bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributed Acoustic Sensing: State of the Art
Authors: Cannon Robert , Aminzadeh Fred
Published: March 2013

Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) is a newly developed passive fiber optic sensing technology. It has the ability to detect acoustic signals anywhere along the length of the fiber with a high frequency response and a tight spatial resolution. DAS has a bright future within the upstream oil and gas industry though it is currently not well understood as it is such a new technology. This paper will first provide a thorough discussion of the technology's functionality including the factors that influence its frequency response and spatial resolution as well as how to directly calculate these parameters. Next, the paper will discus both proven and unproven applications of DAS technology. The current proven applications are near well-bore hydraulic fracture stimulation surveillance, flow profiling, well integrity monitoring, vertical seismic profiling, gas-lift optimization, sand detection, and ESP monitoring each of which are discussed in contrast to current alternative techniques. Case examples are summarized for each of these applications. Some of the unproven applications of DAS are summarized like multi-phase flow measurements and microseismic monitoring.
Synthetic, Geomechanical Logs For Marcellus Shale
Authors: Eshkalak M. O. , Mohaghegh S. D. , Esmaili S.
Published: March 2013

Successful recovery of hydrocarbons from the reservoirs, notably shale, is attributed to realizing the key fundamentals of reservoir rock properties. Having adequate and sufficient information regarding the variable lithology and mineralogy is crucial in order to identify the "right" pay-zone intervals for shale gas production. Also, contribution of mechanical properties (Principal stress profiles) of shale to hydraulic fracturing strategies is a well understood concept. It may also contribute to better, more accurate simulation models of production from shale gas reservoirs.

In this study, synthetic geomechanical logs (Including following properties: Poisson's Ratio, Total Minimum Horizontal Stress, Bulk and Shear Modulus, etc.) are developed for more than 50 Marcellus Shale wells. Using Artificial Intelligence and Data Mining (AI&DM), data-driven models are developed that are capable of generating synthetic geomechanical logs from conventional logs such as Gamma Ray and Density Porosity. The data-driven models are validated using wells with actual geomechanical logs that have been removed from the database to serve as blind validation wells. In addition, having access to necessary data to building a geomechanical distribution (Map and Volume) model can assist in understanding the rock mechanical behavior and consequently creating effective hydraulic fractures which is considered to be an essential step in economically development of Shale assets.

Moreover, running geomechanical logs on a subset of wells, but having the luxury of generating logs of similar quality for all the existing wells in a Shale asset can prove to be a sound reservoir management tool for better reservoir characterization, modeling and efficient production of Marcellus Shale reservoir.
Efficient Use of Methods, Attributes, and Case-Based Reasoning Algorithms in Reservoir Analogue Techniques in Field Development
Authors: Temizel Cenk , Dursun Serkan
Published: March 2013

Decision making in field development has been crucial in petroleum exploration and production activities where numerous uncertainties exist in the complete process. In the development process of new fields, any additional data to minimize uncertainty is important, as it decreases risks and provides better insight and robustness in decision making. Reservoir analogue techniques provide valuable information in this process. In the reservoir analogue method, oilfield historical data is used along with descriptive statistics and case-based reasoning as a guide or tool in carrying out field-development scenarios, which enables the field-development teams to make decisions while knowing the limitations of past real-life performances in fields. This will greatly help field-development teams make decisions based on what to expect economically, as they will have a reference on recovery factors and other indicative parameters to make more informed decisions on optimization parameters and field development. With advancements in technology and data-driven techniques, data has become more readily accessible; however, turning data into knowledge has become a challenge. Using reservoir analogues is not a new concept; however, the rationale in finding the analogues has not been studied or published in detail so far. The reservoir analogue technique involves a delicate use of categorical and parametrical attributes, classification of attributes, along with strong engineering judgment on individual cases. Thus, illustration of the proper use of algorithms plays an important role in obtaining successful results. In our paper, we proposed two approaches employed in the case-based reasoning system to find the reservoir analogues, where each reservoir is represented by not only numerical attributes but also categorical attributes. In each approach, several different distance metrics and similarity measures for numerical and categorical attributes, respectively, are studied.
Benefit Evaluation of Keeping an Integrated Model During Real-Time ESP Operations
Authors: Denney T. , Wolfe B. , Zhu D.
Published: March 2013

In most electric submersible pump (ESP) applications, a great deal of time and effort is spent upon the initial sizing of the ESP – projecting which equipment is most appropriate for the physical properties, reservoir delivery, and operator economics of the particular application. After the ESP is designed, ordered, and installed, however, the sizing is often placed in a repository and not referred to again until the ESP has failed and the next ESP is being designed. By integrating the design model into a real-time monitoring environment, more value can be demonstrated. Information that is particularly valuable include the evaluation of operating point versus design point, ESP diagnostics alarms, virtual monitoring and alarms, and monitoring of sub-component design thresholds. In this paper, we will review ESP design software in general, the benefits of implementing a real-time model comparison tool, demonstrate several cases, and conclude with a discussion of the challenges associated with managing the models. Additionally, we will examine how sizing can be used to optimize production and make adjustments for system enhancement.
Information Technology and Field Data Required to Successfully Manage Shale Production Operations
Authors: Farid Kemal , Bhatti Kashif , Fuge Clara , McLaughlin Sharon , Nichols Dana , Dassinger Janet
Published: March 2013

This paper will review the unique challenges of field data management and the technologies used to meet them in unconventional resource operations. Examining the lifecycle of field data, we will look closely at issues of data quality, analytics, enterprise data availability, integration, and regulatory compliance from the perspective of shale operators.

Responding to the high decline rates of wells, factory drilling in unconventional plays results in high-paced operations and a large number of wells. With these come massive volumes of field data that must be captured, processed and turned into actionable information for surveillance, operational accounting and HSEQ compliance.

Field teams collect fluid volumes and operating conditions at the well site along with run tickets, tank battery inventories, sales volumes, equipment status, and chemical use. Increased sensitivity to environmental issues around shale plays require operators to closely manage water, emissions and other environmentally impactful measurements that must be collected, monitored and reported. To accommodate these requirements, shale operators need IT systems flexible enough to capture any information that might be needed. Mobility solutions are increasingly being implemented as an enabling technology for capturing the data in the field and communicating it to the systems and users who must process and act upon the resulting information. The use of mobile devices helps eliminate paper, saves time spent on data entry and improves the quality of data flowing into ERP and technical systems.

Maintaining the quality of the information gathered is a constant concern. Poor data leads to costly results, from un-optimized production to fines for inaccurate reporting. Incorporating validation checks and approvals into the field systems promotes consistency and accuracy as data is being gathered. Asset specific variances, alerts and visualization can immediately identify operational issues. Access to production targets via mobile devices keeps the field team aligned with corporate goals.

Once gathered, raw production measurements collected in the field are processed to produce allocated production volumes at each well and zone. Consumed by different departments across the company, the allocated volumes are used for planning, forecasting, operations management, revenue accounting, marketing, regulatory and partner reporting. Operators must have an effective production data management system to provide the resulting information to a variety of users at the time, place and in the format they require.

Field information is at the heart of operations management for any operator. The issues around collecting, analyzing and sharing it will be examined along with the technologies employed to provide the best solutions appropriate for shale plays.
Practical Application of Integrated Reservoir Evaluation and Production Optimization in a Mature Waterflooded Reservoir
Authors: Qin Bin , Wang Zhiqiang , Garcia Jacoby
Published: March 2013

The development of mature waterflooded reservoirs to maintain long term and steady production while maximizing ultimate recovery has enormous challenges. The primary challenge to optimally develop waterflooded reservoirs is to enhance production per well while preventing the water-cut from rising too fast after adjusting the reservoir scheme and well operation parameters. Fulfilling this challenge requires the capability of integrating data associated to formation, wellbore and surface/facility sub-systems in order to comprehensively evaluate reservoir potential and optimize production while processing and analyzing large amounts of data.

This paper presents a methodology to address this challenge with a streamlined workflow by: (1) Characterizing reservoir properties and baseline existing well and surface/facility designs; (2) Correlating reservoir characteristics with production and injection history; (3) Identifying underperforming wells; (4) Assessing production enhancement possibilities; (5) Redesigning optimum operation parameters for candidates; (6) Then, proposing adjustment measures for injectors based upon injectivity analysis; and (7) Adjusting surface/facility designs with the enhancements.

A case study is presented to illustrate the effectiveness and benefits of this methodology. This study is based on gathering, validating and integrating sub-system data into a database-based application to systematically construct an integrated reservoir and production model. A combination of graphical, statistical, theoretical and simulation analysis tools were employed to identify: abnormalities, enhancement candidates and infill drilling opportunities. Analyzing the integrated subsystems ensured both: the reasonableness of the optimization design and the feasibility of adjustment recommendations. To validate the approach, a field pilot application was implemented on a waterflooded oilfield in western China, which resulted in a 15 percent increase in production of 3200 barrels per day. The study fully demonstrates that the methodology is suitable and practical to optimize production from such complex reservoirs.
Analytics in Oil and Gas: The Big Deal About Big Data
Authors: Feblowitz Jill
Published: March 2013

This report examines the potential for Big Data and analytics in the upstream and midstream sectors of the oil and gas industry. IDC Energy Insights provides insight on areas where Big Data and analytics has the potential to provide business value. This report covers newer technologies, such as Hadoop/MapReduce and streaming analytics, rather than the more traditional high-performance computing. The survey data is provided from oil and gas respondents based in the United States. Guidance is provided to CIOs, enterprise architects, IT strategists, and business executives on the potential of this new technology for the oil and gas industry.

Just like other industries, the oil and gas industry is experiencing an increase in the number of sensing devices in the oil fields or pipelines. Of course, the industry has always been plagued with too much data and the inability to make productive use of that data. What has changed in the past few years is the availability of new technology based on commodity hardware – Big Data and analytics – pioneered by firms like Facebook and Google.

This new technology can process high volumes of various types of data at relatively quicker speeds than conventional technology. Now, oil and gas CIOs are considering whether to invest in a Big Data and analytics infrastructure. This report reviews the current attitudes toward Big Data and analytics in the oil and gas industry and explores potential applications of the technology with an eye toward speeding time to first oil, reducing costs and increasing the safety of drilling, and enhancing production.
Digital Oil Field Experience: An Overview and a Case Study
Authors: Al-Jasmi A. , Qiu Fangda , Ali Zaki
Published: March 2013

Digital Field technology has become the standard for green field development in the industry and brown fields are in the progress toward it. In this paper, the digital oilfield (DOF) technology will be outlined and one of the ongoing projects will be used as the case study.

The digital field technology has evolved from only gathering data to making online analysis and real time optimization in the past forty years. The industry also leverages the platform to reduce OPEX and CAPEX by applying engineering workflows. The workflows could either replace human work with more efficient and quality job or provide proactive operation and foreseeable optimization advice. At the same time, the E&P industry are going to face more and more high frequency and high volume data challenges from technical side and change management challenges from non-technical side. The lesson learnt and successful experience will also be presented.

The case study in this paper addresses the achievement of building digital field platform in one of the biggest digital oilfield projects in the world-Kuwait Intelligent Digital Field (KwIDF) project. The scenario or requirements are different form field to field around the world while customized workflows could always help operator -to work efficiently. In this project, the digital field platform not only make Kuwait Oil Company(KOC) to reduce the non-production time more than 50% and promote HSE standard to a higher level but also assist engineers to make better decision by applying production and operation workflows powered by the engineering software.

The paper will also address the standing on the current digital oilfield development stage to overview the three components: the people, process and technology.
Securing Process Control and SCADA Networks Using Enterprise Tools and Techniques
Authors: Arutyunov Roman
Published: March 2013

The tools and techniques used to defend the communication networks of financial institutions, other large corporations and federal government agencies from cyber-attacks can also secure process control and SCADA networks. This paper describes how enterprise security tools such as firewalls, IP Security (IPsec) virtual private networks (VPNs), Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption and RADIUS authentication, in addition to techniques such as defense-in-depth and event log audits, can defend field process control and SCADA networks against cyber-attacks.

Modern process control and SCADA systems require two-way information flow to increase business and process interaction. Oil exploration, production and refining sites are turning to Internet Protocol (IP)-based wireless networks to monitor and control thousands of devices such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and SCADA endpoints. While IP networks provide substantial value, they come with fear of increased exposure to cyber-attacks.

However, IP networks also confer security advantages. The tools and techniques used to thwart cyber-attacks on IP networks have been honed for years by enterprises and are constantly updated to battle emerging threats. For over a decade, enterprises have faced, and have largely been successful in defending against, the security challenges that now confront IP-based process control and SCADA networks. Proven and time-tested tools and techniques are available to combat cyber-attacks. Enterprises with stringent security requirements have transitioned to IP while strengthening their security capabilities. Industry standard tools can provide cyber security for process control and SCADA networks that is comparable to that of the most mission-critical enterprise networks in the world.

IP-based process control and SCADA networks provide many advantages. By securing these networks using enterprise tools and techniques, oil exploration, production and refining companies can reap the benefits of IP networking while simultaneously enhancing cyber-security.
Pressure Transient Analysis Of Data From Permanent Downhole Gauges
Authors: Al-Buraikan M. M. , Al-Hashim H. S. , Issaka M. B. , Al-Yousef H. Y.
Published: March 2013

In recent years there has been a significant growth in the number of Permanent Downhole Measurement System (PDHMS) installations in oil and gas fields around the world, as PDHMS prices have been falling steadily and their reliability has also been increasing.

However, the full benefits of this investment can only be realized when it is taken from simple surveillance and monitoring to a source for reservoir characterization. This study assesses the systems and workflows that have been put in place to transform the massive amounts of data, including pressure, flow rate and temperature, into actionable information to improve field development and performance. This study presents a dynamic real-time well testing workflow for utilizing data from from intelligent fields. It discusses the applicability of pressure transient analysis using I-Field data from Permanent Downhole Gauges to characterize reservoir and well performance.

While seeking to develop an efficient workflow for the utilization of the real-time data for pressure transient analysis, the study also seeks to assess the effects of producing time, flow rate simplification, and data interruptions on the reliability of the analysis methods and results.

Actual real-time pressure data from PDHMS, and flow rate data Multi-Phase Flow Meters (MPFM) were used in the analyses, to determine reservoir parameters and evaluate well performance. This study highlights some of the challenges in using real-time data from PDHMS and MPFM. A commercially available software product was used to filter, and manage the real-time data, as well as the modeling and analysis of the test data.
Childhood Determinants of Adult Psychiatric Disorder
Authors: Fryers Tom , Brugha Traolach
Published: March 2013

The aim of this project was to assess the current evidence from longitudinal studies for childhood determinants of adult mental illness. Because of the variable and often prolonged period between factors in childhood and the identification of mental illness in adults, prospective studies, particularly birth cohorts, offer the best chance of demonstrating associations in individuals.

A review was undertaken in 2006 of the published literature from longitudinal studies, together with some large-scale retrospective studies and relevant reviews which provided supplementary evidence. The main focus was upon potentially ameliorable characteristics, experiences or situations of childhood; however, other factors, not determinants but pre-cursors, associated with later mental illness could not be left out.

Seven major electronic data-bases of published research were interrogated with a range of key-words and the results supplemented from personal searches, enquiries and reference trails. In excess of 1,500 abstracts were read to select 250 papers for full review. The material was assessed in relation to ten factors:

Psychological disturbance; Genetic Influences; Neurological Deviance; Neuroticism; Behaviour; School Performance; Adversity; Child Abuse or Neglect; Parenting and parent-child relationships; Disrupted and Disfunctional Families.

In 2011 the search was repeated for the period 2006 to mid-2011, using the same search terms and supplemented in the same manner. Over 1,800 abstracts emerged and almost 200 papers selected for more detailed review. These were then integrated into the original text with modifications where necessary. The whole text was then revised and edited in January / February 2012.

There is continuing evidence for the association with later mental ill-health for each of these ten factors, but with different degrees of conviction. The evidence for each is discussed in detail and weighed both separately and in relation to others. These are then summarised, and the research implications are considered. Finally, the implications for prevention are discussed together with the practical potential for preventive and health-promoting programmes.
Analysis of intracranial hemorrhage grade in preterm singleton pregnancies delivered vaginally or by cesarean section
Authors: Ljustina Sasa , Berisavac Ivana , Berisavac Milica , Kovacevic-Vukolic Ljudmila , Velickovic-Aleksic Vesna , Markovic Nebojsa
Published: March 2013

Background/Aim. Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal mortality.
Periventricular hemorrhage-intraventricular hemorrhage (PVH-IVH) remains a
significant cause of both morbidity and mortality in infants prematurely
born. The aim of the study was to evaluate the perinatal outcome regarding
IVH of premature babies according to the mode of delivery. Methods. A total
of 126 women in preterm singleton pregnancies with vertex presentation and
126 neonates weighted from 750 g to 1,500 g at birth were enrolled. The
outcomes of 64 neonates born vaginally were compared to 62 neonates born by
cesarean section. Results. There was no significant difference in the
incidence of IVH among both groups. Conclusion. Our data is consistent with
the hypothesis that the mode of delivery does not influence IVH and
consenquently perinatal outcome in preterm neonates.
Changes in motor cortex excitability associated with muscle fatigue in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Milanovic Sladjan , Filipovic Sasa , Radovanovic Sasa , Blesic Suzana , Ilic Nela , Kostic Vladimir , Ljubisavljevic Milos
Published: March 2013

Background/Aim. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a standard
technique for noninvasive assessment of changes in central nervous system
excitability. The aim of this study was to examine changes in responses to
TMS in patients suffering from Parkinson?s disease (PD) during sustained
submaximal isometric voluntary contraction [60% of maximal voluntary
contraction (MVC)] of the adductor pollicis muscle, as well as during a
subsequent recovery period. Methods. Cortical excitability was tested by
single TMS pulses of twice of the motor threshold intensity applied over the
vertex. Testing was carried out during the sustained contraction phase every
10 s before and every 5 s after the endurance point, as well as at rest and
during brief 60% MVC contractions before (control), immediately after the
sustained contraction, and at 5 min intervals during the recovery period.
Results. Although the PD patients could sustain the contraction at the
required level for as long period of time as the healthy subjects (though
contraction level subsided more rapidly after the endurance point), effects
of muscle fatigue on the responses to TMS were different. In contrast to the
findings observed in the healthy people where motor evoked potentials (MEP)
and EMG silent period (SP) in fatigued muscle gradually diminished during
contraction up to the endurance point, and increased thereafter, in the
majority of patients no changes occurred in MEP size (peak and area) of the
adductor pollicis muscle, either before or after the endurance point. On the
other hand, changes in the SP of this muscle differed among the subjects,
showing a gradual increase, a decrease or no changes in duration. The trends
of changes in both MEP size and SP duration in the musculus brachioradialis
varied among the tested PD patients, without any consistent pattern, which
was in contrast with the findings in the healthy people where both measures
showed a gradual increase from the beginning of the sustained contraction. A
complete dissociation between changes in MEP and SP during fatigue was also
of note, which differed sharply from the findings in the healthy people in
who fatigue induced changes in these measures followed identical patterns.
Conclusion. These results in the PD patients suggest the presence of
impairment and/or compensatory changes in mechanisms responsible for
adaptation of voluntary drive as well as for matching between cortical
excitation and inhibition which become manifest in demanding motor tasks such
as those imposed by muscle fatigue.
Trunk muscle activation patterns in subjects with low back pain
Authors: Knezevic Olivera , Mirkov Dragan
Published: March 2013

nema
To Be Accountable in Neoliberal Times: An Exploration of Educational Policy in Ecuador
Authors: Aviles Enma Campozano , Simons Maarten
Published: March 2013

The ascendancy of neoliberal modes of governing has caused a shift in accountability practices in the public sector, including in the field of education. This shift can be observed in the accountability regimes introduced into education systems around the world. They reflect a strong focus on quality assurance/control and efficiency in order for countries to be able to survive in a global competitive environment. Increasingly operating in a global context, Ecuador also engaged in a series of policy initiatives to restructure accountability in its educational system. Based on a critical analysis of recent accountability policies in Ecuadorian education, this article determines the regime of accountability that is promoted in Ecuador today and discusses the emerging tensions.
Biotechnology Education in India: An Overview
Authors: Joshi Kirti , Mehra Kavita , Govil Suman , Singh Nitu
Published: March 2013

Among the developing countries, India is one of those that recognises the importance of biotechnology. The trajectory of different policies being formulated over time is proof that the government is progressing towards achieving self-sufficiency. However, to cater to the ever-growing biotech industry, skilled manpower is required. This article therefore brings together reflections on the evolution of biotech education in India with the aim of giving an exposition on the diversity of issues concerning its growth and expansion within the country.
Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil of Thymus algeriensis wild-growing in Libya
Authors: Giweli Abdulhmid , Džamić Ana , Soković Marina , Ristić Mihailo , Marin Petar
Published: March 2013

The composition of essential oil isolated from Thymus algeriensis growing wild in Libya was analyzed by GC and GC-MS. The essential oil was characterized with thymol (38.50%) as the major component. The oil was screened for antioxidant activity using DPPH assay, and compared to thymol and carvacrol. Antioxidant activity was high, with the IC50 of 0.299 mg/ml, compared to 0.403 and 0.105 mg/ml for thymol and carvacrol, and 0.0717 mg/ml for BHA. In addition, antimicrobial activity was tested against eight bacteria and eight fungi. T. algeriensis oil showed inhibitory activity against tested bacteria at 0.001–0.05 mg/ml, while bactericidal activity (MBC) was achieved at 0.0025–0.05 mg/ml. For antifungal activity MICs ranged 0.0005–0.025 mg/ml and MFC 0.001–0.05 mg/ml. High antimicrobial activity against the fungi in particular suggests that the essential oil of Thymus algeriensis could have a useful practical application.
The genetic structure of the Lithuanian wolf population
Authors: Baltrūnaitė Laima , Balčiauskas Linas , Åkesson Mikael
Published: March 2013

Lithuanian wolves form part of the larger Baltic population, the distribution of which is continuous across the region. In this paper, we evaluate the genetic diversity of the Lithuanian wolf population using mitochondrial DNA analysis and 29 autosomal microsatellite loci. Analysis of the mtDNA control region (647 bp) revealed 5 haplotypes distributed among 29 individuals and high haplotype diversity (0.658). Two haplotypes were distributed across the country, whilst the others were restricted to eastern Lithuania. Analysis of microsatellites revealed high heterozygosity (HE=0.709) and no evidence for a recent bottleneck. Using detection of first generation migrants, four individuals appeared to assign better with populations genetically differentiated from those resident in Lithuania. These immigrants were males carrying rare mitochondrial haplotypes and were encountered in the eastern part of the country, this indicates that Lithuania is subject to immigration from differentiated populations. Additionally, we did not detect any signs of recent hybridisation with dogs.
Molecular Docking Study on the Binding Mode of Cardioselective Phenoxyaminopropanol Blocker into β-adrenergic Receptor Subtypes
Authors: Polakovičová M. , Čižmáriková R.
Published: March 2013

Structural understanding of subtype specific ligand-binding pocket variations and interactions of ligand with receptor may facilitate design of novel selective drugs. To gain insights into the subtype selectivity of β-blockers we performed flexible molecular docking study to analyze the interaction mode of cardioselective phenoxyaminopropanol blocker into the β1 and β2-adrenergic receptor. The binding site analysis reveals a strong identity between important amino acid residues and interactions with ligand in orthosteric catecholamine- binding pocket. The differences in the binding mode of selective ligand have been identified in the extracellular region of receptor subtypes.
Fully Accounting for English Learner Performance
Authors: Hopkins Megan , Thompson Karen D. , Linquanti Robert , Hakuta Kenji , August Diane
Published: March 2013

This article presents a set of recommendations that promote a more nuanced, meaningful accountability policy for English learners in the next authorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The authors argue that the ESEA reauthorization must strengthen the law’s capacity-building purpose so that federal, state, and local leaders support continued attention, direction, and innovation in effectively educating ELs. The recommendations put forth in this article focus on monitoring both current and former ELs, establishing time frames for the attainment of English language proficiency, and setting expectations for academic achievement that are reflective of English language proficiency level and time in the state’s school system.
Who Has to Pay for Their Education? Evidence From European Tertiary Education
Authors: Lim Gieyoung , Kim Chong-Uk
Published: March 2013

In this article, we investigate a positive tertiary education externality in 18 European countries. Using a simple Cobb-Douglas-type production function with constant returns to scale, we find that there are positive spillover effects from tertiary education in European countries. According to our model prediction, on average, 72,000 new employed persons with a tertiary education increased gross domestic product per employed person without a tertiary education by US$412 in 2005. From the policy perspective, the existence of positive tertiary education externalities implies that the benefits of tertiary education are diffused through not only education beneficiaries but also the other members of society.
What is Degrowth? From an Activist Slogan to a Social Movement
Authors: Demaria Federico , Schneider François , Sekulova Filka , Martinez-Alier Joan
Published: March 2013

Degrowth is the literal translation of ‘décroissance’, a French word meaning reduction. Launched by activists in 2001 as a challenge to growth, it became a missile word that sparks a contentious debate on the diagnosis and prognosis of our society. ‘Degrowth’ became an interpretative frame for a new (and old) social movement where numerous streams of critical ideas and political actions converge. It is an attempt to re-politicise debates about desired socio-environmental futures and an example of an activist-led science now consolidating into a concept in academic literature. This article discusses the definition, origins, evolution, practices and construction of degrowth. The main objective is to explain degrowth's multiple sources and strategies in order to improve its basic definition and avoid reductionist criticisms and misconceptions. To this end, the article presents degrowth's main intellectual sources as well as its diverse strategies (oppositional activism, building of alternatives and political proposals) and actors (practitioners, activists and scientists). Finally, the article argues that the movement's diversity does not detract from the existence of a common path.
Voluntary Simplicity and the Social Reconstruction of Law: Degrowth from the Grassroots Up
Authors: Alexander Samuel
Published: March 2013

The Voluntary Simplicity Movement can be understood broadly as a diverse social movement made up of people who are resisting high consumption lifestyles and who are seeking, in various ways, a lower consumption but higher quality of life alternative. The central argument of this paper is that the Voluntary Simplicity Movement or something like it will almost certainly need to expand, organise, radicalise and politicise, if anything resembling a degrowth society is to emerge in law through democratic processes. In a sentence, that is the ‘grass-roots’ or ‘bottom up’ theory of legal and political transformation that will be expounded and defended in this paper. The essential reasoning here is that legal, political and economic structures will never reflect a post-growth ethics of macro-economic sufficiency until a post-consumerist ethics of micro-economic sufficiency is embraced and mainstreamed at the cultural level.
Photoelectron Angular Distribution and Phase in Two-Photon Single Ionization of H and He by a Femtosecond and Attosecond Extreme-Ultraviolet Pulse
Authors: Ishikawa Kenichi , Ueda Kiyoshi
Published: March 2013

We theoretically study the photoelectron angular distribution (PAD) from the two-photon single ionization of H and He by femtosecond and attosecond extreme-ultraviolet pulses, based on the time-dependent perturbation theory and simulations with the full time-dependent Schrodinger equation. The PAD is formed by the interference of the s and d continuum wave packets, and, thus, contains the information on the relative phase and amplitude ratio between them. We find that, when a spectrally broadened femtosecond pulse is resonant with an excited level, the PAD substantially changes with pulse width, since the competition between resonant and nonresonant ionization paths, leading to distinct from the scattering phase shift difference, changes with it. In contrast, when the Rydberg manifold is excited, and for the case of above-threshold two-photon ionization, and the PAD do not depend much on pulse width, except for the attosecond region. Thus, the Rydberg manifold and the continuum behave similarly in this respect. For a high-harmonic pulse composed of multiple harmonic orders, while the value is different from that for a single-component pulse, the PAD still rapidly varies with pulse width. The present results illustrate a new way to tailor the continuum wave packet.
Total, Soluble and Insoluble Oxalate Contents of Ripe Green and Golden Kiwifruit
Authors: Nguyễn Hà , Savage Geoffrey
Published: March 2013

Three bulk samples of two different cultivars of kiwifruit, green (Actinidia deliciosa L.) and golden (Actinidia chinensis L.) were bought ripe, ready to eat from a local market. The aim of the study was to determine the oxalate composition of each of the three fractions of kiwifruit, namely skin, pulp and seeds. The pulp consisted of 90.4% of the edible portion of the two cultivars while the skin and seeds made up a mean of 8.0% and 1.6% respectively. Total oxalate was extracted with 2.0 M HCL at 21 °C for 15 min and soluble oxalates extracted at 21 °C in water for 15 min from each fraction. The total and soluble oxalate compositions of each fraction were determined using ion exchange HPLC chromatography. The pulp of golden kiwifruit contained lower amounts of total oxalates (15.7 vs. 19.3 mg/100 g FW) and higher amounts of soluble oxalates (8.5 vs. 7.6 mg/100 g FW) when compared to the green cultivar. The skin of the green cultivar contained lower levels of insoluble oxalates (36.9 vs. 43.6 mg/100 g FW), while the seeds of the green cultivar contained higher levels of insoluble oxalates 106.7 vs. 84.7 mg/100 g FW.
The Study of Dynamical Potentials of Highly Excited Vibrational States of HOBr
Authors: Wang Aixing , Sun Lifeng , Fang Chao , Liu Yibao
Published: March 2013

The vibrational nonlinear dynamics of HOBr in the bending and O–Br stretching coordinates with anharmonicity and Fermi 2:1 coupling are studied with dynamical potentials in this article. The result shows that the H–O stretching vibration mode has significantly different effects on the coupling between the O–Br stretching mode and the H–O–Br bending mode under different Polyad numbers. The dynamical potentials and the corresponding phase space trajectories are obtained when the Polyad number is 27, for instance, and the fixed points in the dynamical potentials of HOBr are shown to govern the various quantal environments in which the vibrational states lie. Furthermore, it is also found that the quantal environments could be identified by the numerical values of action integrals, which is consistent with former research.
High and Low Temperature Gold Mineralizations in the Fe–Cu–Zn Sulfide Deposits of Corchia Ophiolite, Northern Italian Apennine
Authors: Federica Zaccarini , Garuti Giorgio
Published: March 2013

Gold has been found in the Cyprus-type volcanogenic massive sulfide ore (VMS) deposits of Corchia ophiolite (Parma province, Italy) in the Cantiere Donnini, Speranza and Pozzo mining sites. At Cantiere Donnini and Speranza, the mineralization occurs at the contact between pillow lava and sedimentary rocks. The Pozzo mineralization is hosted by a serpentinite. Concentrations of gold up to 3070 ppb have been reported for the Cantiere Donnini and up to 6295 ppb in the Pozzo mine. According to the field relationships, gold composition, mineralogical assemblage and sulfur isotope data, we can conclude that two different types of gold mineralization have been recognized in the Corchia ophiolite: (1) formed at low temperature in submarine environment (Cantiere Donnini and Speranza) and (2) formed at high temperature in the oceanic mantle (Pozzo) by segregation of an immiscible sulfide liquid.
RNAi Therapeutics in Autoimmune Disease
Authors: Pauley Kaleb , Cha Seunghee
Published: March 2013

Since the discovery of RNA interference (RNAi), excitement has grown over its potential therapeutic uses. Targeting RNAi pathways provides a powerful tool to change biological processes post-transcriptionally in various health conditions such as cancer or autoimmune diseases. Optimum design of shRNA, siRNA, and miRNA enhances stability and specificity of RNAi-based approaches whereas it has to reduce or prevent undesirable immune responses or off-target effects. Recent advances in understanding pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases have allowed application of these tools in vitro as well as in vivo with some degree of success. Further research on the design and delivery of effectors of RNAi pathway and underlying molecular basis of RNAi would warrant practical use of RNAi-based therapeutics in human applications. This review will focus on the approaches used for current therapeutics and their applications in autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren’s syndrome.
Comparison and Intercalibration of Vegetation Indices from Different Sensors for Monitoring Above-Ground Plant Nitrogen Uptake in Winter Wheat
Authors: Yao Xinfeng , Yao Xia , Jia Wenqing , Tian Yongchao , Ni Jun , Cao Weixing , Zhu Yan
Published: March 2013

Various sensors have been used to obtain the canopy spectral reflectance for monitoring above-ground plant nitrogen (N) uptake in winter wheat. Comparison and intercalibration of spectral reflectance and vegetation indices derived from different sensors are important for multi-sensor data fusion and utilization. In this study, the spectral reflectance and its derived vegetation indices from three ground-based sensors (ASD Field Spec Pro spectrometer, CropScan MSR 16 and GreenSeeker RT 100) in six winter wheat field experiments were compared. Then, the best sensor (ASD) and its normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI (807, 736)) for estimating above-ground plant N uptake were determined (R2 of 0.885 and RMSE of 1.440 g·N·m−2 for model calibration). In order to better utilize the spectral reflectance from the three sensors, intercalibration models for vegetation indices based on different sensors were developed. The results indicated that the vegetation indices from different sensors could be intercalibrated, which should promote application of data fusion and make monitoring of above-ground plant N uptake more precise and accurate.
Cell Persistence of Allogeneic Keratinocytes and Fibroblasts Applied in a Fibrin Matrix to Acute, Full Thickness Wounds
Authors: Dickerson Jaime E. , Planz John V. , Reece Barry T. , Weedon Kathy A. , Kirkpatrick Sandy D. , Slade Herbert B.
Published: March 2013

HP802–247 is a living cell suspension of cultured allogeneic growth-arrested human male keratinocytes and fibroblasts (1:9 ratio), intended for spray application to chronic wounds. In this study, a small wound was created on the arms of 28 healthy female volunteers (3-mm punch), followed by a single application of HP802–247. At each subsequent week for 8 weeks, a punch excision of the wounds was performed on a cohort of three subjects. Excised specimens were analyzed for allogeneic fibroblast and keratinocyte DNA determined by Y-chromosome short-tandem repeats using PCR amplification followed by capillary electrophoresis, a method with estimated sensitivity of 1 male cell in a background of 8,000 female cells. A complete haplotype attributable to HP802–247 fibroblasts was detected in three of three samples at 1 week, with one partial and one complete fibroblast haplotype detected at 2 weeks, and one partial keratinocyte haplotype detected at 3 weeks postapplication. The findings indicate that HP802–247 can be expected to persist in an acute wound bed for up to 2 weeks postapplication.
A new intermediate in the Prins reaction
Authors: Yamabe Shinichi , Fukuda Takeshi , Yamazaki Shoko
Published: March 2013

Two Prins reactions were investigated by the use of DFT calculations. A model composed of R–CH=CH2 + H3O+(H2O)13 + (H2C=O)2, R = Me and Ph, was adopted to trace reaction paths. For both alkenes, the concerted path forming 1,3-diols was obtained as the rate determining step (TS1). TS stands for a transition state. From the 1,3-diol, a bimolecular elimination (TS2) leads to the allylic alcohol as the first channel. In the second channel, the 1,3-diol was converted via TS3 into an unprecedented hemiacetal intermediate, HO–CH2–O–CH(R)–CH2–CH2–OH. This intermediate undergoes ring closure (TS4), affording the 1,3-dioxane product. The intermediate is of almost the same stability as the product, and two species were suggested to be in a state of equilibrium. While the geometry of TS1 appears to be forwarded to that of a carbocation intermediate, the cation disappeared through the enlargement of the water cluster. Dynamical calculations of a classical trajectory using the atom-centered density matrix propagation molecular dynamics model on the four TSs were carried out, and results of IRC calculations were confirmed by them.
Developing Online Continuing Education Content for Enhancing Caring Among Taiwan Nurses
Authors: Hsu Tzu-Chuan , Turton Michael A. , Cheng Su-Fen , Lee-Hsieh Jane
Published: March 2013

Background:

To promote the quality of nursing care, a hospital in Taiwan committed to implementing its SHARE framework for clinical practice. This study was conducted to develop caring content for the SHARE framework in the form of online continuing education videos.

Methods:

Five focus group interviews were conducted with 19 exemplary nurses. A constant comparative method was used to extract caring themes that were integrated into the five components of SHARE: S: Sense patient’s needs; H: Help patient out; A: Acknowledge patient’s feelings; R: Respect patient’s dignity and privacy; E: Explain what is happening.

Results:

Concrete caring behaviors consistent with SHARE were identified. Real-world scenarios were used to produce five videos demonstrating the components of SHARE for use in online caring education.

Conclusion:

This project offers a new strategy for strengthening caring behavior in nurse–patient interactions and may help to establish a model for caring in nursing continuing education in Taiwan.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2013;44(4):186–192.
Analysis of Age-Dependence of the Anterior and Posterior Cornea With Scheimpflug Imaging
Authors: Nemeth Gabor , Hassan Ziad , Szalai Eszter , Berta Andras , Modis Laszlo
Published: March 2013

PURPOSE:

To assess keratometric and higher-order aberrations of the anterior and posterior cornea and their age-related changes.

METHODS:

This study investigated one healthy eye of 227 patients (mean age: 55.15 ± 21.2 years; range: 16 to 90 years; 135 right eyes, 92 left eyes). Images were captured from each eye with Pentacam HR (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) using automatic mode. Keratometric, astigmatism data, and corneal higher-order aberrations were analyzed.

RESULTS:

With respect to laterality, no deviance was found in any of the parameters (
P
> .05). Mean refractive error was 0.52 ± 0.23 diopters. The level of astigmatism decreased significantly with advancing age for both the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces (
P
< .05). The overall root mean square of the higher-order aberration increased continuously with age (r = 0.517;
P
< .01), which can be explained by the combined effect of the increased in both the anterior and posterior corneal root mean square higher-order aberrations. Of the higher-order aberrations, the constant increase of the primary and secondary spherical aberration with aging (
P
< .01) is caused by the spherical aberration growth of the anterior surface. Apart from these, only the vertical coma aberration of the posterior surface and the vertical trefoil aberrations of both the anterior and posterior surfaces showed a significantly positive correlation with aging (
P
< .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Corneal astigmatism showed a significant decrease with aging. Of the higher-order aberrations, primary and secondary spherical aberrations, vertical coma, and vertical trefoil significantly increase with age, whereas other higher-order aberrations show no correlation with aging.

[
J Refract Surg.
2013;29(5):326–331.]