir properties and well conditions from PDG data.

PDG is the down-hole measuring device installed during the well completion, and can provide continuous pressure, temperature and sometimes flow rate data. The real-time and long-term down-hole mentoring has been proved to be cost-effective through field applications.

Analyzing the large quantity PDG pressure data and converting the data to economic value is challenging. Different from short time traditional well test, the long-term PDG pressure data records the dynamic change in reservoir properties and well condition with time, such as permeability and skin change due to formation damage, water breakthrough and gas out of solution. Diagnosing these dynamic changes and making immediate responses is the key for reservoir monitoring.

Wavelet transform has been successfully applied in PDG data processing, such as data denoising, outlier removal and transient identification. This paper uses wavelet transform to reveal reservoir information by analyzing PDG transient pressure in frequency domain. Small rate change can lead to small transient pressure change and small frequency amplitude in frequency domain. For large rate change, the corresponding pressure change will cause large frequency amplitude. As studied, for the reservoir with constant properties, the frequency amplitude caused by unit rate change is constant with time. When there are properties changes, such as skin and permeability change, the frequency amplitude caused by unit rate change will change with time. According to this, a key diagnostic function has been developed and the dynamic changes in reservoir properties can be clearly identified.

Synthetic cases and real field PDG data have been used to demonstrate that wavelet frequency analysis method can clearly identify the changes in reservoir properties, and realize the potential of PDG to provide more reservoir information. In detail, the significance of this method is shown as follows: 1) this method can identify production events and benefit production monitoring; 2) this method can identify nonlinearities caused by variable reservoir properties to reduce the uncertainties of pressure-transient analysis (for example, deconvolution only can be used in linear systems); 3) this method can identify time-dependent reservoir properties and provide guidelines for reservoir model (near wellbore model) update.
A Pragmatic Approach to Understanding Liquid Loading in Gas Wells
Authors: Riza M. F. , Hasan A. R. , Kabir C. S.
Published: October 2014

Liquid loading is the inability of a producing gas well to remove its coproduced liquids from the wellbore. The liquid flowing as droplets or film accumulates at the well bottom, thereby imposing backpressure at the sandface and triggering increasingly higher pressure loss in the wellbore. The problem initiated by liquid loading is manifested in terms of loss in well deliverability, causing the wellhead pressure (WHP) to decline significantly, which, in turn, leads to the cessation of gas production. Accordingly, the liquid-loading issue reduces the ultimate recovery of a gas well.

Both the droplet-flow reversal and liquid-film–flow reversal have been postulated to be the underlying mechanism for liquid loading. Both mechanisms are predominantly premised on diagnosing the problem at the wellhead flow conditions. This study explores the deliquefication issue in a gas well by fluid and heat flow modeling of the entire wellbore for a variety of flow situations in gas and gas/condensate reservoirs.

We observed that when a well experiences annular two-phase flow throughout the wellbore, no liquid loading occurs. The transition from annular to churn or slug flow initiates the liquid-film–flow or droplet-flow reversal, thereby triggering liquid loading. Most often the flow condition at the well bottom controls the onset of liquid loading. Using three published datasets, we showed that the understanding of liquid loading improved when the entire wellbore flow modeling was used. Forward modeling suggested that the tubing inside diameter (ID) and the well productivity index (PI) are the most important independent variables in determining the critical liquid loading rate and the onset of liquid loading.
Advanced Drilling Dynamics Sensor Allows Real-Time Drilling Optimization, Damage Prevention and Condition Monitoring of RSS and LWD BHAs
Authors: Lines L. A. , Mauldin C. L. , Hill J. W. , Aiello R. A.
Published: October 2014

This paper outlines the development and field deployment of the latest drilling dynamics sensor and validation of two preventative maintenance algorithms.

The papers prime focus is torsional dynamics and the insight gained through the application of a novel angular rate gyro. The unique abilities of this sensor to measure angular rotation rate are used to characterize four distinct modes of torsional vibration. Downhole data is also shown which proves instantaneous reverse rotation of the bit against the rock face can occur when severe high frequency torsional vibration is present.

The paper validates a new metric dedicated to detecting high frequency torsional dynamics. This metric, when used in combination with a unique Torsional Dynamics Indicator and downhole frequency analysis measurement, allows real-time determination of the mode and damaging nature of all types of torsional vibration. This knowledge is vital in order for appropriate mitigation strategies to be followed and for downhole tool damage to be understood.

Preventative maintenance schemes for vibration and hole curvature are discussed and case studies show how these objective metrics can be used to track downhole conditions to (1) determine when downhole conditions exceed recommended guidelines, (2) investigate the effectiveness of vibration mitigation strategies and (3) objectively quantify differences in the downhole drilling environment.
Experimental Investigation on Wellbore Strengthening in Shales by Means of Nanoparticle-Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: Contreras Oscar , Hareland Geir , Husein Maen , Nygaard Runar , Alsaba Mortadha
Published: October 2014

Wellbore strengthening (WS) is the mechanism of increasing the fracture pressure of the rock at depth. Applications of WS in the drilling industry enable safe drilling by preventing mud losses, drilling in narrow mud windows, accessing reserves in depleted reservoirs, and also have the potential to reduce the number of casing strings. Most of WS applications have been done for sandstones. In fact, a common industry thought is that a permeable formation is the only medium that allows WS occurrence. WS in shale formations is a controversial topic in the drilling industry due to the poor understanding of the mechanism and limited field success on strengthening of low permeability formations. This paper presents an experimental research work where a significant fracture pressure increase was achieved in shale and the predominant WS mechanism was identified. The main implication of this work is that WS can occur in shale formations using oil based mud (OBM) with the addition of nanoparticles (NPs) and graphite.

Fracture pressure increase was quantified by conducting hydraulic fracturing tests on 5 3/4″x9″ Catoosa shale cores. A 9/16″ wellbore was drilled, cased and cemented. Overburden and confining pressures were applied on the cores to simulate a normal-faulting regime. Two injection cycles were applied allowing 10 min for fracture healing after the first cycle. The fracturing pressure was increased by 30% when calcium-based NPs (NP2) were used, whereas iron-based NPs (NP1) resulted in 20% increase. The optimum NPs concentrations were experimentally identified. A strong relationship between WS and HPHT filtration values was observed. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses were conducted on the cores post-testing. The fractures were found to be completely sealed from wellbore to tip. The seal was developed due to the carrier fluid penetration through the induced fractures and NPs attachment on the fracture faces. This was corroborated by the estimation of the pore throat aperture of the shale at the testing pressure. Tip isolation by the development of an immobile mass was identified as the predominant WS mechanism. A 20 micron-seal containing homogenously distributed NPs and graphite was formed. According to the post-testing analysis of cores and injection pressure, WS initially occurred in a certain wellbore direction and a second injection cycle forced the fluid to follow a different direction creating a second vertical fracture. An average angle of 30° was observed between the hydraulic fractures.
Feasibility and Evaluation of Surfactants and Gas Lift in Combination as Severe Slugging Suppression Method
Authors: Sarica C. , Yuan G. , Shang W. , Pereyra E. , Kouba G.
Published: October 2014

An experimental study of severe slugging suppression utilizing a combination of surfactants and gas-lift was conducted using a facility consisting of a 3-in. ID, 65 ft long, -3° inclined flow line followed by a 45 ft long vertical riser system. Air and water were used as fluids. The surfactant used was a foaming agent capable of forming stable foams in all brines for a wide range of pH. Pressure behavior in the flow line – riser system was monitored and input gas, injection gas, liquid and surfactant flow rates were continuously measured. In addition, visual observations were made to identify severe slugging. Effects of the proposed method were quantified with a modified elimination performance index (MEPI) considering not only pressure fluctuations but also back-pressure effects.

A total of 30 tests were conducted. The data were analyzed for the severe slugging suppression of the surfactant and gas-lift combination, the effect of gas lift on surfactant injection, and the effect of the surfactant on the reduction of the gas-lift gas. The combination technique with the highest gas-lift rate completely eliminated the severe slugging for the all of the tests conducted. Surfactants were able to suppress severe slugging for most of the cases. The performance of "Only Surfactant Injection Case" increases as the gas-liquid ratio increases. For all of the tests, back-pressure reduction was observed. MEPI is used as the main parameter to assess the performance of the severe slugging suppression methods. Gas-lift not only contributes with density reduction through volumetric increase of gas in the riser but it also reduces the mixture density by promoting more foam generation. There were reductions in the gas-lift rate from the original maximum gas-lift injection rate for all the tests conducted with surfactant injection.
The Effect of Management Involvement on Vehicle Safety Improvement
Authors: Catten Corey , Johnson Casey
Published: October 2014

The importance of management involvement in any safety initiative is well understood in the industry. In our research, we discovered three necessary factors to maximize safe driving behavior with an invehicle monitor system: 1) real-time audible feedback of unsafe behavior in the vehicle, 2) an environment where the driver can change small unsafe choices for the safer without penalty, and 3) involvement by management or another interested third party to review the driving history and take action if necessary. Over the past several years, we observed varying degrees of management involvement leading to varying degrees of success in the safety improvement in the fleets we monitor. This paper quantifies the effect of the management involvement in terms of measured unsafe driving events.

The paper applies to HSE professionals and management working on land transportation safety programs based on the industry best practice for land transportation safety.

The paper shows that management attitudes alone dramatically affect the outcome of vehicle safety programs. Since vehicle-related accidents are the highest category of fatalities in oilfield work, the significance of this fact is lives… saved or lost.
Unique Interpretation of JT Heating Across Perforations to Interpret Near-Wellbore Skin - A Case Study
Authors: Justin Hayes , Joshi Nikhil
Published: October 2014

Surveillance and monitoring of pressure drop across completions is critical to any deepwater well that is completed with sand control. Maintaining acceptable velocity across the perforations and sand screens have been discussed to be critical and are derived from the knowledge of pressure drop across each entity. Conventional pressure transient analysis (PTA) which requires the well to be temporarily shut-in is the most applied methodology to calculate that pressure drop. In this paper, an alternate method is proposed that uses Joules-Thomson (JT) heating across the completions to estimate this pressure drop. The method is explored through a case study on a Gulf of Mexico subsea well. The results from the JT method match with results from PTA. The application of JT to determine pressure drop can not only offer continuous monitoring of a well but also provide insight on more challenging situations such as a commingled wellbore with production from two sands. This paper is a discussion of the methodology to use JT for pressure drop calculations across the completions.