bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Hydraulic Fracturing of Shale Formations by Acidizing
Authors: Morsy Samiha , Sheng J. J. , Soliman M. Y.
Published: August 2013

Acidizing as a stimulation technique does not always yield the desired sustainable conductivity especially compared to hydraulic fracturing. In addition to that, hydraulic fracturing provides a great contact with shale formations due to its deeper developed conductivity that is sustained by the existence of proppant. However, hydraulic fracture conductivity declines because of a variety of reasons: increasing effective stress, proppant fatigue due to stress cycling, and digenesis. Here, we studied the potential of combining the benefits of propped hydraulic fracturing and acidizing by introducing low concentrations of acid slugs in the hydraulic fracture treatment of shale formations. The acid slugs intended to improve the micro-fracture conductivity deep in the formation and near the wellbore. Experiments using low concentrations of HCl (up to 3 wt% active HCl) showed a great enhancement in oil recovery factors and shale porosity. The treatment was carried out at 200°F. Furthermore, the effect of the HCl treatment on samples from Mancos, Eagle Ford, Barnett, and Marcellus shale formations was examined. The samples used were 2.54-3.81 cm in diameter and 0.76-5.08 cm in length. The porosity measurements on the cores before the treatment range from 0.23-7.7% versus 0.2-35.8% after the treatment. Spontaneous imbibitions showed recovery factors of 2.5-13% from non-treated samples against 4-53% from the treated samples. The treated samples were saturated with more oil compared to the non-treated samples due to the improvement in porosity and permeability by the acid treatment. CT scan images also have been taken for the samples pre and post the acid treatments to show the effect of the treatment on the porosity and cracks distribution along the cores. Our study clearly demonstrates that injecting slugs of low concentrations of HCl near and away from the wellbore adds permanent improved conductivity to hydraulic fracturing that is resulted from the partial dissolution of calcite.
Unconventional Remediation in the Utica Shale Using Advanced Resin Technologies
Authors: Jones P. J. , London B. A. , Tennison L. B. , Karcher J. D.
Published: August 2013

Development of unconventional resources in the northeast region of the United States has resulted in oil companies and energy service companies working together to deliver technical solutions to challenges associated with safe and economical production of hydrocarbon from this region. One major challenge is remediation and prevention of annular pressure buildup. Recently, using resin sealant technologies during remediation operations has effectively and completely eliminated unwanted annular gas flow and pressure buildup in problematic wells. A key property of resin is its ability to be formulated free from solids, allowing it to deeply penetrate into tight fractures and crevices without the risk of particle bridging. However, previous resin systems have experienced adverse reactions when placed in contact with aqueous fluids. Recent chemical advancements have resulted in an oilfield resin system capable of being placed in the well adjacent to cement slurries and other water-based liquids in the fluid train. These advancements have enabled engineers to design successful remediation strategies and programs using previously unavailable techniques. This paper discusses resin chemistry and mechanical properties developments. In addition, a detailed case history from the Utica shale is presented in which a combination of resin and cement was used in a triple-stage remedial operation for annular pressure buildup. After the remedial operation, annular pressure was measured to be 0 psi.
Gas Factory: Operational Efficiencies in the Marcellus Shale Lead to Exceptional Results
Authors: Huls Boyd , Hurey Michael , Johnson Jeffrey
Published: August 2013

The natural gas boom in Northeast Pennsylvania over the past few years is directly related to the ability of the petroleum industry to convert the once economically-challenged Marcellus Shale into a dynamic energy resource. Those who have realized the potential and positive impacts of Marcellus Shale gas have described this boom as nothing short of revolutionary. The development of this unconventional play has challenged operational thinking and created an opportunity to implement innovative solutions to a variety of logistical challenges. Many of the conventional paradigms have been adapted and refined to lower the unit cost and shorten the cycle duration time from permit to production.

The quest has been to improve cost effective production while continuing a responsible regard for health, safety, and the environment. The effort has been multi-dimensional and the result of a cooperative approach by the producers, service companies, and every member of the supply chain. Once adopted, these operational efficiencies become standard practice and are repeated pad to pad and well to well. This repetitive "assembly line" approach used in high efficiency operations is now described as a "Gas Factory." In this paper we will present a case study with emphasis on operational efficiencies resulting in remarkable growth activity and production optimization in one of the premier gas plays in the world.
New Advances in Shale Reservoir Analysis Using Flowback Data
Authors: Alkouh Ahmad , Wattenbarger Robert A.
Published: August 2013

Shale reservoirs with multistage hydraulic fractures are commonly characterized by analyzing long-term gas production data, but flowback data is usually not included in the analysis. However, this work shows there can be benefits to including flowback data in well analysis. The flowback period is dominated by water flow. Field data indicate that only 15-30% of the frac water is recovered after the flowback. Past publications have suggested that the lost water is trapped in the natural fracture or imbibed into the rock matrix near the fracture face. In this paper, lost water scenarios are tested and examples are presented for including flowback and production data in the analysis of shale gas wells.

A gas-water model was constructed for simulating the flowback and long-term production periods. Various physical assumptions were investigated for the saturations and properties in the fracture/matrix system that exists after hydraulic fracturing. The results of these simulations were compared with data from actual wells. The result of these comparisons led to certain conclusions and procedures that describe possible well/reservoir conditions after hydraulic fracturing and during production.

In this work, the challenge of simulating a natural fracture with trapped water without imbibition is solved using a new hybrid relative permeability jail. This concept was tested for the period of flowback, shut-in and production. Natural fracture spacing could be a possible explanation of the lost water. In addition, this paper shows the benefits of combining flowback and long-term water production data in the analysis of shale gas wells. In some cases the time shift on diagnostic plots changes the apparent flow regime identification of the early gas production data. This leads to different models of the fracture/matrix system. The presented work encourages the engineer to collect flowback data in order to include it in the long-term production analysis.
Efficient and Accurate Global Sensitivity Analysis for Reservoir Simulations By Use of the Probabilistic Collocation Method
Authors: Dai Cheng , Li Heng , Zhang Dongxiao
Published: August 2013

Reservoir simulations involve a large number of formation and fluid parameters, many of which are subject to uncertainties owing to the combination of spatial heterogeneity and insufficient measurements. Accurately quantifying the impact of varying parameters on simulation models can reveal the importance of the parameters, which helps in designing field-characterization strategies and determining parameterization for history matching. Compared with the commonly used local sensitivity analysis (SA), global SA considers the whole variation range of the parameters and can thus provide more-complete information. However, the traditional global sensitivity analysis that is derived from Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) is computationally too demanding for reservoir simulations. In this study, we propose an alternative approach that is both accurate and efficient.

In the proposed approach, the model outputs such as pressure and reservoir production quantities are expressed by polynomial chaos expansions (PCEs). The probabilistic collocation method is used to determine the coefficients of the polynomial expansions by solving outputs at different sets of collocation points by means of the original partial-differential equations. Then, a proxy is constructed with such coefficients. Accurate statistical sensitivity indices of the uncertainty parameters can be obtained by running the proxy. We validate the approach with 2D examples by comparing with the MCS-based global SA. It is found that with only a small fraction of the computational cost required by the MCS approach, the new approach gives accurate global sensitivity for each parameter. The proposed approach is also demonstrated on a large-scale 3D black-oil model, for which the MCS-based global SA is found to be computationally infeasible. It is found that the developed approach possesses the following key advantages: It requires a much smaller number of reservoir simulations for accurate global SA; it is nonintrusive and can be implemented with existing codes or simulators; and it can accommodate arbitrary distributions of parameters encountered in realistic geological situations.
Return periods of the August 2010 heavy precipitation in northern Bohemia (Czech Republic) in the present climate and under climate change
Authors: Kyselý Jan , Gaál Ladislav , Picek Jan , Schindler Martin
Published: August 2013

The study deals with estimates of return periods associated with the August 2010 heavy precipitation in northern Bohemia (Czech Republic), which resulted in flooding with enormous material damage and loss of lives, in the present climate and under climate change scenarios. We focus on the record-breaking 1-day and 2-day amounts at lower-elevation stations, exceeding 150 and 250 mm, respectively. The estimates of return periods are based on two methods of regional frequency analysis and they are compared with local (at-site) estimation. The regional methods consistently suggest that the August 2010 event was exceptional in view of past records, but the return levels decline substantially – by a factor of 2–4 – if parameters of the generalized extreme value distribution are allowed to vary in accordance with scenarios based on an ensemble of regional climate model projections for 2070–99. In spite of large uncertainty associated with future climate change scenarios, increased recurrence probability of such heavy precipitation events in the 21st century should be taken into account when designing and implementing flood risk prevention and mitigation measures.
Managing water-related energy in future cities – a research and policy roadmap
Authors: Kenway S. , McMahon J. , Elmer V. , Conrad S. , Rosenblum J.
Published: August 2013

Water-related energy accounts for around one-quarter of California's energy use. Most of the influence is within cities. This project aimed to identify research and policy needs associated with managing energy related to urban water. A workshop was convened with diverse representation from water and energy sectors in federal (US), state (California) and municipal governments, research and regulatory agencies, universities, utilities, not-for profit and private sectors. The workshop established a vision of future cities, including elements of success, research needs and barriers. A subsequent on-line survey was used to estimate the potential, effort and ‘potential-to-effort’ ratio of each suggested element. First suggested steps in the roadmap include: development of educational programmes, combined standards, guidelines, funding and planning for water and energy efficiency, improved understanding and management of factors motivating consumers, and improved methods to quantify and track targets of ‘water-related energy and related greenhouse gas emissions’. The ‘roadmap’ could help streamline future effort and sequencing action. The authors note and reflect on the importance of representation at such a workshop, and an effort is made to understand sources of variability in viewpoints. The semi-quantitative method used could have relevance to wider resource management issues and complex problem resolution.
Assessing the spatio-temporal variation and uncertainty patterns of historical and future projected water resources in China
Authors: Zhu Qiuan , Jiang Hong , Peng Changhui , Liu Jinxun , Fang Xiuqin , Chen Huai , Liu Shirong
Published: August 2013

The spatial and temporal variation and uncertainty of precipitation and runoff in China were compared and evaluated between historical and future periods under different climate change scenarios. The precipitation pattern is derived from observed and future projected precipitation data for historical and future periods, respectively. The runoff is derived from simulation results in historical and future periods using a dynamic global vegetation model (DGVM) forced with historical observed and global climate models (GCMs) future projected climate data, respectively. One GCM (CGCM3.1) under two emission scenarios (SRES A2 and SRES B1) was used for the future period simulations. The results indicated high uncertainties and variations in climate change effects on hydrological processes in China: precipitation and runoff showed a significant increasing trend in the future period but a decreasing trend in the historical period at the national level; the temporal variation and uncertainty of projected precipitation and runoff in the future period were predicted to be higher than those in the historical period; the levels of precipitation and runoff in the future period were higher than those in the historical period. The change in trends of precipitation and runoff are highly affected by different climate change scenarios. GCM structure and emission scenarios should be the major sources of uncertainty.
Consumption of a Diet Low in Advanced Glycation End Products for 4 Weeks Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Overweight Women
Authors: Mark Alicja Budek , Poulsen Malene Wibe , Andersen Stine , Andersen Jeanette Marker , Bak Monika Judyta , Ritz Christian , Holst Jens Juul , Nielsen John , de Courten Barbora , Dragsted Lars Ove , Bügel Susanne Gjedsted
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE

High-heat cooking of food induces the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are thought to impair glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetic patients. High intake of fructose might additionally affect endogenous formation of AGEs. This parallel intervention study investigated whether the addition of fructose or cooking methods influencing the AGE content of food affect insulin sensitivity in overweight individuals.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Seventy-four overweight women were randomized to follow either a high- or low-AGE diet for 4 weeks, together with consumption of either fructose or glucose drinks. Glucose and insulin concentrations—after fasting and 2 h after an oral glucose tolerance test—were measured before and after the intervention. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and insulin sensitivity index were calculated. Dietary and urinary AGE concentrations were measured (liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry) to estimate AGE intake and excretion.

RESULTS

When adjusted for changes in anthropometric measures during the intervention, the low-AGE diet decreased urinary AGEs, fasting insulin concentrations, and HOMA-IR, compared with the high-AGE diet. Addition of fructose did not affect any outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Diets with high AGE content may increase the development of insulin resistance. AGEs can be reduced by modulation of cooking methods but is unaffected by moderate fructose intake.
An Arabic Version of the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire: Translation and Validation Study
Authors: Almadi Tawfiq , Cathers Ian , Chow Chin Moi
Published: August 2013

An Arabic version of the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire was developed and validated through a translation process with cross-cultural considerations. The translated questionnaire was evaluated for reliability and validity. A Principal Components Analysis was conducted following assessment of the suitability of data for factor analysis. Components with high eigenvalues were extracted, followed by Varimax rotation. Three components with eigenvalues greater than 1.0 (50% of variance) were indicated. The analysis showed Cronbach's α coefficients of .82 for the Effort scale, .88 for the Reward scale, and .74 for the Overcommitment scale. The test-retest reliability was high with intra-correlation coefficients of ≥.86. The Arabic version of the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire showed adequate reliability and validity and is a suitable instrument to assess work stress in Arabic-speaking people.
Autobiographical Memory, Mental Disorders, and Emotional Valence: Comment on Young, et al. (2012)
Authors: Lemogne Cédric , Limosin Frédéric , Fossati Philippe
Published: August 2013

Young, Erickson, and Drevets (2012) reported that positive and neutral cue words elicited less positive memories among patients with major depression than among healthy controls, while memories from patients were less specific than those from controls, regardless of their intrinsic valence. These results suggested methodological refinements that may shed light on several aspects of autobiographical memory impairment in mental disorders.
Design and Test of a Situation-Augmented Display for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Monitoring Task
Authors: Lu Jen-Li , Horng Ruey-Yun , Chao Chin-Jung
Published: August 2013

In this study, a situation-augmented display for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) monitoring was designed, and its effects on operator performance and mental workload were examined. The display design was augmented with the knowledge that there is an invariant flight trajectory (formed by the relationship between altitude and velocity) for every flight, from takeoff to landing. 56 participants were randomly assigned to the situation-augmented display or a conventional display condition to work on 4 (number of abnormalities) × 2 (noise level) UAV monitoring tasks three times. Results showed that the effects of situation-augmented display on flight completion time and time to detect abnormalities were robust under various workload conditions, but error rate and perceived mental workload were unaffected by the display type. Results suggest that the UAV monitoring task is extremely difficult, and that display devices providing high-level situation-awareness may improve operator monitoring performance.
Influence of Visual Impairment Level on the Regulatory Mechanism Used during the Approach Phase of a Long Jump
Authors: Theodorou Apostolos , Skordilis Emmanouil , Plainis Sotiris , Panoutsakopoulos Vassilios , Panteli Flora
Published: August 2013

The purpose of the study was to investigate the occurrence of stride regulation at the approach phase of the long jump in athletes with normal vision and visually deprived Class F12 and F13 athletes. All the athletes exhibited the presence of a regulatory mechanism. In the normal vision group this occurred on the fifth-to-last stride. In Class F12 athletes regulation commenced on the fourth-to-last stride for males and third-to-last stride for females. Class F13 males commenced regulation, like the control group, on the fifth-to-last stride; but females commenced on the fourth-to-last stride. The study demonstrated that reduced vision does not prevent Class F12 and F13 athletes from applying a regulatory mechanism similar to that observed in sighted athletes. However, the control mechanism of regulation emerged earlier in non-visually deprived long jumpers and the least visually impaired Class F13 athletes, signifying the importance of visual function in the regulatory stimuli.
Color of Soccer Goalkeepers' Uniforms Influences the Outcome of Penalty Kicks
Authors: Greenlees Iain A. , Eynon Michael , Thelwell Richard C.
Published: August 2013

This study examined the proposition that competing against red-clad opponents hinders the performance of soccer (football) athletes. 40 experienced players took 10 penalty kicks against a goalkeeper wearing a black jersey and, 1 week later, took 10 penalty kicks against a goalkeeper wearing either a red, green, blue, or yellow jersey. Prior to each set of kicks, participants reported their expectancy of success. Players facing red-clad goalkeepers scored on fewer penalty kicks than those facing either blue- or green-clad goalkeepers, but no differences in expectancy of success emerged. The findings indicate that athletes wearing red may have an advantage over their opponents.
Considering the Worst-Case Metabolic Scenario, but Training to the Typical-Case Competitive Scenario: Response to Amtmann (2012)
Authors: Del Vecchio Fabrício Boscolo , Franchini Emerson
Published: August 2013

This response to Amtmann's letter emphasizes that the knowledge of the typical time structure, as well as its variation, together with the main goal of the mixed martial arts athletes—to win by knock out or submission—need to be properly considered during the training sessions. Example with other combat sports are given and discussed, especially concerning the importance of adapting the physical conditioning workouts to the technical-tactical profile of the athlete and not the opposite.
Analytical protocol for investigation of zinc speciation in plant tissue
Authors: Karasiński Jakub , Cegiełkowska Wanda , Wojciechowski Marcin , Wierzbicka Małgorzata , Bulska Ewa
Published: August 2013

A specific procedure is proposed for investigating the chemical speciation of zinc (Zn) in plant tissues, viz., the extraction of Zn compounds from Plantago lanceolata L. followed by the chromatographic separation and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) identification of these compounds. In order to separate the Zn compounds, both size-exclusion (SEC) and ionexchange liquid chromatography (IC) were used in direct sequential and reverse sequential modes. In the direct sequential mode, the entire extract undergoes SEC separation and then the individual fractions are injected onto the ion-exchange column. The molecular size distribution is evaluated by SEC coupled on-line to the UV detector. In the reverse sequential mode, the entire extract undergoes the ion-exchange chromatographic separation and then the individual fractions are injected onto the size-exclusion column. The identification of Zn incorporated into the compounds is further performed using ICP-MS. This procedure is particularly useful in speciation studies when identification of the individual components of the element is problematic due to the lack of suitable standard substances, as is the case for Zn compounds. The proposed procedure facilitates assignment of the signals to the individual components of the fractions for both types of chromatography, thus rendering the chemical speciation of Zn possible when the lack of suitable standard substances impedes the identification of individual components.
Microwave-assisted synthesis and antibacterial activity of derivatives of 3-[1-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]-5-(4-fluorobenzylthio)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-amine
Authors: Peng Yong-Le , Liu Xing-Li , Wang Xiao-Hong , Zhao Zhi-Gang
Published: August 2013

Herein, an excellent method for the synthesis of twelve novel Schiff base derivatives containing indole and triazole assisted by microwave irradiation is reported. Compared with the conventional method, the yields increased from 59–84 % to 85–96 % and the reaction time was reduced from 24–30 h to 4–8 min. Moreover, all series of the newly synthesized Schiff bases were evaluated for their antibacterial activity. The values of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and IC50 indicated that many target compounds possessed excellent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis.
Phase retrieval between overlapping orders in coherent Fourier scatterometry using scanning
Authors: Kumar N. , El Gawhary O. , Roy S. , Pereira S. F. , Urbach H. P.
Published: August 2013

Non-interferometric phase retrieval from the intensity measurements in Coherent Fourier Scatterometry (CFS) is presented using a scanning focused spot. Formulae to determine the state of polarization of the scattered light and to retrieve the phase difference between overlapping scattered orders are given. The scattered far field is rigorously computed and the functionality of the method is proved with experimental results.
Theoretical investigation on the scale factor of a triple ring cavity to be used in frequency sensitive resonant gyroscopes
Authors: Ciminelli C. , Campanella C. E. , Dell’Olio F. , Campanella C. M. , Armenise M. N.
Published: August 2013

In this paper we study a multi-ring resonant structure including three evanescently coupled ring resonators (named triple ring resonator, TRR), with different ring radii and coupling coefficients, and coupled to two bus waveguides. The potential application of a TRR as a rotation sensor is analyzed and its advantages over a single ring resonator (SRR) under rotation conditions are also highlighted. When the coupled rings have different size and their inter-ring coupling coefficients are lower than the ring-bus coupling coefficients, the resonance frequency difference between two counter-propagating beams induced by rotation is enhanced with respect to that of a single ring resonator (SRR) with the same footprint. The scale factor of the rotating TRR, which depends on the structural parameters (i.e. inter-ring and ring-bus coupling coefficients, lengths of the rings, overall propagation loss within the rings), is up to 1.88 times the value of the scale factor of a SRR, which depends only on the ring radius, by assuming that the waveguide structure in both configurations is the same. This promising numerical achievement results in a reduction of the sensor footprint of about two times, with respect to a single ring with the same scale factor. The results obtained may be useful to define new configurations of frequency sensitive optical gyros in low-loss technology, having a small volume. In fact, by properly choosing the structural parameters, the spectral response of the TRR is forced to assume a shape more sensitive to the resonant frequency shift due to the rotation with respect to that one of a SRR.
Optical contrast of oil dispersed in seawater under windy conditions
Authors: Otremba Z. , Zielinski O. , Hu C.
Published: August 2013

Oil pollution of natural waters represents a serious threat for aquatic ecosystems, and the assessment of the degree of pollution requires measurement strategies including remote sensing and modeling. While surface oil pollution is relatively easy to detect with radar or optical remote sensing, underwater oil emulsions can only be detected using visible light as an information carrier. Here the Michelson contrast of sea area polluted by an oil-in-water emulsion under various wind conditions is simulated through Monte-Carlo modeling. The results show the premise for optimal direction of observations in which the possibility of detecting the emulsified oil is maximized.
Beatrice Hinkle and the Early History of Jungian Psychology in New York
Authors: Sherry Jay
Published: August 2013

As the leading proponent of psychoanalysis, Jung made trips to New York in 1912 and 1913. The first was to give his Fordham lectures, the second has escaped notice but was crucial in the early dissemination of Jungian psychology in the U.S. This paper will elaborate on this development by highlighting the career and influence of Beatrice Hinkle, the country’s first Jungian psychoanalyst. She was an M.D. and ardent feminist who introduced Jung to her Greenwich Village circle, translated his magnum opus Transformations and Symbols of the Libido, and helped establish the institutional basis of Jungian psychology in America.
A Multi-Criteria Methodology to Support Public Administration Decision Making Concerning Sustainable Energy Action Plans
Authors: Dall'O' Giuliano , Norese Maria , Galante Annalisa , Novello Chiara
Published: August 2013

For municipalities that have joined the Covenant of Mayors promoted by the European Commission, the Sustainable Energy Action Plan (SEAP) represents a strategic tool for achieving the greenhouse gas reductions required by 2020. So far as the energy retrofit actions in their residential building stock are concerned, which in the small-to-medium municipalities are responsible for more than 60% of CO2 emissions, the scenarios for intervening are normally decided on the basis of an economic (cost/performance) analysis. This type of analysis, however, does not take into account important aspects for small and medium-sized communities such as social aspects, environmental impacts, local economic development and employment. A more comprehensive and effective tool to support the choices of public administrators is the multi-criteria analysis. This study proposes a methodology that integrates multi-criteria analysis in order to support Public Administration/Local Authorities in programming Sustainable Energy Action Plans with a more targeted approach to sustainability. The methodology, based on the ELECTRE III method, was applied to a medium-size municipality in the Lombardy region of Italy. The results obtained with this approach are discussed in this paper.
Libraries’ Role in Curating and Exposing Big Data
Authors: Teets Michael , Goldner Matthew
Published: August 2013

This article examines how one data hub is working to become a relevant and useful source in the Web of big data and cloud computing. The focus is on OCLC’s WorldCat database of global library holdings and includes work by other library organizations to expose their data using big data concepts and standards. Explanation is given of how OCLC has begun work on the knowledge graph for this data and its active involvement with Schema.org in working to make this data useful throughout the Web.
Thimerosal Exposure and the Role of Sulfation Chemistry and Thiol Availability in Autism
Authors: Kern Janet , Haley Boyd , Geier David , Sykes Lisa , King Paul , Geier Mark
Published: August 2013

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder in which a significant number of the children experience a developmental regression characterized by a loss of previously acquired skills and abilities. Typically reported are losses of verbal, nonverbal, and social abilities. Several recent studies suggest that children diagnosed with an ASD have abnormal sulfation chemistry, limited thiol availability, and decreased glutathione (GSH) reserve capacity, resulting in a compromised oxidation/reduction (redox) and detoxification capacity. Research indicates that the availability of thiols, particularly GSH, can influence the effects of thimerosal (TM) and other mercury (Hg) compounds. TM is an organomercurial compound (49.55% Hg by weight) that has been, and continues to be, used as a preservative in many childhood vaccines, particularly in developing countries. Thiol-modulating mechanisms affecting the cytotoxicity of TM have been identified. Importantly, the emergence of ASD symptoms post-6 months of age temporally follows the administration of many childhood vaccines. The purpose of the present critical review is provide mechanistic insight regarding how limited thiol availability, abnormal sulfation chemistry, and decreased GSH reserve capacity in children with an ASD could make them more susceptible to the toxic effects of TM routinely administered as part of mandated childhood immunization schedules.
Design, Synthesis and Antiviral Activity Studies of Schizonepetin Derivatives
Authors: Bao Beihua , Meng Zheng , Li Nianguang , Meng Zhengjie , Zhang Li , Cao Yudan , Yao Weifeng , Shan Mingqiu , Ding Anwei
Published: August 2013

A series of schizonepetin derivatives have been designed and synthesized in order to obtain potent antivirus agents. The antiviral activity against HSV-1 and influenza virus H3N2 as well as the cytotoxicity of these derivatives was evaluated by using cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibition assay in vitro. Compounds M2, M4, M5 and M34 showed higher inhibitory activity against HSV-1 virus with the TC50 values being in micromole. Compounds M28, M33, and M35 showed higher inhibitory activity against influenza virus H3N2 with their TC50 values being 96.4, 71.0 and 75.4 μM, respectively. Preliminary biological activity evaluation indicated that the anti-H3N2 and anti-HSV-1 activities improved obviously through the introduction of halogen into the structure of schizonepetin.
Examining the Relationship between Choice, Therapeutic Alliance and Outcomes in Mental Health Services
Authors: Stanhope Victoria , Barrenger Stacey , Salzer Mark , Marcus Stephen
Published: August 2013

Background: Self-determination within mental health services is increasingly recognized as an ethical imperative, but we still know little about the impact of choice on outcomes among people with severe mental illnesses. This study examines whether choice predicts outcomes and whether this relationship is mediated by therapeutic alliance. Method: The study sample of 396 participants completed a survey measuring choice, therapeutic alliance, recovery, quality of life and functioning. Multivariate analyses examined choice as a predictor of outcomes, and Sobel tests assessed alliance as a mediator. Results: Choice variables predicted recovery, quality of life and perceived outcomes. Sobel tests indicated that the relationship between choice and outcome variables was mediated by therapeutic alliance. Implications: The study demonstrates that providing more choice and opportunities for collaboration within services does improve consumer outcomes. The results also show that collaboration is dependent on the quality of the relationship between the provider and consumer.
A Comparative Analysis between Active and Passive Techniques for Underwater 3D Reconstruction of Close-Range Objects
Authors: Bianco Gianfranco , Gallo Alessandro , Bruno Fabio , Muzzupappa Maurizio
Published: August 2013

In some application fields, such as underwater archaeology or marine biology, there is the need to collect three-dimensional, close-range data from objects that cannot be removed from their site. In particular, 3D imaging techniques are widely employed for close-range acquisitions in underwater environment. In this work we have compared in water two 3D imaging techniques based on active and passive approaches, respectively, and whole-field acquisition. The comparison is performed under poor visibility conditions, produced in the laboratory by suspending different quantities of clay in a water tank. For a fair comparison, a stereo configuration has been adopted for both the techniques, using the same setup, working distance, calibration, and objects. At the moment, the proposed setup is not suitable for real world applications, but it allowed us to conduct a preliminary analysis on the performances of the two techniques and to understand their capability to acquire 3D points in presence of turbidity. The performances have been evaluated in terms of accuracy and density of the acquired 3D points. Our results can be used as a reference for further comparisons in the analysis of other 3D techniques and algorithms.
CD4+ T-cell recovery after initiation of antiretroviral therapy in a resource-limited setting: A prospective cohort analysis
Authors: Kanters Steve , Nachega Jean , Funk Anna , Mukasa Barbara , Montaner Julio SG , Ford Nathan , Bucher Heiner C , Mills Edward J
Published: August 2013

Background

CD4+ T-cell count recovery after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is associated with improved health outcomes. It is unknown how the CD4+ T-cell counts of African HIV patients recover following ART initiation.

Methods

We examined CD4+ T-cell count recovery in a large cohort of HIV-positive patients initiating ART in Uganda between 2004 and 2011. We categorized patients according to their CD4+ T-cell count at ART initiation. All patients received CD4+ T-cell count evaluations on a biannual basis. We used quantile regression to model the recovery of CD4+ T-cells during ART.

Results

A total of 5,271 patients aged ≥14 years at baseline were included. The median number of CD4+ T-cell count measurements was 6 (IQR 4–8), and vital status at censoring was known in 97.2% of individuals. Most CD4+ T-cell count recovery occurred within the first 12 months, with marginal increases beyond 18 months and stabilization after 5 years. The strongest predictor of CD4+ T-cell count recovery was baseline CD4+ T-cell count. After 5 years on treatment, the median CD4+ T-cell count was 334 cells/mm3 for patients initiating ART with <100 cells/mm3. Only those initiating ART with >200 cells/mm3 reached a 5-year median >500 cells/mm3. Adolescents had the most robust CD4+ T-cell count recovery with a median increase after 12 months that was 109 cells/mm3 greater than those initiating ART at age ≥50 years.

Conclusions

In individuals from a resource-limited setting, baseline CD4+ T-cell count was highly predictive of the maximum CD4+ T-cell count level achieved while on ART.
Use of Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimating Equations for Drug Dosing in HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Okparavero Aghogho A , Tighiouart Hocine , Krishnasami Zipporah , Wyatt Christina M , Graham Hiba , Hellinger James , Inker Lesley A
Published: August 2013

Background

Current HIV treatment guidelines recommend using the Cockcroft–Gault equation for drug dosing adjustments. The use of newer glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimating equations for drug dosing and the appropriateness of physician antiretroviral dosing based on estimated kidney function have not been studied in an HIV-positive population.

Methods

We evaluated concordance between measured and estimated GFR for the assignment of kidney function categories designated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance for industry for pharmacokinetic studies, and appropriateness of physician antiretroviral drug dosing for level of kidney function in 200 HIV-positive patients on stable antiretroviral therapy. Estimated kidney function was determined using the Chronic Kidney Disease-Epidemiology collaboration (CKD-EPI), Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study and Cockcroft–Gault equations.

Results

For assignment of FDA-designated kidney function categories, concordance rates between measured and estimated GFR using the CKD-EPI, MDRD Study and Cockcroft–Gault equations were 79%, 71% and 77%, respectively. This pattern was consistent across most subgroups. When actual prescribed dosages were compared with recommended dosages based on the level of estimated kidney function, 3–19% of study participants were prescribed higher than recommended dosages. The largest discordance between prescribed and recommended dosages was observed for the Cockcroft–Gault equation.

Conclusions

The CKD-EPI equation has the highest concordance with measured GFR for the assignment of FDA-designated kidney function categories. Its use may lead to lower dosing-related errors in HIV-infected US adults on stable antiretroviral therapy. More education is required with respect to dose adjustment for level of kidney function.
L'épidémiologie psychiatrique en question : peut-on déterminer le nombre de malades mentaux dans une population ?
Authors: Falissard Bruno
Published: August 2013

Les prévalences de troubles mentaux comme la dépression ou l’anxiété généralisée posent souvent problème : que signifient ces nombres et quelle est leur valeur scientifique ? Pour répondre à ces questions il faut se souvenir que le malade est, par définition, celui qui sonne à la porte du médecin. La maladie, quant à elle, est une construction qui aide le médecin à penser et à prendre en charge le malade. S’il existe des classifications modernes et opératoires des troubles mentaux (le DSM ou la CIM par exemple), ces classifications ont le plus grand mal à identifier le malade par-delà la maladie, c’est-à-dire à identifier, à caractériser la nature et la réalité de la plainte. Ce problème n’est peut être pas rédhibitoire en ce qui concerne l’épidémiologie analytique (rechercher des facteurs statistiquement associés à la présence d’un trouble psychiatrique) ; il l’est sûrement davantage pour l’épidémiologie descriptive (calculer des prévalences, c’est-à-dire le pourcentage de sujets en souffrance et présentant un trouble donné). La plus grande prudence doit donc s’imposer aux acteurs de santé publique quand ils déterminent leurs décisions sur la seule base des résultats des études d’épidémiologie psychiatrique.
Le DSM et comment s'en libérer
Authors: Chapireau François
Published: August 2013

À la fin des années 1970, alors que la profession psychiatrique américaine était menacée de perdre sa légitimité vis à vis du monde dans lequel elle évoluait, le DSM-III a permis de renverser la situation. La classification fournit à tous un langage commun. Ainsi, le DSM organise les relations de la profession psychiatrique américaine avec l’ensemble de ses partenaires et rivaux. C’est en quoi cette classification diffère des autres. Ce résultat a été obtenu grâce à la priorité absolue accordée à la fiabilité, aux dépens de la validité. Notre critique du DSM ne porte pas sur son contenu, mais sur le renoncement à la validité. Nous pouvons nous libérer du DSM d’une part en travaillant à des classifications valides, et d’autre part en réhabilitant la conduite des récits psychiatriques des histoires de vie dans la longue durée, interdits par la description syndromique des troubles dans les DSM.
« Asthmatique, mais encore ?...»
Authors: Boucherat-Hue Valérie
Published: August 2013

En médecine somatique où les pratiques se centrent sur le corps réel et ses atteintes organiques à risque létal, l’examen psychologique est aujourd’hui mieux connu grâce aux apports des psychosomaticiens d’orientation psychanalytique. Le bilan psychologique conçu dans une perspective dynamique contribue à resituer les troubles somatiques au cœur de la clinique subjective, au croisement de l’histoire infantile et de l’organisation psycho-affective des patients malades. L’évaluation clinique d’un jeune homme asthmatique conduira à faire travailler, en les confrontant, les référents théoriques en psychosomatique et en psychopathologie. Chemin faisant, elle tendra à montrer que les aménagements psychiques doivent être appréhendés tout autant dans leur nature psychodynamique que dans leur valeur économique. En effet, le poids respectif et la vigueur fonctionnelle des défenses mentales, quel qu’en soit le registre, viennent témoigner de l’efficacité ou non de l’appareil mental pour faire face aux conflits pulsionnels de l’adolescence et de l’adultisation. Ainsi, l’examen psychologique comme méthode d’investigation holistique du fonctionnement psychique vise, en psychosomatique comme en clinique pubertaire, à poser un diagnostic à entendre au sens large. Le pronostic somatique en dépend mais ce dernier, tout particulièrment à l’adolescence et à son décours, se conjugue au pronostic psychopathologique dont il renforce le caractère évolutif, et, par conséquent ouvert et parfois suspensif.
Stewartship and Evolving Fidelity in a Scottish Fire Festival
Authors: McKean Thomas A.
Published: August 2013

This paper looks at a Scottish fire festival, the “burning of the Clavie” at Burghead in the North East of Scotland, and its practitioners in relation to external authorities, particularly the police and regional political administrators. Internal and external pressures for change and stability are examined and author explores the negotiation between insiders and outsiders that co-create the ritual as it is practiced today.
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V razpravi avtor najprej tematizira škotski praznik, “kres Clavie” v Burgheadu na severovzhodu Škotske, izvajalce in njihovo razmerje z oblastmi, posebej policijo in regionalno politično upravo; nato obravnava notranje in zunanje pritiske, ki vplivajo na ohranjanje ali spreminjanje rituala, ter raziskuje pogajanja med notranjimi in zunanjimi akterji, ki so-ustvarjajo današnjo podobo rituala.
In Search of the ‘Folk Character’ We Would like to Hear. The Dichotomy between Folk, the Profession, and Scholarship
Authors: Kovačič Mojca
Published: August 2013

Public Fund of the Republic of Slovenia for Cultural Activities (JSKD) is the main actor of the current cultural policy in the field of folklore activities in Slovenia. Guidelines of reinterpretation of dance and music traditions are formed by amateurs dealing with folklore, as well as scholars are invited to participate. After the historical review of the cultural policy in Slovenia, the article, based on interviews with performers of musical tradition, reveals the adjustments that musicians are making for the performances organized and supervised by JSKD. It also shows their attitude towards the given guidelines and reveals how much the competitiveness or actual desire for ‘authentic’ interpretation of folk music heritage influence such adjustments.
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Javni sklad RS za kulturne dejavnosti (JSKD) je danes glavni akter kulturne politike na področju folklorne dejavnosti v Sloveniji. Smernice za poustvarjanje plesne in glasbene tradicije oblikujejo tako amaterji, ki se ljubiteljsko ukvarjajo s folklorno dejavnostjo, kot tudi raziskovalci ljudske glasbe in plesa. Članek po uvodnem historičnem pregledu delovanja kulturne politike v Sloveniji, na podlagi intervjujev z ljudskimi godci, odkriva, kako se glasbeniki prilagajajo smernicam, kadar nastopajo na prireditvah, ki jih organizira Javni sklad. Prav tako je predstavljen in interpretiran njihov odnos do danih smernic in vpliv konkurenčnosti oziroma dejanske želje po »verodostojni« interpretaciji ljudske glasbene dediščine na tovrstne spremembe.
The Russian Ritual Year and Folklore through Tourist Advertising
Authors: Sedakova Irina
Published: August 2013

This article analyzes the ritual year in modern Russia as reflected in tourism spam letters circulated between 2005 and 2012. These texts are the main source of data for this study because they illustrate major tendencies in governmental, commercial, and individual attitudes towards Russian traditional customs and official holidays. They also demonstrate how local heritage is being maintained and reconstructed, and how new myths and customs are appearing and developing to suit the needs of domestic tourism, a special ethnographic calendrical type.
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Članek analizira praznično leto v moderni Rusiji, kot ga odsevajo turistična oglasna sporočila med letoma 2005 in 2012. Tovrstna besedila so glavni vir podatkov za to študijo, saj odsevajo pomembnejše tendence vladnih, komercialnih in individualnih pogledov na ruske tradicionalne šege in uradne praznike. Prikazujejo tudi, kako se ohranja in rekonstruira lokalna dediščina in kako se pojavljajo in razvijajo novi miti in rituali, kot jih zahtevajo potrebe domačega turizma.