bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D structure of a binary ROP-PRONE complex: the final intermediate for a complete set of molecular snapshots of the RopGEF reaction
Authors: Thomas Christoph , Fricke Inka , Weyand Michael , Berken Antje
Published: March 2009

Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) catalyze the activation of GTP-binding proteins (G proteins) in a multi-step reaction comprising intermediary complexes with and without nucleotide. Rho proteins of plants (ROPs) are activated by novel RopGEFs with a catalytic PRONE domain. We have previously characterized structures of GDP-bound ROP and a ternary complex between plant-specific ROP nucleotide exchanger (PRONE) and ROP including loosely bound GDP. Now, we complete the molecular snapshots of the RopGEF reaction with the nucleotide-free ROP-PRONE structure at 2.9 Å. The binary complex surprisingly closely resembles the preceding ternary intermediate including an unusually intact P-loop in the G protein. A striking difference is the prominent contact of the invariant P-loop lysine to a conserved switch II glutamate in ROP, favoring a key role of this interaction in driving out the nucleotide. The nucleotide-free state is supported by additional interactions involving the essential WW-motif in PRONE. We propose that this GEF region stabilizes the intact P-loop conformation, which facilitates re-association with a new nucleotide and further promotes the overall exchange reaction. With our novel structure, we provide further insights into the nucleotide exchange mechanism and present a first example of the complete GEF reaction at a molecular level.
A History of Fire Testing: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Lawson James Randall
Published: March 2009

This paper discusses the breakthroughs in science and engineering that have brought fire testing technology to its current state of maturity and provides insight into the possibilities for future fire test development by highlighting some areas where advancements are needed. The quest for understanding the properties of fire has been a part of the human experience since the first primitive human viewed the glow of a flame potentially 2.5 million years ago, during the Paleolithic Period. Since these early observations, humankind slowly developed the knowledge to use and understand fire. However, the initial revolution in fire testing did not begin until recently, in the 19th century, when the basic tools were developed that allowed for remote measurement of temperatures and heat flow. Discoveries such as the “thermoelectric effect” and the development of the First Law of Thermodynamics led to the creation of tools for calorimetry providing for the measurement of temperatures and heat flux. The second revolution in measuring and understanding fire occurred in the early 20th century with worldwide recognition that scientifically based fire standards were needed to protect life and property. At the same time, engineering innovation developed electromechanical equipment that could automatically record data measured from fire experiments. This advancement in data recording allowed for the detailed study of measured fire behavior. The third revolution in fire testing (measurement technology) occurred in the last half of the 20th century with the development of affordable digital data logging equipment and computers that enhanced data analysis and the development of scientifically based predictive models. Widespread use of technology and computational methods have opened the theoretical world which provides insight into the subtle features of fire dynamics and provides a means for developing a greater understanding of fire test method performance. Fire measurement technology now has the scientific and computational tools to make significant advancements in the development of fire safety standards. Use of these tools has directed attention to improvements needed in testing for structural fire endurance to enhance fire resistant structural designs. This would include, but not be limited to, advancements in testing of structural components, assemblies, and systems under realistic simulations of fire and load conditions. The objective for these new tests would be to enhance structural performance so that uncontrolled building fires result in burnout without partial or total collapse. Additionally, these fire measurement technologies would also lead to improvements in ignition resistant materials, surface flammability, fire growth, smoke, and toxic gas production that will save lives and reduce the high cost of unwanted fires.
Chapter 4-Clinical Perspectives on the Use of Bone Graft Based on Allografts
Authors: Tomford WW , Hofer S , Leopold SS , Jacobs JJ
Published: March 2009

ALLOGRAFT BONE AND BONE GRAFT substitutes based on human allograft are widely used in orthopedic surgery. Some of the more common indications for the use of human bone allograft and its derivatives include the use of large structural allografts in tumor reconstructions, morcellized cancellous grafts for a variety of joint arthroplasty and trauma applications, as well as demineralized bone matrix (DBM) products to augment arthrodesis procedures in the hand, foot, spine, and elsewhere.
Chapter 10-Review of State of the Art: Growth Factor-Based Systems for Use as Bone Graft Substitutes
Authors: Attawia M , Rosier R , Cheung EV , Katti DS , Rosier RN , Laurencin CT
Published: March 2009

IN 1965 MARSHALL R. URIST [1] FIRST demonstrated that osteoinductive substances led to the formation of bone at extraskeletal sites, by observing that a new ossicle had formed after the implantation of demineralized bone matrix in a muscle pouch of a rat. Less than two decades later, Sampath and Reddi [2] in an in vivo bioassay separated insoluble demineralized bone matrix from the soluble morphogenetic protein responsible for this effect, which was named bone morphogenetic protein. Seven years later, Wozney et al. [3] identified the genetic sequence of bone morphogenetic protein, leading to the discovery of its different isoforms and later, in 1990 osteogenetic protein (OP-1) was cloned by Ozkaynak et al. [4].
How resource competition shapes individual life history for nonplastic growth: ungulates in seasonal food environments
Authors: De Roos André M. , Galic Nika , Heesterbeek Hans
Published: March 2009

We analyze an age‐, size‐ and sex‐structured model to investigate how the interplay between individual‐level energy budget dynamics and the feedback of population grazing on resources shapes the individual life history and the dynamics of ungulate populations, living in a predator‐free, seasonal resource environment. We formulate a dynamic energy budget model for individual energetics, which accounts for energy requirements for maintenance and growth, and possibly pregnancy and lactation. Growth in structural mass is assumed prescribed. Dynamics of energy reserves are the resultant of energy acquisition through grazing and suckling of milk and the aforementioned energy‐consuming processes. The dynamic energy budget model is used as the core for an individual‐based population model, which captures general features of ungulate life history and population dynamics, although it is parameterized for a particular system.

Model predictions reveal a characteristic dynamic pattern, in which years with low death tolls (<10% of the population dying) alternate with a single year of high death toll (up to 40% of the population dies). In these “collapse” years almost all individuals younger than 2 years die, creating holes in the population age distribution. The die‐off of these age classes is shown to be caused by the energy requirements for growth that these individuals face. Individuals between 1 and 2 years of age are more at risk than foals, because they are burdened with the legacy of a poor body condition developed throughout their first winter. The characteristic dynamic pattern is more pronounced at high levels of resource productivity. In contrast, neither a period of snow cover, during which all foraging stops, nor a dependence of fecundity on female body condition change dynamics significantly.
High resilience of bryophyte assemblages in streamside compared to upland forests
Authors: Dynesius Mats , Hylander Kristoffer , Nilsson Christer
Published: March 2009

Landscape heterogeneity causes spatial variation in disturbance regimes and resilience. We asked whether the resilience of bryophyte (liverwort and moss) assemblages to clear‐cutting differs between streamside and upland boreal forests in northern Sweden. We hypothesized that bryophyte survival and recolonization rates are higher in streamside areas, thus raising resilience. Conversely, disturbance‐intolerant but also invading species should be more frequent here, potentially reducing resilience. In each of 18 sites, we compared two 0.1‐ha plots (one streamside and one upland) located in old forest that had never been clear‐cut with two matching plots in young stands established after clear‐cutting of old forests 30–50 years earlier. We used the magnitude of the difference in assemblages between old and young stands as a measure of change and, therefore, resilience (large difference implying low resilience). Species assemblages were more resilient in streamside than in upland forests. Species composition changed significantly in upland but not in streamside forests. Reductions in species richness were more pronounced in upland forests for total richness and for eight subgroups of species. Two results indicated lower survival/recolonization in upland forests: (1) species had a stronger association with old stands in upland areas, and (2) among species present in both the old streamside and old upland plot in a site, fewer appeared in the young upland than in the corresponding streamside plot. Simultaneously, a higher proportion of species invaded streamside areas; 40 of the 262 species encountered in streamside forests increased their occupancy by two or more sites compared to only two of 134 species in uplands. We suggest that in boreal forests spatial variation in resilience of assemblages of forest organisms intolerant of canopy removal is related to factors governed mainly by topography. More generally, we argue that landscape‐scale variation in resilience of assemblages is influenced by spatial variation in (1) stress and resource availability, (2) number of disturbance‐intolerant species, and (3) magnitude of environmental changes brought about by a disturbance with a specific intensity. We also suggest that rapid recovery in the short term does not necessarily imply higher long‐term ability to return to the pre‐disturbance state.
Hierarchical models for estimating density from DNA mark–recapture studies
Authors: Gardner Beth , Royle J. Andrew , Wegan Michael T.
Published: March 2009

Genetic sampling is increasingly used as a tool by wildlife biologists and managers to estimate abundance and density of species. Typically, DNA is used to identify individuals captured in an array of traps (e.g., baited hair snares) from which individual encounter histories are derived. Standard methods for estimating the size of a closed population can be applied to such data. However, due to the movement of individuals on and off the trapping array during sampling, the area over which individuals are exposed to trapping is unknown, and so obtaining unbiased estimates of density has proved difficult. We propose a hierarchical spatial capture–recapture model which contains explicit models for the spatial point process governing the distribution of individuals and their exposure to (via movement) and detection by traps. Detection probability is modeled as a function of each individual's distance to the trap. We applied this model to a black bear (Ursus americanus) study conducted in 2006 using a hair‐snare trap array in the Adirondack region of New York, USA. We estimated the density of bears to be 0.159 bears/km2, which is lower than the estimated density (0.410 bears/km2) based on standard closed population techniques. A Bayesian analysis of the model is fully implemented in the software program WinBUGS.
Scale‐dependent effects of habitat on movements and path structure of reef sharks at a predator‐dominated atoll
Authors: Papastamatiou Yannis P. , Lowe Christopher G. , Caselle Jennifer E. , Friedlander Alan M.
Published: March 2009

The effects of habitat on the ecology, movements, and foraging strategies of marine apex predators are largely unknown. We used acoustic telemetry to quantify the movement patterns of blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) at Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, in the Pacific Ocean. Sharks had relatively small home ranges over a timescale of days to weeks (0.55 ± 0.24 km2) and showed strong site fidelity to sand‐flat ledges within the west lagoon over a three‐year period. Sharks showed evidence of diel and tidal movements, and they utilized certain regions of the west lagoon disproportionately. There were ontogenetic shifts in habitat selection, with smaller sharks showing greater selection for sand‐flat habitats, and pups (total length 35–61 cm) utilizing very shallow waters on sand‐flats, potentially as nursery areas. Adult sharks selected ledge habitats and had lower rates of movement when over sand‐flats and ledges than they did over lagoon waters. Fractal analysis of movements showed that over periods of days, sharks used patches that were 3–17% of the scale of their home range. Repeat horizontal movements along ledge habitats consisted of relatively straight movements, which theoretical models consider the most efficient search strategy when forage patches may be spatially and temporally unpredictable. Although sharks moved using a direct walk while in patches, they appeared to move randomly between patches. Microhabitat quantity and quality had large effects on blacktip reef shark movements, which have consequences for the life‐history characteristics of the species and potentially the spatial distribution of behaviorally mediated effects on lower trophic levels throughout the Palmyra ecosystem.
Fear of Violent Crime Among Men and Women on Campus: The Impact of Perceived Risk and Fear of Sexual Assault
Authors: Lane Jodi , Gover Angela R. , Dahod Sara
Published: March 2009

Prior research has consistently shown that women are more afraid of crime than men despite the fact that men are much more likely to be victims of all crime except sexual assault and intimate partner violence. The “shadow of sexual assault” hypothesis argues that women’s fear of sexual assault shadows their fear of other types of crime, particularly violent crime. Building on prior research by Ferraro (1996) and Fisher and Sloan (2003), this study examines the individual and combined impact of perceived risk and fear of sexual assault on fear of robbery and assault among college students. Findings indicate that fear of sexual assault is the stronger predictor of fear of crime for women and that perceived risk is the stronger predictor for men.
Influence of sediment metal spiking procedures on copper bioavailability and toxicity in the estuarine bivalveIndoaustriella lamprelli
Authors: Hutchins Colin M. , Teasdale Peter R. , Lee Shing Y. , Simpson Stuart L.
Published: March 2009

The effect of three methods for spiking sediments with Cu on the reburial behavior, mortality, and tissue Cu accumulation of a lucinid bivalve (Indoaustriella lamprelli) and the influence of the bivalve on the sediment geochemistry were investigated. Methods used to create Cu concentration gradients were direct spiking with and without pH adjustment to pH 7 and also dilution of sediment, previously spiked with Cu and adjusted to pH 7, using a low-Cu sediment (known to produce the lowest pore-water Cu concentrations). The presence of the bivalve within Cu-spiked sediment increased the flux of Cu and Mn to overlying waters at high Cu concentrations (550 μg/g). Bivalve behavioral response, metal accumulation, and mortality varied with the method by which Cu was spiked. In direct Cu-spiked sediment, the bivalves were inactive at concentrations of 550 and 1,100 μg/g, with mortality induced in sediment spiked with 1,100 μg/g (pH 6.5-7.1). Complete bivalve inactivity was observed only at 1,100 μg/g in direct Cu-spiked sediment with pH adjustment, whereas percentage reburial was reduced to 30% at 1,100 μg/g for sediment prepared by the dilution method. Relative reburial rates in the three spiked sediment types (direct « direct pH-7 < dilution) were proportional to dissolved Cu concentrations in the overlying water. Bivalve reburial, in addition to the method of Cu addition, affected tissue Cu accumulation. Inhibition of bivalve reburial decreased the amount of accumulated Cu, confounding relationships between tissue Cu and pore water, overlying water, or extractable metal fractions.
FORMATION OF PARTIALLY AND FULLY ELABORATED GENERALIZED EQUIVALENCE CLASSES
Authors: Fields Lanny , Moss Patricia
Published: March 2009

Most complex categories observed in real‐world settings consist of perceptually disparate stimuli, such as a picture of a person's face, the person's name as written, and the same name as heard, as well as dimensional variants of some or all of these stimuli. The stimuli function as members of a single partially or fully elaborated generalized equivalence class when they occasion the mutual selection of each other after the establishment of some subset of relations among the stimuli. Indeed, it is these generalized relations among stimuli that enable an individual to respond appropriately to the inevitable flux of natural environments. The present experiments involved procedures for producing both types of generalized equivalence class and for evaluating their retention. Granting the formal and functional similarities that exist between generalized equivalence classes and natural categories, natural kinds, and fuzzy superordinate classes, the variables responsible for the emergence of the former might also account for the emergence of the latter three phenomena. In Experiment 1, After forming an A'—B' class, a B'—C relation was trained and generalization tests were conducted with B'—C, C—B',A'—C, and C'—A. Two of 5 participants passed the tests documenting the formation of A'—B'—C classes. Failures occurred in the A'—C and C—A' tests but not the B'—C and C—B' tests. Failures were also correlated with time between A'—B' class formation and C‐based testing and with the absence of baseline confirmation when training and testing were separated by about one week. Experiment 2 replicated Experiment 1 but presented baseline confirmation probes immediatley prior to testing when training and testing were separated by one week; all participants then formed partially elaborated generalized equivalence classes. In Experiment 3, 5 of 6 participants formed fully elaborated generalized equivalence classes, represented as A'=B'=C'.
Association Between Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms and Severe Chronic Periodontitis in a Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Chunxian , Zhao Hongyu , Xiao Limin , Xie Chengjie , Fan Weihua , Sun Shuyu , Xie Baoyi , Zhang Jincai
Published: March 2009

Background: Chronic periodontitis (CP) exhibits inflammation and alveolar bone loss, and severe forms of periodontitis are suggested to have a genetic basis. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) regulates bone metabolism and inflammation‐related genes, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the VDR gene may affect the functional activity of the VDR protein in CP. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between VDR SNPs and severe CP in a Chinese population.

Methods: DNA was obtained from 107 patients with severe CP and 121 control subjects. The BsmI, TaqI, ApaI, and FokI SNPs of VDR genes were investigated by restriction fragment length polymorphism of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products. The digested PCR products were electrophoresed on an 8% polyacrylamide gel and developed by the DNA silver staining method.

Results: The distribution of VDR TaqI genotypes and alleles between the two groups was significantly different (P = 0.019 and P = 0.039, respectively). The TT genotype and T allele seemed to increase the susceptibility of severe CP (odds ratio, 2.75; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17 to 6.47; odds ratio, 2.28, 95% CI: 1.02 to 5.06, respectively) in Chinese populations. There was no significant difference in the genotype distribution or the allele frequencies of VDR BsmI, ApaI, or FokI between the two groups.

Conclusion: TaqI SNP of VDR gene might be associated with severe CP in Chinese patients.
Assessment of Chromosome 19 for Genetic Association in Severe Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Tabeta Koichi , Shimada Yasuko , Tai Hideaki , Ishihara Yuichi , Noguchi Toshihide , Soga Yoshihiko , Takashiba Shogo , Suzuki Genki , Kobayashi Terukazu , Oka Akira , Kobayashi Tetsuo , Yamazaki Kazuhisa , Inoko Hidetoshi , Yoshie Hiromasa
Published: March 2009

Background:A genome‐association study is a powerful tool for analyzing small gene effects in complex diseases such as chronic periodontitis (CP), although the cost of analysis is prohibitive. We designed a study using the DNA pooling method, which could be a breakthrough in lowering such costs. This study was conducted to assess the genetic association in severe CP in a Japanese population.

Methods:We adopted a DNA pooling method by genotyping 454 densely spaced microsatellite (MS) markers in chromosome 19 as a pilot study, with the possibility of future use in a whole‐genome study. This can reduce the high cost and technical burden, which is generally unavoidable in a genomic association study. Pooled DNA samples from 300 case subjects, 300 control subjects, and 200 systemically healthy subjects were screened by genotyping MS markers. The case‐control association in the candidate region was analyzed by individual typing of MS and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Results:The single MS marker allele 17 of 1902G31 was isolated in association with severe CP (P =0.0012 for 2 × 2;P <0.046 for 2 × m, where m refers to the number of polymorphic alleles observed in a population). No other SNP or MS polymorphism hypothesized to affect biologic functions in the critical region was found in the linkage disequilibrium block analysis.

Conclusions:We efficiently isolated the susceptible locus for severe CP in chromosome 19 and identified a useful marker to evaluate the risk for disease. This approach can be applied to a whole‐genome study in severe CP.
First Regional Selective Packerless Acid Fracture Stimulation With Coiled Tubing: A Documented Case History From Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bustin Baron , Sierra Leopoldo
Published: March 2009

A review of stimulation methods previously used in the Hanifa formation (primarily diesel emulsified acid/visco- elastic diverting systems) performed during the first two quarters of 2005, revealed that while initial post-stimulation vertical or deviated well performance was typically improved, it was also short-lived. All the wells exhibited a gradual loss in productivity after the stimulation treatments. Furthermore, in horizontal wells, the problem was aggravated as there is not enough control of acid placement over long open hole carbonate intervals where permeability or damage contrast exists; requiring a deeper matrix stimulation.

Exploring improved methods for stimulation, a multidisciplinary team composed of Saudi Aramco and service company representatives were brought together to review various stimulation methods. After looking at conventional hydraulic fracturing as a method of deeper formation stimulation than matrix acidizing, it was concluded that over the long open wellbore intervals, there would not be sufficient control of fracture placement, fracture growth and propagation, and interaction with the natural fracturing present in the Hanifa. Additionally, the typical Hanifa completion strings have completion size restrictions which limit the options for rigless stimulations.

After the review of several options, including coiled tubing (CT) proppant fracs, and stimulation using multiple discrete mechanically isolation devices like plug or packers, the team selected the Packer-Less Selective Acid Fracture (PLSAF) stimulation using CT as the stimulation method most desirable for the limitations intrinsic to the Hanifa formation for the following reasons: PLSAF with CT offers control of fracture placement in an open hole environment,PLSAF can achieve multiple treatments without mechanical isolation,PLSAF can provide moderately deep, controlled fractures with reduced risk to connect the generated fracture with the water sources.

PLSAF was applied successfully in one well during the third quarter of 2005 where 10 selective acid fractures were placed along the open hole section. This paper presents the long-term evaluation and benefits of the first regional application of the PLSAF in Saudi Arabia.
Comparison of Computational Fluid Dynamics of Erosion in Coiled Tubing on Reel-to-Injector Flow Area
Authors: Bailey M. , Blanco I. L. , Rosine R. S.
Published: March 2009

Coiled tubing (CT) is a well-intervention service used as a cost-effective means of servicing oil and gas wells. In the last few years, more has been learned about the actual flow through the CT. Some of the knowledge has been gained by actual full- scale testing and job conditions. In recent years, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is being used to gain further knowledge while saving the costs of capital and resource investment for testing. CFD can also generate flow patterns, fluid-flow velocity profiles, secondary-flow regimes, and erosion. This information is extremely difficult to obtain during normal testing. Understanding these different parameters can help in tubing management.

This paper discusses the results of CFD modeling of erosion with actual field data, particularly around the tubing-guide area during pumping. It will compare the actual data to the CFD-generated solution. Once the data has been validated, the CFD solution can be used to enhance a CT predicting model.
Spoolable Connector for Large-OD Coiled Tubing
Authors: Ehtesham Asif , Lucas Bryan , Zhong Allan
Published: March 2009

This paper documents continuation of developments previously reported in SPE 113037 (Ehtesham et al. 2008). After comprehensive testing and the successful development of the first prototype of 1.75-in. outside diameter (OD) coiled tubing (CT), spoolable connectors have been developed with OD sizes ranging from 1.5 in. to 2.875 in., and in different wall thicknesses. An adjustable-height, hydraulic installation stand has also been developed. This paper discusses the details of the installation stand, associated installation tooling, such as the weld-seam removal tool and the hydraulic roll-on tool, and design and testing of the spoolable connector.

The simultaneous development of spoolable connectors in CT sizes of 1.50 in, 1.75 in., 2.0 in., 2.375 in. and 2.875 in. provided a better understanding of the fatigue behavior of spoolable connectors and their parent tubing. One of the challenges encountered was the ability to pass tools, such as chemical cutters. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has been used to allow quick design changes and verification to permit custom applications, such as larger inside diameter (ID). Physical tests, such as the fatigue machine test with pressure and the tensile and torque test, will be discussed along with virtual studies of BOP shear-ram functionality on spoolable connectors and flow properties through ID restriction.

The installation stand for field usage of spoolable connectors is designed to overcome obstacles, such as reverse bending and straightening of pipe. The stand can be raised 16 ft to accommodate a variety of spooling-drum heights. The stand also offers two independent hydraulic clamps on each end to grab the pipe more securely during installation. A hydraulic winch is provided on the stand to grab the ends of both the donor and receiver spools. The stand offers flexibility for multiple installation configurations, such as bottom-to-bottom, top-to-top, and application to tapered OD strings, without much intervention needed from rig cranes. The stand is hydraulically operated and does not require a hot work permit.
Successful Deployments of a New Well-Intervention Methodology in Horizontal Wellbores
Authors: Hansen Henning , Wilberg Terje K. , Stokkeland Kaj , Male Peter T. , Kluth Richard J.
Published: March 2009

This paper describes and demonstrates how a patented new wellbore intervention solution can be deployed in long horizontal wells holding Fibre Optic Sensing devices including DTS (distributed temperature sensing), Point Pressure and Motion sensors performing logging services to evaluate the Inflow Performance along the reservoir sections. The paper also provides a description of the intervention system with a short introduction on how the final system emerged from the idea stage. Also, we provide two Case Histories - a horizontal oil producer with 2-phase flow, and horizontal water injector. The planning- and operational execution phases are briefly described. The paper closes with a brief conclusion of what has been achieved and what more this technology may be able to in the near future. The methodology describes can be seen as a 3rd wellbore intervention method, in addition to coiled tubing (CT) and wireline.
Nonexplosive Tubing Cutter for Safe, Efficient Pipe Recovery Operations
Authors: Campbell Scott , Carter Brian , Amiel Jean-Paul
Published: March 2009

Pipe recovery is extremely important in modern well intervention programs. Tubing can become stuck in a wellbore for a variety of reasons, requiring the operator to determine the location of the stuck point and to subsequently conduct a back-off or cutting operation. These operations allow removal of "free" sections of tubing, giving the operator greater access to remaining sections using more robust fishing equipment. Conventional cutting devices have safety, operational, and logistical drawbacks. Chemical cutters use harsh, corrosive chemicals that require trained / certified operators and special storage – handling procedures. Jet cutters use explosives to sever pipe, leaving a flared and sometimes difficult fishing profile. Explosives require licensed operators and storage facilities and can be difficult to transport globally.

A new development in pipe recovery methods is the motorized cutting tool (MCT). The MCT provides the industry with a reliable and safe alternative to explosive and chemical cutting devices. It is an efficient single run solution, whether requiring single or multiple cuts. The non-explosive and compact cutter addresses these challenges; providing a tool that improves performance and efficiency while eliminating safety concerns. Globally transported in a moment's notice, the surface monitoring capability provides the only system in the industry capable of verifying the cut during the operation. The unique design of the tool enables making cuts with the tubing in either tension or compression.

In this paper, the authors will review the basic design and construction of the MCT. They will go on to describe the various operations performed; ranging from single cuts to multiple cuts in one trip, various tubing sizes, tubing in compression or tension. Following this, they will go on to conclude how this system has demonstrated efficiency improvements while eliminating safety concerns compared to existing pipe recovery methods.
Safety and Operations Measures Taken by One Company to Conduct Onshore Rigless Critical Well Intervention Operations in Water, Oil, and Gas Wells
Authors: Al Jubran Hasan H. , Al Bu Hassan Shaker A.
Published: March 2009

Saudi Aramco has developed over years high standard safety guidelines and rules governing any well intervention in all types of wells. Also, the company has developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for all well intervention operations using slickline, E-line and Coiled Tubing. These safety and operating standards are being reviewed and revised as required.

In this paper we will share with you these standards and guidelines as well as their impact on all successful well intervention jobs we have done so far. The paper also will highlight some important case histories where these standards and guidelines were successfully implemented.
Lessons Learned From Magnolia Thru-Tubing Recompletions Using Coiled Tubing
Authors: Fleming Gavin , Marti Srinagesh K. , Kartika Ign
Published: March 2009

ConocoPhillips is developing the Magnolia field with a Tension Leg Platform (TLP) in 4,674 ft of water at Garden Banks blocks 783-784 in the Gulf of Mexico. The field consists of an extended tension leg platform containing full processing capability with oil and gas export pipelines. To date the field has produced 35 million barrels of oil equivalent. The base development plan includes both rig and thru-tubing operations. Since first oil in December 2004 eight thru-tubing operations with coil tubing have been conducted on the platform. Included in this work were two thru-tubing fracpack recompletions.

This paper will review the objectives, design considerations, execution results and lessons learned from the two thru-tubing recompletion projects using coil tubing. Some of the major challenges that had to be addressed for the operation involved coiled tubing and wire line operations in the deep, high angle wellbores, gravel pack screen selection and qualification testing, thru-tubing perforating and coiled tubing screen deployment challenges.

The results from both wells will be discussed. The first thru-tubing recompletion had to be abandoned due to inability to washout sand fill and gravel pack screen movement. The lessons learned from the operations on this well were applied to the second recompletion with very successful results. A special gun loading scheme was used for thru-tubing perforating to maximize entry hole for gravel pack completion and minimize near wellbore issues during the frac-pack operation. The methods, procedures, equipment and fluids used to improve wash out operations in high deviation and wide range of IDs will be shared. A down hole video camera was used to inspect a locked out safety valve and perform casing and packer inspection for integrity. Changes have been made to the gravel pack release tool based on results from the first well. The need for proper centralization and use of an indexing tool to improve reliability of thru-tubing retainers in deviated wellbores has been identified. A total of 19 key learning have been identified that will be provided. These lessons learned and best practices developed for thru-tubing recompletions will be shared. These will be invaluable to all future Magnolia and other deep water well work over operations.
Memory-Enabled Pulsed-Neutron Logging Tool Reduces Cased-Hole Formation Evaluation and Diagnostic Costs
Authors: Campbell Scott , Carter Brian , Amiel Jean Paul
Published: March 2009

Over the life of a reservoir, it is often necessary to perform monitoring operations on producing wells to verify reservoir dynamics, for example fluid contacts or fluid movement behind pipe. As the wells are produced, a change in depth of the fluid contacts provides information about the capacity of the well to continue producing hydrocarbons over time. Fluid movement behind pipe can be indicative of serious well integrity issues that often lead to costly unplanned interventions.

Pulsed neutron tools are ideal for performing these monitoring operations because they measure sensitive volumes behind the pipe; they operate in a wide range of formation and borehole salinities and are capable of locating bypassed pay zones where previous open hole data was either unreliable or non-existent.Until now, these tools have required the use of a Wireline unit to provide power, conveyance and a means to collect the data on surface. The footprint of a Wireline unit can be quite large, many times necessitating the use of third-party vessels to transport or house the Wireline unit during the logging operation. Mobilization of these assets can be costly and time consuming, complicating the decision making process and deferring production.

New and unique power management technology allows the Pulsed Neutron Decay – Spectrum tool (MPND-S) to operate safely and efficiently in memory mode on battery power, eliminating the need for a Wireline unit or Wireline. It can be conveyed on slickline, coiled tubing, or even Wireline, reducing the costs associated with mobilizing additional heavy assets. It can also be quickly deployed to remote locations, simplifying logistics, minimizing operating time and increasing safety.

In this paper, the authors will review the design and construction of the MPND-S. They will describe various operations that have been performed and how the system has demonstrated improvements in efficiency and safety when compared to standard industry technology.
Green Market Geography: The Spatial Clustering of Hybrid Vehicles and LEED Registered Buildings
Authors: Kahn Matthew E , Vaughn Ryan K.
Published: March 2009

This paper uses zip code level data to investigate the spatial distribution of two major "green" products. Using data from California, we document where hybrid vehicles cluster within the state. Using data for the entire nation, we study where LEED registered buildings cluster. By creating a novel measure of community environmentalism based on revealed preference political data, we document that green products cluster in environmentalist communities.
Dietary Fat Intake and Cognitive Decline in Women With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Devore Elizabeth E. , Stampfer Meir J. , Breteler Monique M.B. , Rosner Bernard , Hee Kang Jae , Okereke Olivia , Hu Frank B. , Grodstein Francine
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE

Individuals with type 2 diabetes have high risk of late-life cognitive impairment, yet little is known about strategies to modify risk. Targeting insulin resistance and vascular complications—both associated with cognitive decline—may be a productive approach. We investigated whether dietary fat, which modulates glucose and lipid metabolism, might influence cognitive decline in older adults with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Beginning in 1995–1999, we evaluated cognitive function in 1,486 Nurses' Health Study participants, aged ≥70 years, with type 2 diabetes; second evaluations were conducted 2 years later. Dietary fat intake was assessed regularly beginning in 1980; we considered average intake from 1980 (at midlife) through initial cognitive interview and also after diabetes diagnosis. We used multivariate-adjusted linear regression models to obtain mean differences in cognitive decline across tertiles of fat intake.

RESULTS

Higher intakes of saturated and trans fat since midlife, and lower polyunsaturated to saturated fat ratio, were each highly associated with worse cognitive decline in these women. On a global score averaging all six cognitive tests, mean decline among women in the highest trans fat tertile was 0.15 standard units worse than that among women in the lowest tertile (95% CI −0.24 to −0.06, P = 0.002); this mean difference was comparable with the difference we find in women 7 years apart in age. Results were similar when we analyzed diet after diabetes diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that lower intakes of saturated and trans fat and higher intake of polyunsaturated fat relative to saturated fat may reduce cognitive decline in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Pathophysiology and genetic factors in moyamoya disease
Authors: Achrol Achal S. , Guzman Raphael , Lee Marco , Steinberg Gary K.
Published: March 2009

Moyamoya disease is an uncommon cerebrovascular condition characterized by progressive stenosis of the bilateral internal carotid arteries with compensatory formation of an abnormal network of perforating blood vessels providing collateral circulation.

The etiology and pathogenesis of moyamoya disease remain unclear. Evidence from histological studies, proteomics, and endothelial progenitor cell analyses suggests new theories underlying the cause of vascular anomalies, including moyamoya disease.

Familial moyamoya disease has been noted in as many as 15% of patients, indicating an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern with incomplete penetrance. Genetic analyses in familial moyamoya disease and genome-wide association studies represent promising strategies for elucidating the pathophysiology of this condition.

In this review, the authors discuss recent studies that have investigated possible mechanisms underlying the etiology of moyamoya disease, including stem cell involvement and genetic factors. They also discuss future research directions that promise not only to offer new insights into the origin of moyamoya disease but to enhance our understanding of new vessel formation in the CNS as it relates to stroke, vascular anomalies, and tumor growth.
Wildtierökonomik – Analyse der Wildtierbewirtschaftung in der Schweiz (Essay) | Wildlife economics – An analysis of wild animal management in Switzerland (essay)
Authors: Liebig Lars
Published: March 2009

Wildlife economics is a special way of thinking in which theoretically accepted and empirically founded models form the basis. Such make it possible to convert the wildlife/forest conflict situation into a man-to-man conflict. These models are tied up with specific conditions. As long as these are accepted, and on the basis of the analysis results, statements on the creation of institutional and organisational frameworks for wildlife management can be formulated, without being obliged to include the density of the animal population.

The wildlife population is more often than not managed in common by various management groups. In a market characterized by competitiveness, all wildlife management interests can be integrated into the models of those who hunt as a leisure time activity and those of the land owners interested in a maximum profit. When the leisure time hunter and the land owner are not one and the same person, the optimal wildlife densities for the individuals concerned are always different. Conflicts of interest in shared management result from an unequal level of information between the principals concerned and a lack of feasibility in observing whether, during the phase of carrying out the contract, the partners have fulfilled their contractual obligations. Under these conditions, and if one accepts that the current animal population cannot be monitored, self-implementing agreements between leisure time hunters and land owners, as an institutional organisational arrangement, offer a possibility for settling conflicts. In order to be able to introduce such a model of wild animal management in Switzerland, the right to hunt would have to be associated with land ownership. Such a new ruling within the institutions would offer the possibility for the people directly concerned, that is to say the land owners and the hunters, to be able to settle between themselves conflicts connected with the management of wildlife, for example when wild animals cause damage.
Jahrringe, Lawinen und eine zerstörte Alphütte | Tree rings, avalanches and a destroyed cottage
Authors: Dängeli Susanne , Bollschweiler Michelle , Stoffel Markus
Published: March 2009

In winter 1999, several buildings and cottages have been destroyed by a large snow avalanche in and around the village of Evolene (Valais, Switzerland). The age of the cottages destroyed by the event was supposed to be considerable, but the individual buildings were not dated. It was therefore the goal of this study to assess the age of one of the cottages with dendrochronological methods. The investigation was based on a local reference chronology composed of 19 reference larch trees (Larix decidua Mill.) from the Evolene region. The reference chronology was built through optical and statistical analyses of the samples as well as crossdating methods. The chronology extends back to 1642, with a minimum sample depth of three trees from 1654 and five trees from 1725. Through the comparison of the reference chronology with a piece of wood from the destroyed cottage, it was possible to date the outermost ring of the construction wood to AD 1693. The age of the dated construction wood suggests that the flow path of the 1999 avalanche was unusual and that it affected a sector that has, most probably, not suffered from similar events since at least 300 years.
Impact of Methylglyoxal and High Glucose Co-treatment on Human Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Shu , Chan Wen-Hsiung
Published: March 2009

Hyperglycemia and elevation of methylglyoxal (MG) are symptoms of diabetes mellitus (DM). In this report, we show that co-treatment of human mononuclear cells (HMNCs) with MG (5 μM) and high glucose (HG; 15 – 30 mM) induces apoptosis or necrosis. HG/MG co-treatment directly enhanced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in HMNCs, leading to decreased intracellular ATP levels, which control cell death via apoptosis or necrosis. Concentrations of 5 μM MG and 15 mM glucose significantly increased cytoplasmic free calcium and nitric oxide (NO) levels, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), activation of caspases-9 and -3, and cell death. In contrast, no apoptotic biochemical changes were detected in HMNCs treated with 5 μM MG and 25 mM glucose, which appeared to undergo necrosis. Pretreatment with nitric oxide (NO) scavengers inhibited apoptotic biochemical changes induced by 5 μM MG/15 mM glucose, and increased the gene expression levels of p53 and p21 involved in apoptotic signaling. The results collectively suggest that the treatment dosage of MG and glucose determines the mode of cell death (apoptosis vs. necrosis) of HMNCs, and that both ROS and NO play important roles in MG/HG-induced apoptosis.
Visual Sensor Technology for Advanced Surveillance Systems: Historical View, Technological Aspects and Research Activities in Italy
Authors: Foresti Gian Luca , Micheloni Christian , Piciarelli Claudio , Snidaro Lauro
Published: March 2009

The paper is a survey of the main technological aspects of advanced visual-based surveillance systems. A brief historical view of such systems from the origins to nowadays is given together with a short description of the main research projects in Italy on surveillance applications in the last twenty years. The paper then describes the main characteristics of an advanced visual sensor network that (a) directly processes locally acquired digital data, (b) automatically modifies intrinsic (focus, iris) and extrinsic (pan, tilt, zoom) parameters to increase the quality of acquired data and (c) automatically selects the best subset of sensors in order to monitor a given moving object in the observed environment.
Detection of Biomolecular Binding Through Enhancement of Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) by Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Kim Hyung Min , Jin Seung Min , Lee Seok Kee , Kim Min-Gon , Shin Yong-Beom
Published: March 2009

To amplify the difference in localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) spectra of gold nano-islands due to intermolecular binding events, gold nanoparticles were used. LSPR-based optical biosensors consisting of gold nano-islands were readily made on glass substrates using evaporation and heat treatment. Streptavidin (STA) and biotinylated bovine serum albumin (Bio-BSA) were chosen as the model receptor and the model analyte, respectively, to demonstrate the effectiveness of this detection method. Using this model system, we were able to enhance the sensitivity in monitoring the binding of Bio-BSA to gold nano-island surfaces functionalized with STA through the addition of gold nanoparticle-STA conjugates. In addition, SU-8 well chips with gold nano-island surfaces were fabricated through a conventional UV patterning method and were then utilized for image detection using the attenuated total reflection mode. These results suggest that the gold nano-island well chip may have the potential to be used for multiple and simultaneous detection of various bio-substances.