bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐Invasive Periodontal Probing Through Fourier‐Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Mota Cláudia C.B.O. , Fernandes Luana O. , Cimões Renata , Gomes Anderson S.L.
Published: April 2015

Background: Periodontitis is a multifactorial and infectious disease that may result in significant debilitation. The aim of this study is to exploit two optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems operating in the Fourier domain at different wavelengths, 930 and 1,325 nm, for structural analysis of periodontal tissue in porcine jaws.

Methods: Five fresh porcine jaws were sectioned and stored in formalin before OCT analysis. Two‐ and three‐dimensional OCT images of the tooth/gingiva interface were performed, and measurements of the gingival structures were obtained. The 930‐nm OCT system operates in the spectral domain, whereas the 1,325‐nm system is a swept‐source model. Stereomicroscope images, the gold standard, were used for direct comparison.

Results: Through image analysis, it is possible to identify the free gingiva and the attached gingiva, the calculus deposition over tooth surfaces, and the subgingival calculus that enables the enlargement of the gingival sulcus. In addition, the gingival thickness and the gingival sulcus depth can be non‐invasively measured, varying from 0.8 to 4 mm.

Conclusions: Regarding the ability of the two OCT systems to visualize periodontal structures, the system operating at 1,325 nm shows a better performance, owing to a longer central wavelength that allows deeper tissue penetration. The results with the system at 930 nm can also be used, but some features could not be observed due to its lower penetration depth in the tissue.
Beyond the Cross-Sectional: Neighborhood Poverty Histories and Preterm Birth
Authors: Margerison-Zilko Claire , Cubbin Catherine , Jun Jina , Marchi Kristen , Fingar Kathryn , Braveman Paula
Published: April 2015

Objectives. We examined associations between longitudinal neighborhood poverty trajectories and preterm birth (PTB).

Methods. Using data from the Neighborhood Change Database (1970–2000) and the American Community Survey (2005–2009), we categorized longitudinal trajectories of poverty for California neighborhoods (i.e., census tracts). Birth data included 23 291 singleton California births from the Maternal and Infant Health Assessment (2003–2009). We estimated associations (adjusted for individual-level covariates) between PTB and longitudinal poverty trajectories and compared these to associations using traditional, cross-sectional measures of poverty.

Results. Compared to neighborhoods with long-term low poverty, those with long-term high poverty and those that experienced increasing poverty early in the study period had 41% and 37% increased odds of PTB (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18, 1.69 and 1.09, 1.72, respectively). High (compared with low) cross-sectional neighborhood poverty was not associated with PTB (odds ratio = 1.08; 95% CI = 0.91, 1.28).

Conclusions. Neighborhood poverty histories may contribute to an understanding of perinatal health and should be considered in future research.
Patient Characteristics Associated With Smoking Cessation Interventions and Quit Attempt Rates Across 10 Community Health Centers With Electronic Health Records
Authors: Silfen Sheryl L. , Cha Jisung , Wang Jason J. , Land Thomas G. , Shih Sarah C.
Published: April 2015

Objectives. We used electronic health record (EHR) data to determine rates and patient characteristics in offering cessation interventions (counseling, medications, or referral) and initiating quit attempts.

Methods. Ten community health centers in New York City contributed 30 months of de-identified patient data from their EHRs.

Results. Of 302 940 patients, 40% had smoking status recorded and only 34% of documented current smokers received an intervention. Women and younger patients were less likely to have their smoking status documented or to receive an intervention. Patients with comorbidities that are exacerbated by smoking were more likely to have status documented (82.2%) and to receive an intervention (52.1%), especially medication (10.8%). Medication, either alone (odds ratio [OR] = 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.5, 2.3) or combined with counseling (OR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.5, 2.3), was associated with higher quit attempts compared with no intervention.

Conclusions. Data from EHRs demonstrated underdocumentation of smoking status and missed opportunities for cessation interventions. Use of data from EHRs can facilitate quality improvement efforts to increase screening and intervention delivery, with the potential to improve smoking cessation rates.
Enhancing Stewardship of Community-Engaged Research Through Governance
Authors: Oetzel John G. , Villegas Malia , Zenone Heather , White Hat Emily R. , Wallerstein Nina , Duran Bonnie
Published: April 2015

Objectives. We explored the relationship of community-engaged research final approval type (tribal government, health board, or public health office (TG/HB); agency staff or advisory board; or individual or no community approval) with governance processes, productivity, and perceived outcomes.

Methods. We identified 294 federally funded community-engaged research projects in 2009 from the National Institutes of Health’s Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Prevention Research Centers, and Native American Research Centers for Health databases. Two hundred (68.0%) investigators completed a survey about governance processes and productivity measures; 312 partners (77.2% of 404 invited) and 138 investigators (69.0% of 200 invited) completed a survey about perceived outcomes.

Results. Projects with TG/HB approval had increased likelihood of community control of resources (odds ratios [ORs] ≥ 4.80). Projects with other approvals had decreased likelihood of development or revision of institutional review board policies (ORs ≤ 0.37), having written agreements (ORs ≤ 0.17), and agreements about publishing (ORs ≤ 0.28), data use (ORs ≤ 0.17), and publishing approval (ORs ≤ 0.14).

Conclusions. Community-engaged research projects with TG/HB approval had strong stewardship of project resources and agreements. Governance as stewardship protects community interests; thus, is an ethical imperative for communities, especially native communities, to adopt.
Sexual Risk Behavior, Sexual Violence, and HIV in Persons With Severe Mental Illness in Uganda: Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study and National Comparison Data
Authors: Lundberg Patric , Nakasujja Noeline , Musisi Seggane , Thorson Anna Ekéus , Cantor-Graae Elizabeth , Allebeck Peter
Published: April 2015

Objectives. We investigated prevalence of past-year sexual risk behavior and sexual violence exposure in persons with severe mental illness (SMI) in Uganda, and compared results to general population estimates. We also investigated whether persons with SMI reporting sexual risk behavior and sexual violence exposure were more likely to be HIV-infected.

Methods. We included 602 persons consecutively discharged from Butabika Hospital, Kampala, Uganda, February to April 2010. We asked about past-year number of sexual partners and condom use. We assessed sexual violence with the World Health Organization Violence Against Women Instrument. We performed HIV testing. We used data from 2011 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey for comparison.

Results. Women with SMI had more sexual risk behavior and more sexual violence exposure than women in the general population. We found no difference in sexual risk behavior in men. Sexual risk behavior was associated with HIV infection in men, but not women. Sexual violence exposure was not associated with HIV infection in women.

Conclusions. Findings suggest that SMI exacerbates Ugandan women’s sexual vulnerability. Public health practitioners, policymakers, and legislators should act to protect health and rights of women with SMI in resource-poor settings.
State-Level Marriage Equality and the Health of Same-Sex Couples
Authors: Kail Ben Lennox , Acosta Katie L. , Wright Eric R.
Published: April 2015

Objectives. We assessed the association between the health of people in same-sex relationships and the degree and nature of the legal recognition of same-sex relationships offered in the states in which they resided.

Methods. We conducted secondary data analyses on the 2010 to 2013 Current Population Survey and publicly available data from Freedom to Marry, Inc. We estimated ordered logistic regression models in a 4-level framework to assess the impact of states’ legal stances toward same-sex marriage on self-assessed health.

Results. Our findings indicated, relative to states with antigay constitutional amendments, that same-sex couples living in states with legally sanctioned marriage reported higher levels of self-assessed health.

Conclusions. Our findings suggested that full legal recognition of same-sex relationships through marriage might be an important legal and policy strategy for improving the health of same-sex couples.
Casing Leak Investigation & Successful Repair by Application of Pressure Activated Liquid Sealant in a Newly Completed Well in Offshore Environment – A Case Study
Authors: Singh Alok Kumar , Patil Bhushan , Kishore Kunal , Khanna Manu , Varma Sai Rakesh
Published: April 2015

Well XX-1 is a newly drilled Oil producer well in offshore east coast of India. Lower completion containing Formation Isolation Valve (FIV), Standalone Screens with integral SSD's & swell packers was run in 6″ Open Hole & set on screen hanger packer. The FIV, packer & Production casing was then pressure tested to 3000 psi, during which pressure drop of ~15 psi/min & continuous return from secondary annulus ~1 litre/min was observed. The above indicated possible communication between 7″ production casing & 9-5/8″ surface casing.

The leak depth was investigated using a drillpipe conveyed single run multiple set mechanical packer & it was established that the bottom connection of Cross over below 7″ casing hanger pup joint was leaking. Leak in production casing was a critical well integrity threat. Further, the well was designed to be operated on gas lift. There was no immediate remedy available to restore the production casing integrity. It was decided to complete the well and produce with adequate controls without gas lift till the casing leak was repaired. Meanwhile, extensive search and literature review was done & various options to repair the casing leak, both mechanical and chemical, were evaluated. Considering the expensive mechanical repair and associated high uncertainty, Pressure Activated Liquid Sealant was proposed as economical alternative.

The sealant works on the principle of polymerization and cross linking when subject to pressure drop. This sealant process has proven to be a successful long-term repair method for completion equipment. Utilizing a combination of fluid density control and packer fluid compressibility, the sealant was injected into the annulus casing valve then spotted & squeezed into the leak at 2500 psi and allowed to cure under pressure for 80 hrs. The production casing was then successfully pressure tested with both liquid and gas and the integrity was confirmed.

It not only prevented expensive work-over saving > 10 MMUSD, but the quick remedy also allowed the well to be brought online at a higher production rate ~ 1000 BOPD incremental. It has proved to be a reliable solution to well integrity problem.
Spotting Cal-Acid Scale Dissolver Precisely using an Ingenious Tweak on a Proven Electric Line Riserless Light Well Intervention Method – A Case Story
Authors: Keith John
Published: April 2015

Scope

CaCO3 scale build-up may cause severe production restrictions. A common resolution is electric line (e-line) clean-out with bailers built into the toolstring to capture the debris while milling. This paper will provide details of an innovative tweak that allowed an offshore operation to continue despite the presence of CaCO3scale. The paper will also discuss the equipment and Riserless Light Well Intervention (RLWI) method to derive valuable lessons learned for future operations.

Method

The operation took place in the British shelf of the North Sea. A subsea well was facing severe scale issues that were threatening to stop production. From the beginning, it was the plan to perform the operation as a RLWI from a vessel. During the initial drift run, it was discovered that the CaCO3 scale had become so severe that it would not be possible to run the e-line milling solution as originally planned. The team needed to remove ~15 ft. of scale in order to accomodate the clean-out toolstring below the subsea tree before the operation could continue.

Standard dump bailers were not available on the vessel and, as weather prevented the flying of equipment to the vessel, the team worked together to quickly contrive a readily available solution that would allow Cal-Acid scale dissolver to be spotted precisely and safely at the holdup depth.

Results

The solution became to modify the clean-out tool by removing the drive shaft and mill bit, introduce check valves, and pre-load the bailers with Cal-Acid. This enabled the tool to act as a dump bailer with the Cal-Acid being displaced out of the pump ports and onto the scale.

The Subsea Intervention Lubricator (SIL) had been pre-filled with Cal-Acid and, once the milling tool was activated in the SIL, the acid circulated into the bailers, which eliminated the need for any surface handling. The tools were then run to the holdup depth and the Cal-Acid unloaded. This was performed 16 times resulting in ~ 150 L of Cal-Acid being spotted around the scale build-up.

A subsequent run with gauge cutters confirmed that the Cal-Acid spotting had been successful and access for the remainder of the operation had been achieved.

Novel info

The innovative use of readily available tools, modified to a bespoke application, allowed the operation to continue, resulting in significant time and cost savings, and the concept of filling the bailers in the SIL made the operation inherently safer through reduced manual handling and recovery of subsea equipment.
The Improvement of Production Profile While Managing Reservoir Uncertainties with Inflow Control Devices Completions
Authors: MoradiDowlatabad Mojtaba , Zarei Faraj , Akbari Morteza
Published: April 2015

The distributions of various parameters such as of the petro-physical properties, fluid contacts, relative permeabilities, aquifer strength etc. influence oil production profile. This requires implementing probabilistic approaches important for the field's performance prediction. Advanced Well Completions (AWCs) are capable to reactively and/or proactively mitigate the unpredictable production conditions of hydrocarbon reservoirs particularly in case of the heterogeneous reservoirs. However, determining the optimum design of the devices is still a big challenge since it should have been done respecting the long-term performance of the completion. This requires using reservoir models that include significant level of uncertainty due to ambiguity of the reservoir and geological parameters used.

Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) approach was applied to evaluate various dynamic uncertain parameters with different distributions profiles. Numerous realisations of the reservoir models were also generated to provide a confident level of geological uncertainty by a sequential Gaussian simulation algorithm. Various completions such as Open-hole, Inflow Control Devices (ICDs) and Autonomous Inflow Control Devices (AICDs) were deployed in horizontal wells to investigate the uncertainty management by the well completions.

The results showed AICDs completions are more appropriate to reduce the production of the unwanted fluids and increase oil recovery than ICDs. Moreover, overall as well as the individual impacts of the uncertain parameters on oil production profile were evaluated by statistical analysis. This helps determining the most influencing parameters on the production profile as well as the most influenced uncertain parameters when AWCs are deployed. The results showed that although both of the AICDs and ICDs completions significantly reduce the oil production variations comparing with Open-hole completion, AICDs completions perform much better than the ICDs to manage the effects of the reservoir uncertainties on oil recovery. The study aims at providing approaches quantifying the impacts of AWCs on the reservoir uncertainties and confirming the long-term benefits of AWCs while reducing the risk associated with the field's development plan.
Design for Reliability in Downhole Control Systems
Authors: Gissler Bob , Shrivastava Pankaj , Saldanha Savio
Published: April 2015

A reliable downhole flow-control system is essential for any intelligent completion. Generally, systems that meet the sought-after criteria are installed permanently in severe downhole environments and are not expected to be retrieved for analysis or maintenance despite harsh conditions. The entire system must achieve high operational reliability at temperatures as high as 200° C and pressures that reach 30,000 psi.

This paper discusses the electro-hydraulic module of a reliable control system, which optimizes reservoir performance and enhances reservoir management capabilities by allowing the operator to remotely control the wellbore and obtain real time sensor data (which includes pressure/temperature). In order to meet the necessary system reliability targets, a Design for Reliability (DfR) process is applied in the form of a systematic, streamlined, and concurrent engineering program to assess the system's capabilities. A DfR is considered to be an integrated process rather than a step task for the design and development of the electro-hydraulic control module. The DfR process identifies the utility of reliability engineering tools and methods during the product development cycle. The objective of DfR is to meet the reliability expectations and optimize the overall life-cycle costs. This paper discusses the methods and tools of DfR and highlights the successful application of key DfR tools and techniques in the development of the electro-hydraulic control module. A variety of reliability tools were applied in the development cycle which includes (a) reliability requirements and flow down, (b) reliability block diagram for system reliability modelling, (c) design FMEA (failure mode and effect analysis) for design-based risk assessment, (d) baseline predictive reliability modelling, and (e) reliability qualification test design.

This paper will focus on how to apply the DfR process in the product development. It will also highlight the process steps required to make DfR a powerful and effective process that can help any organization design reliability into its products. The DfR process can be applied efficiently by taking the strengths and limitations of its tools into consideration. In order to enable an effective and efficient application of the DfR process, the order in which various reliability engineering tools are applied is important.
Flow Control Optimisation to Maximise the Accuracy of Multi-phase Flow Rate Allocation
Authors: Malakooti Reza , Muradov Khafiz , Davies David , Kuznetsov Alexander
Published: April 2015

The value added by intelligent wells (I-wells) derives from real-time, reservoir and production performance monitoring together with zonal, downhole flow control. Unfortunately, downhole sensors that directly measure the flow rates and phase cuts required for optimal control of the well's producing zones are not normally installed. Instead, Multi-zone, Multi-phase Flow Metering (MFM) parameters are calculated from indirect measurements (e.g. from zonal pressures, temperatures, and well flow rates).

To-date all published techniques of zonal flow rate allocation in multi-zone I-wells are “passive” in that they calculate the MFM parameters for a fixed given configuration of the completion. These techniques are subject to model error, but also to errors stemming from measurement noise when there is insufficient data duplication for accurate parameter estimation. This paper describes an “active” monitoring technique which uses a direct search method based on Deformed Configurations to optimise the sequence of Interval Control Valve (ICV) positions during a routine multi-rate test in a “intelligent” well. This novel approach maximises the accuracy of the calculated reservoir properties and MFM parameters.

Four “active monitoring” levels are available. Each one uses a particular combination of down-hole and surface measurements depending on the available well performance monitoring systems. Level one is the simplest, requiring a minimal amount of well data. The higher levels require more data; but provide, in return, a greater understanding of the in-flow performance, the volumes of produced fluids and the reservoir's properties at both a well and a zonal level.

Our “active monitoring” workflow can be extended to a wide range of production and injection allocation problems for any well completion type. The workflow may also be used to improve the accuracy of production flow rate measurements and, ultimately, to maximise oil production rate and recovery.
Novel Drillship and Multi-Purpose Tower Design for Ultra Deepwater Well Cost Reduction
Authors: Wijning Dieter , Adams Ed , Andresen Jan Atle
Published: April 2015

To meet the ever-increasing needs for improved efficiency, cost control and safety enhancement in (ultra-)deepwater well construction, a novel drillship design has been developed that has been outfitted with a unique, versatile and highly automated drilling package. In particular, a new Dual Multi-Purpose Tower (DMPT) design was developed. It is similar to an earlier design employed on four drill ships currently in service with a major international oil company (IOC) in that it has no V-door limitation and features two well centers, enabling concurrent operations. Lessons learned from the four drill ships have been incorporated in the new vessel design. Careful study of deepwater drilling-the-well-on-paper (DWOP) information shows that the new DMPT drilling system and vessel design have the capability to reduce drill times by 20-25% through reduction of flat times, increased tripping speeds by use of true automation, running 180ft stands of drill pipe, running 22″ 180ft casing in open water, running of 150ft risers, dual rotary hang-off tables and doing as much as possible off critical paths.

The vessel design itself was optimized with both drilling and completion operations in mind, and is prepared for future technologies, eliminating costly and time consuming upgrades. Design efforts aimed at reduced maintenance of equipment and reduced downtime led to additional cost savings and the vessel uses significantly less fuel, thereby reducing consumables and environmental impacts. The vessel can hold 30000mt variable deck load (VDL), can operate in waters up to 4,000 m, can store and run two 20k BOPs and is inherently prepared for managed pressure drilling (MPD) and dual gradient drilling (DGD) operations. A large, unobstructed flat workdeck from fore to aft of the vessel provides over 4,500 m2 of safe, open deck space for drilling and completion activities.

The new drilling system, combined with the additional savings in fuel, maintenance downtime, and increased safety afforded by the optimized vessel design may yield total well delivery savings in excess of 30%. In this paper, pertinent details are shared about the vessel and drilling system designs, as well as how these designs facilitate the indicated time and cost savings.
Parameters to Analyze When Determining Abrasive Wear in an Electrical Submersible Pump System
Authors: Adams Dan L
Published: April 2015

Understanding abrasive wear in a downhole production scenario can be critical to the success or failure of a project. As, not understanding this phenomena can be very costly to a project in a short time period.

There are a number of laboratories, around the world, that can perform a particle size distribution, for abrasives, and provide both photomacro and photomicrographs of the abrasive material. However, there are other parameters one would want to take under consideration, in order to determine the proper abrasive resistant (AR) trim for an electrical submersible pump (ESP).

This paper will offer, for review, some additional parameters for consideration. As well as a quantitative, in conjunction with qualitative, formula to help make a determination of the proper abrasive resistant (AR) trim for an ESP. Included, we will present additional parameters, other than just particle size distribution (PSD) and the geometry of the abrasive particles, that are used in the formula. The data collected from a given well will allow a proactive selection of equipment, initial install or replacement. The step beyond collecting data for a particular well would be the performance of a field study to provide a desired AR trim selection for equipment for a given field. This would allow a more expeditious selection of replacement equipment.

Our database is formed from over six hundred sand samples that have been analyzed from around the globe. This data presentation will include samples analyzed from the North Sea; including samples from the Norwegian sector.
Scratch Testing Applied To Drilling Fluid Filter Cakes: Effect Of Cutter Velocity And Comparison Of Different Mud Formulations
Authors: Cerasi P.R. , Torsæter J. , Berntsen A.N. , Stenebråten J.
Published: April 2015

Scratch testing to determine rock shear strength has been adapted to soft materials such as filter cakes. A soft metal blade with a strain gauge attached to it and calibrated to obtain the deformation to force correspondence replaces the conventional cutter in the scratch apparatus. The shear strength is obtained from the tangential force reading when the blade is moved at a constant applied velocity across a filter cake, for a given cutting depth. In this study, four commercially available drilling mud types (2 water-based and 2 oil-based drilling fluids) were filtered on ceramic discs. The resulting filter cakes were then scratch tested at various imposed cutter blade velocities, to determine the cake shear strength. The goal of this study was to investigate whether the scratch apparatus gives different strength values as a function of the cutter velocity. The results from this measurement campaign, where also a sandstone was tested, show that for the range of available cutter velocities, no effect can be detected on the computed strength values. The results thus suggest that no rheological effects such as shear-thinning occur at these velocities (for the filter cakes), as well as no undrained effects on the pore pressure. This is good news as it validates all previous scratch campaigns, removing the need for reviewing the relevance and interpretation of the scratch test, especially as applied to filter cakes.
Do Creditors Prefer Smooth Earnings? Evidence from European Private Firms
Authors: Gassen Joachim , Fülbier Rolf Uwe
Published: April 2015

We investigate the interplay between creditor financing and the smoothness of earnings reported by European private firms, and document how heterogeneous debt-contracting infrastructures across Europe moderate this relation. We expect the smoothness of earnings to be positively related to the relative importance of credit providers in our setting. More importantly, we predict this relation to be more pronounced in regimes with higher bankruptcy and contract enforcement costs. Finally, we hypothesize that earnings smoothness is negatively related to the cost of debt of our sample firms. Our large-sample empirical evidence confirms our expectations. While the cross-sectional nature of our setting limits our potential to address endogeneity concerns and, thus, caution is required when interpreting our findings in a causal way, they are consistent with the accounting of European private firms being shaped by creditor incentives and with this link being moderated by the country-level efficiency of the debt-contracting infrastructure.

JEL Classifications: M41; G14; F42.

Data Availability: All data used in this study are publicly available from the sources identified in the text.
Calorie Restriction and Matched Weight Loss From Exercise: Independent and Additive Effects on Glucoregulation and the Incretin System in Overweight Women and Men
Authors: Weiss Edward P. , Albert Stewart G. , Reeds Dominic N. , Kress Kathleen S. , Ezekiel Uthayashanker R. , McDaniel Jennifer L. , Patterson Bruce W. , Klein Samuel , Villareal Dennis T.
Published: April 2015

OBJECTIVE

It is not known whether calorie restriction (CR) has additive benefits to those from exercise (EX)-induced weight loss. We hypothesized that weight loss from CR and EX (CREX) improves insulin sensitivity more than matched weight loss induced by EX or CR alone and that the incretin system may be involved in adaptations to CR.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Sedentary, overweight men and women (n = 52, 45–65 years of age) were randomized to undergo 6–8% weight loss by using CR, EX, or CREX. Glucose, insulin, C-peptide, insulin sensitivity, and incretin hormones (glucagon-like peptide 1 [GLP-1] and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide [GIP]) were measured during frequently sampled oral glucose tolerance tests (FSOGTTs). Incretin effects on insulin secretion were measured by comparing insulin secretion rates from the FSOGTTs to those from a glycemia-matched glucose infusion.

RESULTS

Despite similar weight losses in all groups, insulin sensitivity index values increased twofold more in the CREX group (2.09 ± 0.35 μM/kg/pM × 100) than in the CR (0.89 ± 0.39 μM/kg/pM × 100) and EX (1.04 ± 0.39 μM/kg/pM × 100) groups. Postprandial GLP-1 concentrations decreased only in the CR group (P = 0.04); GIP concentrations decreased in all groups. Incretin effects on insulin secretion were unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

CR and EX have additive beneficial effects on glucoregulation. Furthermore, the adaptations to CR may involve reductions in postprandial GLP-1 concentrations. These findings underscore the importance of promoting both CR and EX for optimal health. However, because data from participants who withdrew from the study and from those who did not adhere to the intervention were excluded, the results may be limited to individuals who are capable of adhering to a healthy lifestyle intervention.
Disparities in Social Support Systems for Youths With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Walker Ashby F. , Schatz Desmond A. , Johnson Cathryn , Silverstein Janet H. , Rohrs Henry J.
Published: April 2015

IN BRIEF Low socioeconomic status (SES) is consistently identified as a major risk factor for poor health outcomes in youths with type 1 diabetes, yet little is known about the social factors that yield such disparities. This study used survey research to examine the role of SES by focusing on differential resourcing in social support systems for youths with type 1 diabetes and their parents/caregivers. We identified significant inequalities in social support systems and found that parents from lower-income households engage in few coping activities and rarely identify a primary care provider as the main point of contact when facing a diabetes-related problem. Our findings underscore the need to better connect low SES families to diabetes-specific professional resourcing and to raise awareness about the importance of extracurricular activities as a form of social support for youths.
Distribution of the Most Common Genetic Variants Associated with a Variable Drug Response in the Population of the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Nestorovska Kapedanovska A. , Jakovski K. , Naumovska Z. , Bajro Hiljadnikova M. , Sterjev Z. , Eftimov A. , Geskovska Matevska N. , Suturkova L. , Dimitrovski K. , Labacevski N. , Dimovski A. J.
Published: April 2015

Genetic variation in the regulation, expression and activity of genes coding for Phase I, Phase II drug metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) and drug targets, can be defining factors for the variability in both the effectiveness and occurrence of drug therapy side effects. Information regarding the geographic structure and multi-ethnic distribution of clinically relevant genetic variations is becoming increasingly useful for improving drug therapy and explaining inter-individual and inter-ethnic differences in drug response.

This study summarizes our current knowledge about the frequency distribution of the most common allelic variants in three broad gene categories: the Phase I oxidation-cytochrome P450 (CYP450) family (CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A5, CYP2D6); the Phase II conjugation (GSTT1, SULT1A1; UGT1A1) and drug target (TYMS-TSER, MTHFR and VKORC1) in the population of the Republic of Macedonia and compares the information obtained with data published for other indigenous European populations. Our findings define the population of the Republic of Macedonia as an ethnic group with a highly polymorphic genetic profile. These results add to the evidence regarding the distribution of clinically important variant alleles in DME and drug target genes in populations of European ancestry.
Genome-Wide Methylation Profiling of Schizophrenia
Authors: Rukova B. , Staneva R. , Hadjidekova S. , Stamenov G. , Milanova V. , Toncheva D.
Published: April 2015

Schizophrenia is one of the major psychiatric disorders. It is a disorder of complex inheritance, involving both heritable and environmental factors. DNA methylation is an inheritable epigenetic modification that stably alters gene expression. We reasoned that genetic modifications that are a result of environmental stimuli could also make a contribution.

We have performed 26 high-resolution genomewide methylation array analyses to determine the methylation status of 27,627 CpG islands and compared the data between patients and healthy controls. Methylation profiles of DNAs were analyzed in six pools: 220 schizophrenia patients; 220 age-matched healthy controls; 110 female schizophrenia patients; 110 age-matched healthy females; 110 male schizophrenia patients; 110 age-matched healthy males. We also investigated the methylation status of 20 individual patient DNA samples (eight females and 12 males. We found significant differences in the methylation profile between schizophrenia and control DNA pools.

We found new candidate genes that principally participate in apoptosis, synaptic transmission and nervous system development (GABRA2, LIN7B, CASP3). Methylation profiles differed between the genders. In females, the most important genes participate in apoptosis and synaptic transmission (XIAP, GABRD, OXT, KRT7), whereas in the males, the implicated genes in the molecular pathology of the disease were DHX37, MAP2K2, FNDC4 and GIPC1. Data from the individual methylation analyses confirmed, the gender-specific pools results.

Our data revealed major differences in methylation profiles between schizophrenia patients and controls and between male and female patients. The dysregulated activity of the candidate genes could play a role in schizophrenia pathogenesis.
Effects of Cyp2c19 and P2y12 Gene Polymorphisms on Clinical Results of Patients Using Clopidogrel After Acute Ischemic Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Sen H. M. , Silan F. , Degirmenci Y. , Kamaran Ozisik H. I.
Published: April 2015

The CY2C19 and P2Y12 gene polymorphisms are responsible for resistance to clopidogrel, known as drug unresponsiveness. In this study we researched the effect of gene polymorphism on clinical results of patients who began clopidogrel therapy after acute ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

The study included 51 patients. The patient group included patients who had begun prophylactic clopidogrel due to acute ischemic cerebrovascular disease in the last 2 years. All patients were monitored by the Neurology Outpatient Clinic at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart Üniversity Research Hospital, Çanakkale, Turkey, and only those monitored for at least 1 year were included in the study.

When the *1, *2 and *3 alleles of the CYP2C19 gene polymorphism were evaluated, two patients were homozygotes for *2/*2, 13 patients were heterozygous for *1/*2 and 36 patients were homozygotes for the wild type *1/*1. No patient had the *3 allele. Three heterozygous patients, one for *2/*2 and two for *1/*2, stopped clopidogrel therapy due to repeated strokes and began taking warfarin. When evaluating P2Y12 52 (G>T) and 34 (C>T) polymorphisms, all alleles were of the wild type.

The CYP2C19 and P2Y12 gene polymorphisms may cause recurring strokes linked to insufficient response to treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease. In our patient group, three patients suffered repeated strokes and these patients had the CYP2C19*2 gene polymorphism. As a result, before medication use, genetic testing is important for human life, quality of life and economic burden.
The 3’ End Prothrombin Gene Variants in Serbian Patients with Idiopathic Thrombophilia
Authors: Aradjanski M. , Djordjevic V. , Pruner I. , Tomic B. , Gvozdenov M. , Kovac M. , Radojkovic D.
Published: April 2015

Thrombophilia is a multifactorial disorder that arises from the interaction of acquired and genetic risk factors. Despite the significant efforts made to understand the etiology of this disease, there are still a certain number of patients suffering from idiopathic thrombophilia. The aim of this study was to screen the 3’ end of the prothrombin (FII) gene, which is susceptible to gain-of-function mutations due to its non canonical architecture, in patients with idiopathic thrombophilia and to determine its eventual role in the pathogenesis of thrombophilia.

This study was carried out in 100 patients with idiopathic thrombophilia and 100 healthy controls. DNA variants in the 715 bp long region of the 3’ end of the prothrombin gene were identified by sequencing. In our study, we detected two variants: A19911G and C20068T. The frequency of the A19911G gene variant was slightly increased in the group of patients compared to controls, however with no statistically significant difference compared to controls [odds ratio (OR) = 1.06; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.53-2.13]. Heterozygous carriers of the FII C20068T gene variant were four times more frequent in patients (4.0%) than in controls (1.0%), but this difference did not reach statistical significance (OR = 4.12; 95% CI 0.45-37.57). Our findings suggest that variant A19911G is not a significant risk factor, while C20068T may represent a potential risk factor for idiopathic thrombophilia. To confirm our results, further studies should be conducted in a larger cohort of patients.
The First Occurrence of the Devonian Rugose Coral Calceola Sandalina (Linné, 1771) in the Barrandian Area, Czech Republic
Authors: Mergl Michal
Published: April 2015

The calceolide coral Calceola sandalina (Linné, 1771) has been observed in the Acanthopyge Limestone (Choteč Formation, Eifelian) in the Koněprusy area, Czech Republic. Its presence in the Barrandian area indicates absence of significant palaeogeographic barriers restricting the distribution of this tetracoral in the Middle Devonian. Association of Calceola with a taxonomically diverse ribbed brachiopod faunas attests for two different types of environment on the Koněprusy submarine elevation during deposition of the Acanthopyge Limestone. Calceola-bearing beds represent a high-energy reefal environment different from somewhat deeper and calmer environment characterized by smooth-shelled, small to medium sized spire-bearing brachiopods.
Review of Selected Techniques and Measures Affecting the Reliability of Face Image Acquisition Systems / Przegląd Wybranych Technik I Środków Wpływających Na Niezawodność Działania Systemów Akwizycji Obrazu Twarzy
Authors: Wiśnios Michał , Dąbrowski Tadeusz
Published: April 2015

The theme of the publication is to review techniques and measures affecting the reliability of the process of image acquisition face. This issue is closely linked to the biometric identification based on facial image. The focus here in particular on factors external / environmental, not taking into account the quality of this same algorithms. Tests were carried out both on a database built on the model of the face as well as on the basis of the actual images. The object of the research being predestined is not only for stationary applications, but can also be used in mobile objects
Reducing Carbon Footprint Direction of the Development of Aviation Fuels / Redukcja Emisji Dwutlenku Węgla Kierunkiem Rozwoju Paliw Lotniczych
Authors: Białecki Tomasz
Published: April 2015

The paper presents the development direction of jet fuel, designated by the reduction of carbon emissions in aviation. This subject is a result of the assumed by the International Civil Aviation Organization target of reduction in CO2 emissions of 50%. The paper presents also applicability of the secondgeneration biofuels in aviation and the profitability of the use of such fuel by airlines on a commercial scale
Clinical Decision-Making Tool for Safe and Effective Prescription of Exercise in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Results From an Interdisciplinary Delphi Survey and Focus Groups
Authors: Camp Pat G. , Reid W. Darlene , Chung Frank , Kirkham Ashley , Brooks Dina , Goodridge Donna , Marciniuk Darcy D. , Hoens Alison M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Exercise is recommended for people with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD), yet there is little information to guide safe and effective mobilization and exercise for these patients.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to develop a clinical decision-making tool to guide health care professionals in the assessment, prescription, monitoring, and progression of mobilization and therapeutic exercise for patients with AECOPD.

Design and Methods

A 3-round interdisciplinary Delphi panel identified and selected items based on a preselected consensus of 80%. These items were summarized in a paper-based tool titled Mobilization in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD-Mob). Focus groups and questionnaires were subsequently used to conduct a sensibility evaluation of the tool.

Results

Nine researchers, 13 clinicians, and 7 individuals with COPD identified and approved 110 parameters for safe and effective exercise in AECOPD. These parameters were grouped into 5 categories: (1) “What to Assess Prior to Mobilization,” (2) “When to Consider Not Mobilizing or to Discontinue Mobilization,” (3) “What to Monitor During Mobilization for Patient Safety,” (4) “How to Progress Mobilization to Enhance Effectiveness,” and (5) “What to Confirm Prior to Discharge.” The tool was evaluated in 4 focus groups of 18 health care professionals, 90% of whom reported the tool was easy to use, was concise, and would guide a health care professional who is new to the acute care setting and working with patients with AECOPD.

Limitations

The tool was developed based on published evidence and expert opinion, so the applicability of the items to patients in all settings cannot be guaranteed. The Delphi panel consisted of health care professionals from Canada, so items may not be generalizable to other jurisdictions.

Conclusions

The AECOPD-Mob provides practical and concise information on safe and effective exercise for the AECOPD population for use by the new graduate or novice acute care practitioner.
A Monoclonal Antibody to Human DLK1 Reveals Differential Expression in Cancer and Absence in Healthy Tissues
Authors: Bujak Emil , Ritz Danilo , Neri Dario
Published: April 2015

There is considerable interest in the characterization of novel tumor-associated antigens that lend themselves to antibody-mediated pharmacodelivery strategies. Delta-like 1 homolog protein (DLK1), which exists both as transmembrane protein and in soluble form, shows a restricted pattern of expression in healthy organs, while being overexpressed in some tumors. We have generated a human antibody specific to DLK1 using phage display technology. This reagent was used for a comprehensive characterization of DLK1 expression in freshly frozen sections of normal human adult tissues and of xenografted human tumors. DLK1 was virtually undetectable in most organs, except for placenta which was weakly positive. By contrast, DLK1 exhibited a moderate-to-strong expression in 8/9 tumor types tested. Our analysis shed light on previous conflicting reports on DLK1 expression in health and disease. The study suggests that DLK1 may be considered as a target for antibody-mediated pharmacodelivery strategies, in view of the protein’s limited expression in normal tissues and its abundance in the interstitium of neoplastic lesions.
New Trends in Cosmetics: By-Products of Plant Origin and Their Potential Use as Cosmetic Active Ingredients
Authors: Barbulova Ani , Colucci Gabriella , Apone Fabio
Published: April 2015

In recent years, the amount of waste deriving from industrial processes has increased substantially. Many industries produce different types of disposable by-products, rich in valuable compounds. Their characterization and valorization could not only convert them into high value products with application in diverse biotechnological fields, such as Pharmaceutics, Food or Cosmetics, but would also reduce the waste environmental impact and the related treatment costs. There are many examples of cosmetic active ingredients deriving from fish, meat and dairy products, but in the present review we would like to focus on the potentialities and the current use of compounds and extracts deriving from agronomical disposable wastes in the cosmetic field. These types of products are effective, inexpensive and bio-sustainable, and thus represent a valid alternative to the regular plant derived extracts, more commonly adopted in cosmetic formulations. Moreover, if the waste products come from organic farming, they are certainly an even more valuable source of safe extracts for Cosmetics, since they lack any residual pesticide or potentially toxic chemical.
An Environmental Assessment of School Shade Tree Canopy and Implications for Sun Safety Policies: The Los Angeles Unified School District
Authors: Moreno April , Tangenberg John , Hilton Brian , Hilton June
Published: April 2015

In an effort to reforest school sites with limited resources, communities and non-profits have implemented projects on Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) school sites, often without thought for the best location, long-term maintenance, or appropriateness of the tree type. Although studies exist related to sun safety policies in schools, there has been little emphasis on the environmental public health benefits of trees in public schools. The LAUSD School Shade Tree Canopy Study was a response to this issue in which data was analyzed (a total of 33,729 trees in the LAUSD were mapped) regarding tree canopy coverage, pervious/impervious areas, and buildings for 509 elementary schools to assess urban forestry management issues and environmental injustices within communities of the district. The results of these analyses indicate that there is a wide range of school site size, tree canopy coverage as a percentage of school site size, tree canopy coverage as a percentage of play area, and percentage of unpaved surface play areas (e.g., (~20%) of the schools have both (0.0%) tree canopy coverage play areas and 100% paved surfaces). This finding alone has implications in how the LAUSD may implement sun safe polices which would aid in preventing skin cancer and other adverse health outcomes for students within the school district.