bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shape descriptors of the “never resting” microglia in three different acute brain injury models in mice
Authors: Zanier Elisa R , Fumagalli Stefano , Perego Carlo , Pischiutta Francesca , De Simoni Maria-Grazia
Published: February 2015

Background

The study of microglia and macrophage (M/M) morphology represents a key tool to understand the functional activation state and the pattern of distribution of these cells in acute brain injury. The identification of reliable quantitative morphological parameters is urgently needed to understand these cell roles in brain injury and to explore strategies aimed at therapeutically manipulating the inflammatory response.

Methods

We used three different clinically relevant murine models of focal injury, namely, controlled cortical impact brain injury (traumatic brain injury (TBI)) and transient and permanent occlusion of middle cerebral artery (tMCAo and pMCAo, respectively). Twenty-four hours after injury, M/M cells were labeled by CD11b, and ×40 photomicrographs were acquired by unbiased sampling of the lesion core using a motorized stage microscope. Images were processed with Fiji software to obtain shape descriptors.

Results

We validated several parameters, including area, perimeter, Feret’s diameter (caliper), circularity, aspect ratio, and solidity, providing quantitative information on M/M morphology over wide tissue portions. We showed that the shape descriptors that best represent M/M ramification/elongation are area and perimeter, while circularity and solidity provide information on the ameboid shape. We also provide evidence of the involvement of different populations in local inflammatory events, with macrophages replacing microglia into the lesion core when reperfusion does not occur. Analysis of CD45high+ cell morphology, whose shape does not change, did not yield any difference, thus confirming the reliability of the approach.

Conclusions

We have defined specific morphological features that M/M acquire in response to different acute insults by applying a sensitive and readily applicable approach to cell morphological analysis in the brain tissue. Potential application of this method can be extended to all cell types able to change shape following activation, e.g., astrocytes, or to different disease states, including chronic pathologies.
Commentary—Toward a Research Agenda for Human-Centered Service System Innovation
Authors: Maglio Paul P. , Kwan Stephen K. , Spohrer Jim
Published: February 2015

Solving service problems has enormous practical consequences for the economy and society because (a) more than 80% of jobs in the United States are in the service sector, with most science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduates working in the service sector; (b) many complex service problems resist traditional optimization solutions; (c) private investments in platform technologies that underlie business and societal service innovations (smart service systems) are on the rise; and (d) the United States lags in public investment in service research behind countries such as Japan, China, Finland, and Germany. The search for service innovation requires new theories and new methods to address problems unique to services, and what little students are being taught about the service sector has not kept up with the rapid growth of STEM jobs in service or with modern entrepreneurial opportunities. We think that effective understanding of complex human-centered service systems requires a new approach that combines multiple methods, perhaps drawing from industrial engineering and operations research, social and behavioral sciences, information systems, and computer science and computational modeling. In this commentary, we outline a series of broad considerations and concerns, fundamental and applied questions, and specific research agenda items for service system innovation.
Employees’ National Culture and Service Quality: An Integrative Review
Authors: Yayla-Küllü H. Müge , Tansitpong Praowpan , Gnanlet Adelina , McDermott Christopher M. , Durgee Jeffrey F.
Published: February 2015

Because of the interactive role employees play in service operations, their behaviors often affect the customer’s experience directly. Employee behaviors, in turn, are often a function of the culture in which they are born and raised. To that end, it is critical to develop a national culture theory for service firms that need to operate in an increasingly global business environment and to study the extent of the impact of employees’ national culture on a service firm’s quality outcomes. Our review of the literature aims to increase the understanding of such links. We trace the impact of major cultural characteristics (adopted from the work of Geert Hofstede and the GLOBE project) on three dimensions of service operations: physical surroundings and products, employee behavioral aspects, and service supply chain operations. We also study the extent to which these relationships change in different segments of the same market. We develop a research framework, offer testable propositions for additional research, and identify future research directions to advance the field on these matters.
El desprecio a la fragilidad. Salud mental, norma y síntoma
Authors: Malachevsky Jorge
Published: February 2015

Las maneras de constituir una terapéutica del padecimiento subjetivo sonsubsidiarias de ideales sociales. Disposiciones de los signos, la norma, la ley, permiten explorar y lograr a veces resoluciones de lo sintomático y del malestar. Las instituciones en general comparten en cierto sentido con las instituciones en salud mental un tratamiento de lo subjetivo. Ambas son a la vez atravesadas por los empujes de la civilización que llevan particularmente en nuestro tiempo a una encrucijada: ¿cómo operar terapéuticamente con símbolos cuyo poder está afectado en el contexto de un declive del programa institucional?
Acceder a la justicia para acceder a la salud. La universidad y los derechos de las personas con discapacidad
Authors: Seda Juan
Published: February 2015

En el presente trabajo me propongo fundamentar la creación de un servicio de patrocinio jurídico gratuito especializado en los derechos de las personas con discapacidad para asegurar, entre otros derechos, el acceso a servicios de salud. Si bien en nuestro país existen normas que declaran el acceso a prestaciones básicas en salud para las personas con discapacidad, se constata una brecha entre esas enunciaciones y las prácticas, ya que son muchas las familias que deben acudir a la vía judicial para hacer efectivos esos derechos. El legado reformista en la universidad pública plantea la formación de profesionales de alta calidad y con compromiso social. El acceso al sistema de salud para las personas con discapacidad es un objetivo al que puede contribuir la universidad, a través de un patrocinio jurídico gratuito especializado, como una labor que es al mismo tiempo una práctica preprofesional y una actividad de extensión universitaria.
Saneamiento ambiental urbano, una propuesta de integración socioespacial
Authors: Vitale Miguel Ángel , Follonier María Alicia
Published: February 2015

El Proyecto de Extensión llevado adelante por un grupo de docentes investigadores de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) se propuso ofrecer alternativas de saneamiento ambiental al aglomerado urbano Reconquista/ Avellaneda, situado a 325 km al norte de la ciudad de Santa Fe. A partir del reconocimiento de contextos de incidencia de actuaciones (globales, regionales y locales), la propuesta se ocupó de las condiciones de salubridad de la población a causa de la degradación biológica por contaminación del arroyo El Rey, lo que afecta a 130 000 personas. El área analítica propositiva se incluye en uno de los 21 humedales Ramsar de reserva nacional de Argentina. El proyecto, su difusión y metodología participativa concientizaron a los ciudadanos sobre este vital recurso y, a partir del debate con las instituciones de la sociedad civil y el gobierno local, identificó alternativas viables y concretas, sostenibles e integracionistas, y llegó a una propuesta final presentada públicamente.
Cantinas saludables para promover hábitos alimentarios en las escuelas
Authors: Martinelli Marcela , Aimaretti Nora , Villafañe Juan
Published: February 2015

La alimentación y la nutrición son muy importantes para promover y mantener la buena salud a lo largo de toda la vida. Las autoridades nacionales, provinciales y municipales reconocen la importancia de la Educación Alimentaria Nutricional (EAN) y la implementación de quioscos saludables en las escuelas. Sin embargo, hasta el momento muy poco se ha logrado en la provincia de Santa Fe. Desde 2008 existe un proyecto de ley que no logra sancionarse. La Ley 13295 sancionada en 2012 creó el Programa Provincial Integral de Prevención, Control y Asistencia de los Trastornos Alimentarios, pero aún no está reglamentada y es desconocida en los establecimientos escolares. Un proyecto de extensión llevado adelante por la Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) pretendió dar inicio a diferentes acciones que deben llevarse a cabo para mejorar la alimentación en la edad escolar y establecer buenos hábitos alimentarios que perduren a lo largo de la vida y permitan evitar enfermedades a futuro.
Salud y cosmovisión indígena: un derecho colectivo en construcción
Authors: Bournissent María José
Published: February 2015

Este trabajo tiene la finalidad de reflexionar y esbozar algunas aproximaciones conceptuales en el campo de la salud vinculadas a la cosmovisión indígena. Elementos que han surgido a partir de las intervenciones socioculturales realizadas con comunidades indígenas en el marco de una línea sobre derechos colectivos indígenas del Programa de Derechos Humanos de la Secretaría de Extensión de la UNL. El reconocimiento en instrumentos jurídicos de la dimensión indígena ha sido un importante avance; sin embargo, la brecha de implementación es amplia y profunda y marca un desfase entre el plano formal y la praxis. El ejercicio del derecho a la salud desde una perspectiva intercultural requiere del desapego de prejuicios y del abandono de la posición hegemónica para adentrarse en un diálogo recíproco entre culturas que valoricen la diferencia para potenciar la igualdad.
A arte de contar histórias como dispositivo em acompanhamento terapêutico
Authors: Siqueira Peres Wiliam , Pereira de Vasconcelos Mariana
Published: February 2015

Construímos a partir do acompanhamento terapêutico em saúde mental pública possibilidades de atenções psicossociais voltadas para ressocialização e inclusão em redes sociais emancipatórias de pessoas atravessadas pela exclusão, e, colocadas como frágeis. Ao criticar as referências que associam pessoas cegas como dependentes, privilegiamos a emergência das estilísticas da existência, ou seja, estilos de viver referimo–nos a um cuidado de si orientado por uma ética. Pretendemos colocar novas questões quanto à prática da Psicologia em seus atendimentos, reabilitação e possibilidades de transformação no modo de suas vivências, bem como elevar sua auto–estima pela potencialidade para desejar outros possíveis a fim de proporcionar independência e autonomia.
Cuídate, hacete un PAP: un abordaje colectivo para pensar y repensar la problemática del cáncer de cuello de útero
Authors: Abrigo Robles María Fernanda , Passeggi Delia María , Jeanney Gabriel , Bustos Florencia
Published: February 2015

El presente artículo deriva de la experiencia de un proyecto de extensión de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral denominado Prevención de cáncer de cuello uterino: estrechando lazos entre el equipo de salud y las mujeres. Experiencia de trabajo en el Centro de Salud San Agustín. El proyecto se viene realizando desde el año 2013 y lo llevan adelante docentes, profesionales y estudiantes de la carrera de Trabajo Social y la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. El interés del mismo surge a partir de identificar al cáncer de cuello de útero como aquella problemática que refleja la desigualdad social en salud. A nivel mundial es la segunda causa de muerte por cáncer, a pesar de que la enfermedad podría prevenirse casi por completo gracias a las políticas públicas, conocimientos y tecnologías actualmente disponibles. Este proyecto se orienta hacia aquellas mujeres de 35 a 64 años pertenecientes a los barrios San Agustín I y San Agustín II. Este grupo etario es el de mayor riesgo y menor tránsito por el espacio preventivo de cáncer de cuello uterino. La complejidad de la problemática muestra la necesidad de desarrollar acciones que ponga el foco en la prevención y atención del cáncer de cuello de útero. Acción que requiere de un trabajo en red, interinstitucional e interdisciplinario sostenido en el tiempo.
An Empirical Study on the Intelligibility of English Spoken by Chinese University Students
Authors: Zhang Lingli
Published: February 2015

This paper reports an empirical study on the intelligibility of English spoken by Chinese University students, aiming to identify the factors that hamper intelligibility and suggest the pedagogical priorities in pronunciation teaching. The participants were 45 university sophomores, whose recorded data were transcribed and evaluated correspondingly by 45 educated listeners from 22 different countries. The results reveal that although the speakers’ English may have strong accents, it is intelligible to international listeners to a great extent. Phonological problems that hamper intelligibility are vowel length and quality, simplification of diphthongs, voiced and voiceless plosives, dental fricative, word ending nasals, consonant clusters as well as stress, rhythm and intonation.
A Review of Empirical Studies in L2 Dynamic Assessment
Authors: Li Qinghua , Li Di
Published: February 2015

The present paper reviews 25 studies conducted in the domain of L2 (second/foreign language) dynamic assessment (DA) in recent years. It begins with a survey of relevant research, then discusses some of the major findings and problems, and finishes with some suggestions for further research. The main findings of the review are as follows: (a) DA has the potential to promote L2 competence development; (b) both the interactionist approach and interventionist approach have attracted the interest of L2 researchers; (c) most studies have focused on small samples; (d) reading and grammatical knowledge have drawn the most attention; (e) group DA may be a potential method to advance L2 competence development in both the focused individual and the other members of the group; (f) computers might play a complementary role to humans acting as mediators; and (g) case study methodology has been the overwhelming choice for experimental design. Based on the available research, we suggest that additional studies are called for on the following issues: (a) L2 DA as an approach to measurement, (b) potential mediators, (c) validity issues of L2 DA, (d) the interface between DA and second language acquisition, and (e) the development of L2 classroom teachers.
A Study on Chinese Students’ Perceptual Learning Styles, Ideal L2 Self, and L2 Motivated L2 Behavior
Authors: Zhang Qianmei
Published: February 2015

This study investigates Chinese elementary, middle, and high school students’ L2 perceptual learning styles, imagination, ideal L2 self, and motivated L2 behavior. A perceptual learning style and L2 learning motivation questionnaire was administered to 1,667 students from elementary to high school. Statistical results revealed that Chinese elementary, middle, and high school students were more in favor of a visual learning style in comparison to their auditory and kinesthetic learning styles. This visually oriented style was significantly correlated with their ideal L2 self and motivated L2 behavior. The sequential regression analysis results indicated that the ideal L2 self and visual learning style were the most meaningful predictors for Chinese students’ motivated L2 behavior. This study suggests that teachers need to help students create and maintain their ideal L2 self and facilitate their L2 learning motivation by providing more adequate visual teaching materials.
Fourier multipliers for weighted L2{L^{2}} spaces with Lévy–Khinchin–Schoenberg weights
Authors: Nikolski Nikolai K. , Verbitsky Igor E.
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we present a class of weight functions w on the circle

𝕋

{\mathbb{T}}

,
called Lévy–Khinchin–Schoenberg (LKS) weights, for which we are
able to completely characterize (in terms of a capacitary inequality) all
Fourier multipliers for the weighted space

L
2

⁢

(
𝕋
,
w
)

{L^{2}(\mathbb{T},w)}

. We show that the multiplier algebra is nontrivial if and only if

1
/
w

∈

L
1

⁢

(
𝕋
)

{1/w\in L^{1}(\mathbb{T})}

, and in this case multipliers satisfy the Spectral
Localization Property (no “hidden spectrum”). On the other hand, the Muckenhoupt

(

A
2

)

{(A_{2})}

condition responsible for the basis property
of exponentials

(

e

i
⁢
k
⁢
x

)

{(e^{ikx})}

is more or less independent of the Spectral
Localization Property and LKS
requirements. Some more complicated compositions of LKS weights are
considered as well.
Dynamic Transmission Performances of Alumina and Mullite Refractory Ceramics in Microwave High-Temperature Heating
Authors: Shang Xiaobiao , Chen Junruo , Peng Jinhui
Published: February 2015

This paper proposes an analytical approach to optimize the thickness of refractories for achieving maximum microwave power transmission in microwave heating based on the analysis of power transmission coefficient (PTC). The microwave PTCs of alumina (Al2O3) ceramics over the temperature range of 22–1,379°C at 2,450 MHz, mullite ceramics in the temperature range of 27–1,027°C at 2.45 GHz and 400–1,300°C at 915 MHz are studied. The results show that there are several transmission peaks in the PTC patterns. The transmission peak amplitude depends sensitively on the thickness of the refractory and the peak shifting towards a smaller thickness as the temperature of the refractory increases. We also show that high microwave transmission can only be achieved in a refractory with a small thickness corresponding to a slight transmission peak shift in the entire microwave heating (less than one eighth wavelength in the refractory).
Assessment of human cartilage glycoprotein 39 (YKL-40), preptin, and nitric oxide in adolescent patients with type 1 diabetes and its relation to cardiorenal affection
Authors: Abd El Dayem Soha M. , Battah Ahmed A. , El Shehaby Amal , Abd Allah Nagwa
Published: February 2015

To evaluate new biomarkers such as YKL-40, preptin, and nitric oxide (NO) in patients with diabetes and to assess its relation to cardiorenal injury.

The study included 62 patients with type 1 diabetes and 30 healthy volunteers. Blood sample was taken for assessment of glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile, YKL-40, preptin, and NO. Also, urine sample was taken for analysis of albumin/creatinine ratio. Echocardiography was also done.

NO was lower, whereas YKL-40, preptin, and albumin/creatinine ratio were significantly higher in patients with diabetes. NO had a significant negative correlation with LVEDD, LVESD, PWT, LV mass, YKL-40, preptin, and albumin/creatinine ratio. YKL-40 had a significant positive correlation with waist/height ratio, preptin and negative correlation with E/A ratio. Stepwise multiple regression revealed that E/A ratio is the only parameter related to YKL-40. On the contrary, NO and systolic blood pressure are related to preptin.

A significant reduction of NO and elevation of YKL-40 and preptin was found in patients with diabetes. A decrease in NO is associated with diastolic dysfunction, LV hypertrophy, and renal impairment, whereas YKL-40 is associated with diastolic dysfunction. An increase in preptin level was associated with hypertension.
The Property Tax Exemption in Pennsylvania: The Saga Continues
Authors: Kearns Kevin
Published: February 2015

This case study briefly traces the evolution and current status of Pennsylvania’s property tax exemption debate. Over the past 30 years court cases and legislative initiatives in Pennsylvania have resulted in dramatic swings of power back and forth between nonprofits and their host taxing jurisdictions, generating confusion and growing acrimony among key stakeholders. As of this writing, a proposed Constitutional Amendment is working its way through the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The amendment seeks to give the legislature, not the courts, exclusive jurisdiction to define what constitutes a purely public charity. The case study concludes with some thoughts on overarching principles that should be considered in the debate.
Assessing exposure of young children to common endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the home environment: a review and commentary of the questionnaire-based approach
Authors: English Karin , Healy Bridget , Jagals Paul , Sly Peter D.
Published: February 2015

Although infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) exposure, there is an absence of comprehensive exposure data for this age group. As young children spend the majority of their time indoors, improved methods of exposure assessment are needed to characterise the health risks from exposures in the home environment. Biologic assessment, which has been considered the gold standard for exposure assessment in recent years, is difficult to conduct in young children. Questionnaires are an alternative and indirect method of predicting exposure, which may overcome some of the limitations of direct exposure assessment.

The feasibility of using a questionnaire-based approach to predict exposure of young children to EDCs in the home has yet to be comprehensively reviewed. Moreover, there is no one questionnaire that has been validated for predicting the exposure of infants to common EDCs in the home.

The aim of this review is to discuss the use and validation of the questionnaire-based approach to predict exposure of children to chemicals from three common classes of EDCs in the home, namely, plasticisers, flame retardants, and insecticides. We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the questionnaire-based approach as well as the important pathways of exposure in the home environment, by which to guide the design and validation of future exposure questionnaires.

The findings from our review indicate that the questionnaire-based approach is a valuable tool in the prediction of exposure to persistent organic pollutants, as well as to toxicants that have consistent patterns of exposure. With improvements to the design and validation process, the questionnaire-based approach may also prove to be a reliable instrument in predicting exposure to EDCs with short-half lives, including bisphenol A, phthalates, and pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides.
Laparoscopic surgery of benign liver tumours
Authors: Kupcsulik Péter , Hahn Oszkár , Szíjártó Attila , Zsirka Attila , Winternitz Tamás , Lukovich Péter , Fekete Krisztina
Published: February 2015

Munkahelyünkön 2004–2014 között 273 elektív műtét történt benignus májelváltozás miatt. 83 esetben laparoszkópos (LAP) beavatkozásra került sor: cystafenestratio 52, májresectio 31 esetben történt. A LAP resectiókat hasonló demográfiai és klinikai jellemzőkkel bíró betegek nyitott műtéteivel összehasonlítva megállapítható, hogy a műtéti idő a LAP csoportban (113,7 perc) szignifikánsan hosszabb volt, mint a nyitott műtéteknél (89,5 perc), a kórházi ápolási idő viszont rövidebb (5,8 vs 9,1 nap). Posztoperatív szövődmény a LAP csoportban nem volt, nyitott műtétek után két sebgennyedés, egy UH-vezérelt drainezést igénylő epegyülem fordult elő. A nyitott csoportban 4, a LAP csoportban 3 beteg igényelt transzfúziót. Műtéti halálozás nem volt, reoperációra nem került sor. A közleményben részletezett műtéti technika biztonságos resectiót tesz lehetővé a máj nehezen hozzáférhető, 7–8. szegmentuma területén is. Az eredmények alapján a LAP májresectio megfelelő preoperatív vizsgálatok birtokában választható módszer májdaganatok sebészi kezelésére.
Ambient vibration tests of a cross-laminated timber building
Authors: Reynolds Thomas , Harris Richard , Chang Wen-Shao , Bregulla Julie , Bawcombe Jonathan
Published: February 2015

Cross-laminated timber has, in the last 6 years, been used for the first time to form shear walls and cores in multi-storey buildings of seven storeys or more. Such buildings can have low mass in comparison to conventional structural forms. This low mass means that, as cross-laminated timber is used for taller buildings still, their dynamic movement under wind load is likely to be a key design parameter. An understanding of dynamic lateral stiffness and damping, which has so far been insufficiently researched, will be vital to the effective design for wind-induced vibration. In this study, an ambient vibration method is used to identify the dynamic properties of a seven-storey cross-laminated timber building in situ. The random decrement method is used, along with the Ibrahim time domain method, to extract the modal properties of the structure from the acceleration measured under ambient conditions. The results show that this output-only modal analysis method can be used to extract modal information from such a building, and that information is compared with a simple structural model. Measurements on two occasions during construction show the effect of non-structural elements on the modal properties of the structure.
Microbiological composition of untreated water during different weather conditions
Authors: Bešić Adna , Obradović Zarema , Pašalić Arzija , Žilić Amar
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Water can support the growth of different microorganisms which may result in contamination. Therefore, the microbiological examination is required for testing the hygienic probity of water. In the study of microbial composition of untreated, natural spring and mineral water differences in the presence and number of bacteria during the two periods, winter and summer, are detectable.Methods: In our study, we analyzed and compared the following parameters, specified in the Rulebook: total bacteria and total aerobic bacteria (ml/22 and 37°C), total Coliform bacteria and Coliforms of fecalorigin (MPN/100ml), fecal streptococci as Streptococcus faecalis  (MPN/100ml), Proteus spp (MPN/100ml), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MPN/100 ml) Sulphoreducing Clostridia (cfu / ml). The paper is a retrospective study in which we processed data related to the period of 2005-2009 year. While working, we used the descriptive-analytical comparative statistical treatment.Results: The obtained results show statistically significant differences in the microbial composition of untreated water in the two observed periods,Conclusions: Findings were consequence of different weather conditions in these periods, which imply a number of other variable factors.
Implementation of the hemoprophylactic protocol in orthopedic surgery
Authors: Osmanovic Elvedin , Aščerić Mensura , Omerkic Esed
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Antibiotic prophylaxis is defined as the use of antimicrobials in the absence of symptoms of infection, with the aim of preventing or reducing the incidence of infection after surgery. We analyzed the incidence of surgical wound infection in patients in whom a protection of hemoprophylaxis conducted using cefazolin and gentamicin, and determine the frequency of surgical wound infection in patients in whom there was a deviation in the implementation of hemoprophylaxis protection.Methods: This retrospective-prospective study included 100 patients surgically treated at the The Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Clinical Center in Tuzla from December 2007 to February 2010, which examined the incidence of surgical wound infection after surgical treatment of fractures or degenerative changes in the hip, thigh and lower leg fractures.Results: In the first group, in patients who were treated with cefazolin were detected in 2 cases (5.7%) while the length of hemoprophylaxis was 7 days, patients who were treated with cefazolin and gentamicin were detected in 1 case (2.8%) and duration hemoprophylaxis was 7 days. In another control group tah was found 9 cases of wound infection (30%), and hemoprophylaxis duration was 10 days.Conclusion: The combination of cefazolin and gentamycin for a period of 5 days significantly reduces the incidence of infection and significantly shortened the time of antibiotics in group that is respected application protocol in accordance with international recommendation.
Evaluation of breast symptoms with mammography and ultrasonography
Authors: Devolli Disha Emine , Manxhuka Kerliu Suzana , Baruti Gafurri Zana , Topciu Valdete , Zhubi Bukurije , Paqarizi Hidajet
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Aim of the study was to discern which are more frequent symptoms presented in malign and benign masses diagnosed by mammography and ultrasonography.Methods: Our study group consisted of 546 female patients, with breast symptoms such as palpable lumps (40.8%), pain in the breast (26%), localized lumpiness or nodularity (13.7%), nipple retraction (11.2%), nipplebloody discharge (5.1%) and redness and swelling of the breast (3.1%). All 546 patients were examined by ultrasonography and mammography. Biopsy was performed according to the findings of mammography and ultrasonography.Results: In breast cancer detection ultrasonography showed an efficiency of 79.4% compared to 55.0% for mammography in detecting breast lump, in the case of nipple retraction mammography showed an efficiency of 89.1% compared to 80.4% for ultrasound, while the lowest efficiency for mammography was in the cases with localized lumpiness or nodularity 17.1% compared to 45.7% for ultrasound. In detecting fibrocystic changes where the most common symptoms was pain, ultrasonography showed an efficiency of 99.3 % compared to 84.2 % for mammography.Conclusions: Our study confirmed that breast lumps are detectable in the majority of patients with breast cancer. The most frequent symptoms in patient with benign lesions were pain or localized discomfort. The diagnostic accuracy for carcinomas of the breast and for benign lesions according to symptoms was higher for ultrasound than for mammography.
Efficiency of combined treatment and conventional physical treatment in bilateral knee arthrosis
Authors: Bojičić Samir , Avdić Dijana , Katana Bakir , Jaganjac Amila , Mačak Hadžiomerović Amra
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Degenerative joint disease, which is standardized in Europe by the name of arthrosis or osteoarthrosis, while in the Anglo-Saxon literature is in use for a long time by the name of osteoarthritis (OA) although this is not a classical inflammation,is the most common joint disease in general and the most common cause of functional damage of the musculoskeletal system. Recently, the term osteoarthritisappears more frequently in domestic literature. Arthroses are degenerative joint diseases with progressive character, also one of the most frequent diseases in orthopedics. The disease fi rst affects the articular cartilage, then the bony edges of the articular surfaces, and then the articular lining.Methods: Retrospective analysis and evaluation of data of treated patients, with the "Praxis" physical treatment during the period of time from 2000 to the end of 2010 on a sample of 79 patients,valorized the efficacy of Praxis treatment. The  correlation of these results, with valorisation of the efficacy of standard physical treatment in clinics D.Z. " Novi Grad " on a sample of 81 patients, during the period of time from 2000 to the end of 2010, a statistical analysis was performed for comparing the effi cacy of the two methods.Results: There is a functional difference after therapy of bilateral gonarthrosis in clinics D.Z. "Novi Grad" and "Praxis" with statistical reliability.Conclusion: A combined approach in the treatment of knee arthrosis has a wider range of treatment procedures, comprehensively approaches to the problem and gives better results, so we can say that this method has priority compared to the standard approach to the knee arthrosis treatment.
Habitat restoration affects immature stages of a wetland butterfly through indirect effects on predation
Authors: Aschehoug Erik T. , Sivakoff F. S. , Cayton H. L. , Morris W. F. , Haddad N. M.
Published: February 2015

Habitat loss worldwide has led to the widespread use of restoration practices for the recovery of imperiled species. However, recovery success may be hampered by focusing on plant communities, rather than the complex suite of direct and indirect interactions among trophic levels that occur in natural systems. Through a factorial field experiment, we tested the effects of wetland restoration on egg and juvenile survival of a locally rare butterfly, Satyrodes appalachia, via tree removal and damming. Tree removal more than tripled S. appalachia host plant abundance, but neither restoration action directly affected S. appalachia egg and juvenile survival. Instead, we found strong indirect effects of habitat manipulation on S. appalachia egg and juvenile survival that were mediated through predation. The interaction of tree removal and damming significantly decreased predation of S. appalachia eggs relative to each treatment alone. Damming alone had a significant positive indirect effect on the survival of S. appalachia juveniles, likely because increases in standing water reduced predator access. Our results emphasize the need for experiments that evaluate the demographic responses of imperiled species to habitat restoration prior to management action and quantify potential indirect effects mediated through higher trophic levels.
Evaluation of Salivary Procalcitonin Levels in Different Periodontal Diseases
Authors: Hendek Meltem Karsiyaka , Erdemir Ebru Olgun , Kisa Ucler
Published: February 2015

Background: The present study aims to investigate the levels of salivary procalcitonin (ProCT) in patients with different periodontal diseases.

Methods: Seventy‐two non‐smokers are included in this study: 21 individuals with chronic periodontitis (CP), 14 individuals with generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP), 18 individuals with gingivitis (G), and 19 periodontally healthy (H) participants. Clinical periodontal parameters, including probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index, and gingival index (GI), were assessed in all participants. Saliva samples were collected and examined for evaluating ProCT levels.

Results: It was found that the median (interquartile range) salivary ProCT level was lowest in the H group: 0.00 (0.09) ng/mL; followed by the G group: 0.09 (0.11) ng/mL; the CP group: 0.15 (0.29) ng/mL; and highest in the GAgP group 0.28 (0.68) ng/mL. These differences were statistically significant between the H group and the other groups (P <0.05). There were positive correlations between the mean salivary ProCT level and GI, CAL, and PD.

Conclusion: According to the present results, ProCT might play a role during periodontal inflammation, and an elevated salivary ProCT level is suggested as a potential biomarker for periodontal diseases.
Novel Coating of Surgical Suture Confers Antimicrobial Activity Against Porphyromonas gingivalis and Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Meghil Mohamed M. , Rueggeberg Frederick , El‐Awady Ahmed , Miles Brodie , Tay Franklin , Pashley David , Cutler Christopher W.
Published: February 2015

Background: The oral cavity is colonized by >109 bacteria, many of which can increase heart disease risk when seeded into the bloodstream. Most dentoalveolar surgeries require the use of surgical sutures. Suture placement and removal can increase the risk of postoperative infection and bacteremia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of a novel quaternary ammonium compound, K21, when coated on different suture materials.

Methods: The periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis and the endodontic species Enterococcus faecalis were grown to early log phase and inoculated on enriched Brucella blood agar, on which were placed identical lengths of surgical suture (chromic gut, polyester suture, silk, and nylon suture) and control unwaxed dental floss impregnated with K21 at 5%, 10%, 20%, and 25% volume/volume in ethanol vehicle. Controls included the following: 1) sutures treated with vehicle; 2) untreated sutures; and 3) unwaxed floss. Zones of inhibition in millimeters were measured at five randomized sites per suture/floss for each concentration and material used. Mean ± SD of zones of inhibition were calculated, and analysis of variance (P <0.05) was used to determine whether differences were statistically significant.

Results: The results indicate that K21‐coated suture at concentrations ranging from 5% to 25%, depending on the type of suture, have antimicrobial activity for P. gingivalis and E. faecalis. Nylon suture coated with K21 at 5%, 10%, 20%, and 25% resulted in zones ranging from 3 to 11 mm. Polyester suture was more effective at lower K21 concentrations with 5% (P = 0.0031), 10% (P = 0.0011), and 20% (P = 0.0002), yielding 7.5, 8.3, and 10.5 mm zones of inhibition. K21‐coated silk suture yielded significant zones of inhibition at 25% (P <0.0001), whereas chromic gut was effective at K21 concentrations of 5% (P = 0.0081) and 25% (P <0.0001).

Conclusion: It is concluded that K21‐coated surgical sutures have antimicrobial activity for bacterial species of direct relevance to postoperative infection and bacteremia.
Combating Brain Drain: Retaining Intellectual Capital in the Energy Industry
Authors: Buczek David A.
Published: February 2015

Management - No abstract available.
Rejuvenation of a Mature Asset
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper SPE 71846, "Fife Field U.K. - Rejuvenation of a Mature Asset," by K.R. Bush, SPE, J. Wakefield, SPE, M. Shepherd, and K. Beattie, Amerada Hess Ltd., originally presented at the 2001 Offshore Europe Conference, Aberdeen, 4-7 September.
Cost Control and Improved Production Performance Revive Drilling Program
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper SPE 71054, "Cost Control and Improved Production Performance Revive Drilling Program," by C.B. Buzarde, SPE, and G.L. Guyman, Chevron USA, and C.A. Seal, SPE, K.T. Olds, SPE, and J.M. Foreman, SPE, Halliburton Energy Services, originally presented at the 2001 SPE Rocky Mountain Petroleum Technical Conference, May 21-23.
Intelligent, Internal Gas-Injection Wells Revitalize Mature Field
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper SPE 72108, "Intelligent Internal Gas- Injection Wells Revitalize Mature S.W. Ampa Field," by Hon Chung Lau, SPE, Robert Deutman, SPE, Salim Al-Sikaiti and Victor Adimora, Brunei Shell Petroleum Co., originally presented at the 2001 SPE Asia Pacific Improved Oil Recovery Conference, Kuala Lumpur, 8-9 October.
Exploration for Natural Hydrate Offshore Japan
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper OTC 13040, "Exploration for Natural Hydrate in Nankai-Trough Wells Offshore Japan," by Hideaki Takahashi, Japan Petroleum Exploration Co., Ltd.; Tetsuo Yonezawa, SPE, Japan Natl. Oil Corp.; and Yoshikazu Takedomi, Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, originally presented at the 2001 offshore Technology Conference, Houston, 30 April-3 May.
Managing Drilling-Fluid Losses in Multiple Highly Depleted Sands
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper OTC 13107, "Successfully Managing Drilling- Fluid Losses in Multiple Highly Depleted Sands," by J.F. Jones, SPE, Marathon Oil Co.; G.D. Taylor, Marathon Oil U.K. Ltd.; and R.D. Barree, Barree & Assocs., originally presented at the 2001 Offshore Technology Conference, Houston, 30 April-3 May.
Geothermal-Hot-Water Waterflood
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper SPE 68724, "Geothermal Hot Waterflood: Balam South Telisa Sand, Sumatra, Indonesia," by John M. Pederson, SPE, and Jayadi H. Sitorus, SPE, P.T. Caltex Pacific Indonesia, originally presented at the 2001 SPE Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition, Jakarta, 17-19 April.
Multilateral Waterflood of a Low-Permeability Carbonate Reservoir
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article is a synopsis of paper SPE 71609, "Multilateral Waterflood Development of a Low-Permeability Carbonate Reservoir," by Y. Bigno, SPE, A. Al- Bahry, SPE, D.D. Melanson, S. Al- Hasani, J.C. Senger, SPE, and R. Henning, Petroleum Development Oman LLC, originally presented at the 2001 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, New Orleans, 30 September-3 October.
Q&A with Bill Sullivan (January 2003)
Authors: Sullivan Bill , Donnelly John
Published: February 2015

Q&A - No abstract available.
Water to Value - Produced Water Management for Sustainable Field Development of Mature and Green Fields
Authors: Khatib Zara , Verbeek Paul
Published: February 2015

HSE Horizons - This is a condensed version of paper SPE 73853, which was presented at the SPE International Conference on Health, Safety, and Environment in Oil and Gas E&P held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 20-22 March 2002.
World Energy Beyond 2050
Authors: Skov Arlie M.
Published: February 2015

Technology Today Series - This article is a condensed version of SPE 77506, which was presented at the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition held in San Antonio, Texas, 29 September-2 October 2002.
Overview: Mature Field Revitalization (January 2003)
Authors: Leibrecht Robert
Published: February 2015

Overview - No abstract available.
The Griffin Development - Flying High on Infill Success
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Assistant Technology Editor Karen Bybee, contains highlights of paper SPE 77920, "The Griffin Development - Flying High on Infill Success," by L.J. Workman, SPE, T.V. Slate, and B.F. Oke, BHP Billiton Petroleum Pty. Ltd., originally presented at the 2002 SPE Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition, Melbourne, Australia, 8-10 October.
Shallow Geohazard Risk Mitigation: A Drilling Contractor's Perspective
Authors: Bybee Karen
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Assistant Technology Editor Karen Bybee, contains highlights of paper SPE 74481, "Shallow Geohazard Risk Mitigation: A Drilling Contractor's Perspective," by David Reed, SPE, GlobalSanta- Fe, originally presented at the 2002 IADC/SPE Drilling Conference, Dallas, 26-28 February.
Overview: Tertiary Recovery (January 2003)
Authors: Felber Betty
Published: February 2015

Overview - No abstract available.
Quad-Lateral Horizontal Well in the Lennox Field
Authors: Denney Dennis
Published: February 2015

This article, written by Technology Editor Dennis Denney, contains highlights of paper SPE 75249, "Case Study of a Quad-Lateral Horizontal Well in the Lennox Field: A Triassic Oil-Rim Reservoir," by Ayk Yaliz, Thomas Chapman, SPE, and Jim Downie, BHP Billiton Petroleum Ltd., originally presented at the 2002 SPE/DOE Improved Oil Recovery Symposium, Tulsa, Oklahoma, 13-17 April.
Understanding and Changing Corporate Culture
Authors: Demski David , McCormick James
Published: February 2015

Management - No abstract available.
Gaining Commitment to Large and Complex Internal Projects
Authors: Floyd Peter
Published: February 2015

Management

Every journey begins with one small, first step. You have probably heard that phrase or one like it before. Yet, quite often—and counter-intuitively—the second step is actually more difficult than the first.

We have all had that moment (that first step) where a fantastic idea or solution to a problem pops into our head from nowhere. Then we go and talk enthusiastically about it with our colleagues (that second step), often to be met with a disappointing and less than positive response. Dejected, we retreat back into our inner world, bemoaning the people we work with and also possibly the organization.

This scenario has strong parallels in the world of project proposals, where exactly the same process, and outcome, is regularly experienced. This is particularly true when considering the large-scale, strategic, and organizational-focused issues such as implementing processes around the big crew change, standardization, integration, or the implementation of new computer technologies. These types of project have a number of unique characteristics, when compared to more technical projects, which make the commitment-gaining process considerably more difficult.

So the big question for people wanting to get an idea off the ground is, "How do I effectively initiate and gain commitment to such ideas and projects?" This article provides some answers and strategies for this challenge, which centers on a missing step—walking in other people's shoes.

Lower-Profile Projects

The oil and gas industry faces an increasingly wide range of technical challenges that are widely known and documented. These technical and capital projects are seen as the glamorous side of the business, typically at the cutting edge of technology, which after all, is what has made this industry successful. Hence, these projects are usually given greater prominence. But what about the more internal and organizational-related projects? These usually have a lower profile, and dare to say, often a lower success rate. Are these types of projects as important and challenging as the technical ones?

Important? Absolutely. Many of the strategic issues facing the industry are as much organizational as technical. Organizational productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness are becoming increasingly important and urgent topics within our industry. And the means of achieving these goals—standardization, integration, optimization, and leveraging the functionality of technology—are affected as well.