bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Policy measures and failures on foreign currency household lending in central and eastern Europe
Authors: Bethlendi A.
Published: June 2011

I found that during booming years national policy makers were strongly constrained to decrease or effectively manage the risks of unhedged foreign currency lending (FCL) to households due to the economic characteristics of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Strong FCL growth was mainly driven by private sector consumption and investment. Foreign banking groups easily intermediated international financing into open CEE markets. International measures, which could have limited FCL, were not taken. I found an inconsistency: FCL was primarily a result of macroeconomic imbalances, but macroeconomic policies mostly proved inefficient to downsize it. Administrative measures seemed to be the most effective, however, only for a short period due to the high degree of financial liberalisation. Regulatory measures proved less efficient, while relatively frequently used supervisory actions did not have any notable effects. Financial education, moral suasion, and market development measures (with the exception of long-term, fixed rate local currency (LC) housing finance) were not efficient at all. Out of 12 investigated countries 6 had some success to limit FCL. Others did not have any efficient policy mix. Comparing the experiences of Hungary and other countries I found that the ‘we cannot do anything’ is a worse policy approach than the ‘we will try to do something’ one in spite of its deficiencies. The euro membership could not automatically eliminate FCL as the example of Slovenia shows.
Overweight, Obesity, Diabetes, and Risk of Breast Cancer: Interlocking Pieces of the Puzzle
Authors: La Vecchia Carlo , Giordano Sharon H. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Chabner Bruce
Published: June 2011

We considered epidemiological data on overweight, diabetes, insulin, and breast cancer. Overweight is inversely related to premenopausal breast cancer, but there is definite evidence that, as compared with normal weight women, the relative risk (RR) for postmenopausal breast cancer is around 1.5 for overweight women and >2 for obese women, and that the association is stronger in elderly women. Overweight and obesity are strongly related to diabetes. Diabetes is associated with postmenopausal breast cancer, too, with summary RRs from meta-analyses of 1.15–1.20, but not with premenopausal breast cancer (RR, 0.9). There is no consistent evidence that fasting insulin is related to breast cancer risk. Thus, although overweight and obesity are strongly related to postmenopausal breast cancer, diabetes is only moderately related to it. Given the extent of the association, and the likely residual confounding by overweight, inference on causality for the diabetes–breast cancer relation remains open to discussion.
Planning for sustainable urban areas or everyday life and inclusion
Authors: Greed Clara
Published: May 2011

This paper discusses the extent to which the diversity and equality agenda is being taken into account at street level as planners and urban designers seek to create sustainable settlements. The paper argues that many design policies inspired by the sustainability agenda do not take into account inclusive urban design considerations, and thus large sectors of the population are adversely affected. While attention is given to the needs of the disabled, particular emphasis is put in this paper upon the design needs of women and older people who together compose around a third of the population. The impact of compact layouts and higher densities in residential areas is first discussed, along with the problems created by increased car control, without commensurate transport policy alternatives, or adequate, safe pedestrian routeways. Second the problems of city centres are discussed where sustainability policy is also being targeted, but other priorities including the new urbanism, the 24-hour city, the evening economy and the city of culture jostle for pre-eminence. It is concluded that the lack of awareness of people's needs and inclusive design principles are reducing the chances of ordinary people accessing, comfortably moving around and enjoying the city. In order to bridge the gap between sustainability and inclusive design in planning, it is concluded that greater emphasis must be given to user needs and the constraints of everyday life.
Designing a carbon capture function into urban soils
Authors: Renforth Phil , Edmondson Jill , Leake Jonathan R. , Gaston Kevin J. , Manning David A. C.
Published: May 2011

Soils, if designed and managed correctly, can retain carbon from the atmosphere as accumulated organic matter, refractory forms of carbon (e.g. biochar) or stable, inorganic, carbonate minerals. This soil ‘carbon capture function’ is highly applicable to the constructed environment in urban areas and should be considered when planning for new or existing developments. The total carbon capture potential of soils in cities may be as high as 7 Mt/year within the UK using biochar and accumulated carbonate minerals, which is equivalent in significance to other forms of geoengineering. Furthermore, soil and vegetation management practices may be implemented to accumulate plant-derived organic carbon in urban soils. The potential for substantial soil-based carbon sequestration in urban environments has yet to be realised, and the varied praxis of soil carbon capture presents accreditation and regulatory challenges to the planning system which need to be resolved.
Alternative approaches to slum upgrading in Kibera, Nairobi
Authors: Cronin Victoria , Guthrie Peter
Published: May 2011

This paper discusses the sustainability of two different approaches to upgrade water and sanitation infrastructure in Kenya's largest informal settlement, Kibera. A background to the urbanisation of poverty is outlined along with approaches to urban slums. Two case studies of completed interventions of infrastructure upgrading have been investigated. In one case study, the upgrading method driven by a non-government organisation uses an integrated livelihoods and partnership technique at community level to create an individual project. In the other case study, the method is a collaboration between the government and a multi-lateral agency to deliver upgraded services as part of a country-wide programme. The ‘bottom-up’ (project) and ‘top-down’ (programme) approaches both seek sustainability and aim to achieve this in the same context using different techniques. This paper investigates the sustainability of each approach. The merits and challenges of the approaches are discussed with the projected future of Kibera. The paper highlights the valuable opportunity for the role of appropriate engineering infrastructure for sustainable urban development, as well as the alleviation of poverty in a developing context.
Briefing: Cities beautiful
Authors: Simpson Alan J.
Published: May 2011

In the city of York a small team of urbanists – architects, economists and engineers – has been working to advise the City of York Council on a twin-thrust programme to (a) create a long-term economic vision for the city and (b) grow the vision with city officers through a skills development programme. ‘York new city beautiful – toward an economic vision’ was published in September 2010 and received enthusiastic support from the City of York Council and the city’s business and community leadership. The last such exercise in forward planning for the city of York was the Esher plan (1969) – a study in conservation, when Bath, Chester, Chichester and York were the subject of the government-driven ‘Four towns study’. This next visionary plan-making exercise is a major opportunity for York. The City of York Council recognises that quality of place matters to businesses making decisions about where to locate and invest; to residents as a living place and a place to live; and to the visitor – to enjoy, to learn, to invest and to come back. The following sets out the programme and its engagement across the community, describes the early twentieth century ‘City beautiful’ programme in Chicago, which inspired the work, and concludes with a broad description of the proposals made to the city of York.
Tailored sustainability assessment for urban masterplanning
Authors: Mulligan Joe , Tuzzolo Gregory R. , Stigge Byron J. , Guthrie Peter M.
Published: May 2011

Tailored sustainability assessment represents one approach to addressing sustainability issues on large-scale urban projects with varying geographical, social and political constraints and diverse incentives among stakeholders. This paper examines the value and limitations of this approach. Three case studies of tailored systems developed by the authors for three unique masterplanning projects are discussed in terms of: contextual sustainability drivers; nature and evolution of systems developed; outcomes of implementation; and overall value delivered. Analysis Leads to conclusions on the key features of effective tailored assessment, the value of tailored sustainability assessment from various perspectives (including client, designer, end-users and the environment), and the limitations of tailored assessment as a tool for comparative analysis between projects. Although systems considered here are specific to individual projects and developed commercially, the challenges and lessons learned are relevant to a range of sustainability assessment approaches developed under different conditions.
Assessment of climate change mitigation and adaptation in cities
Authors: Walsh Claire L. , Dawson Richard J. , Hall Jim W. , Barr Stuart L. , Batty Michael , Bristow Abigail L. , Carney Sebastian , Dagoumas Athanasios S. , Ford Alistair C. , Harpham Colin , Tight Miles R. , Watters Helen , Zanni Alberto M.
Published: May 2011

Cities are faced with a number of sustainability challenges in the context of climate change. There is an urgent need to limit greenhouse gas emissions from cities if ambitious mitigation targets are to be met. Meanwhile, cities are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change unless adaptation plans can be put in place. The need to connect climate change adaptation and mitigation with broader assessment of sustainability is becoming increasingly recognised. This paper describes an urban integrated assessment facility developed by the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, which simulates socio-economic change, climate impacts and greenhouse gas emissions over the course of the twenty first century at the city scale. The urban integrated assessment facility adopts a broad-scale systems approach to urban development and sustainability assessment. It incorporates a multi-sectoral model of the regional economy, hierarchical city-scale spatial interaction model and modules for assessment of climate impacts, adaptation options and greenhouse gas emissions. The paper demonstrates how the urban integrated assessment facility quantifies synergies and conflicts between adaptation to climate change and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions in order to improve decision making and facilitate the development of portfolios of planning policies that together have a realistic prospect of achieving sustainable outcomes for cities.
Using contracts to promote sustainable complex urban projects
Authors: Van der Veen Menno , Korthals Altes Willem K.
Published: May 2011

In addition to public law and legislation, local authorities may use contracts to promote the sustainable development of urban projects. Contracts provide a formal way of defining a more dynamic, flexible and collaborative process of working than is possible with public law procedures. This paper discusses two major urban redevelopment projects – the Zuidas project in Amsterdam and Battery Park City in New York City. The paper focuses on the way that contracts are used in two distinct legal environments to promote public goals. It reflects on the question of whether authorities seeking to promote sustainability must implement legislation that lays out the general responsibilities of developers in relation to sustainable development, for example in the form of a development code, or whether it might be better to use contracts that provide room for flexible solutions. The paper discusses the ways in which contracts may ensure sustainable design and development.
Rethinking social inclusivity: design strategies for cities
Authors: Afacan Yasemin , Afacan Suha Ozcan
Published: May 2011

Cities have become more fragmented due to the increasing urbanisation of many parts of the world. There is more inequality and a growing complexity of social life in cities that leads to social exclusion and increasing social differentiation. This study approaches social inclusivity within the context of universal urban design and defines it as a vehicle for promoting human wellbeing, environmental wholeness and principles of participatory democracy. Mat urbanism – an urban form concept that is more organic and fluid than other urban forms and models – is proposed, alongside a universal design approach, to achieve the goals of sustainable communities and enhance quality of life. The relationship of mat urbanism to the features of high-quality environments and sustainable developments is questioned and illustrated with simple diagrams. The paper concludes with the importance of universally designed sets of regulatory practices regarding sustainable architecture and urban development – from individual buildings to the district and city-scale level. The contribution of this study is not only to explore the potentials of Smithson’s configurations theoretically but also to open new means through which towns and cities can be planned in the future in order to promote social inclusivity, environmental responsiveness, sustainability and universal urban design.
AN INVESTIGATION OF DIFFERENTIAL REINFORCEMENT OF ALTERNATIVE BEHAVIOR WITHOUT EXTINCTION
Authors: Athens Elizabeth S. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: June 2011

We manipulated relative reinforcement for problem behavior and appropriate behavior using differential reinforcement of alternative behavior (DRA) without an extinction component. Seven children with developmental disabilities participated. We manipulated duration (Experiment 1), quality (Experiment 2), delay (Experiment 3), or a combination of each (Experiment 4), such that reinforcement favored appropriate behavior rather than problem behavior even though problem behavior still produced reinforcement. Results of Experiments 1 to 3 showed that behavior was often sensitive to manipulations of duration, quality, and delay in isolation, but the largest and most consistent behavior change was observed when several dimensions of reinforcement were combined to favor appropriate behavior (Experiment 4). Results suggest strategies for reducing problem behavior and increasing appropriate behavior without extinction.
MATRIX TRAINING OF PRELITERACY SKILLS WITH PRESCHOOLERS WITH AUTISM
Authors: Axe Judah B. , Sainato Diane M.
Published: June 2011

Matrix training is a generative approach to instruction in which words are arranged in a matrix so that some multiword phrases are taught and others emerge without direct teaching. We taught 4 preschoolers with autism to follow instructions to perform action—picture combinations (e.g., circle the pepper, underline the deer). Each matrix contained 6 actions on 1 axis and 6 pictures on the other axis. We used most‐to‐least prompting to train the instructions along the diagonal of each matrix and probed the untrained combinations. For 2 participants, untrained responding emerged after the minimum amount of training. The other 2 participants required further training before untrained combinations emerged. At the end of the study, 3 of the 4 participants performed the trained actions with previously known pictures, letters, and numbers. This study demonstrated that matrix training is an efficient approach to teaching language and literacy skills to children with autism.
COMPONENT ANALYSES USING SINGLE‐SUBJECT EXPERIMENTAL DESIGNS: A REVIEW
Authors: Ward‐Horner John , Sturmey Peter
Published: June 2011

A component analysis is a systematic assessment of 2 or more independent variables or components that comprise a treatment package. Component analyses are important for the analysis of behavior; however, previous research provides only cursory descriptions of the topic. Therefore, in this review the definition of component analysis is discussed, and a notation system for evaluating the experimental designs of component analyses is described. Thirty articles that included a component analysis were identified via a literature search. The majority of the studies successfully identified a necessary component; however, most of these studies did not evaluate the sufficiency of the necessary component. The notation system may be helpful in developing experimental designs that best suit the purpose of studies aimed at conducting component analyses of treatment packages.
EFFECTS OF NUMBER AND LOCATION OF BINS ON PLASTIC RECYCLING AT A UNIVERSITY
Authors: O'Connor Ryan T. , Lerman Dorothea C. , Fritz Jennifer N. , Hodde Henry B.
Published: June 2011

The proportion of plastic bottles that consumers placed in appropriate recycling receptacles rather than trash bins was examined across 3 buildings on a university campus. We extended previous research on interventions to increase recycling by controlling the number of recycling receptacles across conditions and by examining receptacle location without the use of posted signs. Manipulating the appearance or number of recycling bins in common areas did not increase recycling. Consumers recycled substantially more plastic bottles when the recycling bins were located in classrooms.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF AGGRESSION MAINTAINED BY PREFERRED CONVERSATIONAL TOPICS
Authors: Roscoe Eileen M. , Kindle Arianne E. , Pence Sacha T.
Published: June 2011

After an initial functional analysis of a participant's aggression showed unclear outcomes, we conducted preference and reinforcer assessments to identify preferred forms of attention that may maintain problem behavior. Next, we conducted an extended functional analysis that included a modified attention condition. Results showed that the participant's aggression was maintained by access to preferred conversational topics. A function‐based intervention decreased aggression and increased an appropriate communicative response.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF THE DELUSIONAL STATEMENTS OF A MAN WITH MULTIPLE DISABILITIES: A FOUR‐YEAR FOLLOW‐UP
Authors: Travis Robert , Sturmey Peter
Published: June 2011

Although delusional statements in people with intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injury can be treated using behavioral interventions, none have demonstrated long‐term treatment effects. In the current study, a functional analysis demonstrated that delusional statements were maintained by attention. Differential reinforcement of alternative behavior and extinction of delusional statements resulted in near elimination of delusional statements and an increase in nondelusional statements. Follow‐up at 6 months, 1, 2, and 4 years indicated that treatment gains were maintained with continued staff training.
AN EVALUATION OF ADVANCE NOTICE TO INCREASE COMPLIANCE AMONG PRESCHOOLERS
Authors: Wilder David A. , Nicholson Katie , Allison Janelle
Published: June 2011

Advance notice of an upcoming instruction was evaluated to increase compliance among 3 children (4 to 5 years old) who exhibited noncompliance. Results show that the procedure was ineffective for all 3 participants. Advance notice plus physical guidance or physical guidance alone was necessary to increase compliance.
Comparison of Core/Log and Well Test Permeabilities - A Closer Look "Sawan Tight Sands"
Authors: Ahmed Amir Riaz , Ahmad Mansoor , Rehman Attique ur
Published: May 2011

Permeability values are available through many sources e.g. cores, logs and well testing. It is a usual practice to condition log data with core, but integration of well test data is usually left for later stages when building 3D reservoir models. It is often observed that core/log results do not agree with well test results. This becomes usually very prominent in tight sand wells. The usual suspect is formation damage during drilling and completion operations, but the real cause may only be revealed by an in-depth analysis of the available data.

Core/log results usually give absolute permeabilities, whereas well tests provide effective permeabilities for the fluid under consideration. The role of cut-offs is very important when core/log permeabilities are calculated e.g. porosity, water saturation, clay volume etc. To compare with Well test permeabilities, the effect of over burden pressure, the gas slippage effect and relative permeability effect should be considered.

The noticeable difference in core/log permeabilities and well test permeabilities is analyzed in this paper and compared with other industry reported cases.
Gas Pricing Under Petroleum Policy 2001: Explaining the Unexplainable
Authors: Tanveer Atif
Published: May 2011

Petroleum (Exploration & Production) Policy 2001 was announced in May 2001 by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Resources (MPNR), Government of Pakistan with an objective to create an investor friendly climate and attract exploration investment in the country. Besides offering certain fiscal incentives the Policy was specifically formulated to give a revised gas pricing mechanism to the E&P sector to achieve that objective. Since gas pricing mechanism given in the earlier Petroleum Policy announced in 1997 had no oil price floor and ceiling limits; hence the gas price under the said Policy was more susceptible to the price shocks, the MPNR, therefore, wanted to rationalize the gas pricing framework of all Petroleum Concession Agreements (PCAs) signed under 1997 Policy with the improved pricing mechanism of the upcoming 2001 Policy.

However, when keenly awaited 2001 policy was announced, much to MPNR’s frustration, its gas pricing criteria was termed as vague by most of the E&P companies. That so called uncertainty later turned into an all-time-big controversy between the MPNR and the petroleum companies when the latter approached the Ministry for the determination of gas prices of their discoveries made under the new 2001 Policy.

The underlying paper thoroughly reviews the gas pricing mechanism given in 2001 petroleum policy and its various interpretations given by the Government and the E&P sector. The paper also highlights the limitations of each of the interpretations using examples based on actual data. At the end paper explains the gas pricing mechanism as given in 2001 policy and concludes that pricing mechanism is not incorrect or wrongly worded but it is primarily the wrong interpretation of the gas pricing formula and the misunderstanding which has led to the controversy between the Government and the E&P companies.
Multi Services Unit - Cost Effective Solution for Wireline & Slickline Services (Pakistan Case Histories)
Authors: Qureshi I. , Ashraf M. , Khattak K. , Jamil A. H. , Mahmood S. , Sair M. T. , Qureshi S.
Published: May 2011

The continuous need in oil & gas industry for technologies and techniques which not only improve the operational quality and efficiency but can also save time and money has resulted in the development of Multi Services Unit (MSU) which provides both wireline and slickline services in a single unit.

Typically, when both wireline and slickline services are required for well intervention operation, separate wireline and slickline unit and personnel are used. Separate arrangement for logistic, personnel accommodations and security are required on top of the daily cost incurred for having both units on the wellsite. Each slickline and wireline unit have applications of its own and even with the latest advances in tools technology, there is limited wireline application that slickline unit can performed and vice-versa. The introduction of MSU will help to reduce the well intervention costs as well as rig time. In addition, the need to use expensive memory logging tools on slickline unit can be avoided as the conventional logging tools can still be used on MSU.

This paper discusses the successful introduction of MSU in Pakistan. MSU was utilized in more than 75 operations in Pakistan with various E&P operators in its first six month. MSU has so far provided both slickline and wireline solutions ranging from slickline completions jobs, memory gauges logging, perforation via slickline/wireline, wireline correlations, wireline bridge plug settings, wireline pipe recovery and production packer setting. All these operations were executed by a single unit and crew. The paper evaluates the cost effectiveness of MSU as opposed to typical use of separate slickline and wireline units. It evaluates additional advantages profited by the E&P operators through the use of MSU such as reduced logistic, accommodation, security requirements, reduced equipment footprints and reduced rig time. The paper also describes conversion process from slickline unit into MSU, the initial complications, continuous improvements and lessons learned made during MSU introduction.

In conclusion, the Multi Services Unit is proven to be an economically attractive solution which helped to reduce well intervention cost without sacrificing the operation quality and safety.
Hydraulic Fracturing Of Tight Gas Reservoir Of Pab Sandstone At POGC Rehman-1
Authors: Nizamuddin M. , Aizad Tanweer , Andress G. R. , Korosa Marko
Published: May 2011

POGC Rehman-1 discovered gas from the Pab sandstone in mid-2009. The well had low productivity primarily due to low reservoir permeability. In December 2009, the well’s Upper and Lower Pab zones were fractured, resulting in a four-fold increase in production. Post-frac testing of the zones discovered very little proppant flowback.

This paper outlines the history of this successful hydraulic fracturing treatment in the Kirthar region. The document also discusses the detailed job design, fracture modeling, pre-frac production model calibration, and sensitivities to treatment size. A series of fracture designs was developed to evaluate the uncertainty in fracture geometry predictions. The successful stimulation of a low-permeability gas reservoir dictated placing a long conductive fracture.

An important aspect of fracture design is fluid selection. The fluid must maintain excellent proppant transport characteristics throughout the pumping sequence, yet break rapidly and cleanly once the treatment is completed. Another important aspect of fracture design: proppant selection. The proppant is basically the life of the fracture and should maintain adequate conductivity throughout the designed exploitation life of the fracture and completion.

The fracturing program and the main treatment’s actual execution are presented in the paper. Operational issues are also discussed. One-hundred mesh sand was used to minimize the risks associated with pressure dependent leakoff (PDL) into natural hairline fractures seen on the FMI log. Post-fracture well-testing data was recorded and analyzed. The results were used to quantify the fracture effectiveness.
A Unique Methodology To Estimate Fracture Permeability in Naturally Fractured Reservoirs (NFR)
Authors: Ulhaq Shahzad , Salehi Fereydoun
Published: May 2011

Fracture Permeability is one of the key parameter in determining the producibility of a Naturally Fractured Reservoir (NFR). Fluid flow in naturally fractured reservoirs is controlled largely by the distribution, orientation, and interconnectivity of the fracture system. The characterization of Naturally Fractured Reservoirs (NFR) represents additional challenges to that of conventional reservoirs because it is not only required the description of two separate means (matrix and fracture) but also it is necessary to undertand their interaction. Among the list of potential parameters that can contribute to understand the complexity of NFR is the fracture permeability. It is very important to estimate the fracture permeability correctly for the successful development of NFR, because the fractures have considerably higher permeability and govern the fluid flow in the reservoir1. These reservoirs commonly have low matrix permeabilites (to md), and a well-developed natural fracture system must be present to provide sufficient deliverability for economic production. A detailed fracture analysis is crucial to estimate fracture permeability in NFR.

In this paper, we present an integrated unique methology for estimating fracture permeability by utilizing logs, borehole images and production data. The results of this methology were encouraging and helped to estimate fracture permeability in the naturally fractured reservois (NFR).
First Hydraulic Fracturing Treatments Improve HPHT Well Offshore India
Authors: Stolyarov Sergey , Dean Greg
Published: June 2011

A stimulation vessel has pumped the first hydraulic fracture treatments in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) tight gas well in the Krishna-Godavari basin offshore India, spurring a four-fold increase in productivity.

The Krishna-Godavari basin holds one of the largest gas reservoirs in India, making it a highly prospective region for exploration. Initial analysis indicated that the tight gas formation would have to be hydraulically fractured to optimize productivity, but its high temperatures and pressures, and its location create challenges for both logistics and technology.

This paper will describe the process of designing and executing several hydraulic fracture treatments in an area with no prior stimulation history, and the results of the work. It will include laboratory evaluations of rock mechanics, mineralogy and permeability, as well as frac fluid stability and proppant pack conductivity at expected downhole temperatures of 400°F. It will also show how minifrac analyses were performed prior to the main frac treatments to verify assumptions about rock and fluid properties and optimize each treatment. Successful stimulation treatments were incorporated into the reservoir model, allowing a more detailed and realistic productivity forecast. Results demonstrated the economic value of including hydraulic fracturing in the full field development plan.
Maximising Natural Gas Reserves and Profitability Through Best Practice Studies Methodologies: A case Example by SPDC Gas Cluster Team
Authors: Udofia Abasiubong , Meijssen Thomas , Ebong Ufot , Foley Mary , Sturman Liz
Published: May 2011

Natural gas is becoming an increasingly important source of the world's energy, with the growth in demand for it as a fuel being encouraged by global concern for the environment, gas lower price and relative abundant to other energy sources. This hyper growth in demand comes with its attendant challenges.

In Nigeria, the Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) plant in Bonny is undergoing rapid expansion to meet this growth in demand. For Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria (SPDC), the challenge to prove up reserves to meet up with the attendant demand, through subsurface developmental studies is one that is handle through the integration of innovative techniques and processes for integrated field studies. Nodal (cluster) development approach, Opportunity Realisation (ORP) and Hydrocarbon Development Planning (HDP) Processes, 3D-all- the –way (3DATW) modelling process and the application of reservoir simulators interface with a surface facility network using the Hydrocarbon Field Planning Tool (HFPT), are proven innovations.

This paper highlights how these innovative integration and rigorous uncertainty management techniques have been used to prove up reserves and produced robust development plans for the several Nodal gas development projects in SPDC, Nigeria, and poised to meet the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) production trains 1-6 (T1-6) gas supply contractual obligations.
Analyzing and Predicting Protein Binding Pockets
Authors: C. Mitra Rooplekha , Alexov Emil
Published: June 2011

This chapter outlines the progress made in analyzing and predicting binding pockets. Typical structurebased
drug discovery project begins with 3D structure of the target protein, identifies putative binding pocket(s),
analyses its properties and performs virtual screening to find suitable candidate drug molecules. The success
crucially depends on both the correct binding pocket prediction and revealing essential biophysical characteristics
of the binding site. These two tasks are intertwined, since many of the binding pocket prediction methods relay of
previous studies on binding site physico-chemical properties. In this chapter the most popular methods and
approaches for both analysis and prediction of binding sites are reviewed and the corresponding URLs are
provided. The emerging picture is the most successful methods of binding site prediction are based on many
components analysis and thus reflect the complex nature of the receptor-ligand interactions.
Contributors
Authors: A. Miteva Maria
Published: June 2011

Full text available
Contemplating Criminal Liability for the Consequences of Unlawful Data Disclosure
Authors: Finch Emily
Published: June 2011

This article considers whether the current approach of the criminal law to the unauthorised disclosure of personal data is adequate to deal with situations in which this disclosure has facilitated the commission of some other criminal offence. It argues that the focus of the criminal law should be on the consequences of disclosure and that there are strong policy arguments in favour of imposing liability on the person making disclosure for the offence that has been committed as a consequence of this conduct. In doing so, the article considers whether this could and should lead to the imposition of liability for constructive manslaughter if the disclosure of personal data leads to the death of the person to whom the data relates. The article concludes by suggesting that the most appropriate response is to strengthen the existing law with creation of a new offence that would focus on the consequences of disclosure.
Antinociceptive effects of nalbuphine hydrochloride in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis)
Authors: Sanchez-Migallon Guzman David , KuKanich Butch , Keuler Nicholas S. , Klauer Julia M. , Paul-Murphy Joanne R.
Published: June 2011

Objective—To evaluate the antinociceptive effects and duration of action of nalbuphine HCl administered IM on thermal thresholds in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis).

Animals—14 healthy adult Hispaniolan Amazon parrots of unknown sex.

Procedures—3 doses of nalbuphine (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg, IM) and saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (control treatment) were evaluated in a blinded complete crossover experimental design by use of foot withdrawal threshold to a noxious thermal stimulus. Baseline data on thermal threshold were generated 1 hour before administration of nalbuphine or saline solution; thermal threshold measurements were obtained 0.5, 1.5, 3, and 6 hours after administration.

Results—Nalbuphine administered IM at 12.5 mg/kg significantly increased the thermal threshold (mean change, 2.4°C), compared with results for the control treatment, and significantly changed thermal threshold for up to 3 hours, compared with baseline results (mean change, 2.6° to 3.8°C). Higher doses of nalbuphine did not significantly change thermal thresholds, compared with results for the control treatment, but had a significant effect, compared with baseline results, for up to 3 and 1.5 hours after administration, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Nalbuphine administered IM at 12.5 mg/kg significantly increased the foot withdrawal threshold to a thermal noxious stimulus in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots. Higher doses of nalbuphine did not result in significantly increased thermal thresholds or a longer duration of action and would be expected to result in less analgesic effect than lower doses. Further studies are needed to fully evaluate the analgesic effects of nalbuphine in psittacine species.
Pharmacokinetics of nalbuphine hydrochloride after intravenous and intramuscular administration to Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis)
Authors: Keller Dominique L. , Sanchez-Migallon Guzman David , Klauer Julia M. , KuKanich Butch , Barker Steven A. , Rodríguez-Ramos Fernández Julia , Paul-Murphy Joanne R.
Published: June 2011

Objective—To assess the pharmacokinetics of nalbuphine HCl after IV and IM administration to Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis).

Animals—8 healthy adult Hispaniolan Amazon parrots of unknown sex.

Procedures—Nalbuphine HCl (12.5 mg/kg) was administered IV and IM to all birds in a complete randomized crossover study design; there was a washout period of 21 days between subsequent administrations. Plasma samples were obtained from blood collected at predetermined time points for measurement of nalbuphine concentration by use of liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated by use of computer software.

Results—Nalbuphine was rapidly eliminated with a terminal half-life of 0.33 hours and clearance of 69.95 mL/min/kg after IV administration and a half-life of 0.35 hours after IM administration. Volume of distribution was 2.01 L/kg after IV administration. The fraction of the dose absorbed was high (1.03) after IM administration. No adverse effects were detected in the parrots during the study.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In Hispaniolan Amazon parrots, nalbuphine appeared to have good bioavailability after IM administration and was rapidly cleared after IV and IM administration. Safety and analgesic efficacy of various nalbuphine treatment regimens in this species require further investigation to determine the potential for clinical palliation of signs of pain in psittacine species.
Accuracy of pressure plate kinetic asymmetry indices and their correlation with visual gait assessment scores in lame and nonlame dogs
Authors: Oosterlinck Maarten , Bosmans Tim , Gasthuys Frank , Polis Ingeborgh , Van Ryssen Bernadette , Dewulf Jeroen , Pille Frederik
Published: June 2011

Objective—To determine the accuracy of pressure plate kinetic asymmetry indices (ASIs) for diagnosis of unilateral hind limb lameness in dogs and their correlation with visual gait assessment (VGA) scores.

Animals—9 healthy dogs and 16 dogs with previously diagnosed unilateral rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament and concurrent unilateral hind limb lameness.

Procedures—Dogs were walked over a pressure plate to determine paw contact area (PCA), peak vertical pressure (PVP), peak vertical force (PVF), and vertical impulse (VI) of both hind limbs. An ASI was calculated for each gait variable. Simultaneously, gait was assessed visually and scored by use of a numeric rating scale (0 to 10). The ASI of each variable was tested for its usefulness in discrimination between lame and nonlame dogs and for correlation with VGA scores.

Results—Sensitivity and specificity of ASIs to discriminate between lame and nonlame dogs were excellent for PVF, VI, and PCA; these values were substantially lower for ASI of PVP. Cutoff values to discriminate between lame and nonlame dogs were determined by use of ASIs for PVF, VI, and PCA; however, this could not be done for ASI of PVP. Correlations between ASIs of PVF, VI, and PCA and VGA scores were higher than correlation between the ASIs of PVP and VGA scores.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that ASIs of PVF and VI determined via analysis of pressure plate measurements were reliable indicators of clinical lameness in dogs, but the ASI of PVP was not. The ASI of PCA is an interesting new variable for assessment of limb loading symmetry.
Diagnostic accuracy of using erythrocyte indices and polychromasia to identify regenerative anemia in dogs
Authors: Hodges Joanne , Christopher Mary M.
Published: June 2011

Objective—To determine diagnostic accuracy of using erythrocyte indices and polychromasia to identify regenerative anemia in dogs.

Design—Retrospective and prospective cross-sectional study.

Animals—4,521 anemic dogs.

Procedures—CBC results obtained between July 2002 and July 2008 by use of an automated laser-based flow cytometric hematology analyzer from dogs with Hct values ≤ 35% were retrieved. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and predictive values of using erythrocyte indices and polychromasia to identify regeneration were determined, with a reticulocyte count > 65,000 reticulocytes/μL considered the gold standard. Similarly, 134 blood samples from anemic dogs were analyzed prospectively with an in-house electrical impedance analyzer.

Results—Of 4,387 dogs with samples analyzed retrospectively, 1,426 (32.5%) had regenerative anemia. Of these, 168 (11.8%) had macrocytic hypochromic anemia. High mean cell volume and low mean cell hemoglobin concentration had low sensitivity (11%), high specificity (98%), and moderate accuracy (70%) when used to identify regenerative anemia. Use of polychromasia alone had an accuracy of 77%, and use of polychromasia combined with a high RBC distribution width (RDW) had an accuracy of 79%. Results obtained with the in-house analyzer were similar.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that most regenerative anemias in dogs were not macrocytic hypochromic. Polychromasia, with or without high RDW, was a more accurate indicator than other erythrocyte indices of regenerative anemia. To avoid a false diagnosis of nonregenerative anemia, a blood smear should be evaluated in anemic dogs when a reticulocyte count is not available.
Ecological status of shallow Lake Gorbacz (NE Poland) in its final stage before drying up
Authors: Zieliński Piotr , Ejsmont-Karabin Jolanta , Grabowska Magdalena , Karpowicz Maciej
Published: June 2011

The article assesses the ecological status of shallow Gorbacz Lake (NE Poland) in the last stage before complete drying up. For last few years hydrological regime of the lake catchment has been changed dramatically which was caused by functioning nearby peat mine and longer autumn drought periods for following years. Progressing macrophytes succession leaded complete emergent macrophytes overgrowth of the lake beginning from 2000. The analyses include records of previous samples and data for morphology, water quality, phytoplankton, zooplankton and macrophytes. The trophic status of Gorbacz Lake was verified compare to the previous studies. The results indicate that even with minimum amount of water Gorbacz Lake itself still keeps its dystrophic character with increasing of water color and of DOC, biogenic substances, chlorophyll a concentrations. Humic State Index (HSI) and hydrochemical dystrophy index (HDI) confirm the dystrophic status of the lake with values 71.3 and 76.2 respectively. Both typical phytoplankton representatives of eutrophic and dystrophic waters were recorded. Very high diversity of desmids in the telmatoplankton, indicates the observed process of shallowing in the reservoir. Planktonic crustacean fauna was represented by small filtrators. Rotifera community was strongly dominated by Trichocerca simonei. The article concludes with the main causes of the observed changes and some future remarks for the lake state.
Comparison of gastrotrich fauna on elodeids and in bottom sediments of lakes of different trophic status (the region Polesie Lubelskie, Eastern Poland)
Authors: Nesteruk Teresa
Published: June 2011

Species diversity of gastrotrich communities on elodeids and in bottom sediments of lakes of different trophic status was compared. Thirty-eight species of Gastrotricha (34 in bottom sediment and 21 on elodeids) were found, which belong to the only family of Chaetonotidae Zelinka, 1889. Species diversity of both habitats was reflected in the diversity indices ranging from 2.02 (a dystrophic lake) to 2.67 (a strongly eutrophic lake) for bottom sediment, and from 2.01 (a mesotrophic lake) to 2.54 (a strongly eutrophic lake) for elodeids. The similarity of gastrotrich fauna from the two habitats was low, and varied from 17% (a mesotrophic lake) to 38% (a strongly eutrophic lake). Low similarity of elodeid fauna from lakes of different trophic status was also found, in spite of similar plant species composition. The lowest similarity in elodeid fauna (23%) was recorded for dystrophic and mesotrophic lakes, whereas the highest one (68%) was observed for eutrophic and strongly eutrophic lakes. That allows to conclude that the diversity of epiphytic fauna is affected by trophic status rather than by vegetation type. The comparison of the gastrotrich fauna from elodeids and bottom sediments in lakes of different trophic status provides additional autoecological characteristics of Heterolepidoderma ocellatum (Mečnikow, 1865) and allows to recognize this species as belonging to a group of species closely related to macrophytes.
Phosphate exchange across the sediment-water interface under oxic and hypoxic/anoxic conditions in the southern Baltic Sea
Authors: Łukawska-Matuszewska Katarzyna , Burska Dorota
Published: June 2011

Benthic fluxes of phosphate and phosphorus distribution in sediments from the southern Baltic Sea were investigated in spring and autumn in 2005 and 2007–2010. Strong spatial variability of phosphate fluxes was observed across the sediment-water interface. The highest values of phosphate flux from sediment (up to 37 μmol m−2 h−1), resulting from the high mineralization rate of organic matter and rapid phosphorus turnover due to macrofaunal activity and hydrodynamic conditions, were observed in the shallow area at depths ranging from 50 to 69 m. The rate of phosphate exchange in the transportation and accumulation bottom area with the water depth ≥72 m was several times lower (2.12–6.22 μmol m−2 h−1). In continuously hypoxic or anoxic sediments, phosphorus was preserved in the refractory organic form, and sediments were depleted of redox-dependent phosphorus forms. In shallow area with well oxygenated near-bottom water, phosphorus was present mainly in the calcium-bound form.
Phosphorus in sediments and pore waters of selected Polish dam reservoirs
Authors: Trojanowska Adriana , Jezierski Piotr
Published: June 2011

This study aimed to examine and explain the spatial distribution of total phosphorus in sediments and orthophosphates in interstitial water in four Polish dam reservoirs with varying hydrological and geochemical characteristics. The results are linked to physicochemical parameters of sediments: organic matter and calcium carbonates content, pH, redox potential and conductivity.

In two of the studied reservoirs hydrological dynamics were a driving force in phosphorus circulation, despite the big difference in their mean water retention times, and interactions with Ca and Fe were of secondary importance

In other reservoirs with complicated shorelines and reservoir beds, due to water flow disturbance the hydrological impact was not as pronounced. Geochemical processes, such as precipitation of phosphorus associated with Ca+2, Fe(III) or in complexed with humic substances became more significant.
On the use of a simple primary productivity model to assess the skill of a physical ocean model
Authors: Kantha Lakshmi , Carniel Sandro , Clayson Carol , Sclavo Mauro
Published: June 2011

Ecosystem models, used mainly in studying the interactions between different trophic levels, can also be used for ocean circulation model skill assessment, with the help of satellite ocean color data. This paper presents how the use of a simple NPZ primary productivity ecosystem model, coupled to a hydrodynamical model, can help assessing the skill of the physical ocean model in depicting realistically the prevailing mesoscale features of the upper layers of the Gulf of Mexico. Results indicate that the physical model effectively reproduces the mesoscale features of circulation underlying the resulting chlorophyll concentrations, especially when circulation fronts exist.