bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of a block cave from time-lapse passive source body-wave traveltime tomography
Authors: Mercier Jean-Philippe , de Beer Willem , Mercier Jean-Pascal , Morris Simon
Published: March 2015

Most underground mines are equipped with microseismic monitoring systems that allow the detection, location, and characterization of microseismic events. Microseismic events can be exploited to understand the rock mass response to mining. However, seismicity provides information only for regions that are seismically active. Although some information on nonseismically active regions can be obtained from point measurements and numerical modeling, these methods suffer from limitations of their own. Passive source traveltime body-wave tomography (passive source tomography [PST]) uses information readily collected by microseismic monitoring systems, namely, the P- and/or S-wave traveltimes and microseismic event hypocenter locations. This technique allowes the simultaneous estimation of the velocity distribution between sensors and microseismic events and the correction of microseismic event hypocenter locations. In this paper, we present an application of time-lapse PST to the Northparkes Mines E26 Lift 2 block cave showing that PST can be used to obtain information on evolution and distribution of seismic velocities, leading to a better understanding of stress distribution and redistribution and of rock mass behavior during the development and production phases. In particular, we found that (1) the magnitude of the velocity perturbation varied through time and appeared to be strongly correlated with the intensity of microseismic activity, the mining rate, and the nature of the mining activity, (2) the velocity models provided information that allowed for the inference of the cave geometry and its evolution through time, (3) the stress distributions inferred from the velocity model were not fully consistent with a widely accepted conceptual stress redistribution model, which may reflect the significant influence of rock mass inhomogeneities and the mining sequence, (4) seismicity was found in regions in which velocity was higher and lower than the background velocity, and (5) there was no obvious correlation between geology and velocity distribution and evolution.
An example of the measurement and practical applications of time-lapse seismic attenuation
Authors: Blanchard Thomas D. , Delommot Pauline
Published: March 2015

There is much theoretical and laboratory evidence for fluid-related mechanisms causing attenuation in the seismic bandwidth; however, the number of measurements made from seismic reflection data is limited. We measured attenuation changes in a reservoir undergoing depletion and, in some locations, water injection. Two different applications of these measurements were then found. First, we used the measured attenuation changes to perform a time-lapse [Formula: see text] correction to improve 4D inversion results in an underlying reservoir. Second, we attempted to integrate the measured attenuation changes with changes in traveltime to try to separate gas and water saturations in the reservoir. We determined that large and coherent time-lapse attenuation measurements can occur in reservoirs undergoing production and that the nature of this attenuation when averaged across a region of the reservoir was consistent with a constant-[Formula: see text] hypothesis. Measurements were of good quality and were coherent with the geologic (such as channels) and dynamic characteristics (such as gas coming out of solution) of the reservoir. Finally, we evaluated the possible implications of such data sets upon enhancing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms controlling attenuation in the seismic bandwidth by providing favorable conditions for canceling spectral contamination and the fact that we have knowledge of the physical changes occurring within the reservoir.
Structural joint inversion coupled with Euler deconvolution of isolated gravity and magnetic anomalies
Authors: Fregoso Emilia , Gallardo Luis A. , García-Abdeslem Juan
Published: March 2015

We generalized the Euler deconvolution method to a joint scheme, which consists of locating the horizontal and vertical positions of the top of potential-field 3D sources. These results were then used to constrain the depth to the top of the models obtained by cross-gradient joint 3D inversions, imposing fixed known values in the a priori models. The coupling of both methods produced more realistic density and magnetization models for separate and joint inversions, relative to those obtained by applying cross-gradient joint inversion only. This strategy was tested on a 3D synthetic experiment, and on a real field data set from the northwest region of the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico. After locating the vertical position of the source, the algorithm uses this information to obtain density and magnetization models that enhanced their structural compatibility and reduces the ambiguity on the interpretation of their structural characteristics laterally and at surface.
Assessment of 4D seismic repeatability and CO2 detection limits using a sparse permanent land array at the Aquistore CO2 storage site
Authors: Roach Lisa A. N. , White Donald J. , Roberts Brian
Published: March 2015

Two 3D time-lapse seismic surveys were acquired in 2012 and 2013 at the Aquistore [Formula: see text] storage site prior to the start of [Formula: see text] injection. Using these surveys, we determined the background time-lapse noise at the site and assessed the feasibility of using a sparse areal permanent receiver array as a monitoring tool. Applying a standard processing sequence to these data, we adequately imaged the reservoir at 3150–3350 m depth. Evaluation of the impact of each processing step on the repeatability revealed a general monotonic increase in similarity between the data sets as a function of processing. The prestack processing sequence reduced the normalized root mean squared difference (nrms) from 1.13 between the raw stacks to 0.13 after poststack time migration. The postmigration cross-equalization sequence further reduced the global nrms to 0.07. A simulation of the changes in seismic response due to a range of [Formula: see text] injection scenarios suggested that [Formula: see text] was detectable within the reservoir at the Aquistore site provided that zones of greater thickness than 6–13 m have reached [Formula: see text] saturations of greater than 5%.
Horizon volumes with interpreted constraints
Authors: Wu Xinming , Hale Dave
Published: March 2015

Horizons are geologically significant surfaces that can be extracted from seismic images. Color coding of horizons based on amplitude or other attributes can help reveal ancient sedimentary environments and structural features. Extracted horizons are also used for building structure models and stratigraphic interpretations. We propose two methods for constructing seismic horizons aligned with reflectors in a 3D seismic image. The first method generates horizons one at a time; the second method generates an entire volume of horizons at once by first computing a relative geologic time volume from seismic normal vectors. Rather than gradually building a horizon by extending one or more seed points to a surface along seismic reflectors, both of our methods generate whole horizons at once by solving partial differential equations derived from seismic normal vectors. The most significant new aspect of both methods is the ability to specify, perhaps interactively during interpretation, a small number of control points that may be scattered throughout a 3D seismic image. Experiments revealed that with our method, control points enable the extraction of more accurate horizons from seismic images in which noise, unconformities, and faults are apparent. These points represent constraints that we implemented as preconditioners in the conjugate gradient method used to construct horizons.
Amplitude-variation-with-offset and prestack-waveform inversion: A direct comparison using a real data example from the Rock Springs Uplift, Wyoming, USA
Authors: Mallick Subhashis , Adhikari Samar
Published: March 2015

Recent advances in seismic data acquisition and processing allow routine extraction of offset-/angle-dependent reflection amplitudes from prestack seismic data for quantifying subsurface lithologic and fluid properties. Amplitude-variation-with-offset (AVO) inversion is the most commonly used practice for such quantification. Although quite successful, AVO has a few shortcomings primarily due to the simplicity in its inherent assumptions, and for any quantitative estimation of reservoir properties, they are generally interpreted in combination with other information. In recent years, waveform-based inversions have gained popularity in reservoir characterization and depth imaging. Going beyond the simple assumptions of AVO and using wave equation solutions, these methods have been effective in accurately predicting the subsurface properties. Developments of these waveform inversions have so far been along two lines: (1) the methods that use a locally 1D model of the subsurface for each common midpoint and use an analytical solution to the wave equation for forward modeling and (2) the methods that do not make any 1D assumption but use an approximate numerical solution to the wave equation in 2D or 3D for forward modeling. Routine applications of these inversions are, however, still computationally demanding. We described a multilevel parallelization of elastic-waveform inversion methodology under a 1D assumption that allowed its application in a reasonable time frame. Applying AVO and waveform inversion on a single data set from the Rock Springs Uplift, Wyoming, USA, and comparing them with one another, we also determined that the waveform-based method was capable of obtaining a much superior description of subsurface properties compared with AVO. We concluded that the waveform inversions should be the method of choice for reservoir property estimation as high-performance computers become commonly available.
Probabilistic inversion of airborne electromagnetic data under spatial constraints
Authors: Hauser Juerg , Gunning James , Annetts David
Published: March 2015

Probabilistic 1D inversions of airborne electromagnetic (AEM) surveys allow an exhaustive search of model space for each station, but they often assume that there is no spatial correlation between neighboring stations. This can result in abrupt transverse model discontinuities when attempting to construct a 3D model. In contrast to this, fully spatially regularized deterministic inversions can take spatial correlation between 1D models into account, but they do not explore the model space sufficiently to be able to evaluate model robustness. The Bayesian parametric bootstrap (BPB) approach that we developed is a practical compromise between computationally expensive exhaustive search techniques and computationally efficient deterministic inversions. Using a 1D kernel, we inverted for the interfaces, layer properties, and related uncertainties, taking lateral spatial correlations and additional prior information into account. Numerical examples revealed that a BPB technique was likely to explore the model space sufficiently for nonpathological situations. Using a subset of a large AEM survey collected in northwest Australia for aquifer mapping, we show how the BPB approach can be used to produce a spatially coherent map of the base of the Broome sandstone aquifer. The recovered uncertainties, which are likely to be one of the main sources of uncertainty in any groundwater model, exhibited the well-known increase in uncertainty of a depth to interface with increasing depth to the interface.
Power line ground resistance detection using helicopter electromagnetic systems
Authors: Yin Changchun , Wang Ruo
Published: March 2015

Power line grounding can be a serious concern for the power supply industry. Only a small amount of ground resistance is acceptable because a good electric contact of power line towers with the earth reduces the possibility of the natural hazard associated with lightning. We investigated the possibility of using helicopter-borne electromagnetic (HEM) apparatus to detect the ground resistances of power line towers. Two induction systems were considered: a transmitter-earth-receiver system and a power line loop-earth-receiver system. The transmitter-earth-receiver system built the background signal in the HEM receiver, whereas the power line loop-earth-receiver system produced the signal used for resolving the power line ground resistances. By ignoring the mutual coupling between the two systems, we calculated the induced electromotive forces in the power line loop above which the HEM bird was flown and its two immediate neighbor loops. We replaced other loops along the power line with the Norton-Thevinin equivalence and solved the current flow in the power line loop by the mesh current method. Using the current in the power line loop as induction source, we calculated the electromagnetic responses in the HEM receiver from the power line loop-earth-receiver system. For identification of the poorly grounded towers, we introduced ratios of in-phase and quadrature to signal amplitude and the HEM phase. We evaluated numerical experiments showing that these parameters can well identify power line towers with high ground resistances, and they were insensitive to the flight altitude and direction. Moreover, we also took the catenaries of the power line into consideration so that the elevation differences between towers resulting from rugged mountains could be easily incorporated into the interpretation. We considered vertical coaxial (VCA) and horizontal coplanar (HCP) coil configurations. It was found that the signal for HCP coil has multiple peaks, whereas the VCA coil signal has only a single peak, so we recommend the VCA coil array for power line ground resistance detection. The inversion of synthetic data showed that the power line ground resistances can be resolved from the HEM survey.
Volume rendering of enigmatic high-amplitude anomalies in southeast Brazil: A workflow to distinguish lithologic features from fluid accumulations
Authors: Alves Tiago M. , Omosanya Kamal’deen , Gowling Phalene
Published: March 2015

High-quality 3D seismic data are used to extract and isolate high-amplitude anomalies so that fluid-related features, magmatic intrusions, and mass-transport deposits can be interpreted. The use of advanced seismic interpretation tools such as volume rendering and attribute extraction replaces the “traditional” horizon mapping of high-amplitude anomalies. In this work we show that the geometry of anomalies is better constrained when seismic attributes can be imaged and interpreted in three dimensions. Volume-rendering techniques are less laborious, reduce interpretation time, and to a large extent remove interpretation biases. To demonstrate the advantages of our approach, we analyze three types of anomalies in southeast Brazil. In the study area, unconformable “soft-on-hard” anomalies are related to fluid accumulations, whereas igneous sills show signature tabular and concave geometries. We also question the existence of sill-to-sill junctions in the study area, otherwise interpreted by conventional interpretation methods, based on the 3D rendering techniques described. Hence, we theorize that the appearance of the junctions on seismic data from other basins can be a consequence of overlapping sill tips, resulting in the constructive interference of their seismic signals.
Geology, resource potentials, and properties of emerging and potential China shale gas and shale oil plays
Authors: Jiang Shu , Zhang Jinchuan , Jiang Zhiqiang , Xu Zhengyu , Cai Dongsheng , Chen Lei , Wu Yue , Zhou Dongsheng , Jiang Zhenglong , Zhao Xingbin , Bao Shujing
Published: March 2015

This paper describes the geology of organic-rich shales in China, their resource potentials, and properties of emerging and potential China shale gas and shale oil plays. Marine, lacustrine, and coastal swamp transitional shales were estimated to have the largest technically recoverable shale gas resource (25.08 trillion cubic meters or 886 trillion cubic feet) and 25 to 50 billion barrels of technically recoverable shale oil resource. The Precambrian Sinian Doushantuo Formation to Silurian Longmaxi black marine shales mainly accumulated in the intrashelf low to slope environments in the Yangtze Platform in South China and in the Tarim Platform in northwest China. The marine shales in the Yangtze Platform have high maturity (Ro of 1.3%–5%), high total organic carbon (mainly [Formula: see text]), high brittle-mineral content, and have been identified as emerging shale gas plays. The Lower Paleozoic marine shales in the Upper Yangtze area have the largest shale gas potential and currently top the list as exploration targets. The Carboniferous to Permian shales associated with coal and sandstones were mainly formed in transitional depositional settings in north China, northwest China, and the Yangtze Platform in south China. These transitional shales are generally rich in clay with a medium level of shale gas potential. The Middle Permian to Cenozoic organic-rich lacustrine shales interbedded with thin sandstone and carbonate beds are sporadically distributed in rifted basins across China. Their main potentials are as hybrid plays (tight and shale oil). China shales are heterogeneous across time and space, and high-quality shale reservoirs are usually positioned within transgressive systems tract to early highstand systems tract intervals that were deposited in an anoxic depositional setting. For China’s shale plays, tectonic movements have affected and disrupted the early oil and gas accumulation, making tectonically stable areas more favorable prospects for the exploration and development of shale plays.
Can we ever trust the shear-wave log?
Authors: Cheng Arthur C. H.
Published: March 2015

After three decades of shear-wave logging, there are still questions on the robustness of the measurement. The perceived variability in shear-wave slowness measurements comes from two main sources: (1) the dispersive nature of the flexural and quadrupole waves used in the measurement and (2) anisotropy. Dispersion and anisotropy affect shear-wave slowness measurements, and various methods take those effects into account to obtain a more robust shear-wave slowness log.
Report on the SEG/KOC joint workshop in Kuwait: Seismic multiples — Are they signal or noise?
Authors: El-Emam Adel , Kostov Clement , Hadidi Mohamed T.
Published: March 2015

In December 2014, SEG and Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) held a joint workshop in Kuwait City to advance the understanding of seismic multiples and to provide answers to the question posed in the title of the workshop, “Seismic multiples — Are they signal or noise?” Indeed, despite recent advances in the prediction of multiples as noise and in their imaging as signal, the processing of multiples in seismic data remains a major challenge for the industry.
Generating a high-resolution global gravity model for oil exploration: Part 1 — Land data compilations
Authors: Fairhead J. D.
Published: March 2015

Summary

During the 10-year period 1986–1995, Getech undertook five gravity and five magnetic continental-scale data-compilation projects funded by the oil and mineral industries. The projects significantly improved the resolution of the gravity and magnetic fields over most of the continental land areas to provide new geophysical exploration tools of 5-minute (∼ 10-km) grids for gravity and 1-km grids for magnetic data. The databases were designed to help evaluate the regional nature and extent of sedimentary basins and how they relate to plate-tectonic processes. The five projects discussed here were challenging and involved complex negotiations with Russian and Chinese authorities as well as encouraging oil companies to sponsor and open their archives to release long-forgotten data sets into the studies. This article examines how these studies came about, how they evolved with new data-processing methods and technologies, and how the projects tend to be open-ended.
Reviews
Authors: Landmark Andreas Rüger , Taylor Patrick , Bartel David , Green William R.
Published: March 2015

Microseismic Imaging of Hydraulic Fracturing: Improved Engineering of Unconventional Shale Reservoirs, by Shawn Maxwell, ISBN 978-1-56080-315-7, 2014, SEG Distinguished Instructor Series No. 17, US$58 (US$45 member price). Ultra and Extremely Low-frequency Electromagnetic Fields, by Vadim Surkov and Masashi Hayakawa, ISBN 978-4-431-54367-1, 2014, Springer Geophysics Series, 486 p., US$99. Remote Sensing in Action: The Curious Case of Sherlock Holmes and Albert Einstein, by Enders A. Robinson and Dean Clark, ISBN 978-1-56080-313-3, 2014, SEG, 360 p., US$99 (members US$79, e-book available). Understanding Geology through Maps, by Graham Borra-daile, ISBN 978-0-12-800866-9, Elsevier, 196 p., US$69.95.
SEAM Update
Authors: Fehler Michael
Published: March 2015

The SEG Advanced Modeling Corporation (SEAM) has initiated a project focused on pore-pressure prediction. The primary objectives are (1) to deliver a benchmark simulated seismic data set that will be used by industry and academic research institutes to investigate improved approaches for prediction of deep overpressured reservoirs and (2) to reduce drilling risks —safety and environmental — through improved predrill pressure-prediction methodologies derived from iterative interpretations of the simulated data set.
Cyclin A/CDK2 phosphorylation of CIZ1 blocks replisome formation and initiation of mammalian DNA replication
Authors: Copeland Nikki A. , Sercombe Heather E. , Wilson Rosemary H. C. , Coverley Dawn
Published: March 2015

CIZ1 is a nuclear matrix protein that cooperates with cyclin A/CDK2 to promote mammalian DNA replication. We show here that cyclin A/CDK2 also negatively regulates CIZ1 activity via phosphorylation at threonines 144, 192, and 293. Phosphomimetic mutants do not promote DNA replication in cell-free and cell-based assays, and also have a dominant negative effect on replisome formation at the level of PCNA recruitment. Phosphorylation blocks direct interaction with cyclin A/CDK2, and recruitment of endogenous cyclin A to the nuclear matrix. In contrast, phosphomimetic CIZ1 retains nuclear matrix binding capability, and interaction with CDC6 is not affected. Phospho-threonine 192-specific antibodies confirm that CIZ1 is phosphorylated during S-phase and G2, and show that phosphorylation at this site occurs at post-initiation concentrations of cyclin A/CDK2. Together the data suggest that CIZ1 is a kinase sensor that promotes initiation of DNA replication at low kinase levels, when in a hypophosphorylated state that is permissive for cyclin A-CDK2 interaction and delivery to licensed origins, but blocks delivery at higher kinase levels when it is itself phosphorylated.
A dynamic coordination of flagellum and cytoplasmic cytoskeleton assembly specifies cell morphogenesis in trypanosomes
Authors: Sunter Jack D , Varga Vladimir , Dean Samuel , Gull Keith
Published: March 2015

Plasma membrane-to-plasma membrane connections are common features of eukaryotic cells, with cytoskeletal frameworks below the respective membranes underpinning these connections. A defining feature of Trypanosoma brucei is the lateral attachment of its single flagellum to the cell body, mediated by a cytoskeletal structure called the flagellum attachment zone (FAZ). The FAZ is a key morphogenetic structure. Disruption of FAZ assembly can lead to flagellum detachment and dramatic changes in cell shape. To understand this complex structure the identity of more of its constituent proteins is required. Here, we have used both proteomics and bioinformatics to identify eight new FAZ proteins. Using inducible expression of FAZ proteins tagged with eYFP we demonstrate that the site of FAZ assembly is close to the flagellar pocket at the proximal end of the FAZ. This contrasts with the flagellum, which is assembled at its distal end; these two interconnected cytoskeletal structures hence have distinct spatially separated assembly sites. This challenging result has many implications for understanding the process of cell morphogenesis and interpreting mutant phenotypes.
Penguin lungs and air sacs: implications for baroprotection, oxygen stores and buoyancy
Authors: Ponganis P. J. , St Leger J. , Scadeng M.
Published: March 2015

The anatomy and volume of the penguin respiratory system contribute significantly to pulmonary baroprotection, the body O2 store, buoyancy and hence the overall diving physiology of penguins. Therefore, three-dimensional reconstructions from computerized tomographic (CT) scans of live penguins were utilized to measure lung volumes, air sac volumes, tracheobronchial volumes and total body volumes at different inflation pressures in three species with different dive capacities [Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae), king (Aptenodytes patagonicus) and emperor (A. forsteri) penguins]. Lung volumes scaled to body mass according to published avian allometrics. Air sac volumes at 30 cm H2O (2.94 kPa) inflation pressure, the assumed maximum volume possible prior to deep dives, were two to three times allometric air sac predictions and also two to three times previously determined end-of-dive total air volumes. Although it is unknown whether penguins inhale to such high volumes prior to dives, these values were supported by (a) body density/buoyancy calculations, (b) prior air volume measurements in free-diving ducks and (c) previous suggestions that penguins may exhale air prior to the final portions of deep dives. Based upon air capillary volumes, parabronchial volumes and tracheobronchial volumes estimated from the measured lung/airway volumes and the only available morphometry study of a penguin lung, the presumed maximum air sac volumes resulted in air sac volume to air capillary/parabronchial/tracheobronchial volume ratios that were not large enough to prevent barotrauma to the non-collapsing, rigid air capillaries during the deepest dives of all three species, and during many routine dives of king and emperor penguins. We conclude that volume reduction of airways and lung air spaces, via compression, constriction or blood engorgement, must occur to provide pulmonary baroprotection at depth. It is also possible that relative air capillary and parabronchial volumes are smaller in these deeper-diving species than in the spheniscid penguin of the morphometry study. If penguins do inhale to this maximum air sac volume prior to their deepest dives, the magnitude and distribution of the body O2 store would change considerably. In emperor penguins, total body O2 would increase by 75%, and the respiratory fraction would increase from 33% to 61%. We emphasize that the maximum pre-dive respiratory air volume is still unknown in penguins. However, even lesser increases in air sac volume prior to a dive would still significantly increase the O2 store. More refined evaluations of the respiratory O2 store and baroprotective mechanisms in penguins await further investigation of species-specific lung morphometry, start-of-dive air volumes and body buoyancy, and the possibility of air exhalation during dives.
Synthesis of Biocompatible Polysaccharide Analogues and Their Application to In Vivo Optical Tumor Imaging
Authors: Miki Koji , Kimura Akinori , Inoue Tatsuhiro , Matsuoka Hideki , Harada Hiroshi , Hiraoka Masahiro , Ohe Kouichi
Published: March 2015

Polysaccharide analogues having 2-deoxypsicofuranose as a repeating unit were successfully synthesized by ring-opening metathesis polymerization of 7-oxanorbornene-2,3-diol and dihydroxylation. The amphiphilic polysaccharide analogues conjugated with poly(ethylene glycol), a near-infrared fluorescence dye and a tumor-targeting cyclic arginine–glycine–aspartic acid peptide showed low cytotoxicity in vitro and high tumor-targeting specificity in vivo.
Reversible Control of Underwater Oil Wettability of a Titanium Dioxide Surface through Ultraviolet and Ultrasonic Irradiation
Authors: Nishimoto Shunsuke , Mori Yuichi , Kameshima Yoshikazu , Miyake Michihiro
Published: March 2015

Ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst surfaces exhibit excellent oil repellency and therefore an oil droplet cannot adhere to its surface in water even when tightly pressed to it. Ultrasonic irradiation treatment in water greatly decreases the degree of underwater oleophobicity, allowing the oil droplet to adhere to the surface in water. We demonstrate that UV and ultrasonic irradiation treatment can be used to reversibly change the underwater oil repellency of TiO2 surfaces.
Synthesis of Ordered Mesoporous Carbon/Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g-C3N4) Composites with Enhanced Visible-light-driven Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Chen Liangxia , Tao Hong , Pang Tao , Dong Jifeng , Song Xiaofeng
Published: March 2015

In this paper, ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC)/graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) composites were synthesized by a simple low-temperature thermal method. The structural properties of the OMC/g-C3N4 composites were characterized by XRD, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. It was found that the addition of OMC slightly affected the graphitic stacking structures of g-C3N4, but strongly enlarged the surface area and total pore volume of OMC/g-C3N4 composites. The photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) under visible light irradiation was tested. The photocatalytic efficiencies of the 0.04-OMC/g-C3N4 composite over RhB and 2,4-DCP were about 2.41 times and 3.68 times as high as those of g-C3N4, respectively. It is deduced that the enhanced photocatalytic activity should be attributed to the larger specific surface area and favorable optical property.
Principles of Modeling IT-Enabled Educational Environment, When Teaching the “Art” Subject in a General Secondary School
Authors: Кустова  , Kystova Anna
Published: March 2015

The humanitarian paradigm of general secondary education is to get its implementation in the course of teaching the «Art» subject to 8th- and 9thgrade

students. Under the new Federal State Educational Standard, a school student has to search and select relevant data by himself, while a teacher’s

main task is to foster students’ skills to properly select and analyze information, to help them develop critical reasoning and to assess the content on the

basis of objective criteria. As a result, a number of problems emerge, concerning content to be selected to fit the IT-enabled educational environment.

The paper provides some principles for modeling IT-enabled educational environment in the process of teaching course in Art, where the choice is

based on findings in such scientific fields, as Media Education, Perceptual Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Video-ecology, Art technologies, Art

Therapy, all are conducive to enhancing teenagers’ mental health.
Integrating Pre-School, General and Supplementary Education in the Sphere of Physical Culture and Sports
Authors: Козлова  , Kozlova Svetlana , Плотников  , Plotnikov S.
Published: March 2015

In recent years discussions concerning educational space reorganization (i.e., introduction of the renewed federal state educational standards of

preschool, general education and federal standards of sports training) go on in Moscow simultaneously with the efforts to create “kindergarten–school”

educational parks. When the issue of consistency and integration of educational components is understood thoroughly and properly, it helps to achieve

continuity in development and education of children.
Boosting Development Potential of Subject-Oriented Education and How It Helps Learners to Master Core Competencies in the Context of Transition to FSES
Authors: Новикова  , Novikova Svetlana , Красношлыкова  , Krasnoshlykova Olga
Published: March 2015

Practical experience, gained through experimenting in the Kemerovo Region, is presented. The paper concerns prospects for further development of

subject-oriented training under the conditions of transition to the Federal State Educational Standard; discusses some issues, related to arrangement of

an educational process, vocational self-determination of younger learners, as well as the system of assessing Portfolio-based training outcomes.
Multiattribute Utility Functions Satisfying Mutual Preferential Independence
Authors: Abbas Ali E. , Sun Zhengwei
Published: March 2015

The construction of a multiattribute utility function is an important step in decision analysis. One of the most widely used conditions for constructing the utility function is the assumption of mutual preferential independence where trade-offs among any subset of the attributes do not depend on the instantiations of the remaining attributes. Mutual preferential independence asserts that ordinal preferences can be represented by an additive function of the attributes. This paper derives the most general form of a multiattribute utility function that (i) exhibits mutual preferential independence and (ii) is strictly increasing with each argument at the maximum value of the complement attributes. We show that a multiattribute utility function satisfies these two conditions if and only if it is an Archimedean combination of univariate utility assessments. This result enables the construction of multiattribute utility functions that satisfy additive ordinal preferences using univariate utility assessments and a single generating function. We also provide a nonparametric approach for estimating the generating function of the Archimedean form by iteration.
Achieving eating independence in an acute stroke ward: Developing a collaborative care plan
Authors: Payne Jacqueline , Stagnitti Karen , Hooke Emily , Hitch Danielle
Published: March 2015

Aim:

This article outlines the development and implementation of a collaborative feeding care plan (FCP) for stroke patients in an acute stroke ward. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the impact of an ecological intervention to improve eating independence in an acute stroke ward environment.

Methods:

An action research approach comprising seven stages—determine the initial problem, develop the care plan, act, reflect and monitor progress, evaluate, reflect, and refine plan—was used to track environmental changes during the development and implementation of the FCP in an acute stroke ward in an Australian regional hospital. During the evaluation phase, six allied health staff completed a survey on the FCP. The staff also completed an observation assessment integrating the Eating Disability Scale, Functional Independence Measure and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure with 12 participants with acute stoke (participants with FCP=6; participants without FCP=6).

Results:

The FCP group showed significant improvements in upper limb independence (p=0.046), when comparing mean admission scores (3.5±0.97) with discharge scores (4.17±2.14). Clinically significant improvements in levels of collaboration between health professionals were also demonstrated.

Conclusions:

The changes in team collaboration and the patient's upper limb independence indicate how environmental change can influence acute stroke patient outcomes. It is recommended that this study be expanded to further explore the effect of ecological interventions and change.
Laser tattoo reduction and removal: assessment, risk profile and clinical endpoints
Authors: Ashworth Hannah
Published: March 2015

Following the success of television programmes such as My Tattoo Hell, channel 4 documentary Bodyshockers and reality-based series LA Ink, tattoos have become an even more fashionable, popular part of Western society. As such, there has been a marked increase in demand for laser tattoo removal. The purpose of the article is to look at the growing culture surrounding tattoos, discuss regulation for laser tattoo removal, and identify how this relates to aesthetic nursing. The author will explore several key areas, including where tattoos come from and their place in today's society, through to how laser tattoo removal works, the consultation process and how to use a holistic nursing approach. At the end of the paper, the author will outline what she perceives will be the future for tattoo removal.
Payment options in the aesthetic clinic: what to offer patients and why
Authors: Deakin Barbara
Published: March 2015

Not so long ago, clients would only have three payment options to choose from after an aesthetic procedure: cash, card or cheque. However, today, there are several methods of payment available to customers, from payment plans and financing, to money transfer via online clinic portals and PayPal. Barbara Deakin outlines the pros and cons of different payment methods
Driving school food take-up
Authors: Wild Jo
Published: March 2015

Jo Wild reports on a government-funded project offering support to boost school meal take-up
Justifying your spending decisions
Authors: Sobel Daniel
Published: March 2015

It is essential that schools are able to justify their decisions over how to spend the Pupil Premium when inspectors come calling. Daniel Sobel offers some simple, yet effective approaches
Methodologies used to test the palatability of nutraceuticals
Authors: Seager Ciara , Wroe Yasmin , Baron Marianne , Farrell Mary , Hadwin Celia
Published: March 2015

Owner and patient compliance is essential when administering medications and other products. An important factor in the owner's ability to successfully administer products to their pet is palatability. This paper describes the methodology protocols that were developed to assess palpability of a nutraceutical for dogs and cats. Product names and results have not been included within the article but results can be obtained by contacting the authors. It is hoped that the information provided will support other researchers who may wish to undertake similar studies investigating palatability.
Social media as a tool for improving client communication
Authors: Knight Rebecca
Published: March 2015

Aim:

To gain an insight into why clients use social media to connect with their veterinary practice and what practices can do to make their social media sites as engaging as possible for their clients.

Method:

This study, carried out as a final year research project at the University of Bristol, used a questionnaire to approach pet owners on web forums. This was used to establish client opinions on social media use by veterinary practices and what clients require from their veterinary practice when using social media.

Results:

This study identified a set of clients who were generally positive towards social media use and were keen to interact with their veterinary practice using social media. These clients had a particular interest in practice news and a clear view of how they expected their practice to use social media. The data obtained from this study were used to recommend ways in which practices can develop their social media strategy to best suit clients' needs.
Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals from Wastewater Using Bean Plants
Authors: Saharty Abeer Al
Published: March 2015

The Bean Plants were used in this work as low cost adsorbent material for removal of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The samples were prepared and sorted according to the particles diameter by standard sieves 250 - 500 µm. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out to study the adsorption process pH of adsorbent, effect of contact time, effect of adsorbent amount and effect of metal concentration were Investigated in these experiments. The effect of any one of those previously mentioned parameters on the adsorption capacity were studied while the other parameters were kept constant. The maximum adsorption capacities of beans for the removal of selected heavy metals were very high. It is suggested to use it as a low coast adsorbent material to clean up the water in the environment from toxic heavy metals.
Crisis and resistance in mental health services in England
Authors: Moth Rich , Greener Joe , Stoll Trish
Published: March 2015

The last two years have seen a small but significant increase in the level of resistance by service users and practitioners to the coalition government’s policy of austerity and neoliberal restructuring of mental health services in England. This article provides an overview and analysis of these developments by examining four recent campaigns that feature alliances between service users, workers, trade unionists and anti-cuts activists. It considers both challenges faced and successes achieved by campaigners.
The Link Between Teacher Classroom Practices and Student Academic Performance
Authors: Wenglinsky Harold
Published: March 2015

Quantitative studies of school effects have generally supported the notion that the problems of U.S. education lie outside of the school. Yet such studies neglect the primary venue through which students learn, the classroom. The current study explores the link between classroom practices and student academic performance by applying multilevel modeling to the 1996 National Assessment of Educational Progress in mathematics. The study finds that the effects of classroom practices, when added to those of other teacher characteristics, are comparable in size to those of student background, suggesting that teachers can contribute as much to student learning as the students themselves.
Japanese Higher Education Policy in Korea (1910—1945)
Authors: Lee Jeong-Kyu
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of Japanese nationalistic thought on the administrative systems and structures of colonial and modern higher education in Korea, as well as to analyze Japanese higher educational policy in Korea during the colonial period (1910-1945). It begins with an examination of Shinto, a syncretistic Japanese state religion and the ideological basis of national education. The author investigates Japanese educational policy and administration during the colonial period, including the establishment of a colonial imperial university in Korea. He also reviews the administrative systems and organizational structures in imperial and colonial universities. Both beneficial and negative impacts of the Japanese colonial education system on current Korean higher education conclude the analysis.
Home Schooling in the United States
Authors: Bauman Kurt J.
Published: March 2015

Home schooling is a subject of great fascination, but little solid knowledge. Despite its importance, it has received less research attention than some other recent changes in the educational system, such as the growth of charter schools. It could be argued that home schooling may have a much larger impact on educational system, both in the short and long run. This report uses the 1994 October CPS, and the National Household Education Survey of 1996 and 1999 to examine popular characterizations of the home school population. The article assembles evidence from several sources to confirm that home schooling is growing. It finds home-schooled children more likely to be middle income, white, from larger families, and from two-parent families with one parent not working. While some authors have described a division between religiously-motivated and academically-motivated home schoolers, this research finds more support for a divide based on attitude towards regular schools.
Politics of School-Based Management
Authors: Walker Elaine M.
Published: March 2015

Since the late 1970s the problem of urban education has been cast as partially a problem of governance and authority structures. This focus mirrors a larger preoccupation by educational reformers with democratizing the decision-making process in public schools, a preoccupation that is evident not only in this country but also many nations throughout the world. Borrowing from the private sector, the underlying assumption behind decentralization is that educational improvement is only possible if those closest to the point at which decision are enacted become the architects of these decisions. Thus, school-based management or participatory decision-making is viewed as a means to formally incorporate the voices of parents, teachers and the community in the management of their schools. This paper discusses the findings of a recently conducted study on school-based management in thirty of New Jersey's poorest districts (referred to as the Abbott Districts). These districts have begun a process of complex reform after the State's Supreme Court ruled that the state had failed to constitutionally provide a thorough and efficient education for its poorest students by the absence of parity funding. Populated by primarily black and Hispanic students, and representing most of the larger urban communities in the state, students in these districts exhibit performance levels significantly below that of the state average. The results of the study indicate that (1) genuine autonomy has been usurped by an intensification in state power and authority, (ii) state elites have provided little opportunity for districts and SBM teams to build capacity; (iii) the level of democratization or opening-up of decision making to local community members has been minimal as the teams become teacher dominated; and (iv) in the absence of clear guidelines from the State, conflict over the appropriate role of SBM members, principals, central office staff and local school boards has emerged. The paper on the basis of these findings explores some policy options that need to be considered both at the state and local levels as school communities move toward more decentralized governance structures.
Charter School Funding Issues
Authors: Sugarman D.
Published: March 2015

Although a great deal has been written about charter schools, rather little attention has been given to their funding. The first part of this article raises four current issues in the funding of regular public schools across the U.S. and shows how these issues carry over to the funding of charter schools. The second part explores four additional issues that have arisen in the funding of charter schools that go to the core identity of charter schools and the nature of the students they enroll. In both parts, extra attention is paid to developments in California, one of the most active charter school states.
Multisite Case Study of Florida's Millennium High School Reform Model
Authors: Mullen Carol A.
Published: March 2015

This study should have immediate utility for the United States and beyond its borders. School-to-work approaches to comprehensive reform are increasingly expected of schools while legislative funding for this purpose gets pulled back. This multisite case study launches the first analysis of the New Millennium High School (NMHS) model in Florida. This improvement program relies upon exemplary leadership for preparing students for postsecondary education
Globalization, Governance and Public Policy Transference
Authors: Crespo Pedro Flores , Chávez Salvador Ruiz de
Published: March 2015

Globalization and governance pave the way for the ocurrence of policy transfer processes. This article shows that higher education policy in Mexico has been historically influenced by foreign educational models. By using the Policy Transfer Framework, this article also makes three claims: (1) the academic debate has been generally focused on the role of specific international organizations, so a limited perspective about the policy transfer approach emerges; (2) the process of identifying what objects are being transferred to Mexican educational agenda is blurred, and thus, (3) as a consequence of methodological weaknesses, it is difficult to validate whether or not policy transfer processes are taking place in this Latin American country. Therefore, further research needs to be done in order to broaden the understanding of the policy transfer processes in Mexico.